A new £1.5 million Advanced Engineering Centre has officially opened at Bournemouth and Poole College.
The centre, which was launched last month by Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, features industry-standard equipment including 3D printers, scanners, and CNC and milling machines.
It is part of a wider investment programme aimed at enhancing facilities and course content across the college.
Students on engineering and manufacturing courses will train in purpose-built workshops designed to reflect modern working environments. The college says the centre is central to its plans under Vision 2026–2030, which sets out a major commitment to aligning education with the skills needed by local and national employers.
Councillor Earl attended the official opening on Wednesday 14 May, which included presentations from college leaders and representatives from local businesses. She said engineering plays a vital role in the region’s economic future and encouraged more young people to consider it as a career.
“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,” she said.
James Hills, Director of Learning for Engineering and Public and Professional Industries, said the investment ensures students are equipped with relevant skills.
“We work closely with leading engineering companies across the region to ensure our training reflects current industry standards and delivers the skills employers are actively seeking,” he said.
The centre is now open to students and is part of a long-term strategy to boost technical education opportunities in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area.
Guests also heard from David Ford, Chair of the Board at Bournemouth and Poole College who highlighted the college’s forward-looking Vision 2026–2030 – outlining major investment in new facilities and a curriculum shaped by the needs of local and national industry.
For more information on Engineering courses at Bournemouth and Poole College, visit this link.
