THERE is a strong case for the merger of Richmond’s further education colleges, a new report announced this week, which could lead to the creation of a new £35 million college for over 25,000 students.

This is the view in a study by an education consultancy team KPMG, which examined the possibility of a merger by interviewing a range of stakeholders.

The decision on a merger will be made sometime after the autumn following further consultation between the colleges and a joint steering group will be formed to create a feasibility study towards this aim.

In the conclusion to the report, KPMG say that positive factors supporting their view include the curriculum provision, the finance position and the accommodation considerations.

They say its increased size would make the college a major ‘player’ in the region and help access additional funding.

Principal of Richmond upon Thames College, Eric Kirby said: "This is a most exciting opportunity and I am confident that the merger process of the Richmond colleges will be successful. Given that both colleges are very successful and that they have a very high national reputation this will result in the formation of the most impressive post 14 institution in the country. Students can look forward to a more coherent curriculum offer and staff will be given further opportunities through both their job roles and career development."

Christina Conroy OBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Richmond Adult Community College, said "This is a fantastic opportunity for both colleges to create a completely new institution that will place teaching and learning at its heart.

“There will be major opportunities to re-invest and procure state of the art facilities and equipment for all students in both Richmond and Twickenham. We are extremely pleased that staff and governors are going to work together on a joint vision that will create the best college in the country."

Cabinet member for education and schools, Cllr Geoffrey Samuel said the council agreed there was a strong case for a merger.

Recommendations from the colleges and the local authority for the future of post-16 education in Richmond will now be given to London South Learning and Skills Council.