Three out of the four land based colleges in Scotland have agreed pursue a full merger; Elmwood and Oatridge Colleges and the Scottish Agricultural College’s decision is subject to due diligence being carried out over the next few months. image expired

In a joint statement released last week, Elmwood, Oatridge and SAC said they shared a vision for the delivery of comprehensive skills, education and business support for Scotland's land-based industries, built on world class and sector-leading research.

They hope the integrated model, introducing world class research at SAC with teaching at the agricultural colleges, which would allow for a smoother educational experience for students and stakeholders. Barony College, the country’s fourth agricultural college, is currently considering its future options and may also join the merger.

Cabinet Secretary Michael Russell supported the move, saying, "This planned merger is excellent news. It comes just ahead of my plans next week to propose a range of reforms to post-16 learning in Scotland. Its aim of bringing together the distinctive contributions of Elmwood, Oatridge and SAC to improve the experience of learners is very much in tune with my thinking."

NFU Scotland also welcomed the merger. The union has campaigned for educational reform in the agricultural sector in Scotland.