The Academy at Kidderminster

Birmingham Metropolitan College and Kidderminster College have announced their intention to work together to open a new academy in Kidderminster to provide education and training opportunities to young people and support local businesses. From September 2012, The Academy at Kidderminster will deliver full time courses for up to 1,000 16-18 year-olds from the Piano Building which is to undergo a £6.1 million stunning refurbishment. Speaking at Wyre Forest District Council’s ReWyre Conference, representatives from both Colleges confirmed that the Academy would broaden education choices for young people while addressing local skill shortages at a time when the Wyre Forest area is undergoing major plans for regeneration. Principal and Chief Executive of Birmingham Metropolitan College, Dr Christine Braddock CBE commented: “We welcome the opportunity to work with a college that is as passionate as we are about providing relevant skills training for young people in vibrant learning spaces. “The Academy will give 16-18 year-olds access to unique learning opportunities that have not before been available to them locally. This in turn will enable them to play their part in maximising the economic potential of the Wyre Forest area, particularly in the enterprise, hospitality and catering sectors.” Andy Dobson, Principal and Chief Executive of Kidderminster College added: “This exciting new institution will use the shared expertise of both colleges while bringing a new creative and innovative curriculum to Kidderminster. The facilities will be truly outstanding and will provide a huge creative and cultural boost to the area, which will benefit students, the local community, new media entrepreneurs and local businesses.” The proposed curriculum will include computer games development, fashion design and retail, 3D animation and electronics. Food Preparation and hospitality courses will also be supported by on-site amenities including a cafeteria/bistro outlet. The Academy at Kidderminster will hold an Open Event at The Piano Building on Saturday 10 December from 12pm-4pm. Ends Notes to editor • Birmingham Metropolitan College are one of the leading providers of further and higher education in the West Midlands, providing a wide range of education and training programmes in central and north Birmingham. The curriculum specialises in the delivery of high level technology and advanced manufacturing training which includes digital, environmental and low carbon technology along with medical provision in pharmaceutical, dental nursing and podiatry. • Kidderminster College provides full- and part-time post-16 and adult education across Kidderminster and the Wyre Forest. The College offers a range of vocational courses and has particular specialisms in the creative industries and technology, along with hairdressing, beauty and holistic therapies, care, sport, public services and courses for learners with learning difficulties and disabilities. It collaborates closely with local employers to deliver Apprenticeships, workplace learning and tailored training. For further information visit www.kidderminster.ac.uk ENDS November 2011. For more media information please contact: Shobby Patel Telephone: 0121 446 45 45 ext.8144 or email: