Rotherham College’s Dinnington Campus set to close permanently in July
and live on Freeview channel 276
Jason Austin, CEO of RNN Group who run the college, said the decision was made to secure a ‘sustainable financial footing’.
Though the majority of staff will remain employed by RNN Group 26 jobs are at risk.
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The decision has come after a review of RNN's estate found 30 per cent of the Dinnington Campus - though costly to maintain - was not in use.
Though 575 learners are studying 38 courses at the campus this academic year only 10 per cent are located in Dinnington - with the majority travelling from the wider area.
Mr Austin said: “We understand the strength of feeling for the Dinnington Campus.
“However we have had to take difficult decisions to ensure that the RNN Group is on a secure and sustainable financial footing and well-positioned for the future.
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“We will do everything we can to support our learners and staff with the transition and move.
“Although the number of staff at risk is significantly less than anticipated any job losses are regrettable - especially during this challenging time with Covid-19.
“We are involved in early discussions about the future utilisation of the Dinnington buildings - which could potentially save some of the roles that remain at risk.”
The majority of learners - 480 - are completing one or two-year courses or apprenticeships which finish this summer.
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Around 55 full-time learners were due to progress to the next academic year 2020-21 at the Dinnington Campus.
RNN is currently advising affected learners and will provide more details on curriculum timetables and individual support plans regarding travel arrangements soon.
Courses currently offered at the Dinnington Campus include animal care and management, construction, countryside management and horticulture, foundation learning, health science, motor vehicle and access to higher education courses.
The campus will close at the end of July.
In terms of distances from Dinnington, Rotherham College’s town centre campus is 10 miles away, North Notts College is 7 miles away and Dearne Valley College is 13 miles away.