Shipley College - Full-time course guide 2025-26 - Digital

2025/26
> FULL-TIME COURSES
> APPRENTICESHIPS
> T LEVELS
Proud to have the highest achievement rates for 16-18
year olds and apprentices in West Yorkshire colleges

WELCOME
CONTENTS
Not many colleges can boast a stunning
UNESCO world heritage site as their
backdrop, but Shipley College is special.
We are a small and friendly College, and we are
here to make sure that all of our students get
to where they want to be. Right from your first
conversation with us, we will provide you with the
space to talk about your goals and your dreams,
and we will guide you to achieve your ambitions.
Whether you dream of moving into employment in
the sector of your choice, going on to University,
setting up your own business, going into an
apprenticeship, or any other life goal, we will
set you on the path to success.
When it comes to school-leavers (students on
full-time courses aged 16-18), we are proud to
have had the highest achievement rates for any
College in West Yorkshire for the last two years
(National Achievement Rate Tables, Department
for Education) and we are proud of how closely
we work with local employers to make sure we
are teaching you the right skills to have long
and successful careers.
In this guide you will find out more about how we
do this, and what current students have been
doing in every sector to get work ready. You will
find out more about why we offer the courses we
offer, based on the Local Skills Improvement Plan
for West Yorkshire. You will discover how we have
become innovators in healthcare training and the
use of AI, and find out about the exciting learning
environment that is waiting for you.
Welcome to Shipley College -
great people, great place!
CONTENTS
Our achievement rates 4
Employers at the heart of
everything we do
5-6
Meet the placements team 7
Our campus 8-9
What’s so great about T Levels? 10-11
College life 12-13
Students with an EHCP 14-15
English & maths are different
at Shipley College
Leading the way in AI 17
Shipley College sucess
at the CTE awards
Finding the right course for you 68
16
18
COURSES
Full-time & T Levels
Art & Design 20-23
Business 24-27
Creative Media 28-31
Digital 32-35
Education, Early Years
& Childcare
36-39
ESOL 40-41
Esports 42-45
Foundation Learning 46-49
Supported Internships 50-51
Games Design 52-55
Health & Social Care 56-59
Course types 70-71
Music Performace & Production 60-63
Your application journey 72
Travel & Tourism 64-67
CONTACT
Open events 73
shipley.ac.uk
How to find us 75
studentservices@shipley.ac.uk
01274 327281
We are here to help 76
2. 3.

Shipley College
is proud to have...
at the heart of everything we do
THE HIGHEST
ACHIEVEMENT RATES
for 16-18 year olds in
West Yorkshire Colleges
(2022 and 2023 figures)
Throughout this guide you will see how
local employers directly shape each of
our course areas, so you know you will
be in good hands whichever job role
you want to progress into.
As a College we make substantial contributions
to supporting the LSIP (Local Skills Improvement
Plan) for West Yorkshire. Our course offer reflects
what local employers tell us they need. If we
offer it, we know that there are jobs and careers
available to progress into, either directly or via
further study, and we know this because we work
closely with local, regional and national employers.
Source: National Achievement Rate
Tables (Department for Education,
available at gov.uk)
THE HIGHEST
ACHIEVEMENT RATES
for Apprentices
in West Yorkshire Colleges
Employers work with us to design our curriculum
offer, the courses within it, and the content of
those courses. Through our Employer Skills
Endorsement project, employers we partner
with have shared their ‘Top 10 Skills’ lists for
their sectors, which are displayed in relevant
areas of the college - to ensure our students
maintain their focus on their future ambitions.
Employers come into College to deliver
masterclasses and put our students through
mock interviews. They guide us on how their
sector is developing and what skills they are
looking for in future employees. Our students
undertake real employer briefs and our
employers oversee their work, giving
constructive feedback, working with
us to arrange site visits for staff and
students to really get a feel for their
business, and offering placements for
our students within their businesses.
For example, if you come and study the T Level in
Health at Shipley College, your work placement
will be as a T Level Cadet at Bradford Royal
Infirmary. You will benefit from working handson
in the Health sector. Bradford Teaching
Hospitals appreciate that T Level placements
are an invaluable way to recruit their workforce
of tomorrow - meeting intelligent, ambitious
young people who aspire to a career in the Health
sector, and giving them real-life work experience
to let them try out a range of different job roles to
find their perfect fit.
There are specific examples in the ‘Getting
Work Ready’ section for all of our course
areas, pages 20-67.
4. 5.

Space Hub Yorkshire, the UK Space
Agency-funded regional Space cluster,
is one of our exciting employer partners.
They set a brief for Creative Media
students to produce video content
for them to use:
Scan here to
find out more
the placements team
Sophia Babar
Industry Placement
Officer
“The Space Hub Yorkshire team have
been overwhelmed by the quality of the
materials produced by the students and
the professionalism and attention to
detail demonstrated by them. They
are a real credit to the College.
We have received fantastic feedback
from our partners and we wouldn’t
hesitate to recommend students
from Shipley College’s Creative Media
course to any other business.”
Glenn McCauley, Board Member,
Space Hub Yorkshire
See Creative Media Industries, page 28.
“We are committed to making sure ALL
of our students are work ready.”
“When I meet a new student, I begin by carrying
out an employability skills assessment. We need
to work out where they are when they start with
us so we can see what work they need to do and
we talk about their employment interests and
career ambitions.
We then match students to possible placements.
We support them to do their own placements
research, which really helps them to learn what
they actually want to do. Once we find a suitable
match, the team prepares them to make the first
contact. For many this is their first interaction
with an employer and we make sure they have
the confidence to make that call.
I see all the students in my care every term,
and we review their CV and personal statement
- if it needs work, then I direct them to the daily
sessions that are provided by Student Services
to help with this.
We find Navigate is a really brilliant tool for
recording students’ experiences, what they now
know and can do, what they have achieved, and
we provide support at each step - Navigate
training to get everyone up to speed, we share
WAGOLLs (what a good one looks like), and we
teach them to reflect in their placement journals.
This means the students get into the habit
of documenting what they do at college, on
placements, what they do in enrichment, and what
training they have undertaken - it means students
can see the progress they are making and how
much they have learnt and it all enhances their CV!
My goal is that every student benefits from
the opportunity to interact with employers
and undertakes a high quality work placement
so that when they leave us they have the
workplace behaviours that employers have told
us they are looking for in their future workforce.”
6.
7.

OUR CAMPUS
Our campus is spread out across five
stunning buildings in the heart of the
UNESCO world heritage site of Saltaire.
SALT BUILDING
The Salt Building is where you will find our Reception, Student
Services Team and Salt Rock Cafe. Our Music, Esports, Games
Design, and Creative Media departments are also based here.
The building is of great historical significance, as it served
as a purpose-built school for Saltaire in the late-1800’s.
JONATHAN SILVER BUILDING
EXHIBITION BUILDING
The Jonathan Silver Building, opened in 2015, is where our Foundation
Learning department is based. This modern building has won awards
for the facilities for students with learning and mobility differences.
The building, which is also the home of our Horticulture greenhouses,
was named after Jonathan Silver, a Bradford-born entrepreneur who
bought Salts Mill in 1987 and subsequently spent ten years transforming
it into the thriving business and tourist attraction that we know today.
Exhibition Building is home to the striking Exhibition
Hall, where you will find our main canteen. It houses our
Health & Social Care department, including a purpose
built hospital ward and science lab, Education, Early Years
& Childcare department, Travel & Tourism and Business
departments, immersive learning spaces, and the
Learning Resource Centre.
Opened in 1887 in the memory of Titus Salt, the Exhibition
Building was originally built by Titus Salt to house the
schools of Art & Science.
VICTORIA HALL
Victoria Hall houses our Enterprise Hub, gym
and fitness suite.
We are continuing a long tradition - in Titus Salt’s
day the building aimed to provide a place of leisure
for mill employees and Saltaire village residents,
and contained lecture halls, a library, games room,
gymnasium and meeting rooms.
GETTING HERE
We encourage our students to
travel by public transport as it
is better for the environment.
We are easily accessible by train
or bus from Shipley, Bradford,
Leeds, Ilkley, Keighley, Bingley
& Skipton.
The most up-to-date bus and rail
travel information can be found
at wymetro.com
MILL BUILDING
The Mill Building houses our Art & Design studio,
Fashion & Textiles facilities, and our award-winning
Floristry department.
Built in 1854, it was the first building to be
completed by Sir Titus Salt after the main mill was
built. At this time, its main purpose was as a dining
hall, providing meals to the workers from the mill.
You can catch a bus from Bradford, Baildon,
Keighley, Bingley, Shipley, Guiseley and
other surrounding areas. There are bus
stops situated close to the College, along
both main roads through the village.
You can get a train to our campus from
Bradford Forster Square, Shipley, Bingley,
Keighley, Skipton and Leeds. Saltaire
railway station is situated right next
door to our Mill Building.
8. 9.

What’s so great about
The number of T Levels we offer is still
growing, 2024 marked the start of new
T Levels in Business - Management and
Admin and Craft and Design - Fashion and
Textiles. In September 2025 we will be
adding Media, Broadcast and Production
- Content Creation to our offer. All of our T
Levels include an industry placement that
prepares students for their future careers
and gives them real insight into the sector
they will be working in!
We have been champions of T Levels
since they launched in the UK, and as
the number of T Levels we offer has
grown, so has the number of students
completing their qualification with
amazing success.
Every year we see a number of our graduating
T Level students offered employment by
the company at which they have done their
placement, whilst others choose to progress to
University or onto a higher level apprenticeship.
T LEVELS FACTS:
• One T Level is worth the same as 3
A-Levels for University applications (UCAS
points) and in terms of the amount of study
• T levels are co-designed with employers
• All T Levels include a significant amount
of time actually working in that sector
• Shipley College has been delivering
T Levels since 2020
• Students pick the T Level that suits their
career ambitions (e.g. Health, Fashion etc)
• New T Levels are launched nationally
every year
Leo, one of our T Level Accountancy students,
was one of only 2 students in the whole country
to achieve a Distinction*! Leo has progressed
onto an apprenticeship at the company he did his
industry placement at. Twins Sophie and Molly
both studied T Level and achieved great success.
Sophie is now studying at University and Molly
has moved onto an apprenticeship.
Studying at Shipley College gives you access to
cutting edge, state of the art equipment. Our
Health T Level students - who also become T
Level Cadets at Bradford Royal Infirmary, see
p59 - have access to a simulated hospital ward
complete with medical equipment - or indeed
any healthcare setting via our immersive
classrooms. They also get to access HAL
mannequins, the world’s most advanced
multidisciplinary simulators. Students can
put their learning into action to practise their
clinical skills and patient care on our four
simulators - Hal (an adult male), Victoria (a
pregnant female) Paediatric Hal (a male child)
and baby Tori. Our students practise their
skills in hyper-realistic simulations of
high-pressure healthcare situations,
in a low risk environment.
“Students getting the chance to have
these experiences so early is amazing,
they’re getting real hands-on experience
about what is to come. Most of them
will carry on with this kind of equipment
once working in hospitals so it’s brilliant
that college students get the opportunity
to use it this early on in their education
and careers!”
John Donnelly, Medical Simulation Solutions
Our T Levels
• Business - Management
and Admin
• Health - Midwifery
or Therapy
• Education, Early Years
and Childcare
• Craft and Design - Fashion
and Textiles
• Media, Broadcast and Production
- Content Creation
• Digital Production, Design
and Development
See page 72 for how to apply.
10. 11.

COLLEGE LIFE
Life at Shipley College is much
more than just your course!
Your experience at Shipley College goes far
beyond your qualification and what you learn
in the classroom. Our wide range of clubs and
activities will give you all the opportunities
to grow outside of the classroom, and
give you the full college experience.
Alongside the state of the art classrooms in our
beautiful historic buildings, we provide sectorspecific
facilities such as a clinical healthcare and
therapies ward designed in partnership with the
NHS, immersive learning spaces, a multi-purpose
art studio, dedicated Esports suites, life science
labs and our Business Innovation boardroom.
Fitness Suite
We want all our students to be healthy and happy.
Our students can access the Fitness Suite, based
in Victoria Hall, free of charge. Book an induction
and get moving!
Volunteering and Social
Action projects
There are lots of ways to get involved with
fundraising, volunteering and social action
at College. It makes a real difference, develops
new friends, looks great on your CV and
supports your future career.
Celebration Events
At Shipley College we take every opportunity
to celebrate our diversity. Throughout the year
you will get involved in activities such as Culture
Day, Neurodiversity Week, Holocaust Memorial
Day, International Women’s Day, Pride Month,
Remembrance Day, Black History Month and
many other events that are significant to our
students, staff and wider community.
Clubs & Activities
There’s a huge selection of fun clubs you can
take part in, such as arts & crafts, indoor football
and multi sports, chess, Lego club, Dungeons
& Dragons, singing and karaoke club, LGBTQIA+
club and more! If there’s a club we’re missing
that you’d like to start, just speak to our Student
Liaison Officer about starting your own.
12. 13.

with an EHCP
We are proud to offer dedicated
support to students with Educational
Health Care Plans. Our Additional
Learning Support team and Foundation
Learning staff, based in the Jonathan
Silver Building, dedicate themselves
to making sure that our students’ time
at Shipley College sets them on the
path to greater independence and
positive outcomes.
Alongside offering students the chance to take
part in the Duke of Edinburgh award, we also run
the John Muir award which is similar to DofE but
is designed to be accessible for students with
disabilities and learning differences. So far over
100 students have taken part in the award.
Adam, one of our entry level students was
honoured with a Certificate of Appreciation
in the Young Active Citizens category of the
2023 Community Stars Awards for his voluntary
work. He started volunteering at a Warm
Space group as part of his work placement and
continued volunteering there for over a year!
Adam went to St Peter’s Church in Saltaire
every Friday to help people in the community
who have little food, heating or company.
Adam was nominated for the Young Active
Citizens award by his course coordinator
Alyson who said “Adam is a very helpful and
caring young man. He has been a pleasure to
teach and work with and is always willing to try
new skills and help others in the class who may
be struggling. He encourages others who are not
as confident as him and helps them to build their
confidence and self esteem. He volunteers all
over the college and people absolutely love him”.
We asked Adam how he felt about being
nominated for the award: “I am pleased to
have been nominated by the college, and really
excited to make the top 3. I plan to continue my
community work, and to keep helping people - I
like to keep busy. In the holidays I go and help
tidy up my local park.”
The students develop skills and gain real life
work experience including putting on buffets
for internal and external events such as our
governors meetings, the Salt Foundation, and
local community groups. All of the work the
students do in their cooking classes acts as
evidence for their qualification.
“The cooking classes build independence and
confidence in the students. They learn how to
cope in real life and gain work experience. I’ve
had students who had limited life skills and were
not allowed to touch anything hot, use knives
or do the washing up and now they’re preparing
full meals like spaghetti bolognese and working
around a kitchen independently. We have a
brilliant new kitchen that I am really excited to
use with the students. It’s a fantastic asset and
will really help with preparing the students for
independent life going forward”.
Michelle, Foundation Learning Lecturer
Michelle, one of our Foundation Learning
lecturers, teaches cooking skills to our
students based in Jonathan Silver Building.
Michelle’s ‘Recipe for Success’ includes working
on functional skills English and
maths, and learning home cooking skills.
14.
15.

are different at Shipley College
ENGLISH
& MATHS
ENGLISH & MATHSLeading the way
in ai
Some students arrive at Shipley College
without the grades they want in English
and Maths at GCSE level, and are worried
that if they didn’t do well before, they
will not do well this time either.
But we don’t go about teaching English and maths
in the same way at College as in school…
Abigail was one of the students who benefitted
from the approach, getting 100% of the marks for
her imaginative writing, and turning her English
grade 3 into a grade 6 alongside her Creative
Media course:
“Marianne was really supportive, and really
inclusive of everyone - I really enjoyed the
way she taught us!”
Shipley College can transport
you into new and innovative
learning environments using
the latest technology.
Our Foundation English Course Coordinator
Marianne explains:
“Some students’ perception is that they have failed,
but they haven’t, you can’t fail in English. Education
just needs to be adapted to meet needs and your
interests. Everyone has imagination, and everyone
has a vocabulary, at college we give students
different experiences to practice using,
extending and applying these.”
For creative writing, especially for the description
of a setting using senses, students visit all
manner of places to inspire the imagination -
Gothic walks, a fictional murder mystery
scene, and even a graveyard.
“It is easier to imagine something when you
have been to it, and much deeper learning
comes when you actually experience
something” explains Marianne.
It is not just our students who recognise the
advantages of the approach - Marianne was
shortlisted for the UK-wide ‘FE Lecturer of the
Award’ in 2023 and was described by her peers
as “an inspiration to other English tutors”.
Our students have access to groundbreaking
resources such as mixed reality (MR) robotic
simulators, Anatomage tables, and immersive
classroom environments.
Our Anatomage tables provide real, 3D pathology
images of patients’ bodies, which prepare our
Healthcare students for working with real-life
scans and MRI imaging. Peel away skin or muscles
with a tap of your finger, dissect a heart, and learn
how it functions inside - working together as a
team to explore and diagnose medical conditions.
Our brand new 4D immersive classrooms elevate
training and learning for all our students - they can
replicate any environment with full wall and floor
projections, surround sound audio, and even the
appropriate smells! These rooms allow students
to apply the skills they are learning - without the
risks that they might encounter in real life.
Whether our Health & Social Care students are
learning how to move patients from a bed, our
Midwifery students learning how to manage
complex births, or our Access to HE students
on the fast track to university, this equipment
is revolutionising both how we teach and how
our students learn.
Our current and future Healthcare students
are being trained in AI and robotics which will
ultimately help reduce pressure on the frontline
NHS, whilst delivering the healthcare workforce
of the future. Our new immersive suites are used
within the College as wellbeing spaces, a place for
team building or meetings and for bringing maths,
English and mandatory training sessions to life.
If you have yet to achieve a grade 4 in your
English or maths when you enrol with us, these
subjects will form part of your study programme
and we will work with you to get your grades
to 4 or higher.
16. 17.

Shipley College
success
at the CTE awards!
The SkillsHouse Careers and Technical
Education (CTE) Awards are a highlight
of the regional education calendar, and
the 2024 event was no exception.
Almost 400 people attended the awards,
held at the University of Bradford’s Great Hall,
to celebrate the achievements of young people
and those who support them from across
Bradford District.
Shipley College was delighted to be recognised
across the board.
In the Essential Skills Learner of the Year
section, Logan won the Flexibility and
Adaptability award, while Ashley received
the Productivity and Accountability accolade.
Shipley College students were also crowned
in the ‘Learner of the Year’ section, with
Mohammed named Computing, Science
and Environmental Technologies Learner
of the Year, and Conrad achieving the same
title in Health and Social Care.
We also had three members of teaching staff -
Steph Cowling, Sophie Pullan and Mel DaCosta
- nominated as ‘Educator of the Year’, and
our close partnership with Bradford Teaching
Hospitals around T Level Health placements
resulted in Marie Malcolm-Richards and the
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation
Trust being recognised as ‘Outstanding
Business of the Year’.
Warmest congratulations to all concerned
on their brilliant achievements!
Andrew Laver, Chair of the District Board, said:
“The Bradford & District SkillsHouse
CTE Awards are the highlight of the
CTE calendar. It is our honour to be
able to showcase and celebrate the
achievements of our young people
and also thank those who support
their career journey.”
18. 19.

West Yorkshire is focused on expanding
its Creative and Digital sector, and our
inspiring studios in the historic Mill
Building are the perfect environment
for students like you. Whether you’re
passionate about fine art, street art,
textiles, ceramics, 3D design,
or sculpture, we have something
for everyone.
Our courses are designed to help you explore your
creative interests, launch a career in the arts, or
even start your own business and become your
own boss.
Brand new for this year, we’re excited to
offer the T Level in Craft and Design—an ideal
fit for a region with such a rich textile heritage.
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Graphic Designer
> Illustrator
> Photographer
> Ceramicist
> Fashion Designer
> Textile Designer
> Interior Designer
> Animator
> Product Designer
> Art Director
> 3D Modeler
> Set/Display Designer
If you have a creative spark and want to pursue
a career in this dynamic field, come express
yourself with us!
20. 21.

COURSES
ART, DESIGN & MEDIA LEVEL 1
ART & DESIGN LEVEL 2
ART & DESIGN LEVEL 3
T LEVEL CRAFT & DESIGN - FASHION & TEXTILES
Last year, students from our Mill School
of Art & Design teamed up with the
Saltaire Makers Fair Curator and Artists
Coordinator to create and sell their art,
design, and craft work at three stalls
during the Saltaire Makers Fair.
Such hands-on experiences offered fantastic
ways to develop the skills needed to become
an independent designer and maker.
Students collaborated with the Saltaire Inspired
Community Engagement Officer to design and
lead workshops for the popular Saltaire Arts
Trail weekend.
Our Fashion & Textiles T Level students are
preparing a collaborative collection to showcase
at Fashion Fiesta CIC in 2025.
They will also gain invaluable experience in
behind-the-scenes fashion event management,
including reviewing applications and matching
models with designers.
22. 23.

Elevate your career in our Google-inspired
Business Innovation Boardroom! If you
aspire to be an entrepreneur or excel in
management, marketing, or finance, our
Business courses are designed for you.
You will develop essential skills in teamwork,
communication, and problem-solving, along
with exploring online marketing and even
preparing to launch your own business.
No prior knowledge of business is required; we
start from the basics and dive deep into what
makes businesses thrive. You will analyse case
studies and conduct research while working
alongside Skills Coaches to explore your
career goals.
According to the West Yorkshire Local Skills
Improvement Plan (LSIP), the Financial &
Professional Services sector is expected to
grow by 23%, and Business Administration and
Support Services is already one of the largest
employment sectors in the region. With a strong
demand for management and leadership skills,
we’re here to help you refine the skills you need
for a successful career in business.
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Marketing Manager
> Financial Analyst
> Human Resources Manager
> Consultant
> Sales Manager
> Project Manager
> Team Leader
> Account Manager
> Marketing Coordinator
> Administrator
> Retail Manager
> Entrepreneur
24. 25.

COURSES
BUSINESS LEVEL 1
BUSINESS LEVEL 2
BUSINESS LEVEL 3
T LEVEL BUSINESS - MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION
We work with local businesses so that
students understand how the things
they study in college play out in the
business world.
Students welcome employers into our Business
Innovation Boardroom, demonstrating their skills
in this high tech environment. Employers such
as ACS, Jet2 and Natwest Bank come into
College to deliver masterclasses to our students.
We work closely with local businesses to secure
placements for our students, placements which
can unlock amazing opportunities.
For example, two of our students completed
40-day work placements with Tieva, where they
were welcomed onto the business’s finance
team. The students excelled in their positions,
and both were offered full time roles at the end
of their studies. This just goes to show that the
relationships we cultivate with thriving local
businesses really can open doors to your future!
26. 27.

The Creative Media industry in the UK
is huge - there are over 2 million jobs
in the sector and our courses can set
you on your way to a career in this
exciting field!
The West Yorkshire LSIP states that the Creative
Industries is a priority sector, and our creative
industries department offers courses for
innovative individuals who are passionate
about film, television, gaming, music, design,
animation and pop culture. Our T Level course
will see you work with industry professionals,
creating video content for organisations from
real-life briefs set by employers.
With Bradford City of Culture 2025, there’s no
better time to start on your path to a career in
the creative industries.
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Graphic Designer
> Web designer
> Journalist
> Video Editor
> Sound Engineer
> Marketing Content Creator
> Video Content Creator
> Set/Display Designer
> Animator
> TV or Film Sound Technician
28. 29.

COURSES
ART, DESIGN & MEDIA LEVEL 1
CREATIVE MEDIA LEVEL 2
CREATIVE MEDIA LEVEL 3
T LEVEL MEDIA, BROADCAST & PRODUCTION - CONTENT CREATION
Creative Media students at Shipley
College get to hone their skills by
working on real-world client projects,
gaining valuable industry experience
and starting to build their professional
reputation and portfolios.
Recent projects have included creating
campaigns and video content to briefs set
by prominent local organisations. Space Hub
Yorkshire (SHY) offered students the opportunity
to produce a series of promotional videos to raise
awareness of the Space sector in Yorkshire and
these videos have been shown across the world.
In an ongoing collaboration with Care Dynamics
Yorkshire, students created video content to
support the company’s recruitment and induction
processes. Other students partnered with
Photo Hub North to develop a campaign
to raise awareness for a new festival. These
invaluable experiences build students’ CVs
and future careers and set them apart
from the competition.
Scan here to
find out more
30. 31.

DIGITAL
West Yorkshire boasts the UK’s fastest
growing digital sector, with 50,000
jobs in 8,695 digital businesses, and
a further 5,400 in ICT.
There is a growing demand for programmers,
developers and support technicians, while digital
transformation is key to the growth of the economy
and digital business analytics is a highly sought after
skillset (West Yorkshire LSIP).
If you have an interest in IT, coding or electronics,
have ideas for designing apps and websites, or are
good with technology and problem solving, you will
find the right course for you in this thriving sector!
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> IT Technician
> Games Programmer
> Business Analyst
> Data Analyst
> Software Developer
> Network Engineer
> Web Developer
> Cyber Security Analyst
> Technologist
> Project Manager
> UX Designer
32.
33.

COURSES
DIGITAL LEVEL 2
DIGITAL LEVEL 3
T LEVEL DIGITAL PRODUCTION, DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
Our Networking students went
on a visit to local employer Tieva,
a business technology services
company in Pudsey, where they
carried out problem solving and
helpdesk scenarios - to such a high
standard that Tieva then offered us
two 6-month work placements!
Our amazing Digital students recently completed
huge 315-hour placements in various roles at
Lloyds Bank.
Having performed so well on placement, the
students were given an award ceremony to
celebrate their achievements and the best
performers have now been offered Higher
Apprenticeships with the company!
34. 35.

EARLY YEARS
& CHILDCARE
Are you passionate about making a
difference in the lives of young children?
A career in early years and childcare
could be the perfect path for you!
You will play a crucial role in shaping
the development of children during their
formative years. Your support and guidance
can help them grow, learn, and thrive.
Every day is different! You will engage in creative
activities, games, and learning experiences that
make work enjoyable and rewarding. You will
create meaningful connections not only with the
children but also with their families, fostering a
supportive community.
The early years sector offers plenty of opportunities
for advancement. You can move into leadership
roles, education, or even start your own
childcare business.
The demand for qualified childcare professionals is
high, ensuring that you will have a stable career with
plenty of opportunities.
Your work will have a lasting impact on future
generations, helping to nurture happy, healthy,
and confident children.
If you are ready to embark on a rewarding
journey where you can inspire and nurture
the next generation, consider a career in early
years and childcare. It’s more than just a job -
it’s a chance to make a real difference!
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Nursery Nurse
> Primary Teacher
> Childminder
> Paediatric Nurse
> Community Worker
> Play Therapist
> Teaching Assistant
> Child Psychologist
> Family Support Worker
36. 37.

COURSES
EDUCATION, EARLY YEARS & CHILDCARE LEVEL 1
EDUCATION, EARLY YEARS & CHILDCARE LEVEL 2
EDUCATION, EARLY YEARS & CHILDCARE LEVEL 3
T LEVEL EDUCATION, EARLY YEARS & CHILDCARE
Work placements play a huge role
in developing as an Early Years or
Childcare practitioner and are a
significant part of our courses,
whether that be in schools, nurseries,
creches or other childcare settings.
Every year we receive excellent feedback
about our students and what they bring to the
organisations they have their placements at -
often with the offer of employment following
soon after.
This past year, one of our Year 1 students was
offered a permanent position at the creche she
had done a placement at - despite the fact she
still had to study Year 2 to complete her course!
She has since finished the course, gained a
Merit grade, and then started a full-time role
with the employer.
Our EY&C students are all prepared to create
their own resources to carry out activities while
on placement.
Many of our students were told either that they
would make a great teacher or, even better, that
no one would know that they weren’t already an
employed teacher!
38. 39.

ESOL
Our ESOL (English for Speakers of
Other Languages) courses can help
you develop your English language
skills, learn about life in the UK and
grow in confidence with our friendly
tutors who will work with you at your
own pace.
This course will develop your spoken and written
English so you can progress into further learning or
into work. It can also help you to engage more with
the wider community, get involved in social action
and make your voice heard!
Our tutors teach using a range of fun tasks that
relate to real-life situations to help you apply your
learning in a range of different ways. You will also
have the chance to take part in taster sessions
in different departments, so you can make an
informed choice about your next steps.
You do not need any qualifications to join the
course, and we will complete an assessment
to find the right level of English for you.
Our course teaches a huge range
of transferable skills, to prepare our
students for the next stage in their
lives of further studies or employment.
COURSES
ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES
Our ESOL students undertook work experience
in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park.
They did a fantastic job clearing and re-laying a
path, while getting a taste of working in this area
of outstanding natural beauty. ESOL students
also do the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which is
a great way to explore and understand the local
area, volunteer and learn new skills.
40.
41.

ESPORTS
Esports gaming is now a huge
entertainment and media industry
with a global revenue of over £3.2
billion in 2024, and a record prize
pool of £45 million for the 2024
Esports World Cup alone.
Quick to recognise the global appeal and economic
significance of Esports, the West Yorkshire LSIP
included Gaming in its list of sectors in which
demand outstrips supply so you can be sure there
are jobs available for our graduates.
Our Esports qualifications sit between the realms
of games, sports and business, with a mix of units
such as health & wellbeing, nutrition, psychology,
business and more classically dedicated gaming
units. The courses teach lots of transferable skills
as well as about the various careers that Esports
can lead into!
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Streamer
> Data Analyst
> Shoutcaster
> Journalist
> Team Coach
> Video Production Editor
> High Performance Coach
> Nutritionist
42.
43.

COURSES
ESPORTS LEVEL 1
ESPORTS LEVEL 2
ESPORTS LEVEL 3
esports
competitions
We have 2 Valorant teams and 1 Rocket
League team competing in the National College
Championships every Wednesday evening. Our
students play against different colleges across
the country. This is a chance for students to
improve at a game and learn teamwork skills
in a fun but competitive environment.
Esports courses teach a huge range
of transferable skills that prepare our
students for the next stage in their lives
after college.
We have tutors who have enjoyed successful
Esports careers and can pass on their knowledge
and experience directly, Esports students go on
to a wide range of University courses such as
Journalism and Games Design.
Last year our Esports students showcased the
skills they’ve learnt throughout their course by
setting up and competing in a charity live stream,
raising hundreds of pounds for the local Bradford
Food Bank, having been inspired by a college visit
telling them all about the work the food
bank does.
The students also benefit from our partnership
with Nocturnal who come in to talk to our
students about amateur Esports and their
own grassroots team; Nocturnal Esports,
while also taking multiple students on
Esports work placements.
44.
45.

Our Foundation Learning Programmes
are designed to create ‘a big plan’ for
our students with progression routes
that are ambitious and exciting.
We place EHCP outcomes at the centre
of everything we do and personalise learning
to support our students to reach their desired
destinations. All of our programmes offer both
simulated and practical work experience for our
students, which raises our students’ awareness
of the different types of jobs they could do -
giving them the opportunity to put into practise
the skills they have learnt in the classroom.
Level one
Our Level One programmes are the final
stepping stones to professional and technical
qualifications, giving students the opportunity
to practice and rehearse their skills in a
vocationally-specific learning environment.
With a focus on becoming ‘ready for work’,
our Level One students build confidence and
independence by learning the vocational skills
they will need for work.
Entry three
Our Entry Three Programmes offer students the
opportunity to develop their social and study
skills, whilst learning about the different career
paths they could take. By taking part in internal
work experience that simulates ‘real-life’ jobs,
our Entry Three students are able to apply their
learning in a low-risk, but realistic environment.
Entry two
Our Entry Two programmes prepare our students
for their next level of learning and for increasingly
independent adulthood. It develops the skills
needed for young people to stay safe and make
positive decisions and creates opportunities
that help them learn more about their strengths,
talents and career plans.
English and maths
Whether studying at Entry Three or Level
One, maths and English are critical skills for
life and work, which is why we ensure we build
our students skills in both competences. From
embedded learning (e.g. learning maths in a
vocational class) to our standalone classes,
the way we develop those skills will feel different
from school, with our expert teachers able to
bring the subjects to life in a way that feels
46.
fresh, accessible and exciting!
47.

COURSES
ENTRY 2 LIFE SKILLS
ENTRY 2 STEP UP
ENTRY 3 CAREER PATHWAYS
CORE SKILLS
PREPARATION FOR FURTHER STUDY
INTRODUCTORY CERTIFICATE IN CARING FOR CHILDREN UNDER FIVE
INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
NEXT STEPS FOR EMPLOYMENT
By providing a supportive and inclusive learning
environment, our Foundation Learning courses
empower our students to reach their full potential
and achieve their goals. Each student is treated
as an individual, with a clear, personalised
transition plan created to ensure they feel
supported to begin their journey to employment.
We understand the importance of hard work and
commitment, but make sure there is plenty of
time for fun and celebration too!
Our enrichment programme offers students the
chance to take part in lots of clubs, events and
competitions that are incredible for making new
friends, developing new skills and achieving
amazing things!
For example, our Shipley College Ability Counts
Football Team competes at the National AoC
Championships, which is two days of playing
the very best teams from across the country.
Each year, our students learn about teamwork,
respecting competitors and learning that they
can achieve anything they work hard to achieve.
NEXT STEPS FOR ADULTHOOD
We understand that as everyone is
different, we need to offer a range
of activities, with some of our most
popular including:
> Performing Arts
> Sport, including football
> Catering Events
> Choir
> Book Club
> Social Action, including The Duke
of Edinburgh’s Award
> Lego Club
48.
49.

SUPPORTED
Supported Internships provide an
amazing opportunity for young people
with an EHCP to take their first steps
into employment and learn a job role that
matches their abilities and interests in a
real working environment.
While in College, you will develop a wide range
of skills through pre-placement experiences and
by getting involved in social action projects. We
understand that the journey to employment can
be challenging, so we will support you to learn
how to search for jobs, complete an application
form, succeed in an interview, and be effective
in the workplace.
During placement/internship, we will support
you in the work place as you learn your role.
Over several months, you will take part in
different tasks to gain experience. We know
the importance of developing maths and English
skills, which lead to gaining qualifications,
including GCSEs. Some of our students are
offered paid employment or volunteer work at
the end of the Supported Internship Program.
At the end of the programme you will be put
in contact with agencies that provide the
assistance with your next steps.
If you are interested in this course and would like
more information you will be invited to an Open
Event, or offered an appointment to speak with
our friendly tutors. Your journey is important to
us, and we’re here to support you every step
of the way.
50. 51.

GAMES
DESIGN
Join an area that starts you on the
path of turning your love of gaming
into a career!
If you have a great imagination, if you enjoy using
design software and are interested in learning
how to create games then this course could be
perfect for you.
In Games Design, you will learn 3D modelling and
animation techniques, creating 2D graphics with
specialist industry software.
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> 3D Modeller
> Character Designer
> Concept Artist
> Animator
> Graphic Designer
> Level Designer
The Local Skills Improvement Plan for West
Yorkshire identifies gaming and games design as
regional skills needs. This creative and practical
course teaches you those skills and also gives
you the opportunity to develop a wide range
of work ready skills such as problem solving,
communication and project management.
52. 53.

COURSES
GAMES DESIGN LEVEL 2
GAMES DESIGN LEVEL 3
There are many ways that we make sure
our Games Design students are ready
for their next exciting steps.
Students have taken part in an industry week
with Impact Gamers in Bradford where they
worked together to develop, pitch and create a
playable prototype of a game that was presented
back to the employer - a very valuable experience
for all involved.
Students also got the opportunity to attend
the Yorkshire Games Festival, benefitting from
some high profile guest speakers from the sector.
Students found out about routes into the games
industry and took away some useful tips for
securing themselves a job.
One of our Games Design students enjoyed a
very successful placement at BCB Radio, where
he hosted a weekly show discussing games
and films, that involved planning, writing and
recording a weekly episode.
Students also get to work to employer briefs
for the likes of Kingdom Wrestling and Saltaire
Inspired (Living Advent), where they apply
the design skills they have learned to creative
projects including merchandise design, logo
design and 3D animation.
54. 55.

HEALTH &
SOCIAL CARE
Every day is unique in the world of health!
You will learn to care for others in a variety of
settings and scenarios, including working with
older people, supporting those with mental health
issues and those undergoing rehabilitation, and you
will come to understand how working with people
from diverse backgrounds and with different health
needs can be incredibly rewarding.
Health & Social Care is identified as a key sector in
the West Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan.
It is already the largest employment sector in West
Yorkshire with over 160,000 in employment, but
there are still skills shortages for nurses, midwives,
health visitors, allied health professionals and
managers, and a further 5,500+ vacancies
across the Social Care sector.
Shipley College is the West Yorkshire lead on
Healthcare for the LSIF. We have invested in
cutting edge healthcare teaching facilities,
including Garmaud simulators, the world’s
most advanced AI patient simulators, and a fully
immersive classroom which is revolutionising how
we train the future workforce for the health sector.
Our courses will give you the opportunity to
explore different career options within health and
social care, and will enable you to work alongside
professionals in the sector.
You can explore a range of career options such as
Nurse, Care Assistant, Physiotherapist, Midwife,
Pharmacist, Mental Health Support Worker and
Social Worker.
Could you be the next super hero without a cape?
Do you have what it takes to help improve the lives
of vulnerable people? Find out on our health and
social care courses.
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Support Worker
> Social Worker
> Nurse
> Midwife
> Occupational Therapist
> Drug and Alcohol Support
> Mental Health Worker
> Care Assistant
> Dietician
> Paediatric Nurse
56. 57.

COURSES
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE LEVEL 1
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE LEVEL 2
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE LEVEL 3
T LEVEL HEALTH - MIDWIFERY OR THERAPY
All Health & Social Care students go
out on high quality work placements -
these are key to developing as a
healthcare professional.
Our T Level Health students become
T Level cadets at Bradford Royal Infirmary,
and are exposed to multiple departments
of the hospital as they work out which
career path is the best fit for them.
“The aim of offering the industry
placements within Bradford
Royal Infirmary is to get the
T Level cadets employment
ready, so with this in mind,
Bradford Teaching Hospitals
will be offering interviews for
Health Care Assistant posts
to our T-Level students from
Shipley College towards the
completion of their course.”
Students learn to deal with the unexpected and
to stay calm in a crisis. One of our T-Level Health
students started placement on the maternity unit
at Bradford Teaching Hospital and found herself
in a lift with a heavily pregnant woman who was in
labour. Thanks to her pre-placement training, the
student was able to assist in the birth - not bad
for her first day of placement!
Ben McKay, Bradford Teaching
Hospitals Foundation Trust
58. 59.

MUSIC
PERFORMANCE
& PRODUCTION
During Bradford City of Culture 2025
approximately 1,000 performances
will take place, developed by local
artists and creatives. Over 15.5 million
visitors are expected to enjoy these
performances and they will bring an
anticipated additional £136.9 million
into the local economy over the
course of the year (Gov.uk).
Our Music courses are industry-led, and combine
technical skills with creative expression - enabling
you to produce and perform music that is
personal to you.
You will build a varied portfolio of content, such
as original compositions, musical fusions, sound
for moving image and backing tracks. The course
also teaches you essential business knowledge,
including copyright, marketing, working freelance
and careers pathways.
Not only that, but you will be provided with
opportunities to perform at local venues
and festivals via our Salt School of Music.
If you are looking for a hands-on learning
experience, if you play an instrument,
sing or are interested in music production,
events, gigs and pop culture, then our
Music Technology, Performance &
Production courses are for you!
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Live sound engineer
> Stage manager
> Events manager
> Live performer
> Composer
> Sound designer
> Studio engineer
> Sound engineer for moving image
> Sound engineer for games
> Radio broadcaster
60. 61.

COURSES
MUSIC PERFORMANCE & PRODUCTION LEVEL 3
Our Music Performance & Production
students benefit from employer
partnerships from across the sector.
You will perform at real festivals and music
venues throughout the year to showcase
your skills and get hands-on experience.
Our partnership with Caroline Street Social
Club means we can support a local business
while providing real life participation in
performing, and operating audio
equipment in front of a live audience.
If you are more interested in the production
side of things we can arrange for you to work
with professional sound engineers, either as a
whole group experience or on technical work
placements at places like Hohm Studios and
the renowned Opera North.
62.
63.

travel
& TOURISM
Bradford is the City of Culture 2025,
and is experiencing a boom in heritage
tourism, with the National Lottery
Heritage Fund awarding £5 million
specifically to develop a programme
of activities to bring the diverse
heritage of our city to the fore
during the celebrations.
Our year as City of Culture is expected to bring
15 million extra visitors to the city and will have
long-lasting benefits - it is a great time to enter
the tourism sector.
Our Travel & Tourism course will get you out and
about to experience the best of the industry. You
will meet employers and visit tourism destinations,
to help you understand this exciting sector and
the opportunities available to it. Our students
have benefitted from visits to Manchester Airport,
Jet2, London, Blackpool, the Yorkshire Dales,
York Christmas Market and Liverpool.
The range of careers available is vast - not
just airline, cabin crew and hospitality roles.
You can work in marketing promoting travel
destinations, join the events industry or
design your own festival!
Careers these courses
could take you into...
> Cabin Crew
> Events Management
> Hotel Management
> Travel Agent
> Travel Journalist
> Holiday Representative
> Airport Operations
> Travel Marketing
> Cruise Ship Steward
64. 65.

COURSES
TRAVEL & TOURISM LEVEL 2
TRAVEL & TOURISM LEVEL 3
The team have strong relationships
across the sector, to help you gain
experience and get work-ready for
the exciting world of travel and tourism.
Corporate Travel Management (CTM) have
provided office tours, mock interviews, work
experience and guest speakers for our students.
Our students visited Jet2 at the airport, whilst
Jet2 staff returned the favour by visiting campus
to deliver a careers talk about the different roles
available in the travel sector.
Students undertake extended placements
at Bradford Industrial Museum, leading on
various aspects of museum management
and operations. Our relationship with the
Great Victoria Hotel means that our students
can access behind the scenes tours, Q&As with
hotel staff. Staff and students took over the hotel
for the entire week and learnt to perform many
of the roles in the hotel.
66. 67.

Finding the
right
course for you
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
ENTRY 2-3
No formal qualifications needed.
Staff will advise the right level for you
2-3
LEVEL 1
At least: English GCSE at grade 2 or above,
maths at grade 1 or above
LEVEL 2
At least: 2 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English
or a full level 1 at Pass grade with exceptions where stated.
LEVEL 3
At least: 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English & maths
or a full Level 2 at Pass grade or above
Don’t worry if you haven’t got any qualifications or don’t meet the entry criteria
- our staff will work with you to find the right course for you!
68. 69.

COURSE TYPES
We understand that everyone learns differently so we’ve put
together some information to help you decide what’s right for you.
FULL-TIME STUDY
PROGRAMMES:
• Around 18 hours per week studying at our
Saltaire campus
• Ready for work! Our lessons are designed
in partnership with employers so you learn
the skills THEY need
• Industry placements that will give you
hands-on experience of working life
• Maths & English are provided as part of
your course if you don’t have the grades
required - and we make them fun!
• Future Leaders sessions are provided to
prepare you for success in the workplace
See: Course Areas - pages 20 to 67.
T-LEVELS:
• 2 year course, studying one career-based
subject
• Entry requirements - at least 5 GCSEs
including English and maths. Grades
required depends on the T Level, but is
usually at grade 5 or above (or equivalent),
although this is sometimes grade 4
(Education, Fashion and Textiles
and Content Creation)
• Course content is designed with
key employers, so you know you are
developing the skills employers want
• Extensive work placements with a local
employer, in your chosen sector
• 80/20 split between classroom learning
and practical work experience
• Worth 3 A-Levels for applying to University
APPRENTICESHIPS
Apprenticeships are not like jobs - they
are jobs!
You will be employed by an employer,
where you will learn the role but also
study at college one day a week. An
apprenticeship is a fantastic way to
earn while you learn, and get trained
as you go. You will usually spend 4 days
a week with your employer, and 1 day a
week in Shipley College, learning the
knowledge, skills and behaviours
you will need to be a success!
Apprenticeships facts:
• Anyone 16+ can do an apprenticeship
• You will gain knowledge, industry
experience and a qualification all in one
• It usually takes 1–3 years to complete your
apprenticeship qualification, depending
on the level
• Earn while you learn - you will be paid during
your apprenticeship
• Minimum apprenticeship salary is set by the
Government, but some of our employers pay
significantly more
Available apprenticeships:
• Business Admin L3
• Early Years Practitioner L2
• Horticulture Operative L2
• Early Years Educator L3
• Golf Greenkeeper L2
• Teaching Assistant L3
• Digital Marketer L3
• Adult Care Worker L2
• Lead Adult Care Worker L3
Our T Levels
• Business - Management
and Admin
• Health - Midwifery
or Therapy
• Education, Early Years
and Childcare
• Craft and Design - Fashion
and Textiles
• Media, Broadcast and Production
- Content Creation
• Digital Production, Design
and Development
CONTACT US
If you are looking for advice or a particular
job role, contact our friendly Apprenticeships
Team who can help you find something that
is right for you.
01274 327390
apprenticeships@shipley.ac.uk
70. 71.

YOUR APPLICATION
Apply now!
SUPPORT DURING
YOUR APPLICATION
If you are unsure about which course is
right for you or require any support with your
application, or if you need careers advice, then
please contact our friendly Student Services
team, or come to any one of our Open Events.
We are here to support you!
Explore the courses and careers on offer
Browse the course sections on pages 20 to 67, have a look through the
16-18/School Leavers pages on shipley.ac.uk, talk to staff and students
at a Shipley College Open Event or contact Student Services at any time.
Contact Student Services:
01274 327 281
studentservices@shipley.ac.uk
Choose your course area and apply
When you’ve decided which course area you want to apply for, submitting
an application couldn’t be simpler - you can apply online via any course page
on the website, or come along to any Open Event and apply on the day.
Receive and accept your offer
Once you have received your offer from us, you can accept it by calling or
emailing Student Services. You will be invited to attend a taster event to meet
staff and your fellow students and to learn a little bit more about the course.
Enrol
You will receive an invitation to come into College and enrol in August.
When you come to enrol we ask that you bring with you your result slip
or certificates so we can be sure you are enrolled on the right course,
and you will also then receive your timetable and ID badge.
After that, you are all set to start your adventure at Shipley College!
To enhance your journey and make sure you
make the right decision, we encourage you
to come along to any of our Open Events.
Talk to course tutors, meet our current students, have
a look around the campus, get a feel for Shipley College
and get any advice you may need.
We have Open Events
all year round - just
register your free
place on whichever
is best for you!
72. 73.

How to
FIND US
Follow our handy map
to find your way to our
buildings, the nearest
transport links and car
parking facilities.
74.
75.

WE ARE HERE
TO HELP
Still got questions about courses,
applications, finance, College life
or anything else?
Our friendly Student Services staff are
on hand to help:
shipley.ac.uk
studentservices@shipley.ac.uk
01274 327281
Disclaimer:
While every effort has been made to provide accurate information, Shipley College reserves
the right to amend the courses offered, based on internal or external factors.
Information is correct at the time of going to press. The College reserves the right to introduce
changes to the information given. Errors and omissions excepted. See www.shipley.ac.uk
for the most up-to-date information.
76. 77.

78. 79.

Scan to book
Shipley College Salt Building
Victoria Road, Saltaire, Shipley, West Yorkshire, BD18 3LQ
01274 327281
studentservices@shipley.ac.uk
shipley.ac.uk
80.