Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology opens its doors to first cohort of learners

Led by the Ofsted Outstanding Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), the £22.5 million development will deliver high-quality technical skills training in priority sectors, including advanced engineering and manufacturing, modern methods of construction, digital technologies and health sciences. 

Built on strong collaboration, the IoT brings together leading education providers from across Staffordshire, including Keele University, Burton and South Derbyshire College, Axia Solutions, South Staffordshire College and Stoke-on-Trent College.

Led by contractor Speller Metcalfe, the new three-storey building is located off Castle Street and forms part of the Stafford Station Gateway Project, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard equipment. Inside, learners will find a VR/AR immersive space, a mock hospital ward, testing laboratories, robotics and automation equipment, as well as an advanced manufacturing learning factory. Learners will also benefit from conference rooms, a lecture theatre, a bistro and a range of immersive teaching spaces.

Supporting the development are a number of employer partners, including Dell, MOOG, Siemens and Hitachi. Their investment has already provided £500,000 worth of equipment and resources, such as two demonstration robots from KUKA, two collaborative robots from Siemens and a transformer donated by Hitachi Energy. In addition, industrial and logistics specialist Indurent is developing digital tools to bring real-life projects into the classroom, further enriching the learning experience for students.

Georgina Barnard, Vice Principal – IoT, said: “Welcoming our first learners to the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology is an incredibly proud moment. This landmark development represents a unique collaboration between education and industry, ensuring that learners across our region have access to world-class facilities, cutting-edge technology and the specialist training needed to thrive in high-demand sectors. By working hand-in-hand with employers, we are not only creating pathways into skilled careers but also supporting businesses with the talent they need to drive innovation and growth.”

Rob Lashford, Divisional Director at Speller Metcalfe, said: "We are delighted to have delivered such a significant project for NSCG and the wider region. The new Institute of Technology is an exceptional facility that not only provides a cutting-edge learning environment but also strengthens collaboration between industry and education. It's a vital investment in the future workforce that will benefit Staffordshire and beyond for many years to come."

With pathways including short courses, higher apprenticeships and degree-level programmes, the IoT provides opportunities for those taking their first steps into employment, looking to advance in the workplace or successfully retrain in a new field.