Work on site will start later this month and BAM is vowing to use as many local subcontractors and workers as possible during the 20 month construction phase.

The college’s sixth form centre will be transformed into a contemporary, 12,100 square-metre building including science laboratories, lecture theatre, IT suites and fine arts.

Construction director Andrew Warwick said BAM is in talks with bosses at the nearby National Construction Academy to create work experience and apprenticeship places.

Warwick said: “Our approach is always to try to bring local economic and social benefits through our work.

“At Newcastle University where we’re currently building the Union Building we have placed more than 25 orders with local firms, from £1,000 to £100,000 each, covering trades such as stone masonry and brickwork.

“We certainly intend to use as many local firms as possible on Newcastle College, and are talking to the academy about using as many apprentices as we can.”