Solihull College opens new building as part of ambitious expansion plans
A West Midlands college has unveiled a 'landmark' new building as part of expansion plans which will enable it to accommodate an extra 400 students.
Solihull Sixth Form College proudly unveiled its brand-new state-of-the-art building this month. The college says the "landmark addition" is a key milestone in the College’s expansion plans, enabling it to welcome 400 new learners.
To celebrate the launch of the Turvey Building, built by modular construction specialists TG Escapes, the College held an official opening ceremony and welcomed a visit from the His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands Derrick Anderson CBE.
The Turvey Building was funded via a grant from the Department of Education and investment from the Summit Learning Trust. The space, which was completed in seven months, has been constructed to house A-Level Psychology, the largest department in the College. It accommodates eight new classrooms that promise to enrich the learning environment of their students. There is also new office space, storage and toilets.
The bespoke building has been meticulously designed to achieve net-zero in operation, reflecting the College's commitment to sustainability and the Summit Learning Trust’s West Midlands Lieutenancy ‘Tread Lightly’ initiative.
Solihull Sixth Form College Principal Dr Martin Sullivan said the move would enable to college to welcome more learners next year.
“I am absolutely delighted to have expanded the campus with such a modern, spacious and sustainable new building," he said.
"It means we can look forward to welcoming even more local young people through our doors next year. I am grateful to Summit Learning Trust for helping to fund the Turvey building and I know they are as focused as we are on providing a top quality education to learners that helps them to identify their goals and achieve their potential.”
Prioritising energy efficiency, the building incorporates advanced sustainable technologies, including air source heat pumps, LED lighting, solar panels, and a natural ventilation system. Additionally, the strategic integration of full-height, floor-to-ceiling windows enhances the interior environment by maximising natural light, fostering a bright and welcoming atmosphere for students and staff throughout the day.
Clive Hicks, Project Manager at TG Escapes said: “It’s been a pleasure to collaborate with Solihull Sixth Form College on this project. We‘re committed to providing students and staff with a positive environment where all can thrive.
"This has been achieved on this project through sustainable design decisions and material choices. Those who use the Turvey Building will be exposed to the natural elements - high levels of natural light and ventilation - a great boost for all to enjoy!”
