Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 5WA
Cronton Sixth Form College Idea Centre
Cronton Sixth Form College: Pioneering IDEA Centre
A pioneering development has opened at Cronton Sixth Form College in Widnes. As part of a £9 million investment at the site and the first of its kind in the UK.
The Idea Centre is a state-of-the–art building, fitted with the most advanced industry equipment and designed to enable young people to enhance their skills and experiences, in order to develop a multi-skilled workforce to meet the needs of local employers.
The College is committed to the transformative power of education and firmly believes that investing in exceptional teachers is essential to helping every student achieve their full potential.
CONTACT & MORE
The brief
Cronton Sixth Form College set out to create innovative, state-of-the-art educational facilities equipped with advanced technology and modern learning methods. These facilities integrate IT, digital, engineering, and design skills, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to tackling industrial and technical challenges—all within a single space designed to help every student achieve their full potential.
In collaboration with key college stakeholders and the main contractor, interior specialists Innova Design Group meticulously designed and developed thirteen highly efficient, purpose-driven rooms. This collaborative effort involved detailed consultations to fully understand the college’s vision and educational goals. Each space was carefully tailored to reflect the client’s aspirations, ensuring that the layout optimised space and the functionality met both current and future academic needs.
The design process also considered the diverse requirements of various departments, integrating advanced technology and adaptable features to create versatile environments. These rooms were crafted not only to inspire students but also to provide teaching staff with the tools needed to deliver innovative and effective lessons. By combining aesthetic appeal with practicality, we delivered spaces that embody the college’s commitment to excellence in education and student development.
I have been absolutely bowled over by what I have seen. “This is modern technology at its best, a cutting edge and leading facility
Lesley Martin Wright , Chamber of Commerce
The solution
Innova successfully completed the installation of Cronton Sixth Form College’s new STEM centre, featuring cutting-edge IT and computing facilities. These upgrades enable students to create virtual reality environments, work in an advanced manufacturing workshop, and utilise specialised suites for digital and electronic studies, health and fitness, project management, and 3D modeling.
In both the Materials and Electronics laboratories, Innova implemented its innovative ‘hot corner’ concept—a versatile learning space that seamlessly combines classroom teaching with practical laboratory work. This design fosters shorter lines of communication and promotes collaboration, while furniture arrangements ensure all students face the front during theoretical lessons, enhancing focus and engagement with the teacher.
The Health and Fitness Sports Suite features a unique circular perimeter benching system, ideal for collaborative practical sessions. Equipped with state-of-the-art performance analysis software and advanced fitness technology, this space is designed to inspire, motivate, and nurture student development.
With adaptable, flexible workspaces throughout the STEM centre, the innovative IDEA Centre empowers teaching staff to revamp the curriculum and equip students with in-demand skills for industry success. This pioneering facility will continue to inspire and prepare future generations for years to come.
Spotlight on interiors
Education
Laboratory & Prep Rooms State-of-the-art, flexible laboratories to engage students and accommodate different teaching styles
Multi-sector
Breakout Spaces Flexible, multi-functional work or social spaces which can be reconfigured quickly and easily
Education
ICT Suites Accessible, ergonomic, low-maintenance ICT suites to keep pace with learning technologies
Do you have a project in mind?
We would love to hear from you. Give us a call, email or make an enquiry. We are here to share our expertise and answer your questions.
0161 4775300
hello@innovadesigngroup.co.uk