THE next stage of a multi-million pound investment at Priestley College is under way.

A £1.5m state-of-the-art technology centre is currently being built at the college on Loushers Lane.

The new development, which will house 200 computers, will be the home of IT and computer courses at Priestley from September.

Eight classrooms over two floors will also be built with wireless access.

As part of the project, a new science laboratory will be installed in the Priestley Building and psychology and maths lessons will be given new permanent locations elsewhere on campus.

An all-weather pitch will be transformed into a dedicated training space and recreation areas, including a short basketball court.

Principal Mike Southworth said the improvements would enhance the learning experience for thousands of Priestley students over the coming years.

He added: “It is a major commitment to ensuring the learning experience at Priestley College continues to evolve and improve.”

“We already boast some facilities that are of university standard and the new technology centre will be an exciting place for students to learn.”

The new building will be finished by April with the entire project completed in September.

The new development will replace the Lewis Carroll building, which will be removed during the summer break.

The investment follows improvements to the college’s arts centre and separate design technology building.

Overall, £14million has been invested in the school in the past eight years to improve the facilities.

Last year, Priestley also became the first dedicated sixth form college in the country to receive STEM assured status making it one of the UK’s top providers of education in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Mr Southworth added: “STEM status confirmed that we are successfully preparing students for university and providing them with the essential skills needed to help them gain employment.”

“Our new technology centre proves we are making a long-standing commitment to science and technology that will benefit young people for years to come.”