Kirklees College has put its new Adult Course Guide into sharp focus with a new video ‘Your Next Chapter’ which highlights the meaningful impact of adult and community education at the college.
Produced in collaboration with award-winning Mirfield entrepreneur Sam Teale, of Sam Teale Productions, the new video is a timely reminder of the importance of adult education in supporting local communities, people and the economy.
Earlier this year, the Association of Colleges published a series of statistics about the under-funding of adult education in the UK, but also highlighted that almost two-thirds of adults who participated in learning or training reported at least one work-related benefit in 2024, while almost half reported health and wellbeing benefits.
‘Your Next Chapter’ brings these benefits to life with real, human stories of Kirklees College’s adult learners.
The video opens with Sharon Archer, curriculum director for adult education at Kirklees College, speaking about the impact of adult and community education and its need for support.
It then includes passionate interviews with a variety of staff and students within the college, including curriculum director Steve Plumstead, who was a student before becoming a lecturer and eventually a member of the college’s management team.
Sharon said: “Kirklees College is more than a place of learning – it is a place where futures are shaped, confidence is built and aspirations become reality.
“Whether you’re looking to gain new skills, change direction or achieve a long-held goal, we are here to support you every step of the way.
“This video celebrates the heart of our college: our students, our staff and the vibrant communities we serve.”
Among the learners celebrated are: Brittany O’Sullivan, who overcame serious personal challenges but is now thriving on a Fabrication and Welding apprenticeship; Benjamin Atkinson, who moved from working within hospitality to training to become a teacher at the college; and Sanaa Shaqeel, who now wants to become a teacher herself after seeing the impact that community education was having on her and other learners.
Kirklees College principal and chief executive Palvinder Singh said: “We’re pleased to share our new Adult Learner video, which showcases the positive impact of adult education at our college and highlights the opportunities available to learners looking to develop new skills, retrain or progress in their careers.
“The video features the experiences of our adult learners and demonstrates how further education can help people build confidence, gain qualifications and achieve their personal and professional goals.”
The adult curriculum at Kirklees College covers a variety of subject areas, including Business, Construction, Creative Industries, Engineering, English for Speakers of Other Languages, Hair and Beauty, Sport, Hospitality and Catering, Motor Vehicle, Teaching and more.
To enrol on a course starting this September, visit www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk/adult-learners.
Watch the video HERE.
