Stratford College takeover is completed

THE takeover of Stratford College by Solihull College and University Centre has finally been completed.

It brings an end to a long, drawn out process that began a year ago.

Stratford was forced into a merger following the sacking of Nicola Mannock as principal in February last year amid allegations surrounding her management of the college and its financial problems.

A subsequent public consultation after Solihull College was announced as the preferred ‘partner’ last June was held, with 73 per cent of respondents in favour and just two per cent against.

Responding to that consultation, Stratford district councillor Dave Riches, portfolio holder for enterprise and revenues, wrote: “We have been concerned for some time that Stratford College has lacked stability and this, compounded with significant financial challenges, has prevented the college from flourishing.”

The new owners have already pledged to spend money to refurbish parts of the existing campus and its IT systems, and improve the range of courses on offer.