AN adult education college - which faced closure due to ‘financial ruin’ when the Covid pandemic struck - has officially merged with Barnsley College in a bid to secure its long-term future.
Northern College - based at Wentworth Castle, Stainborough - provides short community learning courses and longer accredited academic and vocational courses that enable students to progress on to further study, higher education or work.
Its long-term future was plunged into doubt during the pandemic when the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) announced that colleges which delivered less than 90 per cent of their budget allocation would have their unspent funds clawed back.
The facility faced the prospect of paying back an additional £660,000 as they would not hit the 90 per cent tolerance level, falling 17 per cent short, but local leaders came together to secure a better funding package.
It was confirmed earlier this week that the merger between both colleges had officially taken effect.
The merger follows a period of joint planning, consultation and statutory process undertaken by both organisations to secure a long-term and sustainable future.
Northern College will continue to operate from Wentworth Castle, retaining its distinctive identity, residential provision and specialist focus on adult learning.
A spokesperson said: “Northern College joining Barnsley College brings together the shared strengths of both colleges, building on the breadth and quality of their combined provision across further education, adult learning, apprenticeships and higher education, while keeping the needs of students and communities at the centre of delivery.
“Continuity for students, staff and partners has been a priority throughout the process, and provision continues as normal across all sites.
“Barnsley College will continue to be led by David Akeroyd as principal and chief executive and the existing board of governors providing continuity of educational opportunity across Barnsley and the wider South Yorkshire area.”
David said: “The joining of Northern College and Barnsley College will create stronger long-term stability for the vital provision of high-quality adult education in our region.
“It will combine the strengths of both colleges and therefore give learners access to a wider pool of expertise, alongside sector-leading facilities, resources and support.
“This will be especially beneficial to those who are retraining, upskilling, or returning to education after some time away, as well as to those who have additional needs.
"Increasing the accessibility of adult education and training has clear benefits, enabling us to provide our communities with the skills needed both for now and the future to meet local and regional priorities.
“This will allow us to preserve the unique heritage and mission of Northern College, while ensuring we continue to provide the best possible provision in line with Barnsley College's aim of transforming lives."
