College revamp work wins praise from MP

An MP has welcomed progress on a project which aims to see Sunderland College lead the way in technical skills training.

Sunderland Central MP Julie Elliott was speaking after visiting the college’s new Digital Innovation Centre which is due to open later this year.

The work, at the college’s Bede Campus on Durham Road aims to transform the main building into a cutting-edge learning environment that will deliver the workforce of tomorrow through a range of digitally integrated T Level qualifications..

Ms Elliott said: “Further and higher education institutions will play a vital role in our region’s economic recovery from the pandemic, and I am delighted to have visited Sunderland College and hear more about their progressing ambitious plans for the future.

“The vision and scale of the Digital Innovation Centre is very impressive, and its facilities will firmly place Sunderland College and our city at the forefront of technical skills training for years to come.

"The skills our young people develop will be hugely valuable to employers.”

Education Partnership North East chief executive, Ellen Thinnesen, added: “This is not just about investment in our estate.

"The big picture is about prioritising investment in our resources, curriculum and skills offer, the development of expert practitioners and strong industry engagement.

"Our future focused approach is entirely about ensuring we are making a real difference.”