New colours for Batley School of Art and Design

But now, thanks to a lick of paint and a move around of rooms in a £54,000 refurbishment, the Wheelwright Centre has become a much brighter space for aspiring artists, photographers and designers.

And with a new refreshing gallery, students now have an open space in the middle of the building to display their work during term times.

Curriculum team leader Sam Hudson said: “This is a beautiful building, but it was looking pretty grubby so we decided on colours that would keep the building very light and bring out the natural wood of the old part of the building. We all feel like we’re working in a professional environment now, and from our point of view it’s nice to come in and feel proud of where you work.

Sam explained every wall of the building had been repainted, the floors resurfaced, and the lift shaft had been redecorated.

She added: “The lift needed to be highlighted, but with the colours we’ve chosen - grey and green - we’ve found people either love it or hate it.”

The Wheelwright Centre refurbishment has also included a new ceiling in the refectory and gym, and the painting of the outside of the building.

The refurbishment is part of a five-year refurbishment at the school and Kirklees College’s Dewsbury site, which aims to transform the out-dated looking study areas into welcoming and inspiring spaces for both students and staff.

As well as changes to the Wheelwright Centre, the Dewsbury College has just opened its new hair and beauty facilities and cafe, The Rumbling Tum.

The scheme also includes installing a new careers library and study centre, relocating services, a teacher development centre and a new lift.