SOUTH Essex College in Basildon has announced a new partnership with Sharp UK to create a new facility at the campus providing students and staff with access to a highly integrated suite of the latest digital printing and audio visual presentation learning technologies.

Sharp's Print, Audio Visual and Furniture teams co-ordinated the installation project which was completed ahead of schedule.

The centre is now equipped with the latest multifunction and production print devices, device management software, BIG PAD interactive touchscreens, Digital Signage and learning space furniture.

The combination of these systems and solutions will enable new ways of teaching, enhancing student engagement and the overall learning experience.

The partnership with the college extends beyond providing technology. Students will be supported by Sharp as they begin their careers with apprenticeships, mentoring, work experience and a series of four guest speaker talks at the college (in 2021) where the company's experts will share their experience of working in the global technology sector.

Director of Connect Partnerships at Sharp UK Simon Warnes said: "This has been an exciting project for the whole Sharp team. Given the year everyone has had, we wanted to ensure the value we are adding at South Essex College goes beyond the technology and facilities we've installed. We're delighted to be partnering with the college long term and to be able to lend our continued support, expertise and guidance to both students and staff."

College principal and CEO Angela O'Donoghue said: "The college's new Centre for Digital Technologies in Basildon town centre, Essex is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for students on courses with a tech focus including IT networking, app development, games design and animation.

"We're very happy to be partnering with Sharp on this project so students can benefit from this industry-led educational experience."