A fresh chapter in education has begun across Somerset this August, as Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC), Strode College, University Centre Somerset officially unite to form University Centre Somerset College Group (UCS College Group).
UCS College Group has one clear aim: to transform lives and communities through learning and partnerships.
Andy Berry CBE, CEO of UCS College Group, said,
"This is a milestone moment for Somerset. We’re bringing together the strengths of each college to give local people more choice, better support, and more pathways to success. Whichever pathway students choose to take e.g. A levels, university or employment, UCS College Group will help them get there."
UCS College Group will be one of the largest college groups in England placing Somerset firmly on the map as a beacon of excellence for further and higher education provision.
Each BTC campus will become a college; Bridgwater College, Cannington College, and Taunton College whilst Strode College will retain its name. University Centre Somerset, the group’s well-established higher education arm, remains a core part of this new, ambitious group.
Louise Rowley, UCS College Group Executive Principal, said,
"I’m really excited, we are creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where every student can realise their potential, discover their passions, and gain the skills to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Students joining in September will receive the same warm welcome, on the same course they applied to, with the same expert staff; now backed by a future-focused group that’s one of the largest in the country.
For more information, visit our Information Pages on www.btc.ac.uk. Learn more about Strode College by visiting www.strode-college.ac.uk. For information regarding Higher Education and University Centre Somerset, please visit www.somerset.ac.uk.