Duke of Kent officially opens new Cannock school of engineering
A royal guest has officially opened a new million-pound engineering academy in Cannock.
The Duke of Kent visited the academy at the Cannock campus of South Staffordshire College on Thursday.
Based at the Cannock Chase Skills and Innovation Hub, part of the college, the academy will provide courses, training opportunities, short courses and apprenticeships for all levels and abilities to boost skills and secure jobs in and around the Cannock region and beyond.
Prince Edward was given a VIP tour of the new facilities, before officially opening the academy and unveiling a plaque to commemorate the day.
Claire Boliver, chief executive and principal of South Staffordshire College said, “We are delighted to have The Duke of Kent officially open our Engineering Academy, particularly due to His Royal Highness’ interests in innovation, business and engineering we are thrilled he is able to officially open the Academy."
Engineering students then presented the Duke with a gift to remember his time at the academy. The piece of work was produced from start to finish using the new machines showing the craftsmanship that can be produced.
The engineering academy was created following a successful bid for £500,000 to the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEP (SSLEP) and matched funded by Cannock Chase District Council which saw a £1,000,000 investment into the development.
A further £500,000 in college funds was used to prepare for the machinery and equipment installation, all of which will boost skills and secure jobs in and around the Cannock region and beyond.
Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership acting chairman Alun Rogers said: “We’re pleased to have supported the creation of South Staffordshire College’s Engineering Academy through the LEP’s Skills Equipment Fund.
"This is bringing the latest industry technology to people to give them the best start in a successful engineering career.
"Improving skills is a vital part of our long-term growth plans and the development of our local industrial strategy.
"We look forward to seeing the students getting the experience they need through these fantastic new facilities.”
Tony McGovern, managing director at Cannock Chase Council said “The council is delighted that The Duke of Kent has opened the state-of-the-art engineering academy at the Cannock Campus.
"It is a facility that will develop new generations of engineers and improve skills and opportunities in the district."
