University Centre Somerset College Group

About Us

University Centre Somerset College Group (UCS College Group) was formed on 1 August 2025 through the merger of Bridgwater & Taunton College and Strode College. Bringing together two highly respected Somerset colleges, UCS College Group was created to drive economic growth and deliver the skills, education, and training needed for Somerset and the wider region to thrive.

As one of the largest college groups in England, UCS College Group is uniquely positioned to influence and shape educational and economic development across the region. Through strong partnerships with employers, stakeholders, and communities, we play a key role in supporting inward investment, strengthening local infrastructure, and ensuring that skills development meets the needs of a rapidly evolving economy.
While operating as one college group, both colleges remain firmly rooted in their local communities, with dedicated leadership and governance structures that ensure decision-making remains responsive to local priorities while benefiting from the scale, expertise, and resources of the wider group.

Your workforce. Our priority.
Supporting employers remains at the heart of everything we do. Our ambition is to help businesses across Somerset and beyond attract, develop, and retain the skilled workforce they need to succeed.
We work closely with employers of all sizes to provide flexible, tailored workforce development solutions. Whether you're looking to recruit new talent, upskill existing employees, or develop bespoke training programmes, our experienced team is here to support your organisation's goals.

Our comprehensive training offer includes Apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, Professional Qualifications, Workforce Development Programmes, and Distance Learning opportunities, designed to meet the needs of employers across a wide range of sectors.

As a leading regional provider of technical, professional, and higher-level skills training, we collaborate with local and national employers to identify emerging skills needs and address workforce challenges. By combining industry-led training with innovative learning opportunities, we help develop the talent that drives business success and economic growth.

Our dedicated Future Skills and Growth team work in partnership with employers to understand their needs and deliver practical training solutions that create measurable impact. Their expertise, responsiveness, and commitment help ensure businesses can access the support they need to grow, innovate, and thrive.

For more information about how UCS College Group can support your workforce development, please contact our Future Skills & Growth team at business@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or call 01278 655111.



*Member-to-Member Offer*

Free Skills Audit and 10% Discount on Conference Facilities

As part of our commitment to supporting local businesses, Chamber members can benefit from a free Skills Audit to help identify workforce development opportunities, training needs, and skills gaps within their organisation. To arrange your free Skills Audit, please contact business@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk.

In addition, Chamber members can enjoy a 10% discount on bookings at the Taunton Conference Centre, offering a range of flexible meeting, conference, and event spaces conveniently located in Taunton. To enquire about conference bookings, please contact tauntonconferencecentre@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or visit:
https://www.tauntoncollege.ac.uk/college-life/facilities/the-conference-centre/