College's new construction centre opens

Buy photos » Nadhim Zahawi leaves a lasting impression at the new Construction College. 06.012.011.strat.jg4

MP NADHIM Zahawi got hands on as he officially opened Stratford College's new Construction Academy.

The £750,000 purpose-built facility will primarily house lessons in brickwork for around 70 students on construction courses at the Alcester Road college.

Principal Martin Penny said a shortage of construction skills in the local area was the main reason for the new academy.

While manager of the new academy, Peter Young, said "The building is primarily for the delivery of brickwork skills from level one where we encourage pre 16s to sample a range of construction skills right up to level three where craftsmen can develop their skills particularly in the field of renovation.

"It is purpose built to allow students to work on full scale projects including a permanent scaffolding fixture, all year round.

"The projects have been designed so that other trades such as electricians and carpenters can work with the bricklayers in a realistic way to imitate the conditions that will be experienced in the workplace."

The new centre is one of the largest capital projects in education funded by Warwickshire County Council.

A classroom equipped with the latest IT equipment has also been fitted out in the building and all staff have access to iPads to help gather digital evidence and give feedback to students.