Langley and Windsor's East Berkshire College has been renamed this week under a surprise move to reflect a wider appeal to neighbouring communities.

The two colleges and Strode's College in Egham, Surrey – which it acquired in May – are now collectively known as the Windsor Forest Colleges Group. With the new Surrey college under its belt, the organisation believed its brand had to change and the new name has been introduced following approval from the Department for Education.

The name Windsor Forest also has some historical significance for the three respective colleges and went to a student consultation as part of the rebranding exercise.

Kate Webb, group principal and chief executive, said: "The name of the group was chosen as it has particular geographical and historical significance to our organisation.

"The historic Windsor Forest once extended over much of East Berkshire, North West Surrey and South Buckinghamshire and our three college campuses in Windsor, Langley and Egham would have fallen within its boundaries.

"The name and branding was developed in-house in consultation with staff, students and governors, and the name was approved by the Department for Education."

She added: "All three college campuses have a long-standing history in their local communities and will each retain their individual identities. Our students will continue to identify with the particular college campus they attend, as they do now, but being part of a larger group means they benefit from greater learning opportunities, access to a wider range of resources and more progression routes."

The college is collectively home to more than 8,000 students and businesses each year and the group says each campus will continue with its existing courses. Langley College in Station Road specialises in technical and professional education, while Windsor College and Strode’s College offer sixth form learning with A Levels and BTECs. All three also provide part-time professional and recreational courses.

Ms Webb added: "I am extremely proud to unveil our new identity as this marks a significant milestone in our history. We believe our new name and branding perfectly reflects our heritage, values and innovative approach to learning." For further information on Windsor Forest Colleges Group visit www.windsor-forest.ac.uk or call 01753 793000.