Councillor Visits Petroc Tiverton’s New Specialist Learning Facilities

Petroc Tiverton was delighted to welcome Councillor Denise Bickley from Devon County Council recently for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the college’s soon-to-be-completed refurbished facilities, designed to support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those on the H2O (Home to Onsite) provision.

The visit marked an important opportunity to showcase how Petroc and Devon County Council are working together to meet the growing demand for high-quality, supportive education spaces for young people with additional needs. Both councillors were able to see first-hand how the new development is being shaped to provide a safe, inspiring, and practical environment that will help learners build independence and move towards positive futures in work, further education, or independent living.

Among the standout features of the new facility are:

• A training café and welcoming reception space, designed with neutral tones, natural light, and striking imagery of local landmarks, giving learners a sense of belonging.
• Kitchens and other spaces, where students will gain practical skills in hospitality and domestic living.
• Dedicated H2O spaces, including mentoring booths and pods to give learners one-to-one support before moving into wider class learning.
• Sustainable, learner-focused design, from solar-powered energy and LED lighting to classroom layouts that reduce sensory strain and create calm, adult-oriented learning spaces.

Cllr Denise praised the project’s vision and the impact it will have for young people across Devon. They also discussed future opportunities for collaboration between Petroc and Devon County Council to ensure essential provision continues to grow in response to the regions needs.

With completion now on the horizon, Petroc Tiverton’s new Progressive Skills Academy will soon open its doors, creating 250 new places for SEND learners in Tiverton as part of a wider county initiative to expand provision to 650 new places across Devon.