Information Bulletin
28 April 2005
The Scottish Further Education Funding Council (CFEFC) announces a major rise in funding for Shetland College
In the 2005-06 main grant letter issued by SFEFC today (Thursday 28 April), Shetland College has been awarded a 23.7% increase in overall funding. Two other island colleges (Lews Castle College in the Western Isles and Orkney College) have also been awarded substantial rises (17.1% and 20.1% respectively) compared to the average increase in funds of 5.0% for all Scottish Colleges.
These substantial increases for Island Colleges are a reflection of changes the Funding Council has made in the “remoteness” element of funding which aims to reflect the greater costs of providing Further Education in those communities.
Chairman of the Board of Management, Drew Ratter, welcomed this announcement stating that:
“This increase will enable Shetland College to invest in developing new courses and developments, in support of the economy and community of Shetland, as well as maintaining current provision.”
Director of Shetland College, Professor John McClatchey, also welcomed the announcement and noted that:
“Island Colleges have been facing major financial difficulties in trying to maintain the range of further education in their communities. The Funding Council consulted Colleges about the level of remoteness funding and SFEFC should be congratulated for addressing the historical under-funding of remote island colleges. This additional funding will enable Shetland College to not only continue its current provision, but also to develop new courses for both businesses and the community.”
For further information, please contact John McClatchey at the Shetland College on 01595 771000.
ENDS