United Colleges Group (UCG) has made a major contribution to London and the wider UK economy, according to a new report by leading economic consultancy London Economics.
The analysis reveals that in the 2023-24 academic year, UCG – which has campuses across three boroughs in Central and North West London, including City of Westminster College, College of North West London and the Cockpit Theatre – provided an economic impact of around £470million.
Compared to its relevant operational costs of £51m in 2023-24, the £470m total impact of the group’s activities on the UK economy corresponds to a benefit-to-cost ratio of approximately 9.3:1.
A substantial portion of this came directly from the economic impact of teaching and learning, which was valued at £351m for the 2023-24 cohort alone. This figure reflects the significant benefits that UCG’s educational provision delivers to the UK economy by enhancing the skills, productivity and employability of its learners.
The report highlights that UCG’s teaching and learning activities contribute to the labour market by raising the productivity of its graduates, enabling them to earn higher wages and contribute more effectively to the economy.
These benefits ripple out well beyond the classroom, supporting economic growth both in London and nationally – with 90% of former UCG learners who left the college in 2023-24 progressing into positive destinations (83% to continue education path and 7% to paid employment).
In addition to its impact on productivity, UCG plays a vital role in supporting employment. In the 2023-24 academic year, UCG is estimated to have supported 1,145 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs across the UK. Of these, 995 roles were based in London – with 545 in Inner West London and 355 in Outer West and North West London – demonstrating the Group’s central role in sustaining the capital’s workforce.
The economic benefits are also evident in Gross Value Added (GVA) terms. Across the UK economy, UCG’s activities generated an estimated £72m in GVA, with £63m of that total accrued within London.
These figures underscore the institution’s position as both an educational leader and a major economic contributor, with the LE report finding that in “… benchmarks used by the UK Government, the College’s activities generate very high levels of value for money”.
United Colleges Group’s commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive education, equipping learners with the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in their chosen careers, aligns with the UK Government’s pledge to “Build skills for opportunity and growth so that every young person can follow the pathway that is right for them”.
Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal of United Colleges Group, said: “I would like to thank London Economics for their rigorous analysis, which confirms what we have long believed about the transformative impact of our college.
“In the early days of a new government that has recognised Further Education as the engine room for skills and growth, this report reinforces the vital role our college plays ─ one that is representative of the wider college sector across the country.
“United Colleges Group serves as a clear example of an anchor institution, working at the heart of its communities to meet the skills needs of London and its people.
“The case for sustained and increased investment in skills is compelling. A long-term, equitable funding settlement over the next decade would demonstrate a commitment to national progress that transcends party politics. The stakes are simply too high for our country’s future to ignore.”
Read the full report here: Our Impact
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
