BARNSLEY College will be receiving more than £2m as part of a government scheme to help inspire the next generation of skilled workers.
Colleges are being given the power to spend their funding pot as needed, on things such as building repairs and upkeep, enabling them to attract and retain learners and in turn boost the local economy.
A total of £2,228,601 has been allocated to Barnsley as part of the ‘Plan for Change’ project and it’s the latest in a string of positive steps the organisation’s taken to entice more learners to the town.
Barnsley North MP Dan Jarvis said: “I’m delighted that Barnsley will benefit from this significant new investment in our colleges across the country.
“This funding is crucial for learners to access the skills training they need, fixing the disrepair many colleges face after years of neglect.
“We’re getting on with the job and delivering.
“This funding boost is set to deliver economic growth and break down the barriers to opportunity for people across Barnsley.”
The announcement also comes after the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (SYIoT) - one of 21 IoTs nationally - marked another milestone in its creation at the college’s former University Centre site on Church Street in the town centre.
The state-of-the-art technology hub - which the college is investing £12m in - will be used for subjects in engineering, construction and IT.
At the heart of the project is the new atrium and a combination of learning resource and study zones set over three new mezzanine floors with a new glazed roof above and a modern cafe and breakout area at ground floor level.
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: “The government has listened to feedback from the sector and for the first time is giving colleges the discretion and flexibility to decide how the funding should be spent - recognising providers are best placed to determine their own priorities to improve the condition and prevent the deterioration of their estate.
“Further education colleges are at the heart of our mission to grow the economy and train the next generation of skilled workers under our Plan for Change.
“But the college estate we inherited is simply not fit for purpose.
“This funding addresses these issues, allowing colleges to focus on what they do best: breaking down barriers to opportunity and inspiring the workforce of the future.”
College principal and chief executive David Akeroyd said it was an exciting time for staff, current students and future youngsters.
“We look ahead to a future in which our hard work has led to increased opportunities for retraining and upskilling, more accessible and higher-quality jobs, and a productive workforce who are skilled in the right areas.
“This is really strong proof that our college continues to go from strength to strength as an educational standard-bearer for the region.
"We are pleased to receive this investment, which will support our ongoing work to enhance the college estate.
“It is vital that our physical environment reflects the exceptional standards of teaching and learning that define Barnsley College.
“This funding will help ensure we continue to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students and the wider community."
