STUDENTS at City College Southampton now have their very own university-style student union.

The facility has been officially opened and aims to give learners a place to relax and meet other students.

The split-level space, kitted out with sofas, beanbags, TV screens, a pool table and working spaces, will also act as a base for Learner Voice – the college’s student council.

Abbey Knight, president of Learner Voice, said: “The student union looks amazing and will really help to build a community within the college, allowing students to interact with people they may not necessarily associate with.

“It’ll also give us as a council the chance to promote our events and Learner Voice activities.”

Learner Voice is City College’s student council, which gives those studying there the opportunity to have their say in what happens in and around the college.

Council members regularly run surveys and questionnaires, the results of which help shape college life.

Sarah Stannard, principal and CEO, said: “As a college we felt it was important for the students and the council to have a space for themselves. Learner Voice is a critical part of the college and I hope having their own space will allow them to spread their voices further.”

The new student union represents City College’s continual commitment to giving learners the very best environment to work in.

Over recent years it has undergone a £48m campus redevelopment, featuring a new theatre, restaurant, training kitchens, engineering workshop and state-of-the-art classrooms and learning spaces.

To find out about studying at City College visit southampton-city.ac.uk.