Scottish Government
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Consultation with colleges

College principals and chairs across Scotland have received an invitation to meet with Education Secretary Michael Russell to discuss the future of colleges.

The meeting will give college leaders the chance to discuss the Scottish Government's proposed reforms of post-16 education - including greater collaboration between colleges, with mergers where appropriate, whilst protecting local access - directly with the Cabinet Secretary.

Education Secretary Michael Russell said:

"I want to make sure the college sector builds on its strengths and delivers the best possible learning and training opportunities for Scotland. That's why I am consulting on a range of proposals designed to further strengthen the system of post-16 education in Scotland.

"It is vitally important that those who lead and work in the sector are fully engaged in the debate. This is particularly true on issues such as collaboration and regional planning and that's why I have written to the principal and chair of every college in Scotland to invite them to join me for a discussion.

"I hope they will be able to take part in the debate and work closely with us to protect services, encourage real change and to go forward on a tri-partite basis with the Scottish Funding Council to improve the sector.

"I firmly believe this ambitious programme will help educate people with the skills and knowledge they need to reach their ambitions and play a full part in growing Scotland's economy."

John Spencer, Convener of Scotland's Colleges Principals' Convention commented:

"We welcome this opportunity for Principals and Chairs of colleges to engage with the Cabinet Secretary on the proposed reform agenda, and look forward to a constructive ongoing dialogue."

The Education Secretary is planning to hold this meeting in early November.

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