Preston College’s state of the art new technology building has been officially opened.
AdvertisementScience fan and TV presenter Maggie Philbin cut the ribbon on the Fulwood-based college’s new iSTEM building.
Standing for Innovation, science, technology, engineering and mathematics the structure has cost £13 million.
Maggie said: “I was honoured to have been asked to officially unveil the new iSTEM Centre and be part of the milestone event. Preston’s College knows what it wants from its students and is taking active steps to not only give Lancashire leaners an outstanding education but the skills and experience they need for life.
“I’ve met so many businesses that are crying out for work-ready entry-level talent, particularly those industries with an aging workforce, and revolutionising the education system is exactly how we go about combating this. I loved meeting like-minded employers and staff during today’s official opening who recognise that change is needed to secure Britain’s economic future.”
The building will give pupils the best facilities for learning about the sciences.
Lis Smith, principal and chief executive of Preston’s College, said: “There’s so much potential for Lancashire to become a STEM leader and a more holistic approach to skills development and training is required if we’re going to achieve this. That’s exactly why the iSTEM Centre is fundamental to the delivery of our new curriculum, to offer the very best learning and skills development that will contribute to up-skilling the region.
“The response from employers and guests attending today has been overwhelming and our vision moving forward is very much focussed on bridging the gap between education and employment. The skills shortage is impacting on businesses in Lancashire and beyond, and it’s our mission to ensure that we future-proof the pipeline of young talent by equipping them with the skills, experience and qualifications needed to secure a good job once they leave college or university.
“A huge thank you to Maggie for coming and opening the new iSTEM Centre and being part of a landmark moment in the College’s history and future.”
Do you attend the college? What do you think of the new building? Let us know in the comments below