Solihull, B91 1SB
Science classrooms that prepare students for the world of work
Solihull College works in partnership with local employers including the NHS to link education with workplace training. With bold new plans to train the next generation of life scientists, the college were looking to align their facilities with their aims by creating two brand new labs that work for all science disciplines.
The Brief
Solihull College trains students for the workplace by working closely with a network of local organisations including Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust and the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.
"We are thrilled with the results and look forward to training the next generation of scientists in these brilliant new labs."
The Solution
The resulting two labs feature a configuration that enables students to conduct practical experiments in pairs. Work stations span out from benching that runs around the perimeter of the room, with sinks and gas taps seamlessly incorporated into the units. Electric outlets are located on the front face of each bench, away from the work surface, whilst still easily accessible.
As a pioneering new facility, another objective was to make the facilities look and feel cutting edge. Technology was critical and it has been incorporated in the form of credit card-sized Raspberry Pi computers that plug in via USB.
"Every potential problem from storage to technology and safety has been mitigated through design while practicals are now more engaging and rewarding".
To align the facilities with workplace needs, balance tables were an essential specification. Manufactured and installed with precision, the balance tables were are attached to the structure of the building to mitigate factors such as small vibrations that effect readings.
Thanks to the two new labs, science facilities at Solihull College are unlike any you would find at a school or college. Not only are they clean uncluttered and built around the college needs, they push the boundaries of science teaching and workplace training.
Contact
Are you looking for a laboratory that prepares students for the world of work? Contact us on 0161 477 5300 or complete the form below:
