University opens multi-million pound learning centre

The £5.7m extension at Leeds Trinity University has been officially opened.

Pro-chancellor Ed Anderson and the widow of founding principal Andrew Kean, Winifred Humphreys, launched the Andrew Kean Learning Centre, which includes flexible IT rooms, a collaboration room and social study space for students to work in small groups and deliver presentations.

Mark Joyce, director of information services at Leeds Trinity University, said: “Creating the best student experience is something we are absolutely committed to at Leeds Trinity. We want our students to exercise a choice in where, when and how they manage their learning, so we actively encourage student-led enquiry. We want our students to work collaboratively and encourage group work.

“And we have a clear vision for the way innovative teaching can be supported by relevant technology and modern, flexible teaching spaces – which is why we’re so proud of the learning and teaching environments offered in the newly extended learning centre.”

The Andrew Kean Learning Centre was first built in 2002 and opened in May 2003 by Baroness Shirley Williams – who opened the colleges nearly 40 years previously – and Kean’s widow Winifred Humphreys.

Speaking about Andrew Kean, Anderson said: “Andrew Kean was innovative and inspirational. He had a vision of highly educated and professional teachers, aided by teaching assistants and complemented by advancing technology. He embedded technology into the curriculum and embraced the concept of combining academic study with professional practice. Andrew’s legacy lives on; not only in the learning centre, but in the entire ethos of Leeds Trinity University.”

Partners of the Andrew Kean Learning Centre extension project included contractors Morgan Sindall, architects Jefferson Sheard and Horsforth-based business management consultant Turner & Townsend.