23-05-2025
New £1.5 million engineering centre opens at college
Bournemouth and Poole College has unveiled a new £1.5 million engineering centre.
The advanced engineering centre was opened on Wednesday, May 14, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Cllr Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council.
The centre has been designed to mirror real-world engineering environments and is equipped with industry-standard technology, including 3D printers and CNC machines.
It will offer engineering and manufacturing qualifications to students.
In her speech, Cllr Earl spoke about the importance of engineering to the region's economy and the role of education in inspiring future innovators.
READ MORE: Bournemouth MP Tom Hayes praises college redevelopment
She said: "We all need to do our part in encouraging more people to look at engineering as a career choice.
"It's a fascinating area that needs creative thinkers, problem solvers and those keen to make a difference – especially as our engineers will find solutions to so many collective challenges, from green energy and climate change to infrastructure and medical advancements."
Guests at the opening ceremony also heard from David Ford, chair of the board at Bournemouth and Poole College and James Hills, director of learning for engineering and professional and public industries.
Both spoke about the college's future plans, which include multi-million-pound investments in new facilities and a curriculum shaped by the needs of industry.
