Education review in final stages

The radical proposal is to create a new sixth form college in Hastings joined to HCAT, Bexhill College and a new college in Battle. It was approved by the national Learning and Skills Council last Friday.

The four college idea aims to increase the range of courses available in Hastings and Rother but would mean the closure of school sixth forms. Opposition remains from some parents and teachers, especially from Helenswood and William Parker schools in Hastings, although Bexhill High and St Richard's Catholic College have shown support..

The LSC says the new college structure would not only deliver increased opportunities for learning with a wider curriculum, but also offer new opportunities for teaching staff.

Formal public notices will now be published in October and, until December, further comments can be made by anyone with an interest in the proposal.

Following this formal notice period, the proposal will be presented to the Secretary of State for Education and Skills in December for a final decision.

Norman Boyland, chairman of Sussex LSC, said: "We are delighted to move a step closer to delivering quality courses for young people and adults, improved standards, fantastic new career opportunities, and a significant boost to skills development in Hastings and Rother.

"We believe the 53 million investment will not only transform post-16 education in the area, but consider improved education and training standards crucial to the success of the regeneration of the area.

"This will provide the knowledge and skills needed to support local employment and the area's economic and social fortunes."