A public consultation has been launched on proposals to merge Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) and Strode College into a new education group – and residents are being encouraged to have their say.

The consultation, which runs from 27 March to 30 April 2025, outlines plans to bring together the two institutions to create a new College Group comprising four campuses: Bridgwater, Cannington, Taunton and Strode.

The proposed new group would be known as the University Centre Somerset College Group (UCS College Group), and aims to offer students the benefits of being part of a larger organisation while continuing to deliver localised teaching, learning and skills development.

A joint statement from Denys Rayner, Chair of BTC's Board of Governors, and Jane Viner MBE, Chair of Strode College's Board of Governors, said:

"The merger and creation of a College Group are strategic responses to the evolving educational and economic needs of Somerset. By combining our strengths, we can provide more comprehensive support to our students and staff, deliver enhanced services to employers, and more effectively contribute to the regional and national economy.

"Adopting the University Centre Somerset name for the College Group is a deliberate step towards a bigger vision for the communities the College Group will serve."

While the four campuses will retain their individual identities, the group will work collectively to boost partnerships with local employers, councils, and community organisations, and to deliver education tailored to the region's economic and social priorities.

The proposal and online survey are available now on both colleges' websites:

• Strode College
• Bridgwater & Taunton College

The consultation will remain open until Tuesday 30 April.