Member Article

North East institutions merge to officially launch new Tyne Coast College

South Tyneside and TyneMet colleges have now officially merged to establish a new Tyne Coast College.

The duo voluntarily decided to merge to strengthen their position in the further education sector and enhance the learning experience for students.

By combining resources and expertise, the new college will mean better facilities and a broader range of courses on offer. Under its news name, Tyne Coast College will deliver educational and training opportunities across all existing campuses on both sides of the river and cater for around 20,000 full and part-time students.

North East law firm Muckle LLP provided all aspects of legal advice on the coming together, meaning the business has now provided extensive legal services on three major college mergers in six months

Muckle LLP was initially instructed in late 2016 to help the colleges perform joint due diligence and make preparations for the merger. Since January 2017, lawyers across several of Muckle LLP’s specialist departments have been working with the college executive teams on a range of commercial, governance, property, banking and employment issues.

Partner Joanne Davison led a broad legal team to advise the two bodies, a process overseen by partner Tony McPhillips, head of Muckle LLP’s education team.

Joanne said: “This latest merger demonstrates both the expertise and experience that we have at Muckle LLP, and also cements and builds on our credentials in the further education and wider education sector.

“We have worked closely with South Tyneside College in the past and were delighted to assist them in the merger which will bring benefits to students across the region.”

Helen Beaton, Deputy Chief Executive of Tyne Coast College, added: “This merger will bring benefits to thousands of students across the North East for many years to come.

“It was a process we recognised as being of importance to educational opportunity in this region, and was something we voluntarily entered into. We are pleased that Tyne Coast College is now a legal entity.

“The advice and expertise we have received from the Muckle LLP team has been invaluable and we’re looking forward to moving ahead with our exciting plans for the college. We really do believe that together we’re stronger and that this merger will deliver real benefits in the years ahead.”

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