Issue - meetings

The Board received a presentation from the Principal of Riverside College, Mary Murphy, which outlined the College’s strategic priorities and the quality of teaching and learning; enrolments; funding, and key developments.

She informed the Board that the strategic aims of the College were:

·       To provide an outstanding learning experience so that all students reached their potential;

·       To engage those who traditionally did not participate in education and training;

·       To be first choice for school leavers, adults and employees in Halton and the surrounding areas; and

·       To be recognised nationally as a centre of academic and vocational excellence.

The presentation included information on achievements at Cronton Sixth Form College and Kingsway.  It further provided case studies of A Level students; Vocational students; Adult students and apprentices working with local employers.

It was noted that the College worked with 657 employers and community groups and other agencies across the Borough.  It also employed 347 people and educated a total of 6,134 people in 2014-15.

The following was noted further to Members queries:

·       In relation to area based reviews and the inclusion of 6^th form colleges in this process, it was noted that despite lobbying the Association of Colleges, the Government intention was to restrict area based reviews to Further Education Colleges;

·       The Runcorn College Campus was no longer financially viable and had closed.  However access to the Widnes Campus was being provided by bus services from Runcorn to Widnes; and

·       Vocational courses such as plumbing, electrical, joinery had seen an increase in numbers.

RESOLVED:  That the Board notes the presentation.