Work has begun on the much anticipated Hi-Tech & Digital Centre at South Devon College. The £17m leading edge project will provide education and training to support the growing hi-tech, digital and creative sectors in South Devon and the wider region.
Stakeholders for the brand new Hi-Tech & Digital Centre gathered to mark the special Groundbreaking Ceremony on 20th April, celebrating the formal start of construction, which is being delivered by Midas Construction.
Due to open in September 2019, the building represents Phase One of a 15 year masterplan for the College. Developed in consultation with over 40 businesses, the Centre will provide students with a range of skills in electronics, lasers, fibre, satellite and communications, aerospace, marine and medical; and skills in the creative industries such as gaming, app design, film and digital media, smart textiles.
The interior layout has been designed carefully to future proof this outstanding teaching and learning environment. Emphasis has being placed on flexibility of space, and the importance of social and collaborative study. Layout of rooms mirror real workplaces and includes dedicated business workspace consisting of 15 individual business units plus two large open plan Collaboration Zones.
Laurence Frewin, Vice Principal and Deputy Chief Executive at the College said:
“This exciting project is already enabling the College to develop a new and flexible educational offer that is both distinctive and appealing to a wider range of both technically and creatively orientated young people.”