Harrogate College prides itself on working hand in hand with local businesses and organisations to provide the skills and training they need to ensure that our economy grows and thrives. Our newsletter is a handy way of keeping our partners informed of developments at the college.
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Dear partners, We have so much to look forward to over the next 12 months – not least our move into our brand new college buildings, later in the year. This £22m project represents an exciting new chapter for us, and for North Yorkshire, and will enable us to forge even closer bonds with our partners while delivering the very best training to ensure our local workforce has the skills to help the local economy thrive. You can find out more about the development, and how your business or organisation could benefit from becoming a sponsor, in this newsletter. Our students, meanwhile, have been gaining invaluable experience and insights into some of our key local sectors over the past few months, and gaining insights into everything from marketing and construction to hospitality and art exhibitions, through exciting collaborations with so many of yourselves.  You can find out about those, and more, in this edition. I hope you enjoy the read. Danny Wild Principal Harrogate College __________________ Construction Caddick Construction talk inspires students Caddick Construction has been sharing details of its work on our new college building with joinery, bricklaying and electrical students. Representatives from the business also offered valuable and inspiring career advice, along with insights into working within the construction industry, during an engaging talk. The students heard about real-life experiences on major construction projects, and the different potential career pathways that are available in the sector. The event gave our learners a clearer understanding of how their skills apply in the workplace while allowing them to form an important link with a major employer and a sense of connection to the new college building. __________________ . Sponsorship opportunity A chance to support our brand new campus We are on course to open our £22m new college building in early 2027 – and can’t wait to show everyone the results. As you may know, the completed development – which has been designed to offer the best possible training in North Yorkshire’s key growth sectors – will include a state-of-the-art main campus building and an adjoining renewable energy technology centre. Its facilities have been chosen to provide industry-standard experience for our students – and will include a replica hospital ward, digital technology suites, an electric vehicle workshop, and an advanced construction centre.  We are inviting local employers to put their names to our new college by sponsoring it. Three different packages are available, and we are also open to discussing more flexible options to suit your business, whatever the size. The benefits include having your company’s name and colours featured in rooms, walls or furniture, plus a host of PR and social media opportunities – including having your logo included in our prospectus and on our website.   To find out more e-mail our Performance & Projects Coordinator at: Lynn-Yang.Liu@harrogate.ac.uk. __________________ Hospitality – community Getting hands-on with local produce As any chef will tell you, using local and seasonal produce is key to producing the very best dishes. So our Year 2 Hospitality students picked up plenty of useful ideas when they joined local charity Time Together recently for their Allotment Feast. The students explored the charity’s allotment and learned about seasonal ingredients before taking on the challenge of designing and preparing a full menu for the event. The results included everything from chutneys and soups to bread and apple crumble, and earned high praise from the Time Together team. These kinds of experiences are so valuable, giving our learners the chance to put their classroom skills into practice in a real-world setting – and all while supporting a great organisation. __________________ Creative – Multimedia Creating artwork for CAMHS Artwork produced by our Multimedia students is now adorning the walls of Harrogate’s new child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) facility. Twenty students spent months developing the pieces that are now on display at Hummingbird House, on Victoria Avenue. The project, run in collaboration with Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, involved creating artwork that promotes mental wellbeing. The results – featuring a variety of striking and soothing images, plus motivational messages – really impressed CAMHS, who praised the students’ creativity, commitment and professionalism. They also invited several of our learners along to a welcoming tour of the new space at Hummingbird House, to see their creations in situ. Such collaborations really help our students to prepare for the workplace while motivating them by showing what can be achieved. __________________ A shout-out to our alumni So many of our students go on to do great and interesting things, in so many different sectors, and we’re proud of their successes. Hearing their stories – some of which are featured on our website’s alumni page, here – helps inspire future generations and shows them the incredible career opportunities that lie ahead. And when they come back to college to interact with our current group of learners, as Freddie Cleary did recently, it is extra sepcial. Freddie, who studied performing arts with us from 2018 to 2020, is now a professional singer-songwriter, who also does some acting work as an extra – recently appearing in hit BBC drama Riot Women. We were thrilled to welcome him back to college for our last Freshers Fair, when he came in and sang for us. If you’re a former student, whether you graduated last year or many years ago, we’d love to hear from you! Joining our alumni network is a great way to reconnect, share your journey, and inspire current students. To get involved and share your story, simply scan the QR code above. We can’t wait to hear from you! __________________ Courses for businesses We run a number of courses, at different points throughout the year, that could benefit your business. These include an Introduction to Social Media for Business, a Social Media Analytics programme, and AAT Accounting courses at various levels. Please e-mail admissions@harrogate-college.ac.uk for more details. __________________ Business and Creative Media A masterclass on marketing Our students gained some expert insight into how to build a standout marketing campaign thanks to a visit by Charlotte Nixon, from Techbuyer, in November. Charlotte, who is the firm’s Marketing Campaign and Content Manager, used real Techbuyer projects to demonstrate how creative ideas grow and evolve into effective campaigns. She also opened up about her own career journey in what was an honest, motivating reminder that there’s no single pathway into the marketing or tech industries. Her story has really inspired our Creative Media and Business students to be brave and believe in their potential, and we are indebted to her for bringing her industry expertise into the classroom. __________________ Campus Visits by high-profile supporters We were pleased to welcome two high-profile politicians who have been very supportive of our bid to create a £22 million new college to replace our existing buildings. MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough Tom Gordon, and York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith, have both dropped in – on separate occasions – to see how the building work is progressing. Mr Skaith and Mr Gordon were both vocal supporters of the project whose backing helped us get things back on track and receive final planning approval after the plan had been delayed and put in jeopardy. Recognising the importance of the new-build in terms of delivering skills training for local employers, they each made the case for the new college and for the Department for Education – which is putting £20 million towards it – to extend the available funding period. __________________ Motor Vehicle Magazine showcases our students’ skills Our Motor Vehicle students have had their skills showcased in the pages of a major classic cars publication. Retro Ford Magazine produced a feature based around our learners work to rust-proof a Ford Fiesta. The opportunity came about as part of an ongoing collaboration with Car Magazine photographer Rob Hawkins, and follows on from previous coverage involving our students in Motor Mechanics magazine. These collaborations are giving our learners valuable real-world experience while demonstrating their capabilities, and are a testament to the great work taking place in the Motor Vehicle department. __________________ Creative Media Using film skills to support a great organisation Creative Media students have been putting their film-making skills to good use for Claro Enterprises. Our learners are working with the Harrogate-based adult mental health charity to produce two short films, one to promote the organisation’s vital services and the other a practical travel guide. The students presented their final project ideas in December and then followed this up in January with a site visit, where they gained a deeper insight into Claro’s work. They were particularly impressed by the wood workshop and the charity’s hands-on approach, along with the meaningful opportunities Claro provides, through work therapy, to support people with mental health challenges. __________________ Commuinity – sport Teaming up for success We are excited to have renewed our partnership with Harrogate Town AFC.Our continued support for the club’s Player Pathway Programme will see us extending the work we are doing to help young footballers explore their options both on, and off, the pitch.Since beginning our sponsorship of the programme and its Emerging Talent Centre in 2023, this collaboration has resulted in a number of initiatives designed to shine a light on educational and work opportunities. Those have included careers talks featuring presentations from local industry experts including our Principal, Danny Wild, who has a background in elite sports coaching. __________________ Uniformed Public Services (UPS) Insights into careers in the Royal Navy A small team from the Royal Navy have been talking to our UPS group about career opportunities – and demonstrating teamwork activities. The team delivered a lively presentation and question and answer session and talked about the wide range of roles – and possibilities fo travel – that exist within the force. Our students also got to put their skills to the test by taking on practical challenges, involving using kits to build various structures, that tested their leadership qualities and team ethos. We are grateful to Janine, Steve and Joe for bringing this experience to our students and their continued support of the college. __________________ Partnerships Harrogate College Employer Board – an invitation As one of our valued local business partners we would like to invite you to join our Employer Board. Members will be able to help shape the future workforce, by advising directly on the skills they need and assisting us to ensure our courses reflect industry requirements and emerging trends.  They can also work with us to strengthen industry links, including through placements, projects and live briefs, and champion the college and its work with key stakeholders. If you are ready to help shape the next generation of talent and contribute to developing a skilled, confident and employable local workforce, please do get in touch. To find out more, contact: lynn-yang.liu@harrogate.ac.uk. __________________ Creative Practice Soaking up art gallery experience Our Creative Practice students made the most of a fantastic opportunity to promote and showcase their artwork at the Mercer Gallery. The Level 3 learners were invited to organise a pop-up shop at the gallery in the run-up to Christmas to showcase their artwork. The event allowed them to collaborate closely with the gallery in a professional arts environment, while also gaining public exposure. It followed on from a previous collaboration with Mercer Gallery in October, when the students got the chance to display some of their work as part of an exhibition. We hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of our newsletter – we’ll be back with more next time!

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.”

Harrogate College Employers’ Network is inviting businesses across the district to get involved – and reap the benefits.

Set up to allow employers to have a direct influence on the courses and training the college provides, the network (HCEN) will hold its annual meeting on Thursday 20 October.

Open to prospective as well as existing members, the 10am to noon event will be a chance to hear about the progress HCEN has made over the past year, plus the rewards it offers.

Attending businesses will also be able to tell Principal Danny Wild about what they would like to see from Harrogate College, its curriculum and the network going forward.

Danny said: “This will be a great opportunity for employers to find out how we can work with them to fulfil their training and recruitment needs.

“It will also be a great chance to give us feedback, influence the education that is being delivered in the district, and shape our future workforce.

“Our Student Employment Programme, which we have just introduced, is a great example of how feedback from the network has led to positive change. This flexible work arrangement allows employers to hire students with the skills they need directly from the college, on a part time basis that fits around their studies.

“We will be targeting this at some of Harrogate’s core industries, including hospitality and health and social care.

“We hope representatives from as many local businesses as possible can get along to the annual meeting of Harrogate College Employers’ Network meeting to discuss how we can help one another while strengthening, and future-proofing, our economy.”

Click here for more details or to book a place at the annual meeting.

Local employers, meanwhile, can also look forward to coming into college on Wednesday 2 November for the Harrogate College Recruitment Fair.

This event, organised through the Student Employment Programme, runs from 10am to 2pm and will give businesses a chance to interview students who have had customer service training directly about work opportunities.

Budding Paralympian, Emily Holder, is celebrating a ‘brilliant year’ that has seen her add to her medal collection while excelling in her studies.

Emily, who has just passed her Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Business at Harrogate College with flying colours (she achieved three distinction stars), is one of the country’s top para fencers.

Her ultimate sporting ambition is to represent her country at the Paralympics. Emily took another stride towards that goal in July when she competed, for the first time, with the GBR women’s team at the Warsaw Para World Cup.

Achievements and medals

That event was one of many highlights in a year that has seen her fence in several top level competitions, win three medals – including her first international medal – and achieve an offer from her favoured university.

Emily was particularly pleased with her performance at the IWAS World Cup in Pataya, Thailand, in June, where she was ranked 18^th and 21^st in her two respective weapons.

She said: “My biggest achievement this year is probably making the direct elimination rounds, multiple times, when I was in Thailand and Warsaw at just my second and third world cups. Many people don’t reach this stage until they’ve competed in many world cups.”

In Warsaw, Emily competed in both individual events and as part of a team with two legends of the sport – Justine Moore and Gemma Collis. Justine is a World Cup medallist and Paralympian, while Gemma is a World Cup winner, medallist and three-time Paralympian.

Her medal haul (one silver and three bronze), meanwhile, came at the British Senior Championships at EIS Sheffield, in June, and then the Commonwealth Fencing Championships, in August.

Pushing ahead in sport and education

She said: “My 2022 so far has been brilliant. In fencing I have competed well and had the best time learning from my teammates, as well as competitors.

“I have also received five university offers and achieved a distinction in my BTEC exam, plus distinctions for all of my coursework.

“My long term goal of  representing GBR at my first Paralympics is going well. I am getting stronger and improving on every element of my fencing. This is showing in training, as well as in competition.

“I still have a long way to go, but I’m looking forward to continuing my journey of improvement whilst I’m at the University of York, studying a BA in Business Management.”

Emily has credited Harrogate College and her tutors for helping her to successfully balance the demands of her sport and her studies.

The college recently nominated her for a Living Our Values award, for ‘overcoming many challenges to achieve high grades in her course’ whilst also competing.

A North Rigton resident, she started fencing with Harrogate Fencing Club but now does most of her training at Milton Keynes Touche Fencing Club.

Click here to find out more about courses at Harrogate College.

Aspiring Paralympian Emily Holder is aiming for two ‘gold medals’– in fencing and in business.

The Harrogate College student may  only be 17 but she is already near the very top tier of wheelchair fencing, with National Championship medals – among others – for England to her name.

Emily, who made her debut for Great Britain last November at the IWAS wheelchair fencing World Cup in Pisa, Italy, now has her sporting sights firmly fixed on breaking into the Paralympic team and winning a medal.

She has also been flying high in her Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Business – despite having to contend with pandemic-related interruptions and a recovery period following surgery – which she will complete this year.

The challenges of chasing ‘two careers’

Juggling the two workloads has been far from easy, especially when having to travel to Milton Keynes regularly for her key training sessions, but it is a challenge she is enjoying.

She said: “This course has been a good choice for me and in terms of the college being flexible to let me continue my fencing and training, it’s been really great.

“The staff have been very helpful and understanding. Although we haven’t been going to too many things, because of covid, when it has come to me having to take time to attend training and fencing competitions they’ve been really good, on the understanding that I just need to make sure I get the work done. Which, to be fair, I always do!

“I also use a little bit of sport psychology, in terms of setting goals and deadlines, envisioning positive outcomes and that sort of thing, to help with my studies.”

Emily has cerebral palsy and the level of her mobility varies depending on how much chronic pain she’s experiencing and her spasticity (muscle tightness) and dystonic (involuntary muscle contraction) levels. She often uses a crutch but on good days can manage without it, and also has an electric wheelchair.

For her fencing she uses a specialist sports wheelchair which costs £4,000, and which the athletes have to pay for themselves, as the female GB team receives virtually no funding support. 

Her fencing gear – including two different blades, a foil and an épée, a mask, gloves and more – is also expensive so her participation has required a major investment in money, and time, from her family.

A model student – and an inspirational dad

The dedication she has shown to both her studies and fencing has led tutors at Harrogate College to hail her as a ‘fantastic role model’. Course leader David Gaunt added: “Emily is very conscientious and always prioritises her grades.”

Her love of business was inspired by the example of her father, who has proven to be very useful when it comes to her fine-tuning her coursework.

She said: “He’s been a great help as I can run things by him to see if they make sense in the real world too, because theory’s often very different from practice.

“I’ve always been aware that I need to commit myself to both things, my fencing and my studies. Some of my teammates, the Paralympians, only fence but they’ve always said to me ‘don’t just rely on it, you have to try to have two careers rather than one’.”

Emily’s interest in competitive sport began in 2013, when she was just nine, after attending a disability sports festival and deciding to pursue swimming and fencing.

She eventually chose to focus on fencing as that would give her a better chance of one day becoming a Paralympian.

Focused on competing at the highest level

She said: “Fencing is a really niche sport anyway, and when you add disability to the mix it’s tiny. There are only four competitive female GB wheelchair fencers in the entire country!

“Paris, in 2024, may be my first chance to compete in the Paralympics in a team event, but LA in 2028 is maybe a bit of a more realistic goal.”

Emily, who lives in North Rigton, started off at Harrogate Fencing Club but now does the majority of her training in Milton Keynes while also using online coaching plus facilities at Durham, York and Bath.

As for her studies, she is aiming to take up a Business Management or Human Resources course at university later this year, and has already had three offers. She has also been gaining some valuable work experience at Portakabin’s York base.

Anyone who would like to support Emily’s fencing by sponsoring her can do so by sending an e-mail to emilyholder43@yahoo.com.

For more information about wheelchair fencing visit britishdisabilityfencing.co.uk/.