LIKE two thirds of their age group in England, 10,600 16-to-18-year-olds study at their local college in North Yorkshire.
Despite the wonderful service they receive, the Government funds these young people at least ten per cent less than schools - an average shortfall of more than £350 a student a year. College students in North Yorkshire are missing out on at least £3.7million a year.
In addition, the Government's current funding plans for adult learning across England mean colleges may be required to impose fee rises of 40 per cent during the next three years or introduce course cuts across a range of provision where such courses do not match Government "priorities". Older adults will be particularly affected as will all those adults taking a course not counting towards a Government target.
In the run-up to the General Election the Association of Colleges asks all candidates to make their views clear on closing the 16 to 18 funding gap and protecting adult learning in your area. I am sure your readers would be interested to have their views clarified.
Young people, staff and parents can express their views and sign our petition at aoc.co.uk
Dr John Brennan,
Chief executive,
Association of Colleges,
Centre Point,
New Oxford Street, London.
Updated: 09:54 Saturday, April 23, 2005
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