Art Show is a great success

STUDENTS showcased their work at the opening of the college’s new Arts Building.

The building will officially open for new students in September, but was used to display a range of stunning art, design and technology work at the college’s end of year Arts Exhibition.

Hundreds of works were on show from A-level and BTEC course students, including paintings, craftworks and textile designs.

The building, designed by former student Rachel Clegg of Wirral-based Ainsley Gommon Architects, will extend opportunities for students in Fine Art, 3D, Graphics and Textiles in a professional and creatively stimulating environment.

Its official opening will coincide with the launch of a new Art, Design and Media Foundation Arts Diploma at the college, which aims to fully prepare students for University degree programmes.

Angela Watson, Head of Art, Design and Technology, said: “We strongly believe that the new Arts Building will make an immeasurable difference to the students here and will have an incredible impact on the work they are able to create.

“We have a superbly designed three-storey building with lots of space and modern facilities for our students – they now have much more scope to produce larger, more ambitious pieces and to work in a professional and aspirational environment.”

The new Arts Building consists of five large teaching studios with floor to ceiling windows, with views looking out to the River Mersey and the Liverpool skyline.

Angela Watson added: “This is a very proud moment for us all to share the students’ excellent work in the new building – we have some extremely talented young artists and designers at the college and it is our aim to give them the best platform to progress as possible.

“To this end we are also launching thediploma, which means that Wirral arts students will not have to look further afield to access the qualification. Through the diploma we can consolidate the work already undertaken by our students and help them to take that extra step after their A-levels. With our experienced and knowledgeable tutors and modern facilities, The Sixth Form College - Birkenhead is the best place on the Wirral for young people to study arts and design.”

18-year-old arts student Adam Letts, from Bebington, said: “I have been studying here for two years and really enjoy the course, but the new building is amazing. It is a great facility with much more space to work in and feels very professional. I will now be going on to do the diploma as I would like a career in graphic design and this will provide me with the best springboard.

“It’s also great to see that the college is investing so much in the students who are already here and for those who are looking for a good place to study arts in the future.”