Travel time and local area analysis leads to expansion of high-performing subject areas
Jane Wynne
Marketing Director
NCCG
The Problem
Nelson & Colne College Group (NCCG) commissioned a Travel Time and Local Area Analysis report to inform their 16-19 learner growth strategy and identify travel to learn areas for their two main campuses in Nelson and Accrington. The analysis was to focus specifically on six priority subject areas and was intended to inform:
- Future marketing campaigns and outreach efforts
- Curriculum and business planning
- Annual recruitment activities
The Solution
By combining travel time isochrone mapping with detailed 16-19 learner data, RCU developed a bespoke Travel Time and Local Area Analysis report for Nelson & Colne College Group. The report provided a detailed analysis of the local 16-19 learner market within both a 30- and 45-minute travel time of NCCG’s main campuses, comparing the profile of learners enrolled at NCCG against all other colleges recruiting learners within these defined catchment areas. It also highlighted key travel routes, recruitment overlaps, and other hard to reach areas.
By focusing on NCCG’s priority sectors, the analysis was designed to identify overall learner demand, trends in participation and competition locally for each subject area separately. In addition, the report presented a detailed breakdown of course provision in each subject area by qualification, with a curated list of the most popular courses and potential growth opportunities for the college to consider.
The Outcome
The report has been widely utilised across the college by the Marketing Director, Curriculum Leads, and members of both the Executive and Senior Leadership Teams. It played a key role in shaping the college’s marketing strategy, guiding curriculum development, and informing strategic investment decisions by highlighting priority areas and opportunities to focus on.
The travel time analysis has enabled the college to accurately identify target locations for growth, pinpoint areas of recruitment overlap with other colleges, and recognise potential barriers to recruitment.
Additionally, insights from the 16–19 learner analysis supported revisions to the curriculum offer, leading to the expansion of high-performing subject areas and the refinement of those with lower recruitment.