A consultation on a merger between Carshalton College, Kingston College, and South Thames College has been launched today (March 13).

The public consultation, which will outline their proposal to merge on August 1, 2017, will run until April 18 and the result will be published in June.

The aim of the merger is to create a new college group, which “can offer even greater opportunities for students, staff, employers, and local communities”.

All parties involved believe the move is a “very positive step” and are interested to see what their local communities think.

David Anderson, chairman of governors for Carshalton College said: “This decision reflects the strong partnership work already in place between the three colleges and the resolution of our Governing Bodies to secure on-going improvement and greater financial resilience for the future.”

Janis Brumwell, chairman of Governors for Kingston College said: “It is our intention to create an exemplary new college, fit for the 21st century and ready to serve the students and businesses of south west London and beyond for decades to come.”

Godfrey Allen, chairman of governors for South Thames College said: “This is an exciting opportunity that will build on the strengths of our three colleges.  

“We can strengthen what we offer in response to local and regional employer needs and the career aspirations of our students.”

A copy of the consultation can be viewed here