Newsham Adult Learning Centre Training Kitchen

Newsham Adult Learning Centre plays a key role in Liverpool City Council’s Adult Learning Service, supporting the delivery of essential education and skills development programmes that enhance employment opportunities for adult learners.

The centre offers a diverse range of courses, including English and Maths, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), digital skills, employability training, cookery, hospitality, and other vocational programmes designed to support lifelong learning and career development.

In December 2024, Liverpool City Council approached Innova Design Group to deliver a comprehensive refurbishment project at the centre, involving the design, manufacture, and installation of a modern kitchen training facility, multi-use classroom, and upgraded storeroom. The scope of work also encompassed full turnkey services, including new flooring, decorative finishes, and minor building improvements.

The Brief

Newsham Adult Learning Centre planned to modernise an outdated facility by creating a modern, multi-functional space that serves as both a training kitchen and a classroom, while also upgrading the adjoining storeroom and pantry.

A key requirement was the installation of a partition wall to separate the existing open-plan kitchen, allowing the two areas to function independently and be used concurrently.

The proposed kitchen was intended to support up to 12 student workstations, each equipped with essential white goods and durable Trespa worktops, in addition to a dedicated teacher demonstration unit. The design needed to balance commercial-grade performance with domestic practicality, while offering the flexibility to accommodate cooking with electricity.

Additionally, the client requested a comprehensive upgrade of the storeroom and pantry to match the aesthetics and functionality of the new kitchen, with a focus on maximising storage and improving overall efficiency.

The Solution

Innova’s team delivered a comprehensive turnkey refurbishment, transforming the outdated space into a modern, dual-purpose teaching facility. A new partition wall was built to comply with building and acoustic regulations, enabling both the kitchen and classroom areas to function simultaneously without disruption. The wall was also reinforced to support an interactive whiteboard in the classroom.

Inside the kitchen, we installed 12 student pods, each equipped with electric hobs, ovens, and integrated storage, all finished with durable Trespa worktops. The layout features perimeter benching and storage, a central peninsula, and a dedicated teacher demonstration area at the front – complete with its own oven, worktop, and a wall-mounted TV to support interactive lessons.

To ensure the space was inclusive and accessible, we also incorporated an adjustable-height sink and hob, catering to all learners regardless of mobility needs.

The project included a full fit-out, encompassing flooring, ceiling, lighting, decoration, plumbing, and electrics, resulting in a clean, professional finish throughout. Additionally, we upgraded the adjoining storeroom and pantry to complement the kitchen’s modern design, enhancing both storage capacity and overall efficiency.

All work was completed within a 4 week timeframe, delivering a high-quality, versatile space that is fully equipped for both practical teaching and everyday use.

Staff feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting how the new setup greatly improves both teaching delivery and overall organisation.

Outcome

The new upgraded spaces are now more functional and efficient, with a clear division between teaching and practical areas. Enhanced storage solutions and a thoughtfully planned layout have streamlined day-to-day operations.