MORE and more pupils in Basingstoke are now going into further education after leaving school.

The town's two main colleges have reported major increases in student numbers - and both have praised the role played by local secondary schools.

This year's enrolment figure at QMC is 1,050, which is up by 250 compared with 1999.

Vice principal Gareth Thomas said: "Clearly the college's reputation and a brilliant Ofsted report have contributed.

But what is happening more and more is that the schools in Basingstoke are doing a very good job of giving young people the confidence to progress in education and knowledge of the education system.

"More young people in the town are now saying 'I can do it'. If they're confident, they will stay in the education system and go on to better themselves.

"I think parents are also playing a big part.

"However, we still lag behind Winchester in terms of numbers. Are young people in Winchester more intelligent than those in Basingstoke? I don't think so."

Meanwhile, the number of full-time students at BCOT is 1,881 - up by almost 300 on last year. This figure has been increasing for three years, after a relatively static period, and the college expects numbers to continue growing.

The most dramatic rise has been in construction, followed by hairdressing and beauty, and hospitality and catering.

The college's work-related learning programme, which involves pupils from Year 10 giving up half a day every week to study a vocational programme at the college for two years, is one of the main reasons. This has been operating for three years and involves all the secondary schools in Basingstoke.

New principal Judith Armstrong said: "BCOT is experiencing a high demand for full-time programmes in a number of areas.

"We are here to support these students, giving them the first step on the ladder to successful careers.

"We know that their parents realise the benefits of education and training which fits their sons and daughters for real jobs and rewarding careers, which will prove enjoyable, fulfilling and financially rewarding in the future.

"Addressing local and regional skills shortages in this way will be a huge plus to our local economy and Basingstoke's businesses."