Mike Russell announces further college shake-up in West Lothian

EDUCATION secretary Michael Russell has announced further plans for the shake-up of Scotland’s college sector.

Mr Russell had previously said that all Scotland’s colleges would be reorganised under 12 regional boards, allowing them to work more closely together.

However, he has now agreed that West Lothian, home to just West Lothian College and one agricultural college, should be allowed to stand alone as the country’s 13th college region.

Visiting the college yesterday, Mr Russell said: “Our work to set up college regions is progressing well and I am confident the new system will deliver benefits for young people.

“I have been giving careful consideration to West Lothian. I believe the strength of the partnership between the college, local schools, the local authority and others is already delivering benefits for learners.

“That is why I have now decided that West Lothian will become Scotland’s 13th college region. There are strong natural synergies with both the Central and Edinburgh and Lothian regions. I want all partners to continue to work together to deliver the strategic planning and overview combined with local delivery that will be the hallmark of our college regions.”