Strode College in the Wells Constituency is one of 16 colleges across England which will benefit from the next phase of the Government’s Further Education Transformation Fund, something which has been welcomed by Wells MP James Heappey.
As part of its commitment to level up education, the Government introduced this fund last year, with funding targeted towards those colleges most in need of repair – so they can have the modern and fit for purpose facilities that meet the needs of staff and students.
Strode College Principal, Katy Quinn, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be receiving funding to enable us to transform the oldest part of the Strode campus. This will enable us to realise the ambitious vision we have for the college, our students and the communities we serve."
Since it first launched in September 2020, 180 colleges have already received funding to begin immediate repairs and renovations. Strode College, in Street, is among those selected for the fund’s third and final phase, to upgrade its estate.
Mr Heappey said: “I am so pleased that the Government has committed to working with Strode to ensure those students attending across Somerset get the very best facilities.
“The College is leading the way in its range of courses – including its introduction of T-Levels and it is providing young people in my constituency with high quality teaching and, crucially, a host of options in their further education.
“I am very proud to represent Strode College and I look forward to working with them in this exciting time to deliver on this investment.”
Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan said: “As we build back better, it is vital our colleges continue to be great places to learn with excellent facilities.
“It is fantastic news that we are launching the next phase of this transformation programme, collaboratively with a small number of colleges that are some of the most in need of support to upgrade and revitalise their estates.
“Our priority is making sure every student receives high quality education and training, no matter where they live, so they can gain the skills they need to progress into work and help the economy to rebuild and grow.”
