College unveils 'exciting' expansion plans
ROTHERHAM Opportunities College has secured planning permission to transform a former industrial facility into a new state-of-the-art education hub – and education bosses are giving businesses across the region an exclusive sneak preview of its future plans.
Located on Sycamore Road, Eastwood Trading Estate, the new premises will double the size of the college’s existing site and will include purpose-designed teaching spaces and classrooms and breakout spaces, vocational learning areas, training kitchens, integrated therapeutic facilities, an outdoor learning space and a multi-use games area.
With the new venture set to welcome its first students later this year, college bosses expect the site to become fully operational by 2027, and to realise its ambitions, a new fundraising campaign has been launched, with the aim of raising £500,000 to complete the planned renovations.
The college is hosting a special drop-in networking event at its new site for local businesses including a tour of the new facility, a chance to meet students and staff and discover more about the college’s supported internships programme – an initiative that helps young adults prepare for life after education.
Principal Dr Perdita Mousley said: “The need for special education provision, particularly for young adults, has never been greater, and as demand for our services continues to rise, relocating to our new site forms a vital aspect of our future growth plans.
“Moving to our new Sycamore Road site is an incredibly exciting moment for our students, staff and the local community.
“Our new home will provide a blank canvas to create the right environment to help young people with special educational needs to unlock their full potential.
Launched in 2018, Rotherham Opportunities College supports young people aged 16–25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to develop independence, wellbeing and employability skills.
The college was rated ‘Good’ in its most recent OFSTED inspection – and secured an outstanding rating in two areas – and last year became a registered charity.
The business networking drop-in event will take place on Wednesday, January 28 between 10am-2pm and is free to attend.
To reserve a place, register via the college's website at https://theroc.co.uk/rocs-new-site-launch-day-registration/.