New Adult and Community Learning Zone Helps Take Ambition Higher

Middlesbrough College opened a new learning space that will help the local community take their ambition higher.

Rachel Gray, Head of Employability and Projects at Middlesbrough College welcomed businesses and community centres from across the Tees Valley to have a first-look at the college’s new Adult and Community Learning Zone.

The zone, dedicated to improving skills, knowledge and employability prospects of adult learners, has a range of specialist areas dedicated to helping the local community. With outstanding IT facilities, purpose build classrooms and a chill out zone providing free tea, coffee and breakfast each day, it is a warm and comfortable space to welcome adults back into learning. The new area provides a range of programmes including support for the unemployed, sector based work academies, pre-apprenticeships and free distance learning courses.

Rachel who has been working hard to get the new zone ready was excited to show people around and give an insight into how her team can provide support, she said:

“To put it simply, we’re here to help. I have a passionate team who are dedicated to helping people get where they want to be, be that getting into employment, gaining a new qualification to move up the career ladder or even learning new skills to help get on to an apprenticeship.

“We’ve listened to our community and business partners to provide a range of programmes that will support people with the skills that are needed in this area.

“It’s great to see people realise their full potential and take advantage of the fantastic opportunities we can provide for them.”

The new zone even takes its courses out into the community for those who may not be able to or feel comfortable travelling to college, helping truly provide opportunities for everyone.

To find out more about how the college’s Adult and Community Learning Zone can support your community, email adult&communitylearning@mbro.ac.uk