A COLLEGE will host a special open day to allow prospective students to take a look at it's new state of the art STEM centre.

Colchester Institute's Braintree campus will be welcoming visitors tomorrow to allow them the chance to take a closer look at what is on offer.

Guests will get the chance to take a look at the college's vision for the future and see the newly built STEM Innovation Centre and a modern riverside refectory.

They will also be able to size up the new Learning and Technology Centre, which is set to be completed in November.

The developments have been supported through capital grants from Essex County Council and the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

College bosses say the changes have been made to the campus due to "significant skills shortages" that employers are experiencing in the district.

Assistant Principal for Adam Ward said: “Such is the planned economic growth for the district, the new campus’ remit is to have a very clear focus on preparing learners of all ages for work through rapid development of skills, knowledge and crucial behaviours that are in high demand by employers."

The STEM Innovation Centre has already become a place to train students of all ages who are on study programmes, apprenticeships and even short or evening courses.

The Learning and Technology Centre will be focused on IT and Digital Media, with consumer spend predicted to drive growth in those sectors. Hi-tech teaching areas, workshops and computer suites as well as IT and Digital Media equipment will be accessible to students.

The Centre will also be home to students on courses in Business, Early Years and Childhood Studies, and a range of Construction crafts.

Those interested in visiting Braintree campus can come along to tomorrow's open day which takes place between 10am – 1pm.

For fast-track entry, Colchester Institute advises guests to book online - www.colchester.ac.uk/events.