Hartpury University officially opened its new University Learning Hub on Friday 5 June, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s continued investment in student success, skills development and higher education provision across Gloucestershire.
The opening was attended by Skills Minister Jacqui Smith MP, local MP Matt Bishop, representatives from local government, industry partners, charitable trusts, governors, students and members of the wider Hartpury community.
The state-of-the-art facility, spanning more than 3,100 square metres, has been designed to enhance every aspect of the student experience, bringing together learning, wellbeing, employability and support services within a single, modern and inclusive environment.
Professor Andy Collop, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Hartpury University, highlighted the transformative impact the Learning Hub will have on current and future generations of students.
“This building represents a major investment in our students, their futures, and the future of higher education here at Hartpury and across Gloucestershire,” he said.
“More than simply a building, it is a space designed around how students learn and live today. It provides opportunities for independent study, collaborative working, academic support, careers guidance, wellbeing services and social connection, all within a vibrant university community that is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
The University Learning Hub consolidates a range of services under one roof, including the university library, teaching spaces, student support services, employability support, wellbeing facilities and social learning areas. The facility has been created to foster academic achievement while supporting personal development, aspiration and social mobility.
Professor Collop also acknowledged the many partners who helped bring the ambitious project to life, including Vitruvius, Forest of Dean District Council, national government and a range of key stakeholders whose support secured investment through the Levelling Up Fund programme.
Particular thanks were given to the Kildare Trust and the Elizabeth Creak Charitable Trust, whose contributions have helped further enhance the facility for future generations of students.
Speaking at the event, Skills Minister Jacqui Smith highlighted the importance of investment in skills, education and opportunity, and the role institutions such as Hartpury University play in developing the workforce of the future.
During her speech, Minister Smith said: “I know that Hartpury University has strong employability and careers services, and an excellent record of helping young people into work through its close links with employers.
“What universities do isn’t only confined to the walls of an institution. It’s about creating opportunities for local people, working with communities and building partnerships with employers. That’s something I can see here at Hartpury.”
She also praised the ongoing collaboration with employers, and the close relationship between Hartpury University and Hartpury College, that creates clear pathways for young people throughout their learning journey.
The University Learning Hub forms part of Hartpury University’s wider commitment to providing exceptional learning environments and industry-focused education. The university was recently named Specialist University of the Year 2026 in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, recognising its outstanding contribution to higher education and graduate outcomes.
Following the official opening, guests were given guided tours of the facility, meeting students and staff and seeing first-hand how the new hub will support learning, innovation and student success.
As students begin to make full use of the new space, the University Learning Hub is set to become a focal point of campus life, helping learners to thrive academically, professionally and personally for years to come.
