The Academy at Kidderminster opens for students (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

The Academy at Kidderminster opens for students

2:42pm Tuesday 18th September 2012 in News

HUNDREDS of students joined the Academy at Kidderminster today to begin their studies in the regenerated Piano Building.

The facility at Weavers Wharf aims to provide education and training opportunities for young people in Wyre Forest.

The Academy, created in partnership between Birmingham Metropolitan College and Kidderminster College , was part of a £10million development by Thomas Vale.

It is hoped the Academy will support the local economy by providing specialist training in skills shortage areas.

Specialist areas include creative, digital, fashion, retail, gaming, entrepreneurship, legal, marketing and hospitality and culinary arts.

Associations and partnerships with global companies such as Samsung, Dixons, John Lewis and BMW will help create apprenticeship opportunities and enhance job prospects.

Principal and chief executive Dr Christine Braddock said: “We’ve made history today with the opening of this new skills and entrepreneurial academy here in the Wyre Forest. The Academy staff are delighted to welcome so many enthusiastic learners.

“Despite the continuing economic difficulties faced by the region, we know we must continue to invest in this future generation to better meet the skills shortages of the area.”

The warehouse concept of the building has been retained with purpose-built media suites, fashion laboratories and commercial kitchens.

Seventeen-year-old Anika Clarke, a hospitality and culinary arts student, said: “I love cookery. When I first heard about the Academy I saw it as the start of something new.

“I love everything about the building, the open space, the furniture and the fact that I’m one of the first students here, it makes me feel important.”

The first public open event will take place on Wednesday, October 10.

For more information visit kidderminster2012.ac.uk