New name, new era in education

Coleg Powys is set for a new name and a rebrand after its merger with Neath Port Talbot College is complete on August 1, subject to the ratification of Welsh Government.

Following a consultation process, the joint venture will be known as the Grŵp NPTC Group which will represent how the overall organisation operates. Each campus will also be named to reflect the area and community they serve with Newtown Campus to be used.

The Principal of Neath Port Talbot College, Mark Dacey, said: “Each area will also have an ‘education senate’ in north and south Powys and north and south Neath Port Talbot, based on the recommendations made in the ‘Humphries Review’. This will ensure greater local influence in all of the campuses operated by Grŵp NPTC Group.”

Both governing bodies have been in discussions since November 2012 to bring together the two institutions to form one of the largest colleges in Wales covering 30% of the landmass of Wales. The merger will establish a College with a turnover in excess of £55 million.

In a joint statement, the Principal of Neath Port Talbot College, Mark Dacey, and the Principal of Coleg Powys, Simon Pirotte, said: “The new name means we can continue to build on the existing good reputations of both colleges. We are committed to continuing the provision of education and training within the communities served by the two colleges.

“Providing an excellent learning environment is a key principle of achieving the aims, mission and vision of the new College.”

All educational provision across the new College’s 12 campuses will remain available from September 2013, providing one of the widest ranges of subject choices in Wales for learners.