Telford College unveils new £2.6m engineering academy

The centre, which is the latest in a long line of investments at the fast-growing Wellington campus, opens to students for the first time next week.

Jim Hillman, head of school with responsibility for the centre, said: “The facility will ensure that students and trainees will be fully up to date with developments in the industry by learning on state of the art equipment.

“The equipment is housed within three brand new specialist workshops, one of which is sound proofed for engine and chassis dynamometer testing.

“Facilities include general training provisions together with the latest automated test lane for MOTs, a chassis dynamometer, engine testing and fault diagnostics, computerised four-wheel alignment and Snap-On tools and equipment.”

Mr Hillman said students would benefit from working in real life workshop conditions, and would be taught by a team of industry-trained professionals with a wide breadth of specialisms.

The centre also has strong links with major motor dealerships, and independent garages to supplement its on-site teaching facilities and classrooms.

Telford College’s new principal, Chris Scott, said: “This centre cements Telford College’s reputation as one of the largest providers of automotive engineering training in the region.

“We are working closely with local, regional and national partners such as the The Institute of the Motor Industry, Snap-On Industrial and Advanced Motorsport & Engineering to ensure that this facility delivers the skills industry wants and needs for the challenges that lay ahead.”

Some of the specialist equipment in the centre has been imported from as far afield as New Zealand.

The centre has the capacity to train more than 100 students at any one time. Enrolment is currently open, and the first batch of students will begin work at the centre on September 8.