BBubbling with enthusiasm

The 29 polytechnics in England took over their new responsibilities as independent corporations from 1 April, and their 40,000 academic and support staff left local government and became private employees. Buildings worth over £3,000 million also changed ownership. The modern polytechnics were founded 20 years ago, and began life as LEA colleges offering advanced and higher education. Many had a long and distinguished history; in London's Regent Street, The Polytechnic Institution opened its doors in 1838 with lectures on sciences, arts and languages, and Prince Albert was an early visitor. The polytechnics have developed strong links with industry and commerce; well over 50,000 students are on sandwich courses, gaining a year's experience in industry or commerce “sandwiched” between their three or four years of study in the polytechnic. New European links are attracting many young people; most polytechnics can boast joint courses or exchanges with universities and other higher education institutions throughout the European Community.