SOUTH Essex College is holding a virtual open event for its brand new Centre for Digital Technologies in Basildon town centre.

The event will take place on Tuesday, 9 February from 5 to 8pm. It will include live talks from course leaders and a virtual tour of the building, giving attendees the first look of the high tech campus.

The college hasn't been able to officially welcome students on site yet because of Covid-19 restrictions so this event will allow applicants and parents a chance to see where they could be studying in September.

The Centre for Digital Technologies houses state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for students on courses with a tech focus including IT networking, app development, games design and animation.The three-storey project has been built on the previous market site thanks to a partnership between Basildon Council, Homes England and South Essex College.

Areas of the building have been modelled on tech sector offices, giving that innovative 'Google' feel to a lot of the open plan spaces. Students will be able to experience working in this kind of modern environment, preparing them to enter the industry.

Angela O'Donoghue, principal and chief executive at South Essex College, said: "We are extremely excited to finally show off our new digital centre in Basildon. It's been a long journey but local young people will soon be able to benefit from the excellent facilities on offer, students learning here will make up the technology workforce of the future."

Leader of Basildon Council, Cllr Gavin Callaghan said: "It's great to see that the state-of-the-art digital and technology campus in the heart of our town centre is ready to welcome students once restrictions allow. The college offers courses that will complement the skills gap we have in Basildon and equip our young people so they can seize opportunities for work on their own doorstep."

For more information about the event and to register to attend, click here.