Council anger over post-16 decision

Council leaders at East Sussex County Council have reacted with anger and disappointment over a decision by central Government to modify plans for post-16 education and training in Hastings and Rother.
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Aug 2005, 17:26 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 20:22 BST

Council chiefs say the Government's modified proposals are incoherent, offer little or nothing in terms of improved access to post-16 learning in rural Rother, put forward a completely new framework for sixth forms in Hastings without proper consultation and could put in jeopardy the 53 million investment package for the area.

Government, through the Department for Education and Skills has put forward a modified proposal that includes retaining Bexhill College and HCAT as separate colleges, and the sixth forms at William Parker and Helenswood. The Government is also proposing to close the sixth forms at Thomas Peacocke, The Grove, Filsham Valley and Hillcrest without any consultation on its new proposals. The Government response means the end of plans for a rural Rother college.

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The Government's modified proposal differs significantly from the original plans supported by the County Council and needs the backing of the Sussex Learning and Skills Council and the County Council who have until the end of September to respond.

Councillor Keith Glazier, lead member for children's and adults' services, said: "I am utterly dismayed that after three years hard work, we have reached this situation. The plans that the LSC and County Council put forward had the backing of the majority of schools and colleges in the area. They also had the overwhelming support of the business community and all local authorities who understand how crucial these plans are for the future education of young people and regeneration of Hastings and Rother.

"We believe the Government's proposals are incoherent and seem to offer a totally new position on the future of sixth forms without any proper local consultation. The plans do nothing for students in rural Rother and could put in jeopardy the huge investment package for the area. We now need to look in detail at the Secretary of State's decision and discuss these proposals with the LSC and with our schools and colleges before we give our formal response at the end of September."

Related topics:East Sussex County CouncilGovernmentHastings