News: Rotherham continues new university challenge

Rotherham is one of 27 areas to submit an initial expression of interest aiming for a new local university centre. The new "University Challenge" programme aims to create up to 20 new centres of higher education (HE) by 2014. Universities Minister David Lammy said "I am hugely encouraged by the high level of interest we have already seen in our new "University Challenge". New local university centres can transform communities by creating local opportunities for people to study, engaging with the skills and innovation needs of local businesses, and providing civic amenities. The fact that so many areas have put forward expressions of interest shows that local communities value the benefits a university centre can bring." A statement of intent and full business case will now be worked up for submission to the The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). Wentworth MP is keen for a new centre in the Dearne Valley and the leaders and chief executives of both Barnsley and Rotherham councils are behind the idea and discussions are also going on with Doncaster council. Lawrence Morton, chief executive at Wales High School, has been employed part-time to pull the case together. Mr Healey said: "More people than ever from our area are going on to higher education – but a university on the doorstep could open up that option to so many more. "A university centre in the former South Yorkshire coalfields would help complete the transformation and regeneration of South Yorkshire. It would transform not just our education but our aspirations and achievements for the future."

HEFCE website
Rotherham