Northumberland College’s learning environment for students with special education needs and disabilities has been nominated for a prestigious regional construction award.

The state-of-the-art SEND Centre at Kirkley Hall Campus is a finalist for the Value category, sponsored by Northumbrian Water Group, at the 2021 Constructing Excellence North East (CENE) Awards.

Part of a multi-million-pound regeneration project managed by real estate consultants Hollis, the campus’ existing Kielder Building was extended by 800 square metres over two floors to include a sensory room, a life-skills zone with specially adapted equipment to help students develop their independence and an employability hub to support their progression.

It is the second award nomination for the Kirkley Hall redevelopment this year after the new Equine Centre was shortlisted in the Commercial Development category at the Insider Media North East Property Awards.

Northumberland College’s Vice Principal for Quality & Curriculum, Lee Lister, said: “This outstanding new facility and resource will enhance the education of our young people with SEND. Supporting the successful journey to independence and adulthood is a key strategic priority for our students. The new facility places students with SEND at the heart of the Kirkley Hall Campus supporting inclusion and an enhanced student experience.

“The added value this project has created will support the students to develop key skills for independence and their next stage of education or work, including cooking, cleaning and other skills for life.

“I am excited to see the students use these amazing resources, support them to realise their potential and continue to develop outstanding study programmes for current and new students.”

Kirkley Hall’s SEND Centre has been shortlisted alongside Northumberland County Council’s Ponteland Schools and Leisure project as well as Gentoo’s ‘Core 364’ project, Newcastle University’s Dame Margaret Barbour building, and Durham University’s Mount Oswald development at the event which will take place at the Grand Gosforth Park Hotel on Friday October 8.

The category winners from each of the eight regional awards across England and Wales will go forward to the national finals where they will receive further recognition and acclaim.