A recent Government report states that the existing arrangements for post 16 education and training in Kirklees are the best option for the area.
The Government review of post 16 education and training arrangements in West Yorkshire focussed upon further education and sixth form colleges including Kirklees College, Greenhead College and Huddersfield New College.
The review was set up to explore how post 16 provision could be delivered more efficiently from a smaller number of financially stronger colleges.
The review was undertaken by a steering group which included the principals and chairs of governors of the three Kirklees colleges and Cllr David Sheard, the Leader of Kirklees Council.
The council and partners submitted a robust case for retaining and strengthening the existing arrangements in Kirklees. This was based upon the fact that young people in Kirklees have a wide range of academic, vocational and apprenticeship programmes to choose from. In addition, all post 16 provision in Kirklees has been graded either “good” or “outstanding” by Ofsted and the colleges are financially strong.
The report concludes that the district is best served by retaining its existing arrangements. Greenhead College and Huddersfield New College, both graded ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, have been given the option to adopt academy status. The governing bodies of both institutions are considering whether there will be any benefits in becoming an Academy.
Kirklees College has agreed to collaborate with Calderdale and Wakefield colleges to ensure that higher level courses are planned across the three districts. This will reduce duplication and allow students to access the highest quality courses based on their curriculum strengths.
Cllr David Sheard, leader of Kirklees Council said: “We welcome that the report recognises the strengths of the post 16 sector in Kirklees.
We are working hard to ensure that young people are able to choose from a diverse range of courses and study in strong, well-managed institutions in all parts of Kirklees.
The review process has further strengthened the relationships between the three Colleges and the Council. I look forward to further collaboration in the future to ensure the needs of young people and employers continue to be met.”
The report is available from: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/post-16-education-and-training-institutions-review