Construction starts on new sixth form college

Artist's impression of the new Rochdale 6th Form College.

Work has started on site for Rochdale’s new state-of-the-art sixth form college.

Main contractors, Bardsley Construction, began preparation work on site this week, turning the project into reality.

The new development is situated opposite the Hopwood Hall College and aims to radically transform sixth form education in the borough by providing a first class, A-level education establishment.

Accommodating approximately 1000 students, the college will ensure the best possible education opportunities are available for young people. Impressive teaching facilities, a state-of-the-art IT suite, and theatre and fitness suite are included in the designs for the new building. The facilities will be amongst the best in the country for 16-18 year old A-level students.

Terry Piggott, Executive Director for Children’s Services at Rochdale Council said: "This is a very exciting project that will transform the lives of local young people.

“We are determined to ensure our young people aim high and reach their full potential. With the college now becoming a reality, young people of Rochdale can look forward to studying A-levels in their home town.”

Chairman of the Rochdale Sixth Form Governors, Dame Pam Coward, said: “Now work has started on site, residents and young people will start to see the new college develop. We are all working hard to ensure that young people in the borough get the high quality post-16 education that they deserve and we will work in partnership with local schools, Higher Education and Hopwood Hall to create a world class, vibrant and modern facility."
The college will open in September 2010.