A COLLEGE in Somerset has been awarded £650,000 to build a hospital ward and science lab.

Strode College, Street, was given the funds as part of the second wave of the T Levels Capital Fund, from the Department of Education.

This £650,000 follows the other funding the college received to refurbish their Digital Media and Technology Centre.

Katy Quinn, principal and CEO of Strode College, said they were "delighted" to receive the money.

"This has allowed us to provide our students with access to high-quality industrial standard facilities to support their learning and successful career development," she said.

"We are so pleased to have been able to transform an old, dark, and inefficient 1960s building into a bright, modern, and airy specialist centre for Digital Media and Technology because of this funding.

“These new classrooms and facilities have revolutionised learning for students.

"The next T Level funding we have successfully bid for is for £650,000 100 per cent grant funding to build a hospital ward and fourth science lab in E block.

"This is really great news for the college, our staff and students.”

The refurbished Digital Media and Technology Centre was opened last year by MP James Heappey and Minister for Apprenticeships, Gillian Keegan.

“Strode College is really leading the way with regards to the delivery of T-Levels and this funding for a hospital ward and an additional science lab will provide a host of options for my constituents," added Mr Heappey.

“The College has worked so hard to broaden its offering and I am delighted to see the DFE recognise their fantastic work.

“I look forward to following the progress of this exciting project.”

Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson, explained that capital funding is available to all providers to build new or refresh buildings and classrooms.

“There is also funding for the latest industry standard specialist equipment, to ensure that young people are work ready when they graduate from their T Level," he added.

"To date, providers have been able to purchase specialist equipment such as surveying equipment, digital workspaces, and engineering workshops.

“As the rollout of T Levels progresses, we will continue to support T Level providers to delivery high quality courses."