First steps towards a new campus in Morley

Leeds City College is working in partnership with Leeds City Council to explore the possibility of developing a new adult learning campus in Morley. 

The plans form part of Morley’s £24.3 million government Town Deal to invest in the local area. The campus will enable people in Morley to access an aspirational, high specification centre in the heart of the town that inspires adults to become lifelong learners.

In order to shape the courses offered at the campus, the college is seeking feedback from residents and businesses in Morley on the proposals.

A focus on new technologies and key skills

The new facility is set to include an ‘emerging technology centre’ to develop skills in coding, virtual reality, drone technology, robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence, developing a wide range of valuable industry specific skills. 

With a focus on meeting both individual and employer needs, the campus will additionally offer English and maths courses for adults without Level 2 qualifications, vocational skills training in key employment sectors and progression advice for higher level learning.

Ann Marie Spry, Vice Principal of Adults at Leeds City College, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the council to address the skills needs of Morley. It’s important that we truly reflect the requirements of the community which is why we want to hear from as many people as possible in the local area. 

“With the current challenges brought about by Covid-19, this inclusive campus will support people of all ages, whatever their learning needs, to improve their skills to take advantage of the new economic climate. Our goal is to build a strong foundation for local people to access sustainable employment or move onto higher level skills.”

High quality education to fuel innovation

Executive member for Infrastructure and Climate at Leeds City Council, Councillor Helen Hayden, said: “The ambition to make Morley a hub of innovation needs to be matched with a high-quality, local education offering that will allow people to gain valuable experience and qualifications that will surpass the needs and expectations of future employers.

“I am therefore pleased that, as a part of the Morley Town Deal, we can partner with Leeds City College and look to create an inspirational education establishment in the heart of the community.”

Morley Town Deal Board Chairman, Gerald Jennings, added: “Giving people local access to high-quality, inspirational courses is a key pillar in building a successful future for Morley.

“As a town board, we want to ensure that both the facilities and courses offered are what the people of Morley want and need, so it is key that as many people as possible get involved in the survey.”

The public consultation is now live and can be accessed by visiting Have Your Say Today – Morley Town Deal – Commonplace