We’re super excited to announce that we now have the keys to our brand-new centre for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities as work on The Gateway has completed.
The Gateway is our brand-new independent living and employability skills centre for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD) located at Basford campus, set to officially open and welcome students in February 2025. The new building has bespoke facilities comprising of 13 classrooms, a teaching kitchen, dining area and ancillary spaces across a gross internal floor area of 1,350m2 as well as associated external works to the grounds.
The Gateway is the second building instalment this year to be completed at Basford campus by contractor G F Tomlinson, the first being the Construction Skills Centre. Both buildings are designed to align with the Department for Education’s (DfE) output specification and support the sustainability ambitions of Nottingham College, working towards becoming carbon zero by 2030.
Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director of G F Tomlinson, said: “The Gateway will provide much-needed facilities to support the learning and development of SLDD students at the Basford campus, and alongside the Construction Skills Centre (CSC), we’re delighted to have played a critical role in bringing these landmark buildings to fruition.”
Carl Ara, Assistant Principal - Basford, said: "We are delighted with the new facilities at The Gateway, a purpose-built, dedicated space designed to support our students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. This exceptional facility includes a wonderful outdoor sensory garden for students to enjoy, offering a calming and engaging environment.
“The interior spaces are currently being designed, and we are thrilled about the creative and functional features being incorporated. Once complete, The Gateway will be an inspiring, inclusive space where our supported learning students can truly thrive and reach their full potential.”
Our teams are now working hard on the internal designs and college personalisation of the spaces within The Gateway, following the theme of the natural world. Creative Services Manager, Mike Condon, explains: "Inspired by nature’s diversity and resilience, the design fosters an environment of growth, exploration, and inclusivity. Just as a gateway opens new paths, this space empowers learning through sensory-rich, nature-themed elements, encouraging curiosity and unlocking potential in harmony with the world around us."
Check out a selection of artist concept illustrations below to give you a sneak peak of what’s to come!
