TWO Worcestershire colleges are in talks over future plans that could see a possible merger, it has emerged.

Bosses at the Worcester College of Technology and North East Worcestershire College, which has campuses in Redditch and Bromsgrove, are in talks over options to work collaboratively in the future.

A joint statement from the colleges said that they were exploring a range of available options such as forming a hard federation, joining up to provide courses or making no changes at all.

The statement said: “In the light of increasing focus on the importance of the further education sector in delivering skills to drive economic growth, North East Worcestershire College and Worcester College of Technology are looking at the feasibility of working collaboratively to serve the needs of students and employers.”

A group would be formed to explore the options – and any effects of the collaboration – the statement added.

“Following meetings between the principals and the chairmen of governors, a joint options group consisting of representatives from both colleges has been established to explore opportunities for closer collaboration.

“The joint options group will be leading an accountable and open process with a wide and transparent consultation with our communities and other interested parties and regular communication with staff.

“Any proposals resulting from these discussions must bring clear benefits to students, the local communities and employers.”

The group is expected to report back with its findings in October.

WCT’s history goes back to 1851 when it opened as a school of design.

In 1991 it became known as the Worcester College of Technology.

It was recently awarded a £1.6 million grant from the Government to part-fund its new campus at the former Russell and Dorrell furniture store. NEW College was formed in 1988 as a result of an amalgamation between North Worcestershire College and Redditch College of Further Education.