Stratford-upon-Avon MP Nadhim Zahawi was taken on a tour of Stratford-upon-Avon College’s newly refurbished campus and its state-of-the-art facilities.
The College has undergone a fantastic transformation since its merger with Solihull College & University Centre in February 2018, as part of its £13million redevelopment project. The visit was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the success of the redevelopment to the College’s local MP.
As well as building refurbishment works, additions to the campus include a new gym, Plumbing & Electrical Installation workshops, a new green space at the heart of the campus to champion sustainability, and a new refectory. As part of the Government’s Skills Development Fund project, the College also secured funding to update the theatres and build a new TV and Radio Studio; facilities which are a big hit with current students.
Mr Zahawi observed lessons in a range of subjects, including a Bootcamp taking place onsite – a free training scheme for adults to help fill skills gaps in the digital and creative industries.
Mr Zahawi visited a range of different facilities and spoke with staff and students
Upcoming plans for the College were also discussed. One exciting development includes investment in a state-of-the-art Heat Pump Installation Training Centre to enable the delivery of heat pump technology training through the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF).
College Principal, Dr Rebecca Gater, was pleased to show Mr Zahawi what the College has to offer: “As MP for the area, it was important for us to showcase the investment that has taken place on campus for local people in Mr Zahawi’s constituency and beyond. We are proud to be meeting the skills need of our local and regional community, and as lead provider for the West Midlands and Warwickshire LSIF we are keen to show how we are committed and dedicated to diversify our curriculum, and build skills by offering high quality training in industry standard facilities.”
Mr Zahawi commented: “Enhancing skills is the key to achieving the growth our country needs to succeed. Further education institutions are at the centre of this, and Stratford-Upon-Avon College is such a fantastic example of the innovation that can be done in the sector.
It’s always great to see their work first hand, providing students with the tools they need for a greener, more technologically advanced future. Having seen the College’s development plans, I’m in no doubt that their own future is equally bright.”
