Students joining West Lancashire College this September will benefit from a series of exciting improvements across campus, following a major investment of more than £500,000 in facilities, technology and learning environments.
As part of their ongoing commitment to providing an outstanding student experience, the college has made significant upgrades to ensure learners have access to modern, industry-standard resources that support both their studies and future careers.
One of the largest areas of investment has been a complete refresh of the college's IT infrastructure. The improvements will deliver faster, more reliable network performance across campus, while enhancing security and supporting the latest software requirements. In addition, 200 brand-new laptops have been purchased, giving students greater access to technology in areas without dedicated IT suites.
Students studying sport-related courses can also look forward to a brand-new fitness suite, currently being developed adjacent to the Sports Hall. The state-of-the-art facility, due to open early in the Autumn term, will provide an inspiring space for training, learning and performance development.
Responding to growing demand for construction skills in the region, the college has also enhanced The Advanced Construction & Engineering Centre and FLT building to create new facilities for Bricklaying qualifications and training. The investment supports a sector that continues to experience strong growth both locally and nationally.
Further enhancing student wellbeing, “The Terrace” has been created thanks to more than £10,000 of community grant funding secured by Tawd Valley Developments Ltd through the Northern Procurement Alliance. The vibrant outdoor wellbeing space has transformed a previously underutilised area into an inclusive hub for relaxation, social interaction and hands-on learning.
Features include accessible picnic benches, a large shade canopy for year-round use, planters for growing vegetables and developing horticultural skills, outdoor wellbeing games such as Connect 4 and giant chess, enhanced security fencing, and a striking 10-metre mural designed and painted by the college's talented art students.
Investment has also been made in curriculum areas experiencing increased demand, including an extension to the catering training kitchens to accommodate growing student numbers. Meanwhile, the Learner Zone has undergone a complete refresh, featuring new furnishings and creating a welcoming, comfortable environment for independent study and collaboration.
Commenting on the investment, Principal Christian Thersby said:
"We have invested in areas that will have the greatest impact on our student experience while also supporting the skills needs of our local area. These refurbishments, alongside ongoing maintenance and improvements, ensure our college continues to offer some of the very best learning environments and current technologies available. I am incredibly proud of our college, its dedicated staff and our highly successful students, and I look forward to welcoming new and returning students who will benefit from this investment in September."
These exciting developments reflect the college's continued commitment to providing exceptional facilities that help students succeed, thrive and achieve their ambitions.