Initially offering around 250 places to learners, Leeds Dock campus will help meet the growing demand for skilled health and social care professionals across the region, while making some of the college’s more popular courses accessible to even more students.

Cllr Hayden said: “It’s fantastic to see investment into new education facilities that will help more young people access high-quality education and training here in Leeds.

“This new campus is a welcome addition, creating more opportunities for students to gain the knowledge, skills and experience they need to build rewarding careers, while helping to meet the needs of local employers.”

Investing in opportunities for young people

Leeds City College, part of Luminate Education Group, received an £8 million Government grant to support the expansion of post-16 education provision across Leeds.

The investment aims to create more opportunities for young people to access education and training, while helping to address the increasing number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Diana Bird, Executive Principal at Leeds City College, said: “It’s wonderful to officially open our Leeds Dock campus. Health and social care professionals play such an important role in our communities, and we’re proud to be creating more opportunities for young people to pursue a career in the sector.”

Bill Jones, CEO of Luminate Education Group, added: “Investing in high-quality education facilities provides our young people with the best learning environment possible.

“The opening of Leeds Dock campus reflects our commitment to expanding access to education and training, ensuring more young people have the opportunity to develop their skills and progress into employment.”

Supporting the future of health and social care

The opening marks another step in the college’s commitment to providing high-quality, career-focused education that responds to the needs of students, employers and the wider community.

It also supports wider government ambitions to strengthen technical and vocational education and aligns with the West Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), which identifies health and social care as a priority sector for tackling skills shortages and supporting regional economic growth.

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During the visit, Mr Benn toured the campus and met with students to hear first-hand about their experiences of studying T Levels, including their industry placements and ambitions for the future.

The visit was an opportunity to showcase how T Levels are helping students take their next steps towards employment or further study, while supporting the skills needs of employers across Leeds and the wider region.

Building skills and confidence for the future

Speaking about his visit, Mr Benn said: “I really enjoyed meeting the students and hearing first-hand about the difference T Levels have made to their lives and the opportunities they’ve opened up for them.

“What really stood out was their confidence, the way in which they spoke and their sense of direction for the future. It’s clear just how much they’ve gained from studying a T Level at Leeds City College.

“We’ve got an important job to do in raising awareness of T Levels and helping more people understand the opportunities they offer.”

Equivalent to three A levels, T Levels are two-year qualifications that combine classroom learning with an industry placement.

Designed in collaboration with employers, they give students the opportunity to develop practical skills, gain valuable workplace experience and prepare for their chosen careers.

Creating opportunities through industry experience

T Levels continue to grow in popularity across Luminate Education Group, with enrolments increasing from 149 students in 2021/22 to 653 in 2026/27.

Gemma Simmons-Blench, Deputy CEO of Luminate Education Group, said: “T Levels play a vital role in addressing skills needs across Leeds and the wider region, and we couldn’t be prouder of our students and everything they’re achieving.

“Employer partnerships are at the heart of making T Levels a success. Our students are gaining invaluable industry experience, developing practical skills and building the confidence they need to take their next steps into employment or further study.”

The visit took place during T Levels Week, a national celebration recognising the achievements of T Level students and highlighting the opportunities these qualifications offer young people and employers.

Interested in studying a T Level? Explore our T Level courses and discover how Leeds City College can help you take the next step towards your future career.

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The event, titled ‘What no one told you about getting a job’, was part of the ‘LIFI Futures’ series, which gives young people opportunities to explore issues that matter to them.  

Students were lucky enough to hear from ‘Educating Yorkshire’ star, Musharaf Asghar, along with representatives from key regional employers, including Lloyds Banking Group, Morrisons, the NHS and Jet2. 

BBC broadcaster Rima Ahmed hosted the discussion at Leeds Playhouse- and was impressed by the strong student engagement and questions to the guest panel.

The festival, organised by Leeds BID, ran from 6-10 October, with guest appearances from Louis Theroux and Tim Minchin.

Career building: authenticity is key

The event panel discussed important factors around career-building and jobs, including authenticity, behaviours in the workplace and navigating AI in job applications.

Musharaf, who became famous following his stammering journey on Channel 4’s Educating Yorkshire, opened about his path to becoming a journalist and motivational speaker. He advised that there’s still time to forge a career beyond college age. He said: There’s a lot of pressure at a young age and we assume that it’s the be all and end all.”

Nad Ghani, Talent Lead at Morrisons responded to students’ concerns on building work experience, saying: “care is a huge quality that we look for. With a lot of employers, it’s about the behaviour you display and whether you have the ambition.”

Katie Rankin, Talent and Careers Lead at Jet2 agreed: “We want people who are passionate and resonate with our values. We can train skills but we’re looking for the right people to come in.”

Host, Rima Ahmed, said: “I really wanted this to be a conversation between some of the biggest recruiters in the country and the students for them to get a sense of what is going on in their world.

“I was blown away by these questions; I don’t think I’ve ever seen that before.”

Paige, a student from Leeds City College’s 14+ Academies programme who attended the event, spoke about her thoughts on the job market: “Ever since I started school, I’ve had trouble with learning and it really did help knowing that while I may not be top of the class, it’s good to know that just me as a person could be enough to get me through life.” 

Find out more about what’s happening at Leeds City College.

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The novel titled ‘Colour’ combines creative writing submissions from learners who were tasked with producing a range of short stories, poems and self reflection pieces across a variety of formats and genres. 

They explored hard-hitting topics in their writing such as mental health and identity. 

One of the students who participated in the project said: “I really enjoyed creating something which can be viewed and enjoyed in the real world as opposed to being strictly digital.” 

Another student added: “I like listening to what other people have written because it helps people understand real life situations in a different format.

“Hearing what it means to everyone is really nice.”

Their submissions were then reviewed by 14+ Academies teacher, John Davison, who edited the book and categorised their work into different themes based on colour. 

He said: “I’m so proud to celebrate our students being able to produce creative writing at their own cognitive level, but also accepting support and pointers from the editing and proofreading process which has at times taken their works to what I regard as a professional standard. 

“You could see some of these writers being published in much wider circulated volumes in the future. I have high hopes for our students and what they will do in the future.”

The cover art and illustrations in the book were produced by Graphic Design students at our Quarry Hill campus – home to the departments of Social Science and Creative Arts – including specialist facilities such as digital suites, darkrooms and creative studios. 

Staff and students from the 14+ Academies came together on 29 September to celebrate the launch of their creative writing anthology, with 83 students’ work getting published in the book.

Niki McKenna, Head of 14+ Academies at Leeds City College said: “I am incredibly proud of every learner whose work has been published in Colour. Seeing our young people become published writers is a fantastic achievement and a real celebration of their creativity, confidence and hard work. 

“The collaboration with our Graphic Design students at Quarry Hill makes this even more special. I hope every person involved with this project, including staff, feels a huge sense of pride seeing their work in print and recognises that their ideas and voices are worth sharing.”

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Hammad Sajjad was offered a permanent role with Halifax Bank after completing an industry placement with the company as part of his Business Management and Administration T Level at Leeds City College.

Having developed an interest in banking and finance from an early age, Hammad knew which industry he wanted to pursue a career in but needed an opportunity to gain practical experience.

Turning ambition into opportunity

He credits his T Level with providing that opportunity, allowing him to develop valuable workplace skills and ultimately secure employment in his chosen sector. 

Speaking during T Levels Week, Hammad said: “I always knew I wanted to work in banking, but I needed an opportunity to get my foot in the door. My teachers and placement officers were fantastic in helping me find a placement in the industry I wanted to work in.

“The industry placement was one of the main reasons I chose to study a T Level. I’ve always preferred learning through hands-on experience, so having the chance to put what I was learning into practice really appealed to me.

“I never imagined that my placement would lead directly to a full-time job, but it’s allowed me to start building the career I’ve always wanted.”

Gaining the skills employers value

During his placement at Halifax, Hammad’s main responsibilities involved supporting customers with their everyday banking needs and assisting those visiting the branch. The placement gave him valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of a bank, while providing opportunities to learn new tasks and gain experience using different banking systems. 

Through working directly with customers and colleagues, Hammad further developed a range of essential workplace skills, including digital literacy, communication and teamwork.

His success comes as the government continues to place an emphasis on strengthening technical education and equipping young people with the skills employers need.

T Levels are a key part of this approach, combining classroom learning with industry placements to help students develop practical skills and experience while preparing for employment or further study.

For Hammad, the qualification provided a direct route into his chosen career, turning an industry placement into a permanent position with Halifax Bank.

Debbie Peart, T Level Business Course Leader for Leeds City College, said: “Hammad was diligent and dedicated and grew in confidence throughout the year. It was fantastic to see his hard work rewarded with an offer of employment following his placement.”

Looking ahead to a bright future

Hammad now hopes to build a career in financial services, with ambitions of progressing into a senior leadership role.

Offering advice to future T Level students, Hammad said: “Choose a placement that matches your ambitions, make the most of every opportunity and show employers what you can do. You never know where it might lead.”

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Employers and industry experts came together on 13 October in aid of Ada Lovelace Day, to celebrate women in STEM fields and highlight the opportunities available in technology.

The event was delivered by the Ahead Partnership (a non-profit organisation which supports disadvantaged young people by connecting them to employment opportunities) to acknowledge the hard work and success of women in tech as well as encouraging young female students to join more STEM fields.

The event kicked off with a speech from Saffy Blellock, former Digital Support Services T Level student at Leeds City College and apprentice at Accenture, who pushed students to take advantage of opportunities in tech. 

She said: “If there’s something you want to do in the future, go for it even if you’re scared.” 

“You come away from the opportunities you’ve taken with even more knowledge, so take every opportunity you’re given with open arms.” 

Students from local schools then got to hear from a panel discussion featuring women with a variety of job roles in the tech industry.

Panellists included Ruth Oni, Senior Data Scientist at Skipton Building Society, Ann Prince, Deputy Head of Business and Finance and Digital and IT at Leeds City College, Salma Firdos, Senior IT Auditor at Skipton Building Society and Megan Bower, Engineering Consultant at Burendo.

The panel discussion delved into the variety of careers on offer in tech fields and debunked common misconceptions about the industry.

Visiting students quizzed the panellists on some of the advantages and challenges of working in technology in the Q&A session.

One member of the panel, Ruth Oni, Senior Data Scientist at Skipton Building Society, emphasised the role of community and collaboration in her role, saying: “There is never any project where you would work in isolation.”

Panellists also highlighted the importance of skills such as communication and adaptability in addition to technical know-how.

Another member of the panel, Megan Bower, Engineering Consultant at Burendo said: “A big stigma in IT is that you’re stuck in a room working on codes. For me it’s the opposite, I really value face-to-face communication.

“There’s a whole community in the tech world, especially for women in tech.”

Throughout the day, the visiting students also experienced workshops, supported by T Level students from our School of Digital and IT.

Anita Emeribe, current Digital Support and Security T Level student and STEM ambassador at Leeds City College, said: “For me, the day was about more than just technology. It was about representation, confidence, and helping young girls see that STEM is a space where they belong too.”

The event showcased the extensive opportunities on offer within tech industries from finance to project management and architecture alongside the importance of representation.

Sukhdeep Virdi, Head of Digital and IT at Leeds City College, said: “The day was a resounding success, filled with great energy, thoughtful questions, and a genuine passion for technology. We are immensely proud to support young women as they explore STEM career paths, and we look forward to hosting more inspiring Girls in Tech events in the future.                                

“Thank you to the Ahead Partnership and everyone across the department and wider organisation who helped make this day such a memorable experience for our visitors.”

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A Leeds City College student is using T Levels Week to urge young women to consider technology careers – as she pursues her own dream of becoming a cybersecurity professional.

Anita Emeribe is studying a T Level in Digital Support and Security Services at Leeds City College, where her student ambassador role involves inspiring others into the tech industry.

As a student ambassador and course representative, Anita has taken part in numerous events such as Girl Tech and Next Gen, where she has spoken to young people about studying technology-related subjects and the opportunities available within the industry.

Anita said: “Being a student ambassador is something I’m really proud of. It gives me the opportunity to represent my classmates, share my own experiences and encourage other girls to consider a future in technology.

“I think it’s important for young women to see that there is a place for them in the tech industry. Being able to share my journey and hopefully give others the confidence to take that first step means a lot to me.”

Finding her pathway into technology

Originally from Nigeria, Anita moved to the UK in September 2023 and enrolled at Leeds City College shortly afterwards. Although she initially did not meet the GCSE entry requirements for her chosen T Level, she remained determined to pursue her ambitions in technology.

Anita completed a BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in IT, developing the knowledge and skills needed to progress onto a T Level the following year. 

Now in her second year, she is studying areas including network building, security systems and cybersecurity trends, alongside gaining practical experience through an industry placement.

Her journey reflects the government’s wider focus on strengthening technical education and equipping young people with the digital skills needed by employers. Developed in collaboration with industry, T Levels combine classroom learning with practical work placements, helping students gain the experience and technical knowledge needed to progress into skilled employment, apprenticeships or higher education.

Gaining industry experience

As part of her course, she completed a 10-week paid industry placement with Lloyds Banking Group. During her placement, Anita worked within the bank’s AI team, gaining practical experience of how artificial intelligence and digital technologies of an AI-powered tool designed to assist first-time mortgage buyers.

Alongside this, Anita gained valuable insight into how AI solutions are designed, tested and integrated into secure banking systems and learnt how to apply analytical thinking and mathematical skills when working with data.

Reflecting on her placement, Anita said: “My experience at Lloyds Banking Group was an incredible opportunity to see how the skills I’ve been learning at college are applied in a real working environment.

“Being part of the AI team allowed me to explore how artificial intelligence is used in banking, while learning from professionals who were always willing to share their knowledge and support my development.

“My mentor and placement manager were incredibly supportive, and I’m grateful to everyone on the team who made me feel welcome and encouraged me to keep learning. The experience has made me even more excited about pursuing a career in technology, particularly in cybersecurity and AI.”

Kamran Akram, T Level Course Leader at Leeds City College, said: “Anita has made incredible progress, growing from a quiet learner into a confident and inspiring ambassador for women in technology.

“Her determination, technical skills and willingness to take on new challenges have been outstanding. Her journey is a fantastic example of how T Levels combine classroom learning with industry experience to help students build the skills and confidence for successful careers.”

Recognising Anita’s achievements

Anita’s achievements were also recognised at the College’s annual Star Awards back in July, where she won the Digital Enhancement Award in recognition of her achievements in technology and her commitment to championing women in STEM.

Looking ahead, Anita hopes to progress onto a technology-focused apprenticeship after completing her T Level, with long-term ambitions to continue her education to PhD level, building a career in intelligence and cybersecurity.

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Our students have been teaming up with their German counterparts to learn more about each country’s approach to vocational training.

Fifteen learners from Leeds and 14 students from the German town of Kempten collaborated on projects covering everything from AI to marketing as part of Goethe-Institut UK’s Exchange2Change: Shaping Future Vocational Pathways.

The group, supported by six teachers, spent 10 days in both countries exploring a range of topics in their respective fields of business, visual arts and health and social care.

Meeting industry and education leaders

While in Kempten our students visited several vocational training schools, KAD Event Management and Ceratizit Deutschland GmbH – a high-tech engineering and manufacturing company. They also enjoyed exploring the town and finding out about its history.

The group concluded the programme by presenting case studies, based on research and interviews, on: 

• Artificial Intelligence and how it is used in education and business in both countries
• Social media’s impact on young people’s development
• The UK and Germany’s different health care systems, and public perceptions of them
• Brand identity, culturally-coded marketing strategies and how ‘colour-product perception’ differs between the countries

Funded by GIMAGINE, Friends of the Goethe-Institut and the Stiftung Jugendaustausch Bayern, the exchange made a lasting impression on our learners.

Great preparation for the global workplace

One of our participating Business students said: “We have left this experience with new memories, friendships and a better understanding of different cultures and learning environments. Overall, it was an amazing experience, and it was definitely something I will remember for a long time.”

Business and Applied IT teacher Leandra, who also took part in the exchange, praised the experience for providing “opportunities to bring real-world international business examples and different perspectives into classroom discussions and activities”.

She added: “This supports the development of students’ employability and prepares them for an increasingly global workplace.”

The Goethe-Institut is the official cultural institute of Germany, and works globally to promote cultural exchange and promote the German language.

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The 40 year old started her journey with us in May 2025 when she studied a Level 2 Health Support Worker apprenticeship. 

From a young age, Adanna wanted to pursue a career in nursing. 

She said: “My personal experiences have inspired me to support and encourage others.

“Through both my personal journey and professional development, I want to inspire others who may be experiencing similar situations that contribute to mental health difficulties. I want them to know that recovery is possible, even if progress feels slow.”

Adanna first arrived in the UK in 2016 with her two children.

As a refugee and single mother, she navigated multiple challenges, balancing family responsibilities alongside work in a full-time clinical role and education. 

In addition to her studies, Adanna also volunteered with the Salvation Army where she helped with cooking and supported local community groups. 

She has since successfully completed her apprenticeship, achieving a Merit grade as well as gaining her Level 2 English Language qualification, and gone on to secure employment as a crisis team apprentice within the Leeds and York NHS Foundation Trust.

She also received the Star Award at our tenth annual Star Awards ceremony – celebrating the success of learners across the college community, where she was recognised for her work ethic and achievements at college in spite of difficult circumstances. 

Her tutor, Delfina Uszynska, commended her hard work, saying: “Adanna has grown so much, particularly in her communication skills and self-belief, while overcoming huge personal challenges along the way.

“She is a complete role model to fellow students, and I am so proud to have her in my cohort. As a teacher, I couldn’t ask for more.”

Adanna hopes to become a registered mental health nurse in the future. 

Reflecting on her experience at the college, she said: “The support I received from my tutor, Delfina, alongside the knowledge and skills I gained throughout the course, has helped me believe in my abilities and move closer to achieving my dream of becoming a mental health nurse.

“Coming to the UK as a refugee was one of the most difficult experiences of my life, but education gave me hope, purpose, and the confidence to rebuild my future. 

“My apprenticeship has helped me turn some of the hardest experiences I have faced into strengths that help me support others.”

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The Yorkshire born interior designer featured in the second series of the BBC One show in 2021, where her creative flair and maximalist designs took her all the way to the final. 

Now she has used her distinctive vision to transform Future Pathways at Leeds City College – our department that helps 16-24 year olds with special educational needs access courses and employment.

Before kicking off the project in July, Murphy visited the department to speak to students about their ideas for the space and deliver a masterclass in interior design. 

She said: “Working with a college and working with young people is always going to be challenging in its own respect. 

“It’s very different because rather than just one or two clients you could have 50, so it’s about pleasing everybody and giving everybody a sense that it’s theirs and it’s there to be enjoyed and used.”

As part of the project, Murphy converted what was formerly a staff kitchen into a café area for students to learn key skills in hospitality and customer service. 

The initiative was delivered in partnership with the Wickes Community Programme – a product donation scheme founded by the DIY retailer that provides paint and building supplies to support local improvement projects.  

Murphy said: “We built the café counter, clad walls, created shelving and completely transformed a tired space into somewhere that’s cosy and usable.  

“What I love most is what the space will become. It will be somewhere students with additional needs can meet friends, have lunch, take some time out and feel comfortable on campus. 

The new design incorporates warm colours and custom-made seating areas to create an inviting space for our students. 

Oliver Johnstone, Head of the Future Pathways Department at Leeds City College, said: “The makeover in Future Pathways has made an incredible difference to our daily environment. We’ve shifted from a stark, clinical white space to a bright, vibrant learning setting that our students and staff can truly be proud of. 

“Beyond just aesthetics, this redesign has fundamentally changed how the space feels – creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages engagement and gives everyone who walks through the door a real sense of ownership and belonging.”

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