Move to give colleges' independence after donation

Proposals have been submitted to make two private colleges independent so they can take up the offer of a "substantial donation".

The Policy & Resources Committee and the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture have asked for approval to progress the independence of The Ladies' College and Elizabeth College.

This comes after a proposed philanthropic gift that would allow the two schools to give up their annual States grants totalling £2.2m and start various projects.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, President of Policy & Resources, said: "This exceptionally generous gift will give The Ladies' College and Elizabeth College long-term financial security without need of taxpayers' support."

The offer has been with conditions including that The Ladies' College becomes an charity that is independent from the States.

The States of Guernsey would need to transfer ownership of the land it currently leases to the college to its new operating entity, subject to the payment of an agreed purchase price, to allow this to happen.

De Sausmarez said: "We have responded swiftly but with careful thought and due diligence to take the steps necessary for the colleges to become wholly independent of the States so they can accept the donor's offer.

"From the States' perspective, the practical steps to make this possible are set out in the policy letter and I am optimistic the assembly will agree them."

The policy letter outlined:

• States' grant funding to the two colleges would cease from 1 September 2027 or as soon as practicable thereafter
• Both colleges would continue to provide statistical data on pupil numbers and categories, attainment and capacity
• Both colleges would continue to adopt and implement educational and safeguarding standards
• Grant funding to Blanchelande College would continue on the current terms

Deputy Paul Montague, President of the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, said: "Investing in education is one of the most important things any community can do.

"The policy letter notes the intention of all schools in Guernsey, States-run and independent alike, to continue to work together to develop opportunities and experiences that improve outcomes for every pupil. "

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