Work to create a new multi-million pound education and training base in Morley is underway.
Bermar Building Co Ltd has been appointed by Leeds City Council to convert the former St Mary’s in the Wood church hall, on Commercial Street, into Morley Learning and Skills Centre.
Run by the college, the new facility will be focused on helping adults gain new and improved skills, including in growth sectors like technology and innovation, to boost their employability and career prospects
A Grade II Listed building, the venue was bought by the council in 2023 using money from the £24.3m Morley Town Deal grant, awarded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The centre will offer courses spanning a range of subjects including: coding, virtual reality, 2D printing, general IT skills, English and maths
Our Director of Curriculum for Adults, Jo Dye, said: “We and our partners, Leeds City Council, have great plans for Morley and know that this centre will help so many people gain the training and education they, and local businesses, need.
“Major projects like this always involve overcoming challenges; we cleared the funding hurdle and now, with the appointment of Bermar Building Co Ltd as the contractor, we have reached another significant milestone.
“With the building work now underway, residents can look forward to seeing this exciting development, which will breathe new life into a much-loved former church hall in the heart of Morley, start to take shape.
“The result will be a centre that offers flexible learning opportunities, designed to fit around busy lives, access to digital facilities and training for all.”
The council’s Deputy Leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said: “Morley Town Deal consultations have consistently shown the ambition of Morley people to be able to access high-quality adult learning and upskilling opportunities locally.
“With its focus on delivering technology-based learning, the opening of the new centre will deliver on those ambitions and help many generations of people to thrive in the future.”
Work on the building is expected to be completed by autumn 2026.
Chair of the Morley Town Deal board, Gerald Jennings, said: “The board has worked hard to develop a skills agenda that is both aspiring in its goals and sustainable in helping to future-proof the town’s workforce and provide lasting opportunities.
“This centre, with its wide range of education and upskilling opportunities, is a legacy the Town Deal can be proud of, as it will provide people with opportunities for generations to come.”
The development will include nods to the building’s heritage as a place of worship, with a commemorative plaque being prepared and the original pews set to be reinstalled after they are restored by our RE: Workshop, which focuses on creative upcycling.
Managing Director of Bermar Building Co Ltd, Rob Moon, added: “As a company that specialises in restoring heritage buildings, it is exciting to be able to develop such a forward-looking resource for the people of Morley, while also retaining the character and heritage of a building that has been a part of the community for over 100 years.”
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Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, visited Swinnow Community Centre to witness the incredible work of students from Leeds City College participating in The King’s Trust programme. This initiative supports young adults in developing skills and gaining valuable experience to help them transition into employment.
During the visit, Councillor Lewis met with students and staff, observing their contributions to the community. The students took on various tasks at the centre, including cleaning, painting, and planting, all aimed at enhancing the space for local residents.
Peter, a current student on the programme, said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time on the programme so far – since we’ve started, we’ve undertaken team-building exercises, icebreakers and went on a residential at Kingswood. Throughout the programme, I’ve gained confidence, developed communication skills, and worked on a number of community projects. I’ve also got a two-week work placement coming up which I’m really looking forward to.”
“This programme has helped me set goals for the future, and my end goal is to work in IT. It’s been great to be a part of this cohort – we all come from different backgrounds, and I’ve made some really good friends along the way.”
The King’s Trust programme offers a hands-on approach to learning, providing young people with the confidence, practical skills, and sense of achievement needed for future employment. This 12-week course, designed for young adults aged 19-25, combines team-building exercises, community projects, and work placements. In its final week, participants celebrate their achievements with a presentation.
King’s Trust Programme Leader, Jonathan Benton, highlighted the impact of the course: “The personal development our learners have demonstrated throughout the programme has been fantastic. They’ve taken real ownership of their projects – identifying who in the community they can support, reaching out to key stakeholders, and organising meaningful initiatives. Alongside the Swinnow Community project, this cohort has created an allotment at Southroyd Primary School to grow their own produce, supported the park ranger in developing the rose garden at Gotts Park, and contributed to the Vineyard Food Pantry. It’s incredible to see them giving back to their community while building the skills and confidence that will support them in their future careers.”
This visit reinforced the power of community-driven initiatives in fostering personal and professional growth. The King’s Trust programme continues to be a vital stepping stone for young people looking to build meaningful careers while making a tangible difference in their communities.
Councillor Lewis expressed his appreciation for the programme, highlighting the positive impact it has on both the learners and the wider community.
“It’s been great to be here in Swinnow to see the work that is happening and how it’s supporting the young people of our region. The positive impact of the work that happens here through a Combined Authority not only benefits the people but the community as a whole.”
Luminate Education Group, of which Leeds City College is a part of, has a longstanding relationship with The King’s Trust. This partnership has helped countless young people gain essential skills and work experience, advancing their career goals. Through initiatives like this, Luminate Education Group remains committed to supporting learners in their personal and professional development, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future.
