The future of our local colleges, is under real threat. Years of underfunding mean that colleges cannot cover the true costs of running essential courses. The result is clear: fewer courses, fewer options for learners, and fewer opportunities for people right here in our communities.

We’ve already seen course closures and reductions across Angus and Dundee, directly affecting students who want to gain skills for work, retrain, or simply build a better future. Staff are being stretched further and further, with heavier teaching loads and fewer resources to support students properly. This puts quality at risk for everyone.

Why does this matter for local people?

For young people: Fewer courses mean fewer chances to stay local, learn new skills, and build a career close to home.
For families: Colleges give second chances to adults who want to retrain, return to education, or improve job prospects. Cuts close off these lifelines.
For local businesses and employers: Colleges provide the skilled workforce our economy depends on. When training opportunities are cut, local industries feel the impact of the shortage.
For our communities: Colleges are more than classrooms. They are community hubs that support wellbeing, inclusion, and opportunities for everyone.
Without proper funding, all of this is at risk. That means fewer opportunities for our children, our neighbours, our colleagues, and our local businesses.

We are calling on the Scottish Government to protect Further Education by providing funding that keeps pace with inflation, staff pay, and the real cost of running colleges. This will ensure that high-quality courses, fair staff conditions, and proper student support remain in place for the people of all areas of Scotland, and beyond.

By signing this petition, you are standing up for opportunities in our local community. Together, we can send a strong message: our communities need strong, well-funded colleges — for today and for future generations.

Please add your name and help us safeguard education for Angus and Dundee.

We’re calling on you to pledge: to stand together in support of education for all. By adding your name, you join a movement that empowers us – and our community – to face challenges with strength and solidarity, ensuring that education remains a cornerstone of our shared future.

✍️ By signing this pledge (and joining our WhatsApp group if you wish), you’re committing to defend Further Education and to take action in your own way – whether that’s spreading the word, supporting others, or standing up for the value of colleges in our society.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we protect education. 💙

This petition is validated by Unison - one of the UK's largest trade unions, representing staff who provide public services in the public and private sector.