Specialist Sandwell science and engineering college set for huge expansion after successful first year

The campus opened in April last year, and has so far trained almost 500 people in science and engineering topics such as toolmaking, machining, hydraulics and pneumatics, with the success of the scheme now set to trigger a huge expansion of the capacity of the site.

Funded by the Government Towns Fund, Sandwell College and the Department for Education, the facility was developed in partnership with Sandwell Council, who say the training courses provided at the centre form part of the authority's "key priorities" for the future of the borough.

"It’s great to celebrate the first anniversary of this fantastic new centre, which is playing a crucial role in helping to deliver high-quality, well-paid jobs and develop skills in Sandwell. These are key priorities for the council and our partners," said Councillor Sukhbir Singh Gill, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Skills.

“We have a rich industrial history, and we are proud to have businesses in Sandwell that are manufacturing products to be exported all over the world. Developing skills and supporting people to get the best start in their chosen career paths are essential aspects of successful regeneration. This centre, in the heart of West Bromwich, offers excellent training opportunities and cutting-edge facilities to help people gain much-needed technical skills for the future.”

The niche STEM Centre features electrical and mechanical labs, digital computer labs and computer aided design (CAD), physics and electronics, an engineering laboratory virtual instrumentation suite (ELVIS), and the Black Country’s first ‘festo suite’. The centre is focused on preparing people, companies and organisations for the digital future in production, and across new technologies.

Since opening last year, bosses at the colleges group say the centre has had a "remarkable impact on the region’s learners", with many progressing to higher education or on to roles in engineering companies. 

"The launch of the second phase of the campus with brand new teaching spaces underscores The Sandwell Colleges’ commitment to meeting the growing demand for STEM education and skills training in the region," said isa Capper MBE, CEO & Principal of The Sandwell Colleges.

"It’s incredibly inspiring to see how the Sandwell Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Centre has transformed opportunities for our learners and the local community in just one year. The centre’s cutting-edge facilities and strong employer partnerships are equipping learners with the skills and confidence to excel in their careers. The launch of the second phase signals our continued investment in the region’s future workforce."

Now, Sandwell College says it is set to increase the capacity of the campus by for 2025, to enable the site to support even more students.

Sonia Smalling, HR Business Partner hydraPower dynamics, added: “Our partnership with The Sandwell Colleges is vital for developing a pipeline of skilled engineers who meet the needs of today’s industries. It’s a privilege to collaborate on shaping the next generation of engineering talent. We have had high quality students from The Sandwell Colleges, there is no better way to grow your workforce.”

Chris Hinson, Chair of the West Bromwich Town Deal Board, said: “The Sandwell Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Centre is a shining example of how investment in education can drive meaningful change in a community. The growth and success of the campus over the past year highlight the power of collaboration in creating opportunities and transforming lives.”