‘Concern’ as ecology college postpones degree start dates

The start of several degree programmes has been postponed at a higher education provider in England.

The Dartington Trust, which runs Schumacher College in Devon, where the start of a number of degrees have been delayed, said students were “understandably concerned” by the news ahead of the new academic year.

However, it said a solution is expected to be found quickly.

The trust, which also operates Dartington Arts School in Totnes, said it undertook a substantial review of its operations over the summer.

“The review was designed to meet some of the financial challenges faced by the Trust which have been influenced by Covid, rising living costs, and an over-ambitious agenda,” a trust spokesperson said in a statement.

“The outcome of the review will be to operate Dartington Trust on a more sustainable approach.”

The work has been led by Lord Triesman, the chair of trustees, the trustee board, and Robert Fedder, the interim chief executive.

Schumacher College is a college for ecological studies offering postgraduate and undergraduate programmes, research degrees, short courses and a practical agroecology residency.

The trust remains fully operational as the outcomes of the review are implemented across the different areas of the organisation, it said.

“Unfortunately, the start of a number of degrees being delivered by Schumacher College has been postponed and we regret that some students are understandably concerned by this,” said the spokesperson.

“We are offering support to all students and we are working with our partners and stakeholders to find solutions, should that be necessary.

“All student fees have been ring-fenced and we anticipate that a solution will be found quickly.”

Schumacher College is based on the historic Dartington Estate near Totnes.

patrick.jack@timeshighereducation.com