RUMOURS that Bridgwater College plan to take over Somerset College have been quashed.

Last week, Somerset College announced that it was looking at a partnership with Bridgwater College as part of a review looking at how the college can develop a greater choice and improve outcomes for learners.

There were rumours that Bridgwater College planned to take over the Taunton-based college, but a spokesperson for both colleges said: “At the moment it’s just a discussion looking at a potential partnership.”

Somerset College said it is considering a number of opportunities with several different organisations.

It also said that a partnership with Bridgwater College could lead to the creation of educational centres in Somerset and beyond. Rachel Davies, principal of Somerset College, said: “We are tremendously excited by the opportunities this partnership could create.

“We have undertaken an extremely thorough and detailed assessment of possible partners and Bridgwater College stands out as one which shares our vision, aims and values and one which could support our growth and development.

“This, combined with their focus on employability and quality, would make them an excellent fit for us to work with going forwards.”

The colleges say they are working together to explore details of the potential partnership.

Mike Robbins, principal of Bridgwater College, added, “At Bridgwater College we have an unrelenting focus on employability and inclusivity, supporting learners of all ages and abilities into work or higher education via academic or vocational, job-related training.

“We see a similar focus at Somerset College and we are keen to explore how we might work together to provide complementary centres of excellence across both towns, providing a first class, fully inclusive and vibrant education provision to serve Somerset and beyond.”

There will be an open consultation process to seek the views of learners, staff, local businesses and community members on any partnership.

Further details about this will be shared in due course through the Somerset College website.