Agenda and minutes

Apologies were received from Councillor Jane Kidd.

None.

There were no declarations of interest made

The minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee held on the 1st September 2017 were agreed as a true record.

[A period not exceeding 20 minutes for statements from up

to 5 members of the public on matters within the

Committee’s remit, proposing action(s) which may be

considered or contribute towards the future development of

the Committee’s work programme.]

There were no public statements made.

A report was provided to the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee to consider the Doncaster and North Lindsey College Merger.  A presentation was provided which highlighted the following areas: -

•           Response to Consultation

•           University in Doncaster

•           Doncaster College in Partnership

•           Ambitious for Doncaster

•           Strengthening Partnerships and Impact across Doncaster

•           Next Steps

Background – It was explained that the two colleges worked across a number of Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) regions, the Sheffield City Region and also the Greater Lincolnshire and Humber LEP.  It was felt important that this worked across regions whilst maintaining a strong local presence and was able to connect communities in a number of different ways.

In respect of what the merged college would look like, it was outlined that from the 1st September 2018, students wouldn’t feel any difference and not be travelling across sites.  It was explained that the aim was to enhance provision through the excellent facilities and specialist courses made available at either Doncaster College or North Lindsay.  It was added that students would be prepared to travel further afield to access this more specialised provision.

Why Merge? – Members expressed concerns about the reasons behind the merger and were reassured that although it provided financial assurances, it had never been driven by financial reasons.  Members were told that it was about providing sustainability and resilience whilst providing the ability to invest in the future.

Impact on Skills and Doncaster’s Economy – Member and Partners both acknowledged the benefits Doncaster has to offer and opportunities presented from a growing local economy and major regeneration developments.  It was felt that the nature of the local economy was becoming more and more reliant on new business start-ups where an entrepreneurial skill was required.

Members were pleased to hear that the ethos of North Lindsay College included seeking to increase and develop skills, address skills shortages, tackle unemployment and ensure that local organisations were better equipped and robust during more challenging times.    Members also listened to how the merger would aim to achieve success through quality, reputation and growth through Higher Education and Apprenticeships, social mobility and aspiration an agenda that is shared between the Council with Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPS) and endorsed by the Committee.

Members were told how time had been spent engaging with key employers in the Borough and concerns had been listened to.  It was outlined that a vast array of career options and choices had been presented along with different avenues of learning.

Social Mobility – Members were told how the merger presented many positive benefits whilst jointly tackling the skills gaps and social mobility.  An example was demonstrated of a partnership between Doncaster College and Doncaster Knights in relation to Level 3 and degree courses.         

Strengthening Partnerships and Impact across Doncaster – Members were satisfied to hear that North Lindsay College was committed to developing partnerships for the benefit of Doncaster and the wider region.    It was recognised that a great deal had been  ...  view the full minutes text for item 26.