State-of-the-art building marks key milestone in college’s expansion plans

Solihull Sixth Form College celebrated the opening of its new building with a visit from Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands Derrick Anderson CBE

This landmark opening is a key milestone in the college’s ambitious expansion plans, enabling it to welcome 400 new learners.

To celebrate the launch of the Turvey Building - named after Malcolm Turvey, who taught at the educational establishment for his entire 44-year career - the college held an official opening ceremony and welcomed a visit from the Lord-Lieutenant.

Solihull Sixth Form College enlisted the help of award-winning TG Escapes to design and build the new facilities.

TG Escapes are renowned for their method of modular construction and sustainable developments - built around biophilic design principles which benefit mental health and wellbeing.

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.

Clive Hicks, project manager at TG Escapes, said: “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!”

Solihull Sixth Form College principal Dr Martin Sullivan said: “I am absolutely delighted to have expanded the campus with such a modern, spacious and sustainable new building.

“It means we can look forward to welcoming even more local young people through our doors next year.”

Steve Smith, eestates and facilities director at the Summit Learning Trust, added: “This new building is a testament to Summit’s commitment to sustainability, which goes hand in hand with providing the best facilities for our learners.”