Luminate Education Group, a leading provider of education in Yorkshire, has launched a new training centre in the heart of Yorkshire to boost the skills needs of the region’s economy. 

The Yorkshire Centre for Training and Development (YCTD) will offer bespoke training packages, specific to business needs and employee requirements.

The centre will encompass the education group’s teaching expertise from Leeds City, Keighley and Harrogate colleges, delivering a range of compliance, professional development and redundancy support courses. 

Lee Pryor, Director for YCTD, said: “With the ever-changing economic climate, we recognise businesses’ need to adapt their employees’ skills, to ensure a successful post-Brexit and post-Covid-19 transition. 

“Our service will start with a complimentary skills planning session to understand the business, so that we can effectively identify its training needs, and match these to a budget. We will be offering in-person as well as virtual sessions that fit around the organisation’s schedule. We will then develop a bespoke training solution that meets those needs.

“We’ll be working with a range of sectors, from law, education and social care, to engineering, digital, hospitality and hair and beauty. We want to support as many organisations as possible to grow and thrive, as they navigate the current economic challenges.”

YCTD will be based in dedicated spaces across Leeds, Harrogate and Keighley. 

To find out more or to book a complimentary skills planning session, please call 07814 818826.

Harrogate College has welcomed the government’s Skills for Jobs White Paper, calling it a ‘step forward’ that will benefit both young people who are starting their careers and adults who may be thinking of retraining or returning to education.

One of the features of the reforms is to offer adults a range of new prospects, giving tens of thousands the opportunity to retrain in later life. It will also help them gain in-demand skills and open up further job options. This includes the chance for any adults without a full Level 3 qualification (A level equivalent), to gain one from April 2021 for free in a range of sectors including engineering, health and accountancy.

Harrogate College is in the process of establishing a higher level technical skills programme that not only complements the vision outlined in the white paper, but also meets the higher level skills demand that exist in Harrogate from the current labour market intelligence. 

Danny Wild, Principal of Harrogate College, said: “In the future, students will have the opportunity to take more modular courses, which make full use of online teaching and blended learning. This in turn, will make them more accessible and convenient for those who sign up for them.

“Harrogate College has been proactive in addressing the gaps since the start of the pandemic, with a particular focus on students, employers and communities. The government putting skills at the centre of its agenda is welcomed as it indicates how vital colleges and further education will be in levelling up for people and places, whilst taking measures to address productivity.

“The white paper recognises that the skills for jobs needs to be industry-led, which is something that Harrogate College has been focusing on and developing over the last 18 months, with the college looking to deliver the new industry standard T Levels for 16 year olds from September 2022  in science, digital, health and care, finance and construction. 

“The strength of these courses are the partnerships the college has with industry to give our students relevant work placements with key industries across the district while completing their studies.”

The college recently launched the Harrogate College Employers’ Network to bring employers into the college to help support them with their skills gaps and to ensure that the curriculum is relevant and meets market demand. 

Danny added: “The work we’re doing with employers and stakeholders to develop a curriculum that meets local needs is in alignment with the government’s recent paper and reflects the college’s intention to have an employer/industry led curriculum to ensure businesses are getting employees with the skills they need.

“The white paper is a really positive step towards addressing skills gaps; the key to the success of it will be working with businesses to influence a collaborative industry-led curriculum that supports life-long learning. It is an ambitious package but I believe it can deliver a significant shift in the way we support or address education and skills needs, not just on a local level but on a national level.”

What is LGBTQ+ History Month?

First launched in the UK in 2005, LGBT+ History Month is an annual celebration promoting the education of LGBTQ+ issues and the history of the gay rights movement. The month aims to encourage a safer, more inclusive society where the diverse spectrum of sexuality and gender is accepted and discussed openly.

Schools OUT, an organisation aiming to make schools safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students, brought about the first LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK, sparking over 150 events across the country in its first year. 

This year’s theme is Body, Mind and Spirit. There are many ways you can get involved this year, including OUTing the Past presentations, LGBTQ+ curriculum lesson plans, taking a look at interesting resources and much more.

What does it mean to identify as LGBTQ+?

We asked members of the college LGBTQ+ Society what it meant to them. 

“To me, identifying as LGBTQ+ means having comfort knowing that even if you don’t have anyone close who supports you, there’s always a community, a family, behind you ready to support you 100%. It means having a place to belong even if you don’t feel like you’re worthy of taking up the space you exist in.​” 

“Being LGBTQ+ is standing out and being different from other people, being true to yourself and being who you truly are for yourself and not others.”

“It feels like a relief that I’m not the only one who is different. It feels nice when I find someone who is the same as me, as we can help each other because we both know how hard it is to struggle with our sexuality. It feels good having people to talk to about this type of subject, as not everyone understands how you feel.”

“Being LGBTQ+ to me means that I’m free to be who I am no matter what and I’m surrounded by people who are like me and accept me.”

LGBTQ+ triumphs in history

Over the past years, there has been significant progress in recognising the rights of LGBTQ+ people. However, it’s important to take time to reflect on this and how it happened. 

1966

The Beaumont Society was founded, providing information to the general public, medical and legal professions on ‘transvestism’ and promoted research aimed at a further understanding. The word ‘transvestism’ is no longer used and the current terminology for this is now ‘trans’.

This society is now the UK’s largest and longest running support group for transgender people and their families.

1967

This year marks an important milestone in LGBTQ+ history, as the government implements recommendations from the Wolfenden Report for the Sexual Offences Act 1967, which partially legalised same-sex acts in the UK between men over the age of 21 conducted in private. 

Although an important breakthrough towards equality, there was still a long way to go.

1970

The UK Gay Liberation Front (GLF) was set up following the Stonewall Riots in New York over the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community by police. Marsha P. Johnson, a black trans-activist, is a key inspirational figure in LGBTQ+ history, as she sparked a series of protests across the world following the Stonewall incident. 

The GLF campaigned for rights of LGBTQ+ people, encouraging them to question the mainstream institutions in society which led to their oppression. 

Often protesting in solidarity with other oppressed groups, the GLF launched the very first Pride march in 1972. Pride is now a hugely successful yearly event which is incredibly important for raising awareness of LGBTQ+ and acts as a symbol for oppressed people around the globe. 

1973

Although the GLF disbanded, this made way for the Campaign for Homosexual Equality; a Manchester-based organisation leading the fight for equality by legal reform. 

2003

The Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed, meaning students were now able to learn about homosexuality and LGBTQ+ history and rights, with the aim to create a more inclusive environment.

2004

The Civil Partnership Act was introduced, allowing same-sex couples to legally enter into binding partnerships.

During this year, the Gender Recognition Act was brought in which gave trans people full legal recognition of their gender, providing them with a new birth certificate.

2010

LGBTQ+ employees were protected from discrimination, harrassment and victimisation at work through the Equality Act. 

This also brought together existing legislation and added protection for trans workers.

2013

This year marked a significant benchmark in LGBTQ+ history, with the Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act allowing same-sex couples in England and Wales to marry. Scotland shortly followed suit with the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act in 2014.

It’s clear to see the progress that has been made over the last half century, but there is still much more to do for equality and social acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. 

The LGBTQ+ community are still not treated equally in the UK and face oppression around the world. This month is particularly important in helping to fight for these rights and raise awareness. 

We can learn from the lessons from our past history and use them to address the issues we still face in today’s society. 

Celebrating at college

This year, we will be celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month digitally! Take a look at our list of exciting events and resources across the Luminate Education Group here.

Take part in our Pride Rainbow Quiz here.

See how to join in on our LGBTQ+ competition here.

For further details and information regarding resources or college events please contact balenji.mwiche@leedscitycollege.ac.uk or amy.barton@leedscitycollege.ac.uk 

Look at the Harrogate College Student Life Google Classroom to see how you can get involved in activities

LGBTQ+ support 

If you are struggling with mental health or just want to chat, there is plenty of support available.

LGBTQ+ Society

As a student at Harrogate College, you have access to the Leeds City College LGBTQ+ Society, which provides a safe space for those who identify as LGBTQ+ to be fully themselves without fear of judgement, criticism or discrimination. The society also welcomes straight allies who are encouraged to attend events.

If you’d like to get involved, visit the page here to see what’s going on. 

LGBTQ+ Foundation

The foundation provides a helpline staffed by a team of dedicated staff and volunteer operators who have extensive training.

Stonewall Youth

Find information on coming out, health, and LGBTQ+ community groups near you.

MindOut

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer mental health service.

Mermaids UK

Support for transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children, young people and their families.

Gendered Intelligence

Access a number of resources by and for trans young people and gender questioning young people in the UK and beyond.

MESMAC

Harrogate-based group which offers support and advice to young LGBTQ+ people (aged 13-25). 

If you’re interested in finding out more about the LGBTQ+ terminology and definitions, take a look at the Stonewall glossary here. 

Aspiring mental health nurse, Karis Grange, knows first-hand how mental health can affect wellbeing and is determined to support those who are suffering.

As part of her college social action project, Karis has been volunteering at the Recovery Shoebox Project; a charity providing mental health toolkits for individuals who are struggling.

A worthy cause

After receiving a shoebox herself, Karis appreciated the thought and care that went into the box and wanted to help in making a difference.

“When I was going through a difficult time, the shoebox really cheered me up – I couldn’t believe the effort that had been put into my bespoke box. I decided to volunteer at the Recovery Shoebox Project as my placement, as I wanted to encourage those struggling to not suffer in silence.

“The initiative was founded and funded by Harrogate resident, Megan Reid, who sadly passed away in February 2019. Her mother, Jo, carried on the project in her honour in order to help individuals with mental health difficulties.

“Due to Covid-19, the past year has been extremely difficult for many people, especially those suffering from mental health issues. The shoeboxes include useful items, such as tips to manage anxiety, self care ideas, stress balls and Megan’s envelopes of distractions and positivity.”

Working with the project

Each week, Karis works with the shoebox initiative to create tailored packages.

“It’s amazing to be involved with such an important cause. I help organise the boxes and contribute to tips on how to manage insomnia, anxiety and PTSD, quote strips and reasons to carry on fighting. 

“I really want to promote the message ‘It’s okay not to be okay’ and for individuals to reach out if they’re struggling.”

Promoting wellbeing

Karis studies Health and Social Care Extended Diploma Level 3 at Harrogate College and hopes to become a mental health nurse in the future.

“Following a break from my studies last year due to my mental and physical health, I returned to college determined to pursue a career in the care sector. I’m passionate about talking to other young individuals about the importance of positive mental health.

“Harrogate College has supported me to achieve my best, constantly helping me work towards my ambition of becoming a mental health nurse.

“Working with the Recovery Shoebox Project helps me learn how to manage mental health illnesses. If my support with the shoebox has helped even one individual, it will have been incredibly worthwhile. Don’t suffer in silence – order a box if you’re struggling.”

Read more about how you can work with the charity here.

Harrogate College has announced three innovative commercial courses ahead of the new academic year.

The latest courses include: Business Support: Maintaining Business Compliance, Empowering Leaders, and Business Support: Remote Working.

With the distinctive rise of e-learning, where teaching is undertaken remotely and on digital platforms, people who have been furloughed or made redundant are being encouraged to develop their skills online.

The programmes at Harrogate College are being offered to anyone who wants to change career or upskill. It is also open to businesses to help train their employees or give them something to work on.

Danny Wild, Principal at Harrogate College, said: “One of the outcomes of the coronavirus pandemic is that people have embraced innovative ways of studying as a result of remote working and we are pleased to be offering these learning opportunities, which will allow students to learn new, or develop existing skills through flexible and convenient online learning.”

He added: “The current situation highlights the importance of online and digital modes of delivering learning and training and we want to support businesses in the district to help their employees upskill and improve their future employment prospects.”

All courses are industry recognised qualifications, allowing continued professional development (CPD) to upskill staff, ensuring that businesses benefit from a high performing workforce.

The Empowering Leaders programme will focus on the ways organisations operate, the application of management and leadership approaches, and how management approaches can lead to improved performance.

The Business Support: Maintaining Business Compliance programme is aimed at food handlers, or those responsible for managing food handlers, and will provide an awareness of the legal responsibilities and controls in relation to the 14 regulated allergens.

Harrogate College has launched a Summer Transition Programme to prepare students for joining in September.

Launching on Monday 6 July, the weekly activities aim to support students in starting successfully at the college. All new students can access the scheme, allowing them to meet tutors and classmates and begin developing course-focused skills.

Run on Google Classrooms, the fun tasks will be specific to various course groups. Each 30-minute session will encourage students to communicate virtually through face-to-face videos with tutors, who will be introducing students to their chosen course through a range of activities. As part of the programme, students will also be practising English and maths skills in preparation for September.

Danny Wild, Principal of Harrogate College, said: “This programme is a fantastic way to ensure our new students feel comfortable and confident for starting in September. It gives learners a head start in their academic journey, ensuring they have a strong understanding of their course and the skills required to excel.

“We have carefully crafted the programme based on each course. The Science sessions will focus on infections and control, whereas Health and Social Care will provide insight into development and mental health. All our programmes will also incorporate ice-breaker activities and interactive discussions.”

The Summer Transition Programme will cover many subject areas including Art and Design, Performing Arts, Motor Vehicle, Construction, Hospitality and Beauty.

On Monday 22 June, many people across the country will come together to celebrate Windrush Day. The annual celebration pays tribute to the exceptional and ongoing contribution of the Windrush generation.

What is the Windrush generation?

The term ‘Windrush generation’ was first introduced in 1948 shortly after World War Two. Britain was beginning to recover from the effects of the war, which saw thousands of buildings and homes destroyed. Many young men and women in the Islands had previously served in the British armed forces, due to many Caribbean countries still being under British rule and not yet independent.

After the war, many people from the Caribbean were invited to come to Britain as there were a variety of jobs available due to post-war labour shortages. The first ship, Empire Windrush, left the Caribbean to travel thousands of miles and arrived at Tilbury Docks in Essex on 22 June 1948. This ship was the first of many, with hundreds more arriving in Britain from 1948 to 1971.

Why has the Windrush generation been in the news recently?

The ‘Windrush scandal’ involved many of the Windrush generation being wrongly told that they live in Britain illegally. The 1948 British Nationality Act gave citizens of the United Kingdom and Colonies states a legal right to settle in the UK. As a result, during 1971, the Windrush generation were told they could stay in Britain permanently without any paperwork and the government didn’t keep a record of these people.

A change to immigration law came about in 2012, with people being told that official documentation was needed in order to receive free hospital treatment and other benefits. As a result, many people who had attended schools and worked their whole life in the UK were sent to immigration detention centres and faced deportation.

In 2018, following a review of 11,800 cases, the home secretary announced that 18 people within the Windrush generation who could have been wrongfully removed or detained would receive a formal apology from the government. Additionally, anyone who had left the UK would be helped to return to Britain.

What does Windrush Day celebrate?

First introduced in 2018 on the 70^th anniversary of Empire Windrush arriving in Britain, the day encourages communities across the country to celebrate the outstanding contribution of the Windrush generation and their descendants.

Overcoming great hardship and sacrifice, the Windrush generation and their descendants have made Britain a better and more inclusive country in many ways. From the vital rebuilding of the country and public services after the war, to the ongoing enriching of our shared social, economic, cultural and religious life.

What events will take place as part of Windrush Day?

Backed by government funding, community groups and local authorities across the country will receive a share of a £500,000 Windrush Day Grant Scheme to host events which honour the second national day. There are a range of funded projects which mark this vital part of our shared heritage.

How can I get involved?

Although many celebrations will be digital due to social distancing, there are many ways to get involved with Windrush Day events.

The National Maritime Museum is working with the Caribbean Social Forum and University of Greenwich to create online resources, talks and events including different generations to explore Windrush and what it means to people today.

The State of Trust is hosting a live panel, featuring artists from State of Trust’s Remembering Windrush project, hosted by journalist and broadcaster Terry Baddoo on 22 June.

On 22 June, the Windrush Foundation is hosting a Zoom event, featuring presentations, music, Q&A and a review of key events that affected the Caribbean community over many years.

On Windrush Day in Bradford, a special flag raising ceremony will take place outside City Hall.

Leeds-based charity, Geraldine Connor Foundation, is marking the day with online event ‘Generations Dreaming’, combining music and literature on the themes of Windrush. The charity has also created a digital learning resource about the Windrush Generation and their legacy.

How can I access support?

Our student-focused team is dedicated to ensuring our students always have access to support. We have specialist counselling officers who can offer guidance and direct you to support services.

To get in touch with the counsellor at Harrogate College, please email Lynda.Scott-Noble@harrogate.ac.uk.

For help and advice in North Yorkshire, visit The Go-To.

Useful resources

The Geraldine Connor Foundation have created a digital learning resource, providing insight into Windrush Generation and their legacy.

Digital platform, My Learning, has developed a short video with an introduction to Windrush, the history and the people who made the journey.

Home Ed Voices has provided a range of useful resources for Windrush Day, including videos, books and activities. 

The Gender Recognition Act 2004 governs how people from our trans communities can legally recognise their gender identity.  Being able to do this is critical to living freely and authentically. 

It is currently a long, expensive and dehumanising process. It requires evidence from two medical professionals,  a detailed psychiatric assessment and a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria (which has now been removed from the WHO list of mental health disorders), evidence of living in authentic gender for two years and evidence of intention to continue doing so.  This intrusive evidence and professional testimony is then considered by a Gender Recognition Panel (who have never met the individual concerned) to make a final judgement.  It is costly, inaccessible and relies heavily on gender stereotypes. 

In 2018 a review of the Gender Recogntion Act was opened to consider reforms, with the aim of making the process more accessible, less reliant on medical examination and less expensive.  70% of respondents to the GRA consultation support a fairer process for gender recognition certificate applications. Despite this overwhelming public support, a proposed amendment to the act will impact on self identification for young people identifying as trans and change the rules around the use of single sex spaces.  This would adversely affect trans communities and all who do not conform to traditional gender stereotypes. 

As a college we are committed to being an inclusive environment for all.  We support our trans communities and urge the government to reconsider the impact of the proposed amendments. We would like to offer reassurance to our students and staff that we will continue to make every effort to ensure we provide protected spaces for our trans communities.

If you would like to share your voice, we recommend you to write to your local MP. ​

Harrogate College will be reopening for a selection of students and staff from 16 June it has been announced.

Danny Wild, Principal of Harrogate College, said: “Supporting staff and students to return to a safe environment has been at the centre of the college’s preparations and approach.

“Many steps have been taken based on the guidance for further education colleges provided by the Department of Education, which have been translated into a practical operation for the college to open safely. We have invited 168 students and apprentices to come back into college over the next 6 weeks to complete their courses while our other students continue to work remotely.”

Harrogate College is taking the following steps to ensure a safe practical operation:

• All staff and students will arrive and leave college at off-peak times, with staggered start and finish times between groups.
• The number of people that can be in the buildings and each classroom has been calculated, so that two metre social distancing can be maintained at all times.
• Any personal protective equipment (PPE) that is risk assessed as being required, will be provided by the college.
• A one-way system will be in effect throughout the college.
• Ongoing cleaning of classrooms and workshops will take place throughout each day.

Staff have also been working on preparations for students joining in September. All students who have applied to Harrogate College will be contacted and asked to take part in a summer transition programme. This provides students with the opportunity to communicate with new teachers and classmates, while developing valuable digital and study skills needed to return to full-time education in September.