COVENTRY College is set for a £1 million cash boost for student facilities.
The government cash comes in a £200 million tranche of funding for further education in the West Midlands.
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has welcomed the investment, saying it will boost skills and help level-up the nation’s economy.
Mr Street said: “I am delighted with this announcement, as funding for Further Education colleges was a key part of my recent pitch to Government for investment to help our region bounce back post-COVID 19.
“Further education will play a crucial role as we recover from coronavirus, supporting students to gain the skills they need to find jobs and helping the economy to recover and grow.
“That means providing up-to-date, well-equipped facilities and revamping campuses. Our region is already leading the way with our approach to apprenticeships, and our brilliant universities will play an important part in our economic future. This week’s announcement ensures that Further Education Colleges will also be better equipped to play their part in providing the skills our young people will need.”
The Government says it wants work to begin this September to revamp 180 colleges across England. The money forms part of the £1.5 billion pledged by the Chancellor at the last Budget to transform further education over the next five years.
Mr Street added: “Everyone knows the pandemic and the enforced shutdown has been hugely disruptive to education in the UK, and I am encouraged by the creation of a new taskforce to address universities’ concerns over admissions and capacity.
“This multi-million pound investment in further education is a welcome piece of good news as our schools, universities and colleges prepare for the new academic year.”
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “We want to build a world class further education system which delivers for the whole nation, and a key part of this is ensuring colleges are fit for the future – with better facilities and brand-new buildings.
“It is brilliant news that more than 180 colleges will receive a share of £200 million so they can start immediate work to renovate buildings and facilities, with further funding being invested over the next 5 years.
“We want all students to continue to receive high-quality education and training, no matter where they grow up or what college they go to. Now more than ever, it is vital that colleges can support their students to gain the skills they need to progress and help the economy to recover and grow.”
