Photo by Mark McLoughlin

Preston College’s new £5m visual and performing arts centre of excellence has opened its doors to  learners for the first time this week.

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New facilities available at the at the college’s Fulwood campus include industry standard dance, TV, and music and photography studios as well as Apple Mac suites.

In addition, the building will also boast its very own 140 seat theatre which will be used for both public performances and as part of students’ learning and assessment. It will be one of a number of facilities within the centre which will be made available for use by the local community.

Jason Turton, head of visual and performing arts at Preston College, said: “The new building is fantastic and will provide learners of all ages with access to the best resources and professional training in an  industry standard  environment.

“It will also be home to a new College reception area and will feature a stunning glass atrium that will act as a showcase for student work.”

Preston College principal, Lis Smith, added: “With the creative industries rapidly expanding in the  North West and the arrival of MediaCity and BBC North, now is the perfect time to be investing in our creative arts programmes and this new facility will help us increase our national reputation in this growing sector.

“Crucially, it will give our learners the opportunity to develop their skills and gain vital experience that will help set them on the path to a creative career.”

An official opening is planned for January 2012.