THE value of Kidderminster College’s services and the impact of funding cuts will be on the agenda during a national awareness week.

The town’s college will be one of more than 150 across the nation taking part in Colleges Week, from October 15-19 which aims to raise awareness of the role they play within their communities.

An open evening will be held on Monday (October 15) from 5.30pm to 7.30pm to give people the chance to visit and see their facilities and what they have to offer.

But the week will also see a national lobby of Parliament on October 17 to highlight how cuts and ever-increasing costs are restricting the college’s ability to support young learners.

College Principal, Andy Dobson said: “Our young people are being short-changed compared with their counterparts in other countries and compared with previous generations.

“The hours of teaching and support, the choice they have and the enrichment they are offered have all reduced as funding cuts have bitten. This cannot continue if we are to secure the future of our nation.”

Local MP, Mark Garnier said: “Colleges, like Kidderminster College, are an invaluable resource to any local community.

“They are a crucial part of the mix of opportunities to provide the next generation with essential qualifications and local employers with the skills they need to thrive.

“That is why I am deeply concerned at any funding cuts. Further education is an investment in the future - for individuals to build their life opportunities and for businesses to be able to flourish.

“It is essential for our country that we fund colleges properly and invest in developing the talents of our young people.”

Kidderminster College will be participating across all social platforms using #CollegesWeek and #TeamKC during the week.