A significant milestone has been reached in the building of Plymouth’s new Regional Centre of Excellence for STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) with the laying of the foundation stone.

The £13 million state of the art facility has seen more than 50 employers involved in shaping its development.

The centre will provide a flexible learning environment that simulates ‘real work’ scenarios with industry-standard workshops, laboratories and studios. It will be equipped with high-tech resources to support a broader and more relevant STEM curriculum.

“The laying of the foundation stone takes the construction of the Regional Centre of Excellence for STEM a step closer to completion,” said Phil Davies, City College principal and chief executive.

“STEM is a local and national priority for addressing a predicted future skills shortage in related industries; building the centre is a direct response to that. Our commitment is to train and develop young people and adults that employers and the economy needs.”