Association of Colleges launches consultation with members on its change proposals

The Association of Colleges (AoC) has today launched a consultation with its members on proposals for the future shape and focus of the Association. This is part of the review of AoC which was launched in autumn 2016.

Members of AoC have been very positive about their membership organisation and what it achieves for colleges and the further education sector. They want to see AoC focus on a set of national policy priorities, leading thinking, influencing widely and establishing colleges reputation and profile.

To achieve this, the plans are to establish new policy groups, supported by more investment in public affairs, policy, research and analysis. 

Members have also shown enormous support for locally based teams providing services, support and networks for colleges to come together.  

The plans also include proposals for a new AoC membership fee structure of a single fee per college set at 0.1% of turnover with a reduced rebate for the largest colleges.

David Hughes, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges (AoC), said: “I am pleased that members value the work that we do and recognise the impact AoC has on their behalf. With so many changes in the external environment, we knew that a review was worthwhile now. 

“I believe that our proposals for change will ensure we are a confident and ambitious organisation that can represent and influence successfully on behalf of colleges at a national and local level. We look forward to establishing and promoting a new vision for the place and role of colleges in a changing economy.”

The consultation with AoC members runs from 1 February to 3 March 2017.