Member Article

Hugh Baird College to develop "enterprise village" project

Merseyside-based college, Hugh Baird, has announced plans to construct a multi-million pound enterprise village within its main campus building.

The college, which is situated in Bootle, hopes to renovate its Balliol Centre ground floor into a high street-style area, with a hair salon, florist, barbers, nail salon, cafes and a gym.

More than £3m is being pumped into the project, which Hugh Baird’s principal Yana Williams said will be a vibrant, energetic, business-focussed entrance hall.

She commented: “This multi-million pound transformation will breathe fresh life into the campus. We are aiming to create a ‘business buzz’ throughout the College.

“The layout is built around a series of enterprise units bringing energy and vitality to the site. We want the new entrance hall to set an aspirational tone.

“We also want it to project the core values of Hugh Baird College, which are focussed on passion and enthusiasm for learning.

“Hugh Baird is one of the leading college’s in the Merseyside region with a strong track record of converting student leavers into employment.

“The enterprise village helps to emphasise our mission to provide each and every student with the best possible opportunity of securing work on leaving college.”

The development is expected to encourage partnerships with SMEs in the area and create approximately 20 apprenticeship roles in the first two years.

Further plans are being developed for a commercial gym, that will be available to the public, while a social enterprise cafe project, run by students, is also in the pipeline.

Ms Williams added: “This new development presents a number of terrific opportunities for people seeking traineeships and apprenticeships.

“It also serves as a living, breathing reminder to all college members of why we are here. We are aiming to inspire students, raise aspirations and focus their thoughts on the working world. While at the same time providing high quality provision for the local community.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .