ABDO pushes ahead with new college plan

The association outlined the news in a letter to members sent earlier this month from president Eric Hall. Mr Hall reiterated the body's long-standing aim to open and support a college for block-release students studying for their FBDO qualification, and those interested in obtaining further qualifications. Godmersham Park Mansion in Kent has been chosen as the site, subject to a lease being signed. Godmersham is situated close to the A28, near Canterbury and the transport hub of Ashford. Mr Hall said the college would open for a limited number of first-year students as early as next January, and there would be a full intake in September 2001. ABDO's Council will nominate a Board of Trustees to oversee the running of the college as part of a new Education Trust. In addition, ABDO will continue its support for full-time and day-release courses at existing colleges and universities. Mr Hall also told members that the professional body had outgrown its current location in Fulham and would like to move to new premises in central London. To minimise running costs, the association is currently in talks with several potential partners including the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians and the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians. However, a spokesman for ABDO told optician that details were yet to be finalised on both the purchase and location of the college and headquarters' sites. The final announcement is expected this autumn.