More than £30,000 in grant money has been spent refurbishing The Rutland College's new common room to provide a space where students can listen to music, read newspapers, watch television and get snacks when the canteen is closed.
It was officially opened by students at the college on Monday (May 19).
It is all thanks to nine youngsters studying BTEC National Certificate Business who as part of their studies to manage a business project decided to apply for grant funding to enhance student life.
The youngsters carried out surveys to find out what students at the campus wanted to see in their college and the overwhelming response was to improve the student common room. Their research indicated that the library was being used for socialising as well as a place to study which defeated the object of quiet study.
They organised focus groups, surveys and numerous displays to gain feedback from students about the different furniture, decor and facilities wanted and met with companies including Habitat for professional advice about the layout of the room and colour schemes.
Once all decisions had been made the students, led by Chantelle Kemp, 19, of Hall Close, Cottesmore, and guided by learning support assistant Sharon Jenkins, submitted their bid in February. They applied to the Rutland County Council Youth Opportunity and Youth Capital Fund and were awarded almost £35,000.