The official merger of Dorchester's Kingston Maurward College and Weymouth College has taken place today (Thursday, 1 August).

A statement from the newly formed 'Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College' says the merger marks the start of an exciting new chapter in Dorset's further education offer that promises to bring enhanced opportunities and improved educational experiences to students and employers across the region.

The merger follows extensive talks between the two colleges, the Department for Education, and the Further Education Commissioner.

A public consultation also received a resoundingly positive response from stakeholders, including students, parents, staff and our local communities.

Benefits for students and stakeholders include sharing physical and financial resources, expanded curriculum and courses, elevated quality of education, and more opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

The newly formed Board of Governors has announced Kate Wills as the Interim CEO and Principal overseeing a transitional period. Ms Wills has more than 20 years of experience in further and higher education and takes over from Julia Howe at Weymouth College and Luke Rake at Kingston Maurward College.

Ms Wills brings a wealth of knowledge and educational experience, including serving as Deputy Principal at The Cornwall College Group - a large general further education college with ten campuses. Kate believes the merger represents a significant step forward in the College's mission to provide outstanding education and training.

She said: "Together, we are stronger, more resilient and better equipped to meet the needs of our students, employers and the local community.

"I would like to thank all those who have contributed towards the merger for their hard work and unwavering support. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in bring this vision to reality."

A statement adds: "Throughout the process, both colleges have maintained a steadfast focus on student experience and quality of education. This commitment will remain central to the vision of the merged college, ensuring that students receive exceptional support and learning opportunities.

"This strategic union will combine strengths to offer an expansive range of courses and apprenticeships across sites. The Kingston Maurward campus will continue to provide land-based courses, including agriculture, animal science, and horticulture, while the Weymouth campus will uphold its strong tradition of delivering A Levels and diverse vocational courses and apprenticeships."

Steve Webb, chair of the Board of Weymouth College, commented: "The creation of the Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College gives the county a strong academic and financially secure institution, which will broaden the opportunities available to students. It aims to offer an even more attractive option for students, encouraging more of them to pursue the FE route to personal development.

"We have plans to be one of the best FE colleges in the country for student development and the merger is an excellent first step." 

Robert Lasseter, chair of the Board of Kingston Maurward College, added: "Kingston Maurward governors unanimously support this fundamental development uniting the institutions to serve our young people in Dorset for future generations. It also secures the new Studio School to be built at Kingston Maurward. We now have the opportunity to be world class. 

"I would like to pay tribute to our staff and board for embracing this exciting development in Further Education for Dorset, supported by the DfE."

Both chairs also paid tribute to Principals Julia Howe and Luke Rake for their 'exceptional leadership and dedication' throughout the complex merger process.

For more information about the merger and the new opportunities it presents, visit: www.wkmc.ac.uk