NEW state-of-the-art classrooms have been officially opened by MP James Morris at Halesowen College.

The college launched new courses in Esports and Cyber Security in September and invested in state-of-the-art classrooms and equipment to run the pioneering classes.

It now boasts a new purpose-built Esports lab with high spec gaming stations.

With support from leading education technology provider, RM, the Cyber Lab is equipped with two high specification computer servers that will allow students to have access to their own virtual machines and network for testing ethical hacking methods and networking skills.

James Morris, MP for Halesowen and Rowley Regis, was the guest of honour to open the new suite on Friday (November 26).

He said: “I’ve been interested in cyber security myself for a long time, so it was really exciting to see this new facility and to see how it is benefitting students on this new, innovative course.

“Esports and cyber security are two growing industries with ever more career opportunities opening up.

"I wish the students that I met all the very best, and hope they succeed in whatever they go on to do next.”

College principal Andy Dobson, said: “We are really excited to be providing our students with state-of-the-art new facilities which will enable them to learn the skills needed to thrive in the IT industry of the future.”