Coventry College Unveils New Cofa Courtyard
Today, Coventry College announced the official unveiling of its new multi-purpose teaching and learning space, the Cofa Courtyard, named in homage to Cofa’s Treo believed to be the original tree marking the boundary and settlement of Coventry City.
The College secured £1.5m of Post-16 Capacity Funding from the Department for Education to develop its courtyard into a covered quad area enabling it to expand its teaching and learning spaces significantly. Central government allocated funding to a handful of post-16 institutions in 2023/24 to support them in accommodating up to 260,000 additional 16 to 19 year olds in further education. Coventry City is one of the fastest growing young demographics in England and is currently reporting record enrolment numbers.
Designed to provide a dynamic environment for students to relax and socialise in during breaks and lunchtimes, the courtyard also serves as an event space during class hours, accommodating both internal activities and external visitors.
The Cofa Courtyard is the result of a dedicated collaboration with Inside Limited, a renowned construction and design company. Work on the project began in 2023 and has now culminated in a vibrant, versatile area that reflects Coventry College’s commitment to enhancing the staff and student experience.
Inside Limited have infused the space with modern elements aimed at creating a welcoming atmosphere for students. The courtyard features a blend of green spaces, seating areas, and open zones for events, making it a hub of activity on campus.
Craig Frame, CEO of Inside Limited, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating:
“Following a successful tender process Inside were delighted to be appointed to complete another exciting project for Coventry College. A substantial amount of re-design was undertaken to meet the requirements of the budget and so we set about assembling an amazing team of designers and supply chain experts.7 months later following all the under ground works, drainage, concrete foundations, structural steelwork, new roof with huge skylights, curtain walling, windows, dry lining, joinery, internal finishes as well and mechanical and electrical installations and we are done!
“What an incredible job and an incredible experience for all involved in what has been a pinnacle project in our careers. Enjoy the space Coventry College.”
Carol Thomas, Principal and CEO of Coventry College said:
“I am so pleased to see our vision come to life to provide a collaborative and modern space for staff and students to teach and learn in. I am proud of the College’s continuous investment in resources which will enhance the skills of students and in turn benefit the wider community and I am impressed with Inside Limited in delivering a second large scale project to budget for us.”
The Cofa Courtyard is now open for use, marking a new chapter in the College’s ongoing efforts to enhance student life and provide meaningful engagement opportunities on campus following over £3m of investment in resources in 2024.
Notes to Editors
- Link to the 360 video of the space
- Coventry College will be hosting a stakeholder event to celebrate the space on Thursday 19 September 2024. Please contact Nikki Goodwin at [email protected] if you would like to see the space.
- Inside Limited are Fit Out, Construction and Refurbishment experts. They operate out of three offices strategically located in Manchester, Milton Keynes and Birmingham which provides us with a wide geographical reach. Please contact Inside Limited on [email protected] for enquiries.
- For media enquiries for Coventry College please email [email protected]
