Franklin Sixth Form College proudly marked the official opening of its new £3.5 million campus development, a major investment that reinforces the College’s commitment to outstanding teaching, learning, and opportunity within the local community.
The brand-new building, jointly funded by Franklin College Trust and the Department for Education, was formally opened by Melanie Onn MP, Alex Baxter JP DL, Chair of Franklin College Trust, and Wendy Ellis, Principal and Chief Executive Officer.
The development enhances Franklin’s already impressive, state-of-the-art campus, featuring a new reception area, eight high-tech classrooms, and The Chelmsford Suite – a 160-seat lecture theatre named in recognition of Franklin’s heritage and strong local roots.
Welcoming invited guests, including education partners, employers, and community representatives, the event offered an opportunity to tour the new facilities and meet staff who will be working within the new spaces.
This latest investment, combined with Franklin’s transition to academy status, marks a pivotal moment in the College’s 35-year history, enabling it to further its vision to provide the best possible life chances for its community.
Wendy Ellis, Principal and CEO of Franklin Sixth Form College, said:
“I am deeply proud to celebrate completion of the new building, which will further enhance and support our educational environment and learning culture. The College is a truly outstanding, high-performance organisation, supported by an inclusive culture where students thrive and achieve.”
Alex Baxter JP DL, Chair of Franklin College Trust, added:
“The opening of this building marks an exciting new chapter for Franklin as we continue to grow, inspire, and provide outstanding opportunities for our students.”
Franklin looks forward to the impact the new development will have on teaching, learning, and wider community collaboration in the years ahead.
Mel Onn MP and former Franklin student said: “The new building means there are now no limits to opportunities. The change is immense. If I was a student coming now, I would be absolutely delighted. I’m always proud to be a former student of Franklin College, but even more so now.”
