The Quad, new digital skills and enterprise hub in Telford
Opening this September, an ambitious new space to bridge education to employment through tech and digital skills now has a name.
Telford & Wrekin Council has officially unveiled the name of The Quad, a digital skills and enterprise hub that aims to redefine education, business innovation and digital skills provision in the region.
The Quad, image courtesy of Telford & Wrekin Council
The new building is part of Station Quarter, a brownfield area between Telford’s central train station and town centre which is undergoing major redevelopment, supported by towns fund investment from central government.
The Quad will be a hub for further and higher education with spaces for start-up businesses, a ground-floor exhibition area and café. Courses will largely focus on digital skills and maths with the aim to upskill people of all ages and meet local employer demand for enhanced digital skills provision.
The council is keen to see a holistic approach to education that extends beyond the classroom, supporting collaboration, innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Cllr Lee Carter, Cabinet Member for Place (The Economy & Neighbourhood Services) at Telford & Wrekin Council, says, ‘The Quad signifies aground-breaking collaboration between Telford & Wrekin Council, Telford College, Harper Adams University, and other partners. It’s going to be a transformative space that bridges education and industry, creating opportunities for learning, innovation, and business growth.
‘With more than 300 students a year expected to attend when The Quad opens its doors in September, it will not only offer pathways and opportunities for students already engaged in education and training, it will also offer advice and inspiration for those who may not have considered further training or upskilling.”
Ken Sloan, Vice Chancellor and CEO of Harper Adams University, adds: ‘As a forward-thinking institution, Harper Adams University is thrilled to be part of The Quad. Our degree programmes in Applied Data Science, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronic Engineering, and Digital Business Management which will align closely with industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the digital landscape.’
Graham Guest, Principal and CEO of Telford College, says: ‘Our investment in Station Quarter is a unique alliance between industry and education, delivering upskilling programmes which employers are asking us for. We are elevating aspirations, shaping our future workforce, and equipping people for careers inspectors such as cybersecurity, AI and robotics, virtual and augmented reality, cloud computing, wireless technologies, 5G innovation and so much more.’
Graham Wynn, Chair of Telford Towns Fund Board, add: ‘The Quad is a significant asset for our town centre. Its development is a testament to partner collaboration, creating a dynamic ecosystem for education, innovation, and economic development. With business support services and flexible enterprise incubator accommodation, it will also be a magnet for digital enterprises to establish and expand in Telford.’
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