Derry's North West Regional College celebrates 50 years at Springtown Campus

Derry's North West Regional College (NWRC) has officially recognised 50 years of industrial training delivery at its refurbished Springtown Campus.

Springtown Campus, which is one of NWRC’s five main campuses, first opened in January 1973 as a government training centre and recently underwent a multi-million-pound redevelopment as part of a wider £10.8m Estates Improvement Programme across NWRC, fully funded by the Department for the Economy.

The campus has been transformed with new workshops for each vocational area, fitted with the latest technology and equipment that provide an enhanced learner experience. Other developments include new Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology in both Engineering and Construction; Robotic Welding Capability, Electric Vehicle Training Rigs and Charging Stations, Electrical Testing and Inspection Rigs, and much more.

The redevelopment has also allowed the campus to diversify and expand its range of courses. For the first time, Springtown will offer a range of Sport and Fitness courses in addition to Sports courses already offered at the college’s Strand Road Campus, as well as providing extra workspace for NWRC’s award-winning Business Support Centre.

Leo Murphy, Principal, and Chief Executive at NWRC said: “On behalf of the governing body, management, and staff of the College, I am delighted to officially recognise 50 years of industrial training delivery at Springtown.

“The campus has a long tradition in developing careers in traditional crafts and skills, forging strong partnerships with local schools, groups, and industry. But despite our rich history, we continue to be forward thinkers as we continually develop our curriculum, responding to the demands of industry and the ever-changing world of technology.

“Today’s celebration is also another reminder of the importance that apprenticeships have for our city, and region. Everyone at the College is enthusiastic about our new and modern estate, which is not only fit for purpose, but also meets the needs and expectations of students and employers alike.”

Leo Murphy, Principal, and Chief Executive at NWRC

Springtown is now home to the highest quality, industry-standard training facilities, for ‘in demand’ skills across Northern Ireland. They include: Electrical Installation, Fabrication and Welding, Mechanical Engineering, Motor Vehicle Repair, Light Vehicle Body Repair, Plumbing, Carpentry & Joinery, Bricklaying, Wall and Floor Tiling, Painting and Decorating, Horticulture, and Renewables.

The college has achieved huge success at Worldskills (Skills Olympics) and many students have gone on to compete in the World finals, travelling across the globe to compete. With courses available for school leavers and adult learners, Springtown has a wide range of courses to support students achieve their career ambitions.

SDLP Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin who attended the 50th anniversary, said: “I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate the staff and pupils of the North-West Regional College on this huge milestone.

“The importance of further education cannot be over-stated in its contribution to our local economy and there is no doubt that the need to raise the skills base in the city is at the heart of higher employment and better paying jobs in Derry."

Ms. McLaughlin concluded: "The truth is that we need to invest more in vocational education and our further education colleges, to support our staff and ensure that the remaining stigma against further education is tackled, both in the eyes of the public and in the way we reward and support our staff.

“I was very pleased to join the college today to celebrate today’s anniversary and can assure them of my support wherever possible going forward.”