Save Stourbridge College

On Saturday 29th June, around 400 education workers, parents and supporters marched through Stourbridge to protest against the looming closure of the town's college. Part of the Birmingham Metropolitan group of colleges, senior management hope to save just £2.5m a year by closing the college (out of a total £58.5m turnover). That's despite having spent £5m on refurbishing the campus just four years ago!

The 1000 students have been told they can transfer to nearby colleges in Dudley and Halesowen. However, with several students travelling over 30 minutes from as far away as Worcester, this won't be practical for all. And that's not to mention the 200 staff employed at the Stourbridge site!

Since 2009, college funding has been cut by 30% nationally. College heads who want to make inspiration, achievement and learning more than empty buzzwords above the front door should set budgets with the resources needed to deliver quality education by decently paid staff, and work with the education unions to campaign for proper funding for Further Education from central government.

Sign the petition against the college's closure here