Building blocks in place for technology learning

Hundreds of school pupils, adults and teachers from across the north of the borough have already benefited from using the existing centre which offers a huge range of learning opportunities using the latest technology.

Now, even more will get the chance as the new centre is created including a large open multifunctional filming/photography/animation studio, a digital studio and a 12 unit ICT Suite.

The new facilities will match the 'industry standard' learning environments found in the media and creative industries.

The work has been supported by £600,000 from the Council through the Targeted Capital Fund, £200,000 from the CLC and £60,000 from Rawmarsh Community School.

Councillor Shaun Wright will join representatives from the centre, the school and the contractors to lay a stone to mark the creation of the new centre on Wednesday at 9am.

Councillor Wright, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People's Services, said: "The existing centre has been hugely successful and these new facilities once they are completed will provide a major boost to this work in the north of the borough.

"Ensuring we use new technologies in learning is key to ensuring we can meet the needs of the future economy and put Rotherham at the forefront of new technological advances."

The Centre has built its reputation as a respected centre of excellence over the last eight years.

In particular, the last three years has seen the CLC have a major impact on the achievement levels of young people and adults across Rotherham by offering opportunities for additional or alternative accreditation linked directly to the identified skills needs of local employers.

These programmes have resulted in over 700 young people and adults achieving Level 2 qualifications. In addition to this success the CLC has trained over 120 teachers in the use of new technologies.

The work on the centre is being carried out by R.H. Fullwood.