A refurbished learning zone has been officially unveiled at West Nottinghamshire College, following a month of construction and hard work.

The Step Up and Progress (SUP) curriculum’s kitchen and mock accommodation area has undergone a transformation, which has created extra space and an accessible cooking area.

The SUP curriculum helps students of all abilities to build skills for life. Students can choose from a range of courses that include transitioning into either employment, further education or independent living.

The makeover has improved a former kitchen space to enable students who are wheelchair users to safely and comfortably use the ovens and hobs. A centre island has been crafted containing six hobs with new cupboards and drawers – two of which are low-level for wheelchair users.

In addition, the kitchen has had new worktops and cupboards fitted with a dishwasher, washing machine and other built-in appliances. It also contains a workshop area for students to create and plan meals.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the area’s mock accommodation unit has also had a facelift. This unit, which is set out like an apartment, allows students to learn the vital skills for living independently. Improvements have been made to include a fitted kitchenette alongside the bedroom and living space.

Students served guests drinks at the unveiling ceremony, while showcasing their new food preparation skills.

Principal Andrew Cropley joined in the celebrations to officially cut the ribbon to open the new area. Andrew said: “It was a joy to officially open the new Step Up and Progress kitchen and to sense the excitement amongst the students about their new facility.

“They were already busy making soup and were keen to try out all the new appliances!  This will be a great asset for the college in helping our learners with learning difficulties and disabilities to develop their skills and build their confidence ready for independent living.”

Head of department for SUP, Mansfield Education Hub and Boost Kat Wisniewski said: “We’re thrilled to finally have the kitchen kitted out so that more students can benefit from learning how to cook and cater for themselves.

“Everything such as the lowered sink, accessible hobs and spacious new worktops and floorspace, will enable more students to enhance those independent life skills.

“They will be able to make the most of this space, learning all about health and safety in the home, how to plan and make nutritious meals, which will all help them to make a great start in life after they leave college.”