A New Future Begins: Major Redevelopment Breaks Ground at Cornwall College St Austell

Work officially underway on St Austell’s biggest education transformation in decades

St Austell has marked a major milestone with the official ground-breaking of the most significant education project the town has seen in recent years. The ceremony took place last Friday, 25th April, at Cornwall College St Austell, signalling the start of a new chapter for education across mid-Cornwall.

Backed by the Government’s Further Education Capital Transformation Fund, the multi-million-pound redevelopment will create a state-of-the-art learning environment designed to inspire ambition, boost opportunities, and drive local economic growth.

A-Levels Return to St Austell

As part of the redevelopment, Cornwall College also announced the return of A-Levels, with a brand-new sixth form centre planned for the St Austell campus.

“This is a game-changer for St Austell and fully aligns with our new place-based strategy,” said Rob Bosworth, Principal and CEO of the Cornwall College Group.

“This redevelopment isn’t just about new buildings, it’s about creating locally accessible space where people of all ages in mid-Cornwall can access life-changing education, develop skills for the future and study academic subjects to fulfil their ambitions. The new development will support our new academic offer for September 2027 and will be co-designed with our local school partners.”

Ceremony Led by Local Leaders

The ground-breaking ceremony was led by MP for St Austell and Newquay, Noah Law, who praised the project’s ambition and future impact.

“It’s truly inspiring to see this level of ambition and commitment to the future of education in our region, particularly at a time when the local skills need and opportunity is so great,” said Noah.

“This campus will be a vital resource for current and future generations across mid-Cornwall and beyond.”

The event was attended by key figures including Further Education Commissioner Shelagh Legrave, Lord-Lieutenant of Cornwall Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, Chief Executive of Cornwall Council Kate Kennally, CEO of Cornwall Education Learning Trust (CELT) Dan Morrow, and former MP Steve Double, who played a major role in securing the project’s approval during his time in office.

Students and senior staff from Mount Charles School, Poltair School and Penrice Academy also joined the celebrations.

Students Look Ahead to a Brighter Future

Among the young guests was Mount Charles School student Ornella, who shared her excitement about the new opportunities the development will bring.

“It’s just so nice how people can have a new place where there’s more opportunity, so people don’t have to go to other places, they can be local, they can choose different things, they can be anything they want to be,” said Ornella.

“This college has so many opportunities. It’s just amazing. Maybe one day I’ll even come here. The future holds many secrets, but maybe I’ll be in the same spot, older and ready to learn.”

Building for Tomorrow, Minimising Disruption Today

Construction work is now underway, with plans carefully phased to keep disruption to a minimum for current students and staff.

Matt Keen, Project Manager at BAM, the contractor leading the redevelopment, said:
“As the official contractor for this landmark redevelopment, we are actively working alongside the college to bring this ambitious vision to life.

“This project is about making possible a vibrant, forward-thinking environment that will have a meaningful impact on the future generation of learners. Our detailed plans are designed to minimise disruption, allowing students and staff to thrive in a safe and inspiring setting.”

Part of a National Transformation

Cornwall College St Austell is one of just 16 colleges across England chosen for this significant investment, which aims to modernise and rebuild college estates to better serve students and their communities.

The redevelopment follows Cornwall College Group’s recent recognition as Ofsted Outstanding, reaffirming its commitment to raising aspirations, driving opportunity and delivering exceptional education for the region.