Training company joins Magna for youth skill development

A TRAINING company has begun a new era by moving into Magna in what its chief executive called “a merging of like-minded organisations upskilling the young people of South Yorkshire”.

The Source Skills Academy has worked with more than 10,000 people since its launch in 2003 at Meadowhall Way next to Meadowhall Shopping Centre.

Chief executive Tricia Smith said The Source’s aim was "to help Magna expand and deliver activities and workshops for Key Stage 4 and 5 pupils and post-16s, and be on hand to support those looking to apprenticeships”.

Ms Smith added: “Magna is a unique, immersive learning experience for children and is about to have an exciting revamp, thanks to Rotherham's successful bid for £20 milliom from the Levelling Up Fund.

"It is an ideal place for us to be.

“As are we, Magna Trust is a not-for-profit charity; we have the same values and goals - helping young people to find their best futures."

Magna launched in 2000 after transforming the largest electric arc steel producing facility in Europe into a science centre.

It drew over 110,000 visitors last year, including 30,000 Key Stage 1 and 2 schoolchildren aged four to 11, for whom it provides STEM learning opportunities.

Chief executive Kevin Tomlinson said: "Supporting the development of young people lies at the very heart of our education offering."

A tram-train stop is due to be built due at Magna, allowing students to get to training by public transport.

"I am looking forward to welcoming The Source to their new home at Magna's head office on Sheffield Road,” said Mr Tomlinson.

“There are clear synergies between the two organisations, in our common goal of helping to inspire and nurture the next generation.”

Magna hosts careers events for learners, teachers and parents for Work Wise charity's Get Up To Speed each year.

Profits made by The Source are invested in improvement of the academy's facilities.

Ms Smith said: "Meadowhall had long been an ideal base for us but the world changed dramatically and as a charity with responsibility to its trustees, we have to be mindful of cost."