BOURNEMOUTH & Poole College is one of 16 earmarked for major improvements in the latest phase of the government's Further Education Capital Transformation Fund.

The college's Lansdowne site has been identified as one of those most in need of upgrading across the country.

Now it will work with the Department for Education to plan improvements and funding is expected to be awarded in the autumn.

The government's £1.5 billion fund was first launched in September last year to rebuild and transform college estates and create modern, fit-for-purpose spaces that meet the needs of students and the communities they serve.

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An initial £200 million was allocated to all colleges to allow them to undertake immediate remedial work to refurbish their buildings.

Following this, in January 2021, a second phase was launched where all colleges were invited to bid for additional funding to help upgrade their campuses. Bids are now being considered by Department for Education (DfE) with funding expected to be awarded this Autumn.

The third and final phase will involve the DfE working in partnership with the 16 colleges announced today.

Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan said: "It is fantastic news that we are launching the next phase of this transformation programme, working with a small number of colleges that are some of the most in need of support to upgrade and revitalise their estates.

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"As we recover from the pandemic, it is vital our colleges continue to be great places to learn with excellent facilities.

"Our priority is making sure every student receives high quality education and training, no matter where they live, so they can gain the skills they need to progress into work and help the economy to rebuild and grow."

Diane Grannell, Principal of Bournemouth & Poole College, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen to receive this funding which will future-proof our facilities for future generations.

"This government investment will also ensure we can continue to offer exceptional training to our students both now and in the future. 

"We will share more details as the plans develop and look forward to working with our key partners, BCP Council and Meyrick Estates, on the scheme.”

Other colleges set to benefit include Isle of Wight College, Yeovil College and Cornwall College's St Austell campus.