£1 million 'Future Centre' under way at Shrewsbury College

Shrewsbury College and Severndale Specialist Academy have poured the money into a scheme already under way to create a new building to educate students aged 16-24.

The building should be completed by September this year, with provision planned for up to 80 students.

Building work has already started on the joint venture, which will be based at the Shrewsbury College campus on London Road.

The initiative, named Future Centre, will provide vocational courses taught by specialist tutors with workshops in textiles, printing, and ceramic making.

The build has been funded partly by the Education Funding Agency Demographic Growth Capital Fund after a bid was submitted by Severndale's business manager Tracey Mullinder and the college's vice principal, John Owen.

There are also plans to develop links with local employers so students can experience work placements in the community.

Chris Davies, principal at Severndale, said students themselves came up with the idea.

He said: "The project came about following a number of Severndale sixth form students accessing vocational courses at Shrewsbury College's Radbrook and London Road sites which has been taking place over the course of the past two years.

"it quickly became apparent that the students were flourishing in this new work-related learning environment, and so the students quickly progressed.

"The idea came from this as the most organic progression for both the college and us to continue to grow the provision for the students as it was so successful."

Principal of Shrewsbury College, Steve Wain, is hopeful that the new building will provide students with fresh opportunities.

He said: "This project is about breaking down barriers and will see these Shrewsbury College students with learning difficulties and disabilities, from a range of subject areas, getting work experience and volunteer work and, where possible, qualifications.

"The students will mix across the college and be able to enjoy the whole college experience accessing the new Learning Resource Centre, the student common room and the sports facilities.

"The courses will develop employability and independence skills with a range of vocational activity."

Students will also work in the gardens outside, and attend farmers markets to sell their produce.