Our Business students have been picking up tips – and promoting North Yorkshire – during a trip to Canada.

Three lucky Level 3 learners, Grace Payler, Dan Rushton and Lily Bell, travelled to the country thanks to funding from the Turing Scheme.

During their visit, the trio enjoyed an educational visit to a Quesada Burritos & Tacos restaurant, and took part in a sustainable tourism class at Georgian College, in Ontario. They also managed to squeeze in some incredible sightseeing opportunities and other leisure activities.

Working on a marketing campaign

Dan said: “On the first day, we went down to Quesada in Barrie, met with the owner and asked them questions about the business and how it was marketed.

“Whilst we had lunch, we worked on a marketing task; discussing new ways to market the business to increase its sales.”

Another day began with some snow tubing fun, before the students – who were accompanied on the trip by our Business course leader, David Gaunt – headed to Georgian College.

Tourism insights and one-off experiences

There, they joined a class to present a slideshow about Harrogate and North Yorkshire’s visitor economy and learn about sustainable tourism in Canada.

David, meanwhile, taught a lesson on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and how it varies across different countries, to degree students.

It wasn’t all hard work, however, and the Harrogate group also found time to visit Niagara Falls and take in an ice hockey game.

Grace said: “I loved visiting Niagara Falls and seeing so many different things I never thought I would be able to see.

“We attended a Barrie Colts ice hockey game with members of the international team and a Canadian student who will be part of a reciprocal visit to Harrogate College. It was a great new experience for me.”

Adapting to unexpected challenges

The trip also turned into a real test of adaptability and independence when flights were unexpectedly cancelled both ways. The students, along with David, had to quickly adjust plans and find solutions to navigate these disruptions.

Fortunately, they received invaluable support from two Barrie residents, Jean Maurice and Bill, who are connected to the international conifer network. Their kindness and generosity in assisting the group through the travel difficulties made a huge difference, ensuring they could still make the most of their trip. This experience not only highlighted the importance of resilience but also showed the strength of international connections and community support.

A life-changing trip

Reflecting on the trip as a whole, Lily said: “Canada was great, it grew my confidence and allowed me to develop new skills such as presenting, using a slideshow that we had created before the trip.”

Dan added: “Going to Canada was incredible, it has really given me a new outlook on college life and it has improved my organisational skills because we had to be ready on time for each day’s events.

“The experience has also led me to feel more confident in myself.”

We are pleased to share that we have been rated ‘Good’ with ‘Outstanding’ features following our recent Ofsted inspection. 

Our dedicated and highly skilled staff, along with our strong collaboration with regional stakeholders, were praised for designing education programmes that align with local employment needs.

We are especially proud of the report’s strong endorsement of our mission and positive influence within the college.

“Learners and apprentices are eager to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours that they need to be successful in their next steps. Adult learners benefit from access to a wide range of courses that meet their learning needs and the needs of local employers and the communities in which they live.”

This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering consistently high-quality, inclusive education that transforms lives and enriches the communities we serve.

For more details, visit Ofsted to read the full report.

For so many people, Level 3 qualifications represent a vital step towards their future career – but the range of options available can be baffling. With the government’s review of a proposed overhaul of these courses now complete, has the path become any clearer?

In the article below – which was published in the The Yorkshire Post – our Principal, Danny Wild, gives his answer.

For students and parents alike the sheer breadth of options available in post-16 education can be both exciting and a little overwhelming.

The previous government, in a bid to improve skills and employability while streamlining the system, began a wide-ranging reform of Level 3 qualifications which looked at everything from BTECs and T Levels, to A levels and apprenticeships.

The stated aim, to create “clearly defined academic and technical routes” for post-16 progression, was admirable. But the shake-up also carried real risks, not least through the proposed ending of hundreds of courses, including many BTECs; with the worry being that some learners could be left with nowhere to go.

So the current government’s decision to hold a review of the reform process, to end some of that uncertainty, was welcome. Now we have the outcomes of that review, what is the outlook for colleges like ours and prospective students?

Some certainty for students and colleges

The headline result is that no fewer than 157 of those originally under-threat qualifications will continue, at least for the next year or two. We also have assurances that the defunding of certain qualifications will be done in phases, to minimise disruption and allow for a more managed change.

Of equal importance is the government’s decision to leave the question of what combinations of qualifications education providers can offer to them. Its report, The outcomes of the Review of Qualifications Reform at Level 3 in England, states: “It should be for colleges and sixth forms to work with students to devise the best mix for each individual.”

That makes perfect sense as each area’s college is much better-placed than the Department for Education to know what skills-blend is actually needed by its local economy, and therefore its learners. Many colleges have spent decades building up strong working relationships with their region’s businesses and organisations, and sometimes formalised this process – as we have through Harrogate College Employers’ Network – to increase its effectiveness.

The value of collaboration

Doing so reaps all kinds of tangible benefits. For our students, for example, it has led to collaboration and work experience with respected organisations like RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Rudding Park and Techbuyer, to name a few. Our partnership with Harrogate District Hospital, meanwhile, has secured T Level placements, supported internships and a variety of apprenticeship opportunities.

And our business links also ensure a steady stream of fact-finding trips for our learners to places like Energy Oasis, Transdev Blazefield, top tier local restaurants and West Yorkshire Police’s training centre at Carr Gate Complex, while local businesses regularly visit our campus to share their expertise.

These kinds of experiences, the result of hard-won grassroots knowledge and years of networking, are mirrored in colleges across the country. So it is pleasing to see the government, in its findings, acknowledge the value of that.

Simplifying the options

The review report notes that: ‘Students and employers need a simpler range of high-quality qualifications, which provide them with the skills they need’. With funding set to be removed from more than 200 less popular courses, the simplification part of that ambition seems to have been at least partially accomplished.

The challenge has been to ‘trim away the fat’ while ensuring the courses that remain offer a valuable and accessible pathway for students of all kinds of ability levels.

That appears to have been achieved, as learners still have a rich and layered range of routes into their chosen career or next educational stage, outside of the traditional academic route of A levels-then-university.

From BTECs to T Levels – routes into industry and education

T Levels, which blend classroom learning with substantial industry placements, are the high-level technical option that the government is particularly keen to promote. It is easy to see their appeal: not only do they give learners a ‘head start’ and experience in their chosen field, but also – with each T Level being worth the equivalent of three A levels – offer an alternative path to university.

Alongside these exist a wide range of BTEC and other applied general technical qualifications which also support progression into work or higher education. These qualifications cover subjects ranging from electrical engineering, bricklaying and childcare to business and marketing, creative media and uniformed protective services. And then there are all the apprenticeship and internship options, which can provide direct routes into so many different kinds of jobs.

So, there’s still plenty to consider for those mulling over their next steps. The important thing for prospective students to remember is that teachers, careers advisers and colleges, across Yorkshire and the UK, are here to help them decide what will work best for them: the door is open.

Three Canadian students have enjoyed a packed visit to Yorkshire as part of Harrogate College’s exciting new cultural exchange programme.

The students, from Nova Scotia Community College, were welcomed to the college where they met staff and students, took a tour of the campus, and even joined in with a business class taster session.

The visit was part of the return leg of the recent cultural exchange which saw a group of Harrogate College learners travel to Canada in March.

To give the visitors a flavour of local life, the day continued with a trip to Ripon – led by some of the students who had taken part in the Canadian adventure themselves.

Building global connections

Harrogate College’s Principal, Danny Wild, said:

“It’s been fantastic to host our visitors from Canada and show them some of the best of Yorkshire. The exchange programme is all about helping our students build new skills, broaden their horizons and create international connections – and it’s brilliant to see those aims being realised on both sides of the Atlantic.”

A big highlight for the Canadian students was how interactive and engaging the lessons were compared to the lecture-style format they were used to. They all spoke positively about the strong sense of community and collaboration at the college, and commented on how useful and relevant the curriculum-linked trips seemed in bringing classroom learning to life.

The cultural exchange programme is part of a wider commitment to offer learners enriching, real-world experiences that build confidence, independence and global awareness.

Following the success of this first exchange, the college is now exploring options for future international learning experiences.

Katie Lister has always been passionate about caring for others. When she embarked on her journey as a Level 2 Adult Care Worker apprentice at Harrogate College, she knew it was the right path for her. However, she was also aware that her dyslexia could pose challenges, particularly with writing and research. But Katie was not one to let obstacles stand in her way.

Determined to succeed, she sought out different ways to support her studies. Recognising that she needed to strengthen her academic writing, she decided to attend sessions with the iLearn team at Harrogate College, starting later this month. These classes will help her refine the structure of her assignments and develop her research skills, ensuring she can convey her knowledge effectively.

Katie’s hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed. Her employer, Skills4Living, recognised her potential and fully supported her growth. Knowing how much Katie valued her learning, they committed to funding her Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker qualification once she completed Level 2. The prospect of becoming a senior member of her team fuelled Katie’s determination even more.

Throughout her apprenticeship, Katie was surrounded by an incredible support network. Her line manager encouraged her every step of the way, ensuring she had the guidance needed to progress. Her mentor at Harrogate College also played a vital role, helping her deepen her understanding of her job while refining her research and writing skills. With every assignment she completed, she felt more confident in her abilities.

Reflecting on her journey, Katie shared, “I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted to learn more about my role and become a better care worker. The support from my line manager and mentor has been invaluable, helping me develop my skills and progress towards Level 3. For anyone considering an apprenticeship, I’d say go for it – it’s a great way to grow in your career.”

As Katie looks ahead, she realises just how much she has grown. Her apprenticeship has not only helped her develop as a care worker but has also given her the confidence to overcome personal challenges. With Level 3 on the horizon and her ambitions set on becoming a Lead Adult Care Worker, Katie is proof that with determination, support, and a willingness to learn, anything is possible. Her journey is just beginning, and the future looks brighter than ever.

Welcome to HC Highlights, our roundup of all the latest news from Harrogate College. 

Uniformed Protective Services (UPS) group RAF Leeming trip 

Our Uniformed Protective Services students have enjoyed an action-packed trip to RAF Leeming.

Twenty eight learners, plus tutors Aidan Harding and Andy Reah, took part in the field trip. They were treated to a presentation by the counter-drone unit and demonstrations in thermal imaging and drone technology from the 90 Signalers.

Organised by the base’s Media, Communications & Engagement Officer, Zoe Davis, the day also included a fascinating visit to the mountain rescue unit.

We are grateful to RAF Leeming and Zoe for making this experience both memorable and inspirational for our students.

Business learners visiting Burberry Leeds

Our Business students have enjoyed meeting some senior industry leaders in Leeds.

The Level 3 learners got the opportunity by attending an UNLOC Changemakers networking event at the Burberry offices in the city. 

Our students had a fantastic time and reported feeling much more confident about speaking to new people afterwards.

Art & Design guest speaker 

Our Level 3 Creative Practice students recently welcomed Ian and James from Harrogate-based graphic design agency Skinny Design.

During their visit the pair provided invaluable insights into the world of graphic design, discussed various pathways into the industry and showcased their recently commissioned work.

The college is thankful to Ian, James and the entire Skinny Design team for their time, knowledge and ongoing support. Their contributions continue to enrich our students’ educational journeys and prepare them for successful careers in the creative industry.

Hairdressing masterclass

Our hairdressing students recently had an incredible opportunity to learn from a top professional.

Mark from Cloud Nine delivered a masterclass on mastering the art of big, bouncy, curly blow-dries

The session was an invaluable learning experience, providing insights from a real industry expert. We are grateful to Mark and Cloud Nine for their time and expertise.

Creative Media collaborate with RE: Workshop

Our Year 1 Creative Media students have embarked on an exciting collaboration with RE: Workshop.

Acting as remote brand consultants for the workshop, which helps students create sustainable products, the learners began by auditing its social media and online content,

They then took their cameras to RE: Worshop’s base on Mabgate Campus, Leeds to capture fresh content for Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn along with photographs for the online shop and website. 

The students will begin editing their content, which will start appearing on RE: Workshop’s social media platforms, in the coming weeks.

Keep up to date with all the latest Harrogate College news.

Our Children In Need fundraising day has raised an impressive £155!

Students donned pyjamas, completed a dance exercise session and brought in home baking for a bake sale – organised by the Students Union and also supported by staff – on Wednesday 13 November.

Other events on the day included face painting in reception and a gym bike challenge inspired by the Charity on Wheels efforts of Paddy McGuiness on his bicycle ride from Wales to Scotland. Staff, taking 15 minute turns, ended up travelling 52 miles over five hours using an exercise bike that had been set up in reception.

Students, meanwhile, enjoyed a staff-led Zumba session at lunchtime which also brought the money in.

Student Life lead Beth Martin said: “Children in Need at the college was a great, full day event which really highlighted how much our students care for their own and the wider community.

“It was a joy to support the Students Union to achieve such a great event, and I am so proud of the amount that was raised.”

Keep up to date with the latest Harrogate College news.

The college held a number of special activities for Remembrance Day. The Charter Mayor of Harrogate, Councillor Chris Aldred was the guest of honour as we paid our respects on Monday 11 November.

Activities included creating a paper chain, making a fingerprint poppy field art display, and exhibiting a wall of Remembrance-themed poems and ‘Remember in Colour’ photos.

A standout moment was a march by the Uniformed Public Services (UPS) learners group that was led by our electrical tutor and former soldier, Sean O’Connor.

The one-minute silence, held in front of the college, was attended by all students and staff and was followed by a speech from two of our learners. All of the day’s activities were organised by our Students’ Union members, under the guidance of Student Life Lead Beth Martin.

Stay up to date with the latest Harrogate College news.

Our partnership work with local businesses is set to be taken to the next level through the formation of Harrogate College Employer Board.

The new body was proposed at the latest meeting of the college’s Employers’ Network as a way to build on the work we are doing to ensure employers can influence key areas like our curriculum and skills training programmes.

The theme of the meeting, chaired by Principal Danny Wild, was Strengthening Business Relationships: Driving an Employer-Led Curriculum.

The discussions focused on three key areas: 

• Co-designing the 2024-25 curriculum, through working closely with local employers
• Evolving business relationship by creating deeper partnerships
• Introducing Harrogate College Employer Board

An exciting new chapter

Danny said: “We are excited to share details of this new chapter of collaboration with local businesses and are looking forward to working together to create an influential, employer-led education experience for students and industry alike.

“Throughout the meeting, employers provided valuable feedback on strengthening ties between the college and the business community, and expressed strong support for establishing the new board – seeing it as an opportunity to have a more significant influence on the college’s offerings and priorities.

“We will be drawing up and sharing a new action plan, based on these discussions, and inviting employers’ network members to offer further feedback to shape the next steps of this promising partnership.”