South Gloucestershire and Stroud (SGS) College has officially opened an innovative 14-16 centre.

SGS Create is located within the SGS Stroud campus and is set to empower learners, challenge traditional educational norms and foster an environment where students can thrive.

The official opening brought together the new cohort of Create learners, parents, governors, council members and key stakeholders to celebrate this important milestone.

Sara-Jane Watkins, SGS principal, said: "We are delighted to celebrate the opening of SGS Create and are immensely grateful to everyone who played a part in making this important and much-needed provision a reality. With this new centre, young people have the opportunity to thrive and truly enjoy their education."

Kate Hartshorn, project manager at SGS College, said: "We have had the privilege of working closely with the Education Inclusion Service and SEND Sufficiency & Development Service since the development stages of SGS Create. They kindly agreed to sit on our early intervention panels to discuss applications for SGS Create.

"This partnership is unique compared to other full-time 14-16 provisions within colleges and has proven to be a huge success in ensuring the right learners are enrolled at SGS Create and given the right learning environment and support."

The carefully planned layout of SGS Create incorporates natural elements, including abundant natural light, to cultivate a calming atmosphere which supports concentration and creativity.

The successful completion of the construction project was made possible through the generous external funding provided by Stroud District Council's Community Infrastructure Levy.

Cllr Chloe Turner, Environment Committee chair, said: "We are delighted to support the 14-16 SGS Create Centre. Its innovative approach encourages inclusivity, especially for the vocational sectors, which are an important part of the Stroud economy.

"A key part of the Council Plan is to ensure that new housing is sustainable. We are carefully investing funding to provide the facilities and services that people need, such as educational facilities, leisure services, roads and environmental improvements."

SGS College would like to extend its thanks to Gloucestershire County Council and Stroud District Council for their invaluable support with setting up SGS Create.