Dudley College of Technology Unveils New Universal Access STEAM Hub in Partnership with Millennium Point

Dudley College of Technology has revealed its brand new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Hub, that will enhance education and accessibility within the community. The project, funded by Millennium Point has transformed an existing space which the college had outgrown into a dynamic space fostering innovation and creativity in students.

Nestled beneath Dudley Castle, the renovation of the current Design & Technology room, formerly an elephant house, is a result of collaboration between dedicated staff and students, and the financial aid provided by Millennium Point Charitable Trust. Approximately £17,500 of the total grant has funded the purchase of a wide array of cutting-edge equipment, including a 3D scanner compatible with 3D printers, height-adjustable workbenches, a laser cutter, and an F24 Greenpower kit-car. This array of tools is designed to cater to learners of all abilities, and empower an inclusive educational environment.

Part of the Millennium Point funding will also enhance the STEM library, making it a valuable resource for local Dudley Academies Trust (DAT) schools and the broader community. This vision extends to Brierley Hill’s Inspired Art and Design Centre, which is under consideration as a dual site for the STEAM Hub, offering specialised support for students with SEN. 

The iZone, Dudley College’s upcoming purpose-built engineering block, is another integral part of this project. Boasting a laser cutter and an existing printer, the iZone epitomises the high-tech aspirations of the STEAM hub initiative.

Adrian Eynon, Product Design lecturer at Dudley College of Technology, said: “Product Design is very much a traditional craft-based subject, but we’re wanting to modernise and move into a technological future with laser cutters and 3D printing, which will prepare students for the world they’ll experience in the industry. The investment will massively increase the quality and standard of the students' work, and that quality will translate to their confidence."

Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, added: “I am immensely proud of our collaboration with Dudley College of Technology and establishing the Universal Access STEAM Hub. This project underlines our mission to promote STEAM education, and we hope it will serve as a cornerstone for educational excellence, and inspiration for the local community.”

Set to welcome its first students in early 2024, the Universal Access STEAM Hub marks a significant milestone in the college's history. This transformative educational environment is set to inspire not only the current crop of learners, but also future generations.

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About Millennium Point:

Opened in 2001, Millennium Point is the largest landmark millennium project in England, outside of London. Inside, it is home to unique event spaces including a 350-capacity auditorium, flexible workspaces, meeting rooms and offices, and tenants, including Thinktank and Birmingham City University (BCU). 

Situated opposite the new HS2 Curzon Street Station, Millennium Point and the Millennium Point Trust champion and facilitate meetings and partnerships between businesses, educators and the next generation of STEM leaders across the region.

About the Millennium Point Charitable Trust Grants Programme:

Millennium Point’s annual STEM Grants Programme, administered by the Millennium Point Charitable Trust, provides essential funding to not-for-profit organisations, schools, and colleges within the West Midlands Combined Authority area. With grants of up to £20,000 available, the programme supports impactful STEM-related projects that meet set eligibility criteria and promote STEM education and career choices. Additionally, smaller grants starting from £1,000 are also welcome. Over the past five years, the Millennium Point Charitable Trust has proudly awarded over £2 million in grants, empowering charities, not-for-profits, community groups, and schools to advance STEM education initiatives.

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