At the Joseph Priestley Centre, students have been putting their skills into practice by preparing freshly made dishes using ingredients partly grown on site. These student-grown vegetables and herbs are also incorporated into food preparation courses, giving learners hands-on experience in sustainable food production.
The college’s commitment to the wider community is further demonstrated through the Emergency Food Support Programme. Operated by Public Services staff and students, and supported by the GMB Union and Too Good To Go, the programme provides weekly food supplies to those in need.
In addition, initiatives like our Free Fruit and Veg for All campaign helps redistribute surplus food to students and staff, helping to reduce waste while supporting those facing food insecurity. These projects combine practical learning with community impact, fostering social responsibility and sustainability among students.
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Students from Leeds City College have been making a real difference in their local communities through a series of volunteering and fundraising initiatives designed to promote wellbeing, connection, and social responsibility.
As part of the Feel Good Factor (FGF) Community Wellbeing Project in Chapeltown, students dedicated their time to improving local green spaces. Their efforts included building a community pond, planting wildflowers, maintaining outdoor areas, and supporting biodiversity initiatives – creating more welcoming public spaces for residents and wildlife alike.
Beyond the environmental impact, the project fostered intergenerational learning, with students engaging in meaningful conversations with local residents of all ages. These interactions helped learners build empathy, communication, and teamwork skills while deepening their understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives within their community. The experience encouraged students to recognise how small, hands-on actions can have a lasting social and environmental impact.
Alongside this, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students at North Street showcased leadership and creativity through a student-led fundraising project supported by the Park Lane Foundation. Their initiative raised over £1,400 for local charities, demonstrating how collaboration and civic engagement can make a tangible difference.
Together, these projects highlight Leeds City College’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible learners – equipping them with the skills, values, and confidence to contribute positively to their communities and beyond.
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