Context
High Streets have for decades been the focal point of our towns and villages; as much a place to meet as a place to trade. But lifestyles and habits are changing and with the ascent of online shopping, falling profits and rising costs, many high streets are fading, if not failing. The high streets that are surviving are doing so through the nurture of market responsive independent retailers, targeted community enterprise and local distinctiveness.
Meanwhile, behind many a High Street is a College, an essential part of England’s educational system and a vital part of many neighbourhoods. Colleges help people of all ages and backgrounds to make the most of their talents and ambitions. Rooted in local communities, they are crucial in driving social mobility and providing the skills necessary to boost the “experience economy” services provided on our local High Streets.
But over the last decade, UK Colleges have been hit by a 30% funding cut which has dramatically impacted upon adult and youth education. The result is fewer people in learning, less teaching hours and a growing population that lacks the skills required to prosper and contribute towards a vibrant local economy.
As separate entities, these two UK institutions could struggle. Might they be better off if they worked together, blurring boundaries and forging new relationships, stimulating enterprise and supporting learning? A glorious symbiosis between College and High Street!
