A £25 million investment programme is now complete at the Bournemouth and Poole College.

The opening of a new £11 million teaching complex at the college's Poole site is the final project in a series which have transformed facilities for students.

This investment includes a huge refurbishment, and the creation of many new dedicated centres including a STEM Centre (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), Marine Technology Centre and Financial Services Centre.

New Principal Diane Grannell, who is starting her first term in charge at the college, said: "This magnificent new teaching complex will provide an excellent array of teaching facilities in health, science, music, media and performing arts set in a pleasant environment for both staff and students.

"A new generation of students and our dedicated staff, as well as the wider community, are about to benefit from this investment in modern equipment and facilities."

Floor space at North Road has been increased by 4,600 square metres due to the new development and will house 44 new teaching spaces. The complex boasts four health and science labs along with a forensic science investigation room.

There is a digital media suite and performing arts benefits from a brand new theatre, rehearsal spaces and dressing rooms. The building is also a base for Wessex Youth Orchestra with practice facilities and a performance area.

Energy efficiency and sustainability are both themes of the design, and electricity is partly supplied via photovoltaic cells on its roof.

Ken Roberts, Executive Director of Resources at the College, co-ordinated the project. He said: "This area of our North Road site needed investment and we are really proud of what we have achieved."