Building FUTURES, Changing LIVES








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My Past
I was a Student at Alder Grange, Rawtenstall.
My Present
I am creating my own fashion line and comic books after studying A Level Art and Design: Graphics, Product Design and Media Studies at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become an entrepreneurial creative, owning my own successful fashion brand.
Enrichment
Esports Expo; Create Your Future conference; Gaming throwdown; VR workshop; social action project.


My Past
I was a Student at Marsden Heights Community College.
My Present
I am reading Law at King’s College London after studying A Level History, Law and Psychology at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
Enrichment
Debate Club; Acting Academy; Legal Eagles; Music Theatre Academy; Japanese Club; London Visit.

“I will apply my knowledge of Law to become an expert in the field.”





“Burnley College was the perfect choice for me, all the tutors were so enthusiastic about their subjects and support was always available.”
My Past
I was a Student at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School.
My Present
I am reading Philosophy and Theology at The University of Edinburgh after studying A Level Religious Studies, Politics and History at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will use the knowledge from my degree to pursue a career where I can use analytical thinking in a real world setting.
Enrichment
Social Action Project; Creative Crafts; Immersive Arts; University Preparation session; Lancaster University History Exploration.


“Burnley College really stood out and the support overall within my studies and in general was great.”
Sam Sheard
My Past
I was a Student at Bacup and Rawtenstal Grammar School.
My Present
I am reading Linguistics at University College London after studying A Level German, English Language and Economics at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will use language skills to tell powerful stories to the world.
Enrichment
Student Governor; Student Executive Board; Triolingo Magazine; Student Council; Chess Champions league; Spanish Enrichment; Introduction to sociolinguistics – University of York Online Course; Edge Hill Guest Lecture: Forensic linguistics.

Watch Sophie in Action
My Past
I was a Student at The Calder Learning Trust.
My Present
I am reading Psychology at University of Warwick after studying A Level Psychology, Law and English Language at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become a Psychologist as I’m fascinated by the way people think.
Enrichment
Chess league Champions; Chester Zoo Trip.
All information correct at time of print. *Subject to Government reform.
“The teachers are very approachable and make the classroom feel like a community.”


See More From Sam
“Burnley College had a good atmosphere and is a great learning environment.”


My Past
My Present
My Past I was a Student at Unity College.
My Future
My Present
Enrichment xxx
I am reading Law at the University of Leeds after studying A Levels in History, English Language and Politics at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become a Barrister using debating skills to advocate for those who need it.
Enrichment

Conservative Party Conference Trip; Debating Society; Social Action Project; Oxford Schools’ Debating Competition; COP28 Question Time; World Building; Creative Writing Club.

My Past
I was a Student at Colne Park High School.
My Present
I am studying Furniture design and manufacturing at BCUC after studying Advanced Level Furniture at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become a skilled wood worker in the bench or furniture sector.
Enrichment
Skill Build Competition; Workshop improvements; John Turner construction site visit; Esports Club.
“Tutors offer lots of support and the facilities are great – we use amazing equipment and tools.”

“There’s so much support here and you’re given freedom to manage your own learning.”

My Past
I was a Student at Burnley High School.
My Present
I am reading Esports at Staffordshire University after studying Advanced Level Esports at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become an Esports Lecturer so I can pass on my skills while continuing to learn.
Enrichment
Eports Expo; Esports Student Championships; Student Executive Board; Esports Coaching Sessions; Esports entrepreneur talk; Esports influencer talk.

“Everyone is really welcoming and gets the same amount of support no matter what level you’re at.”
My Past
I was a Student at Unity College, Burnley.
My Present
I am reading Cybersecurity at Edge Hill University after studying Advanced Level Computing at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become a Cyber Security specialist at the Government Communications Headquarters.
Enrichment
Book Club; University of Salford Sustainability VR & AR trip; University of Huddersfield visit.




My Past
I was a Student at Unity College.
My Present
I am reading Architecture at the University of Salford after studying Advanced Level Construction at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will be a Project Manager in Construction, leading on the creation of imaginative new builds.
Enrichment
Construction Training Board; Chess League Champions.



“I only applied for Burnley College. As soon as I visited, I knew it was the place for me.”

My Past
I was a Student at Unity College, Burnley.
My Present
I am reading Adult Nursing at University of Lancashire after studying Advanced Level Health and Social Care at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become a Nurse, I want to be that person that people feel comfortable and safe with.
Enrichment Edge Hill Open Day.

“The Early Years Environment is really impressive – the whole college is very impressive and a great place to study.”

My Past
I was a Student at West Craven High School.
My Present
I am reading Early Childhood Education and Care at York St John University after studying T Level Early Years Education and Childcare Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become a family nurse, offering thoughtful care and support to patients.
Enrichment
School placement experience, university visits, volunteering opportunities. Finalist in T Level Student of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Awards 2024.





Watch Eleanor in Action
“T Levels are the perfect way to develop so many different skills to make sure you’re industry ready.”
My Past
I was a Student at Shuttleworth College.
My Present
I am reading Architecture at the University of Salford after studying T Level Design, Surveying and Planning at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre.
My Future
I will become an architect, creating amazing spaces that have a positive impact on people.
Enrichment

Towneley Hall surveying and restoration; Blackpool Pleasure Beach visit.


We celebrated the success of our incredible A Level and Advanced Vocational students, alongside our top sportsmen and women, at a Champagne reception at the annual Awards for Excellence ceremony.

A LEVEL AWARD WINNER CAMERON LATIF
Former student at Queen
Achieved A*, A, A in Mathematics, Computer Science and Chemistry
He’s now progressing to the University of Leeds to read Chemical Engineering (Industrial)

A LEVEL AWARD WINNER CADEN REDMOND
Former student at Unity College.
Achieved A, A, B in History, English Language and Literature, and Psychology
They are now progressing to the University of Manchester to read English Literature and History

Former student at Sir John Thursby Community College
Achieved A*, A, A in Psychology, Chemistry and Biology
She is now progressing to the University of Manchester to read Medicine

Former student at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar
Achieved A*, A*, A in German, Environmental Science and Geography
He’s now progressing to the University of Oxford to read Geography.

Former student at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar
Achieved a Distinction in her T Level Engineering and Manufacturing Design and Development
She is progressing to start a Degree Apprenticeship in Aerospace Engineering with BAE Systems.

Former student at Shuttleworth College
Achieved a Distinction in T Level Engineering and Manufacturing Design and Development
She is progressing to the University of Salford to read Architecture

VOCATIONAL AWARD WINNER JAYDEN PARRINGTON
Former student at Ribblesdale High School
Achieved a Distinction Level 3 Extended Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering
He is now progressing to an Apprenticeship with Stolle Machinery

VOCATIONAL AWARD WINNER SAMREEN RAFIQ
Former student at The Hollins
Achieved A* in Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care
She is now planning to progress into a career in the world of children’s nursing

VOCATIONAL AWARD WINNER ASHTON MCKEE
Former student at Todmorden High School
Achieved D*D*D* in Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Arts & Design Practice
They are now progressing to the University of Brighton to study Fine Art

CORE VALUE AWARDS CREATIVITY & CURIOSITY AWARD WINNER CHARLOTTE MACK
Former student at St Christopher’s C Of E High School Academy
Achieved B and D in Media Studies and Art & Design, and a Level 3 National Diploma in Performing Arts Practice
She is progressing to the University of Chester to study Musical Theatre Performance.






AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Josh Lamb Level 3 Business Administration Fort Vale
Josh displays incredible dedication to his role. He has earned praise for his commitment, reliability and growth mindset, consistently applying himself to support his team and deliver quality work. Judges admire that Josh is understated in his achievements but say that he should be so proud of everything he has accomplished!


BEST of the Best.

AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.

ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Robert Sutcliffe MOET Level 3 Maintenance & Operations Engineering Technician Johnson Matthey
Robert is described by his managers and colleagues as highly dependable and always keen to take on more responsibility in the workplace. He brings enthusiasm and precision to every project - no matter what size - and has a keen eye for making processes more streamlined and efficient within his business. Judges believe he will become a fantastic engineer in the future.

SPORT, LEISURE & BEAUTY APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Darcy Kitchen Level 2 Beauty Therapy Deep Beauty Spa
Judges agreed that Darcy demonstrates maturity, passion and professionalism in droves. Her apprenticeship journey showcases a profound commitment to mastering her craft and delivering an outstanding client experience, making her a true asset to her team. She has an impressive sense of commercial acumen at such a young age, and the judges have no doubt that Darcy will go far.

AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.
AWARDS 2026 APPRENTICE CHAMPION/MENTOR SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Bruno Simpson VEKA PLC
The judges in this category said it was a real pleasure to interview such a genuine and authentic individual. Bruno demonstrates an impressive understanding of diversity, adapting his mentoring style to his apprentices’ needs. It’s clear that he makes a huge impact on the learners he supports, building trust and rapport as a supportive and understanding mentor.

AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Harley Rawstron
Level 3 Craft Site Carpentry B&E Boys
Harley is a passionate advocate for trades as a whole, with ambitions to own his own business in the future. He takes huge pride in his work while remaining humble. He uses his initiative and time wisely, always honing his existing skills and seeking to learn new ones. Harley is a trusted and valuable member of his team, and is determined to pass his knowledge on to keep trade skills thriving.


AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.

AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.

DEGREE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Thahmid Alam
Level 6 Professional Engineering (Product Design & Development)
Proctor Process Plant
‘Ambitious’, ‘inspirational’ and ‘one to watch’ are just some of the words used to describe Thahmid. He takes immense pride in his work and is already passing on his skills to other apprentices. Thahmid has even implemented a sustainable solution for his workplace which has been adopted throughout, showcasing his dedication to pursuing excellence in all he does.

CHILDCARE & TEACHING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Meadow Young
Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
Good as Gold Childcare Centre
This impressive winner is confident, creative and clearly loved by her colleagues. Meadow tirelessly seeks out opportunities for the children in her care to flourish and is frequently met with excellent parental feedback. The confidence she has gained in the workplace is clear to see, as is the pride she takes in her work and her ambitions. Judges describe her as ‘a star of the future’!


AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.
INTERMEDIATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Meadow Young
Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
Good as Gold Childcare Centre
Meadow takes pride in everything she does, from her conduct in the workplace to her studies and the hobbies, talents and ambitions she has nurtured alongside her apprenticeship. Judges agreed that she truly embodies The Themis Way, always going the extra mile and striving to make a noticeable impact to her employer’s business.

AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.

Robert Sutcliffe MOET Level 3 Maintenance & Operations Engineering Technician
Johnson Matthey
This ambitious Apprentice is eagerly curious and impressed the judges in this category with his readiness to take on new challenges. Robert is a great asset to his business, always happy to go against the norm to achieve success. His ability to problem-solve, support others and be consistently reliable shows how worthy a winner he is.


AWARDS 2026
BEST of the Best.
Zoe Richardson Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Bright Futures Early Learning
Zoe is a truly special Apprentice and a real credit to her employer. In addition to her wealth of skills, her superpower is supporting the next generation of apprentices who are starting their careers in the Early Years environment. Judges noted that her professionalism and drive shines through at every stage of her apprenticeship journey.





HOLLY EMMOTT
21, Cross Hills
HNC in Construction Design and Build Technician –Higher Apprenticeship Progressing to HND.
The course developed my technical skills in construction design, technology and project management and has given me the confidence to apply them in the real world.
The practical approach to learning really prepared me for the industry and I feel well-prepared to progress in my career.


THAHMID ALAM
23, Colne BA (Eng) Engineering Design (Electrical Engineering) Degree Apprenticeship Dissertation award winner. Previously completed a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Electronic Engineering at Burnley College. Progressing Design Engineer and Project Lead, Proctor Process Plant Ltd
I really enjoyed the balance of lectures and practical workshop sessions during my degree apprenticeship. I now have a solid foundation of skills and experience to bring into the industry.
I also appreciated that so much of the learning at BCUC is student-led.
It really made me feel valued. I really enjoyed the balance of lectures and practical workshop sessions during my degree apprenticeship. I now have a solid foundation of skills and experience to bring into the industry.
Hubert Kwiatkowski
20, Nelson BA (Hons) Game Art
There are so many passionate people and a supportive atmosphere at BCUC.
It’s a really friendly place. I‘m aiming to become an environment artist in the gaming industry.


Jessica Butterworth
33, Burnley
BSc (Hons) Psychology, Psychotherapy & Counselling
Progressing to a Level 4 Diploma in Person-Centred Therapy, with ambitions to open her own counselling practice.
The pastoral support here is incomparable.
I found out I was dyslexic in my final year, and my tutors and classmates were so supportive of my learning journey.
Arron McLeod
25, Burnley
BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing
Progressing to a career in teaching.
The quality of the teaching and the opportunities my course gave me access to are what made me choose BCUC.
I’m a very creative person, so I really enjoyed my work placements writing for the local magazines that Loop Publishing produce.
BCUC is always growing and evolving – it’s great to have such a welcoming and supportive place to learn right on my doorstep.


Leah Walsh
25, Burnley
BA (Hons) Crime & Criminal Justice
Progressing to a career in rehabilitative services.
I’m ready to jump straight into a professional role in the public services, supporting people in need, after finishing my degree.
I made the most of the facilities while at BCUC, taking advantage of the quiet study spaces to complete my coursework and then meeting up with friends in the social spaces.

Kas Shah 24, Burnley
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science | PGCE Progressed to an exciting career as a First Team Player Care Officer at Blackburn Rovers Football Club.
I’ve delivered hands-on coaching sessions with local schools and sports groups as part of my course. It’s been fantastic experience and really helped me to realise which areas of sport I want to focus on.
Lauryn Brogden 26, Padiham (BSc Hons) Medical Biology
Progressing to a career in the healthcare sector.
BCUC is just the right size and it’s just around the corner. It’s fantastic!
I’m excited to begin working with a patient who has electromagnetic therapy to treat pain. I want to work in Medicine, particularly pain management.


Pamela Slack, 42, Burnley Foundation Degree in Children, Young People and their Services.
BA (Hons) Top up Professional Practice. Progressing to a career as a SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) teacher, supporting children and young people across the curriculum.
It’s amazing to have a university right here in the heart of Burnley.
I completed my Level 3 course and GCSEs all while being a busy mum, supporting my family.
The tutors are amazing - they give you all the support you need. I’ve been a teaching assistant for 13 years and my ultimate aspiration is to be a primary school or SEND teacher. It seems like a natural progression for me.











WITH ADULT LEARNING AT BURNLEY COLLEGE BE SUPPORTED BE SKILLED.


49, GCSE English and Functional Skills Maths
“I wanted to get some self-confidence back and prove I can do it. The Tutors have been so supportive and helpful. Now I’m considering the Level 2 Counselling course.”

43, ESOL & Functional Skills Maths
“After my course I will feel confident in applying for jobs as I enjoy the structure and the challenge of work.”

Level 3 Counselling Skills
Progressing to a Foundation Degree in Person-Centred Counselling and Psychotherapy.
“The counselling course has positively impacted my children and my family life. My partner said: ‘I’ve got the best you that I’ve ever had.”

Kelsey was looking for a new career direction and enrolled onto Level 2 AAT Accounting as she started a new role as a Finance Assistant. Now she’s studying Level 3 AAT Accounting to develop her knowledge on her journey to becoming an Accountant.
“I want to step up in my career and keep developing and learning. I want to show myself I can make a change and achieve my goals.”

Studied functional skills Maths Level 1 and 2, GCSE English and progressed onto BSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise Science.
“I want to become a gym owner/personal trainer. Now I’m doing a degree, it will expand my skills and I’ll be able to earn more, work in better places and have more choices in life.”



Senior leaders from Burnley College travelled to the House of Lords this week as part of a high-profile Burnley Bondholders delegation, taking the borough’s message of ambition, innovation and strength directly to Westminster.
Principal, Jason Faulkner and Neil Burrows, Director of Skills and Innovation, joined over 50 civic and business leaders to champion Burnley’s role in shaping the economic plan for the North and to ensure the town’s voice is heard at the highest level of policymaking.
The visit showcased the pivotal role Burnley College and Themis play in driving skills development, supporting employers and strengthening the regional economy. As one of the leading education and training providers in the North West, the College is central to building the skilled workforce that powers Burnley’s economy.
Read More: www.burnley.ac.uk/themis-at-burnley-college




Our students explored aerospace innovation - with a guided tour of the Rolls Royce Heritage Centre, tracing the journey from the first production jet engine built in in 1943 to today’s cutting-edge technologies.
They discovered the latest advances in design, manufacture, and testing of civil and defence aerospace engines, gaining invaluable insights into global engineering excellence.


What an incredible National Careers Week at Burnley College!
A massive well done to our fantastic Careers Team for organising an outstanding array of guest speakers, interactive activities, and an inspiring Careers Fair. From future engineers to cutting-edge content creators, students have explored a brilliant range of pathways for their future.


We want to extend a huge thank you to our wonderful contributors for sharing their expertise and inspiring our students: Edge Hill University, Lancashire Forum, Keely Watson Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions, Nuclear Institute Young Generation Network, Northumbria University

Burnley College proudly joined the Skills & Apprenticeships roundtable, hosted by Addison Project, where education and industry came together to tackle the big questions shaping Lancashire’s future workforce.
Neil Burrows, Director of Skills, Innovation & Employer Engagement, was at the forefront of the discussions - which were both insightful and inspiring.
The session focused on how leaders across the county can better align skills provision with business needs, boost learner engagement and create stronger pathways for young people to succeed.
Burnley College brought together educators, employers and civic leaders to explore how Burnley can create opportunity through skills development, ambition and collaboration.




Ten talented students returned from the renowned national competition with a record-breaking collection of medals and were celebrated with a special event with VIP guests, family and tutors.
Director of Skills and Innovation, Neil Burrows welcomed the ten medallists and guests before Interim Principal Kate Wallace expressed her pride in the winners’ dedication and performance.







Themis welcomed 15 members of the Hunan Institute of Engineering in China to Burnley College to explore our award-winning construction & engineering facilities.
Delegates heard how our community partnerships and outreach initiatives provide valuable opportunities for local engineering talent to unlock their potential from Head of Apprenticeships Megan Salkeld and Themis Operations Manager Jessica Parkinson.
Leaders from Northern Automotive Alliance and North West Aerospace Alliance joined forces at Burnley College for a landmark networking event.
The Future Skills for Advanced Manufacturing forum united industry innovators, educators and employers including the Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology to address the critical need for a future-ready workforce.


We’ve broadened the horizons of hundreds of learners through an eclectic range of trips and visits – both at home and across the world – making memories that will last a lifetime and enhancing their learning experience.

At the NEC Birmingham, our students had the fantastic opportunity to engage with leading brands in the fitness industry and explore the very latest in sports technology.


Our Creative Industries and Computing learners enjoyed a trip into Manchester, as they completed research and gained inspiration from Whitworth Gallery, The Manchester Museum and the Manchester Art Gallery.



Beauty students attended the VTCT Skills Glitterbels & Beauty Collective LIVE event at the Glitterbels HQ Training Centre - and what an inspiring day it was.
They took part in a fantastic Christmas-themed nail art session, exploring creative techniques and seasonal designs that they can now take straight back into the salon.



Our students enjoyed a 2-night residential trip to the capital, where they gained first-hand experience of one of the world’s most vibrant destinations.
This trip was all about understanding what makes London such a magnet for international tourism.



We’re excited to share that a group of gifted Sport and Uniformed Public Services students at Burnley College have achieved amazing podium finishes at this year’s Association of Colleges (AoC) College Fitness Games.
Twins Billy and Alfie Hilton, who study Uniformed Public Services, 17, from Rossendale, both former students at Alder Grange School, and James Slater, 17, from Burnley, former student at Unity College, secured incredible 1st and 2nd place finishes respectively in the men’s competition, hosted at Forge Fitness in Rotherham.

T Level Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction learners recently travelled to the Netherlands for an unforgettable trip, exploring the culture and world renowned architecture of Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
Learners saw first-hand how these extraordinary Dutch cities blend modern engineering with historic design - coming back with enhanced technical knowledge, fresh ideas to apply to their studies and lots of inspiration for their future careers.




Over the course of the academic year, we welcome school visits to explore our £115 million Campus; access advice and guidance about options after GCSEs and to sample the many amazing subjects which we offer.
A group of Year 9 pupils from Whitworth Community High School enjoyed a variety of leadership-focused sessions, including leadership styles, resilience and team building. The sessions promoted interesting discussions on what a leader is and how they should lead.
A huge thank you to all the students who attended and our fantastic School Liaison and Student Experience teams who ran the engaging sessions in our Professional Learning Zone. At Burnley College, we are proud to empower the leaders of tomorrow.
Cyber Education Day is an event that showcases the wealth of opportunities open to young people in the cyber industry.
We invited Coal Clough Academy, Shuttleworth College Padiham, Unity College, Burnley High and The Heights Burnley to Burnley College to explore our state-ofthe-art Security Operations Centre, where they enjoyed cracking codes, testing out cybersecurity measures and learning more about the industry from guest speakers from Seriun and the FCA.
The day was an inspiring testament to the region’s commitment to fostering a strong cyber workforce and its role in shaping the future of the UK's cyber landscape.


This week, our STEM Ambassadors went on a trip to Safran Aerospace Engineering and Burnley College Engineering Dept. Included a tour of the Safran site where they make nacelles (engine casings) for aeroplanes all over the world, followed by a carousel of activities at the College.

Celebrating International Women’s Day with future STEM stars!
Burnley College welcomed Y10 learners from St. Bede’s for an inspiring Women in STEM day.
From Chemistry flame tests to engineering workshops and even some maggot mayhem in biology/environmental science, they explored the exciting world of STEM, guided by our amazing female apprentices.




Creativity & Curiosity
Being open to new activities, thinking and learning
Ambition & Challenge
Pushing your boundaries to ensure success
Care, Trust & Belonging
Demonstrating respect and inclusivity
Collaboration
Working with and supporting others
Leadership for All
Embracing personal growth as a role model
BuildingBeyond
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