Two colleges have joined forces in a move aimed at creating "a cornerstone" of Newham.

NewVIc Sixth Form College and Newham College London have merged, which the latter says will lead to one of the largest providers of post-16 and adult education in east London, serving more than 12,000 students.

The newly formed institution spans multiple campuses, including East Ham, Stratford, the London City Institute of Technology (LCIoT) in Canning Town, and the Plaistow site of NewVIc.

Paul Stephen, principal and chief executive of Newham College London, said: "This merger is not only about creating the broadest post-16 education offer in Newham but about ensuring that education remains accessible for all learners, including adults seeking to upskill or retrain.

"By bringing together our collective strengths, we’re building an institution that is a cornerstone of social cohesion and economic growth in Newham."

Mr Stephen said the multiple campuses will allow the merged colleges to effectively reach and serve the borough's communities.

The merger will focus on skills development, Newham College said, offering advanced technical qualifications at the LCIoT and adult learning pathways.