MOTOR vehicle students at Bradford College were fuelled up after McLaren Leeds visited their workshop at Bowling Back Lane.
Mechanical Technician Adrian Townend brought along one of McLaren’s supercars and gave an inspirational talk to students about the vehicle and aspirational careers in the industry.
Stephen Smith, Bradford College Head of Department for Construction & Engineering, said: “It was a privilege to host a stunning McLaren supercar, providing an extraordinary learning experience for students of all levels.
“This exceptional opportunity, facilitated by the connections of one of our dedicated Motor Vehicle lecturers, proved to be an invaluable educational event.
“The presence of this high-powered, technologically advanced vehicle captivated the imagination of the learners, offering them a first-hand glimpse into the world of cutting-edge automotive design and engineering.
“Through this visit, students gained insights into the intricate details and meticulous craftsmanship that go into creating such remarkable machines.
“This will only further ignite their passion for the automotive industry and inspire them to push the boundaries of innovation. Thanks to Adrian at McLaren Leeds for helping facilitate this event.”
Bradford College offers Level 1-3 motor vehicle courses, including autocare technician, hybrid electric vehicle operation and maintenance, light vehicle maintenance and repairs, and motor vehicle skills.
Work is also starting on the College’s new £17 million Future Technologies Centre, which will house automotive and digital engineering training from 2025/2026.
The purpose-built centre on Thornton Road will replace Junction Mills which is set to be demolished. The project was made possible thanks to £15m funding from the Department for Education’s Further Education Capital Transformation Fund (FECTF), boosted by a £2m College contribution.
The innovative Future Technologies Centre will be used for training in electric/hybrid vehicles and advanced manufacturing and will be vital in supporting the growth of technology and low-carbon skills capability within West Yorkshire.
* Learn more about motor vehicle courses and the new Future Technologies Centre on the Bradford College website - bradfordcollege.ac.uk
IT'S never too late to start a journey with Bradford College. Visit the next Open Evening on Thursday, May 9, from 5-7pm, to find the perfect course.
Visitors can explore the College campus on Great Horton Road, get involved in practical tasks and challenges set by tutors, and take a look at where they could be studying in September!
Bradford College is one of the biggest education and training providers in the region, with students enrolling on T Levels, apprenticeships, adult and community courses and more. The College also offers a range of full and part-time higher-level, degree, and professional courses for those looking to take their next step in education or the workplace. State-of-the-art facilities across six sites, dedicated tutors and industry partners ensure students get a head start on their career journey. Visit bradfordcollege.ac.uk to book the next open evening.
BRADFORD College is recruiting adults for a five-day part-time course for those interested in working on hybrid and electric vehicles.
The new City & Guilds Level 3 Award in ‘Component Removal and Replacement in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles’ focuses on safety and efficiency and gives participants the knowledge to maintain electric vehicle technology and stay ahead of the curve in the automotive industry.
Classes run from April to July using a mixture of classroom and workshop/practical learning. An exam is taken at the end of the course with the opportunity to re-sit if needed. The course will be delivered at the Bradford College motor vehicle training centre at Bowling Back Lane (Bradford, BD4 8SA).
Funding is available to cover the course cost if the eligibility criteria is met. Visit bradfordcollege.ac.uk for more details.
THE Bradford College Apprenticeship team and sponsor were special guests at this year’s JCT600 Bradford City AFC End-of-Season dinner.
Hosted at Cedar Court Hotel Bradford by University of Bradford Stadium, the dinner and awards night recognised the achievements of representatives from across different areas of the club.
First-team players Ciaran Kelly and Bobby Pointon took time out to chat before Bobby went on to win two awards. However, the Apprenticeship team was already celebrating their own success.
Newly published national Qualification Achievement Rates (QARs) data revealed Bradford College to be one of England’s top five large further education colleges for apprenticeship achievement rates.
They are also the best-performing large college in Yorkshire.
Head of Apprenticeships & Business Development, Kelly McAllister, said: “This success is a testament to our exceptional staff, assessors, and the incredible employers we support.
"Together, we are nurturing careers in sectors that support vital regional economic growth.”
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