Work begins on new block for Itchen Sixth Form College

The £3m scheme will give students seven new classrooms and an extra sports hall in the 1,100m2 block - adjacent to existing buildings at the college in Middle Road, Sholing.

In July, construction company Stepnell broke ground - marking the start of the construction phase of the project.

An aerial view of Itchen Sixth Form College (Image: Architecture PLB) READ MORE: Timeline revealed for Itchen College £3m expansion works

Alex Scott, principal at Itchen Sixth Form College, said: “We are delighted to see work underway, on time for delivery early in 2025.

"The new building will enable us to further enhance the experience of our staff and students, replacing tired accommodation with purpose built, state of the art facilities."

The existing classrooms were described as 'in very poor condition, nearing end of life and inefficient in terms of their energy use' by the company.

By April, plans had been approved by Southampton City Council - acknowledging that efforts had been made to minimise impact on the nearby sports field.

Preparatory works at the site started in May.

An artist's impression of what the building should look like The project also includes upgrading the college car park and removing the modular classrooms.

The scheme is jointly funded by the college and the Department for Education’s post-16 capacity fund.

Rob Speirs, regional director at Stepnell, said: “This is a fantastic project for Stepnell to be involved in and we look forward to the construction progressing.

"As part of our social value strategy, we will have apprentices and work experience trainees on the project and will utilise local suppliers and specialist subcontractors.”

The construction works are being managed by Cliftons Projects.

Director Malcolm Wright said: “We are excited to support Itchen Sixth Form College in improving its facilities.

"This development reflects our commitment to creating inspiring and functional educational spaces.”