Solihull College Laboratory Full Turnkey Refurbishment

Science Classrooms that Prepare Students for the World of Work

Solihull College partners with local employers, including the NHS, to bridge the gap between education and workplace training, ensuring students gain relevant, hands-on experience.As part of its ambitious plans to train the next generation of life scientists, the college planned to upgrade its facilities to meet evolving educational needs.The goal was to create two brand-new laboratories that would cater to a wide range of science disciplines, providing students with state-of-the-art spaces equipped for both theoretical and practical learning, and preparing them for careers in scientific fields.

Project Brief

Solihull College is dedicated to preparing students for the workforce by promoting strong partnerships with a wide network of local organisations. This includes collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, and the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.Through these valuable connections, the college ensures its curriculum is closely aligned with industry needs, offering students access to work placements, apprenticeships, and real-world experiences that equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen careers.This approach helps bridge the gap between education and employment, giving students a competitive edge in the job market.

The Solution

The two newly designed labs feature a layout that supports collaborative learning, allowing students to conduct practical experiments in pairs. Workstations extend from perimeter benching, with integrated sinks and gas taps perfectly built into the units. Electric outlets are strategically placed on the front face of each bench, ensuring easy access without cluttering the work surface.As a cutting-edge facility, the labs were designed with technology at the forefront. One of the standout features is the inclusion of credit card-sized Raspberry Pi computers, which are easily connected via USB, enhancing the learning experience with hands-on technology integration.

“Every potential problem from storage to technology and safety has been mitigated through design while practicals are now more engaging and rewarding”.JOE BURCHELL, 17, BTEC EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN APPLIED SCIENCE

To meet workplace requirements, balance tables were a key element of the design. Manufactured and installed with precision, these tables are securely attached to the building’s structure to minimise vibrations that could affect the accuracy of scientific readings, ensuring a reliable and professional workspace for students.

Thanks to the addition of the two new labs, Solihull College’s science facilities stand apart from those typically found at schools or colleges. More than just functional, the labs push the boundaries of science education and workplace training, providing students with a cutting-edge facility that bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world applications.