College will be largest in the country.

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Plans to create the largest college in England have been sanctioned by John Denham MP, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills.

The Manchester College, which becomes operational on August 1, will bring together City College Manchester and Manchester College of Arts and Technology to form a new single institution with an annual budget of £130 million and 80,000 students.

“The creation of The Manchester College is essential to effect the step-change required in Manchester to meet future needs for learners and employers and will support the continued development of the city as a major player at regional and national level,” commented John Korzeniewski, Regional Director, LSC North West. “The combined forces of the two colleges will provide a comprehensive curriculum which will place the needs of learners and employers at the centre of its mission and deliver top quality provision which is accessible to learners of all abilities.”

Peter Tavernor, Principal of Manchester College of Arts and Technology said: “Having initiated the process and following two years of working towards this, we are absolutely delighted at the Secretary of States decision to approve the merger. The merger fully supports the City Strategy, the skills agenda and the Government priority of inclusion, and has been completely endorsed by the leader of Manchester City Council and Manchester MPs. Were now looking forward to beginning the real work of ensuring that the new Manchester College builds on existing excellence and becomes the best in the country.”

“We believe that a single college will give double value in further education and training for the people of Manchester,” said Monica Box, Principal of City College Manchester. “It is no exaggeration to say that this merger is unique and will provide the chance of a lifetime to boost skill development in our city.”

City Council leader Sir Richard Leese concluded, “The merger is a significant moment for further education in Manchester and will make a key contribution towards ensuring Manchester residents have the skills to fill the jobs which are being created in the city. The City Council has supported this merger throughout and we are delighted it has come to fruition.”

Paul Malbon