Following the release of the Scottish Funding Council’s report on the Financial Sustainability of Colleges in Scotland (published Friday 26 September):
Kenny MacInnes, Principal of Forth Valley College, said: “Forth Valley College, like many others across the sector, is currently facing some of the most challenging financial circumstances in its history. This report from SFC absolutely supports why the College has taken the decision to make public that the Board of Management are reviewing the future of the College’s three-campus estate model.
“Current funding allocations and rising costs have placed significant pressure on our budget, and our current financial position is the most difficult we have ever experienced. As a result, we are having to consider a reduction in our campus footprint, with options currently being explored regarding our Alloa Campus. These steps are being taken to safeguard the long-term financial sustainability of the entire College and ensure we can continue to deliver high-quality education and training across the region.
“This is all despite the fact that we are a sector leading College, delivering excellent learning and teaching, which is demonstrated by recording the highest possible outcome in the first ever Scottish College Tertiary Quality Enhancement Review.
“We recognise the vital role colleges play in supporting local communities and the significant economic impact we make. However, this report highlights that most colleges are reporting that they are unsustainable without significant change. At this incredibly difficult time, we at Forth Valley College are doing absolutely everything we can to deliver the right solutions for our students and staff that also protect the future of the College and the opportunities it provides across the Forth Valley region.”
