Bicton College looks to brighter future
The last agricultural college in Devon will remain open despite having amassed debts of £3m.
After lengthy talks, Bicton College will continue to offer rural training and land-based education, said college principal David Henley.
“We are now in a position to move forward with confidence,” he said.
Mr Henley’s comments follow a year of intense consultations with educational and funding authorities.
Confirmation of financial support for the East Budleigh-based college to maintain its independence has now been received.
“It has been a very challenging twelve months and the past difficulties faced by the college are well-known,” said Mr Henley.
But unwavering commitment from staff, governors and an army of supporters had helped secure a future for the college.
“This is great news for all of our students and for agricultural and rural communities right across Devon.”
The prosperity of the county – and the entire region – was dependent on a rural economy that has the skills and knowledge to meet new challenges.
Government agencies have backed the college to retain its independence and proceed with plans to further develop its facility.
The college will act as a centre of excellence for all forms of land-based education and as a hub for 14-19 year old learners in East Devon.
The Skills Funding Agency, the successor body to the Learning and Skills Council, has confirmed its support to developing the College.
Specialist environmental training and new learning modules will be introduced to reflect the growing importance of renewable energy and sustainability.
Help is also being provided to enable the College to proceed with its investment plans for improving key facilities.
This will see a number of buildings on the 200ha (500-acre) campus upgraded and refurbished to provide additional academic teaching areas.
Bicton College has 700 further education students, 200 higher education students and 1500 part time students.
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