Siôn Simon, MP for Erdington and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Further Education, visited Matthew Boulton College in Birmingham City Centre as part of bicentenary commemorative celebrations of the death of Birmingham industrialist, Matthew Boulton (1728-1809). Mr Simon met staff and students during a guided tour from Principal and Chief Executive, Christine Braddock, which included the creative and performing arts studios, medical healthcare and vocational science laboratories, digital and environmental technology centre and the student’s learning suite.
The building on Jennens Road, Eastside celebrated the third anniversary of its opening in March. In 2008 Matthew Boulton College received the prestigious Further Education Design Excellence RIBA Award which recognises design excellence and innovation.
Mr Simon commented:
“I was greatly impressed by the manner in which the surroundings at Matthew Boulton College have proved to be both innovative and inspiring, enabling the local community to enjoy a high quality of learning.
The college greatly reflects Matthew Boulton’s entrepreneurial spirit, drive and ambition and I was delighted to join students and staff in recognising the illustrious career of this remarkable man.”
One of Birmingham’s greatest sons, Matthew Boulton built his reputation on producing jewellery, silverware and plated goods of the highest quality. He opened his business in 1761 and it soon became the World’s largest and most famous manufacturing business. He then worked with James Watt and the two of them formed a steam engine business – the world has not been the same since.
Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Christine Braddock CBE stated: “Matthew Boulton College is the oldest provider of further education in the city of Birmingham and we continue to strive towards providing teaching and learning facilities of the highest quality.
“We are proud to pay tribute to Matthew Boulton and will ensure his legacy and influence lives on through the college’s many inspirational activities and achievements.”
Art students at Matthew Boulton College are celebrating the life, work and legacy of Matthew Boulton through a commemorative display of 3-D designs and models currently on display at the Soho House Museum. Each piece draws on Boulton’s historic significance in terms of design and manufacture. The exhibition called 200 Years in the Making: Celebrating Boulton in Contemporary Style is free and will run until 1 November.
Sutton Coldfield and Matthew Boulton Colleges who are working in strategic partnership are planning a £42m campus on the former Express Dairy on Aldridge Road, Perry Barr which will offer skills development and qualifications in a number of key vocational areas including engineering and technology, IT, digital communications and media as well as hair, beauty and holistic therapies and Skills for Life. Full planning consent has been obtained for the new 22,000 sq metre building which will be accessible to local residents.