THE head of a new college to be created from the merger of two existing Hampshire colleges has been announced.

Dr Jan Edrich principal of Eastleigh College, would be the head of the new college created by the merger of Eastleigh with Southampton’s City College.

The new college, as yet una-named, would be an “education powerhouse” providing courses for 28,000 students.

Dr Edrich said: “I’m delighted to have this opportunity to run what will be an incredible further education college for the communities of south Hampshire. The joint strengths of the two colleges will be an unparalleled powerhouse for further education, apprenticeships and skills training in the region.”

Sarah Stannard (pictured below) current principal and CEO of City College said: “The proposed merger of City College with Eastleigh College would give me the opportunity to move on to my next challenge, knowing that City College will be in safe hands.”

Geraint Davies, chair of the Board of City College, added: “This proposed merger ensures the long-term provision of further education in Southampton city centre, continuity for our students, and career development opportunities for our staff.

“Our recent investment in our campus means we will have the capacity to accommodate the increased breadth of courses the merger will open up to our students. I look forward to joining the board of the new college, together with three of my colleagues and our staff and student governors.”

Jon Sendell, current chair of Eastleigh College will lead the new college board.

He said: “Should the proposed merger go ahead in March 2019, it will bring significant benefits to South Hampshire through sharing costs and combining the very best facilities and teaching environments.”

In 2017 Ofsted inspectors said City College required improvements while Eastleigh was rated ‘outstanding’ at its last inspection in 2012.

The consultation period for the merger has now ended and the results are expected to be announced in the new year.