Sandwell College, in partnership with Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, has announced a groundbreaking £18 million Learning Campus project, set to generate hundreds of job and training opportunities for the West Midlands community while supporting the future careers of thousands of learners.
The agreement revolves around the development of the new Learning Campus at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital site in Smethwick, which is scheduled to open in 2025. This innovative campus will be the first of its kind in the West Midlands, uniting the college, NHS, and university partners in a purpose-built facility. Supported by Sandwell Council, the West Midlands Combined Authority, and the Government’s Town Fund, this initiative is crucial to addressing the increasing demand for new and upskilled NHS staff.
Students at Sandwell College will gain exclusive access to learning opportunities within the hospital. The first cohort of school leavers and adult learners is already enrolled in specialized healthcare courses this year, providing them with essential hands-on experience.
Upon completion in 2026, the Learning Campus is expected to support over 1,000 learners annually, offering more than 100 apprenticeships, 250 work experience placements, and new opportunities for young people with learning difficulties.
Graham Pennington, Principal and Chief Executive of Sandwell College, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “This collaboration between Sandwell College and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity for our students to gain real-world work experience, participate in master classes, and receive career guidance from healthcare professionals. The Learning Campus symbolizes more than just infrastructure; it represents a partnership among key stakeholders in the region and a commitment to preparing the next generation of health and care professionals.”
As the largest provider of 16-19 study programs in the West Midlands, with 7,400 young people enrolled this year, the Sandwell Family of Colleges—comprising Sandwell College, Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form, and Cadbury Sixth Form—continues to drive educational innovation. The Learning Campus is just one of many initiatives launched this year.
A Decade of Success for Graham Pennington
As Graham Pennington prepares to step down after a decade of leadership and over £33 million in regional investment, he reflected on his achievements: “Our mission has always been to deliver high-quality education that enhances the life chances and economic prospects of our learners, communities, and businesses. We’ve fostered an environment where every student can thrive, offering a range of programs from A Levels to T Levels and vocational courses tailored to meet diverse needs.
“When I took on this role, I envisioned elevating Sandwell College to new heights—investing in first-class facilities for learners and establishing partnerships that would lay the groundwork for long-term success.
“I am incredibly proud of the strong position in which I leave The Sandwell Family of Colleges. We have seen consistent growth in student enrollment, achieved our best-ever Ofsted inspection results, and reached record-high enrollment numbers, solidifying our status as the most popular college choice in the West Midlands.”
