Stakeholder & Employer Engagement Strategy 2026/30

STAKEHOLDER & EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY

2026›30

heartofyorkshire.ac.uk

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Contents Glossary �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3 Strategic Plan 2025-30 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������4 Introduction from our Principal & CEO ���������������������������������������������6 Overview of our stakeholders ����������������������������������������������������������������� 7 Internal stakeholders �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������8 + Our Students and Parents / Carers �������������������������������������������������������������������������������9 + Our Staff �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������11 External stakeholders ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������12 + Civic Partner �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������12 + Employer Partners �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������16 + Education Partners ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25 + Community Partners �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������31

Our approach to stakeholder and employer engagement ������������������������������������������������������������������������������36 Measuring, evaluating and reviewing our approach ��������� 37 Appendix A – Key Reference Documents ������������������������������������38

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Glossary

Term

Definition

CA

Combined Authority

CTEC

Construction Technical Excellence College

CU

Children’s University

CV

Curriculum Vitae

DfE

Department for Education

DFN Project SEARCH

A one-year internship programme for young people with learning disabilities

DWP

Department for Work and Pensions

ERB

Employer Representative Body

HEY

Hull & East Yorkshire

JCP

Job Centre Plus

KPI

Key Performance Indicator

LSIP

Local Skills Improvement Plan

LGV

Large Goods Vehicle

NHS

National Health Service

NYBEP

North Yorkshire Business and Education Partnership

Ofsted

Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills

SEND

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

SME

Small to Medium Enterprise (size of organisation)

SS4FE

Sustainability Support for Further Education

SWAP

Sector-based Work Academy Programme

T Level

Technical Level (Level 3 qualification)

UK

United Kingdom

UNESCO

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation

WY

West Yorkshire

WYCA

West Yorkshire Combined Authority

WX Games

A Games Weekend held at Wakefield Exchange

Y&NY

York and North Yorkshire

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Strategic Plan 2025-30 Headlines Our Vision, Mission and Values

When Selby and Wakefield Colleges merged in March 2022 to form the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, we worked hard with colleagues to develop our vision, mission and values. More than three years on, we have reviewed them and believe that they still continue to be absolutely right to carry us into our next strategic plan period until 2030.

Our Vision Quite simply, our vision outlines what we are aiming for in the future, in terms of our long term goals:-

“To be an inspiring, first-choice education group, passionately serving all of our communities.”

Our Mission Our Mission describes why we are here, our purpose and what we do, which is:-

“We positively transform our students’ lives and the communities we serve by putting them at the heart of everything we do.”

Our Values Our values act as the moral compass for our organisation.

They encapsulate the way we do things, how we behave and how we make our decisions.

Collaboration Ambition Inclusion Respect

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Our People are central to all we do.

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Our Strategic Goals

In addition, we have determined four new strategic goals that we are committed to delivering and each of them has rigorous objectives that will ensure impact, with clear outcomes and key performance indicators behind them that we will monitor and achieve –

Strategic Goal 1 Developing skills and knowledge for the future Strategic Goal 2 Delivering transformative outcomes Strategic Goal 3 Nurturing inclusion and belonging Strategic Goal 4 Being future-focused, resilient and sustainable Further detail can be found in our Strategic Plan 2025-30

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Introduction from the Principal & CEO

As an anchor institution in the West Yorkshire and York & North Yorkshire Combined Authorities, the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is committed to working in a highly collaborative manner with our network of external stakeholders for the benefit of our students and our communities.

Our aim is to plan our curriculum to offer the right skills for now and for the future through innovative, relevant courses and qualifications – right for the region, for jobs for our learners and employers. We are working with our local and regional partners to do this and to improve our economy.

Stakeholder engagement is an essential part of what we do and is used to inform the decisions that we take in planning our strategies, policies and procedures, our services and our curriculum.

Our students and their parents / carers and our staff – ‘Our People’ – are our internal stakeholders, at the heart of what we do and there are several strategies in place that encompass our engagement with them specifically. Our external stakeholders include Civic partners, Education partners, Community partners and, of course, Employer partners and we are committed wholeheartedly to listening with them and forging strong and meaningful relationships.

This document provides and overview of the external relationships we have in place, and how we aim to build on them further to benefit our students and our communities. It should be read in conjunction with our Curriculum & Skills Strategy 2026-30, which outlines our ambition and approach for curriculum and skill development over the next four years, with the involvement of our partners.

Every year in January, we hold a Stakeholder Strategy Event involving countless partners and stakeholders, where we provide detail around our progress and our planning. Discussions and feedback from these sessions are invaluable and are used to inform our final plans.

I would like to thank those partners who support us, work closely with us and contribute so meaningfully to what we do. With their input, we are able to provide our learners, our employers and our regions with the right skills, now and in the future.

With best wishes,

Sam Wright, Principal & Chief Executive

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Overview of our stakeholders

Education Primary and Secondary Schools Other FE Colleges and Sixth Forms Universities Independent Training Providers Adult Education Services

Employers

RS

Community

TS

AN

/C

O

ur

ARE

Pe o

pl e

STUD EN

Large Employers Small to Medium Enterprises Sector Groups Skills and Trade Organisations Bodies and Associations

STAFF

D PA RE N

TS

Voluntary Organisations Community-based Networks, Charities Local Initiatives

Projects and Partnerships

Civic Mayoral Strategic Authorities Combined Authorities Local Authorities The Chamber of Commerce DfE DWP Job Centre Plus

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Internal stakeholders It goes without saying that our People - our internal stakeholders – our students and our staff are our first and foremost priority and are at the core of what we do.

We have separate detailed documents, policies and processes that set out our engagement with these groups, which include a range of mechanisms for engagement, two-way communication and obtaining views.

Our senior leaders then use feedback from these key internal stakeholders to shape what we do, inform our planning and enable us to focus on continuous improvement.

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Our Students and Parents / Carers Our students are why we are here. What we do is designed with them at the core, and we engage with them at every level – every day in the classroom and through all of the additional support and activities we provide them with.

We have a variety of mechanisms to listen to our student voice and to engage with them, which include – +

Student representation on our Group Board of Governors

+

Student Leaders Group

+

Regular student surveys at key points throughout the year

+

Focus groups

+

Learning walks

+

Departmental ‘Curriculum Check-In Weeks’ (quality assurance activity within departments)

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Feedback mechanisms throughout their course and following experiences with us

+

Events and celebrations

+

Comments, compliments and complaints

Robert, UAL Creative Media Production Student “What I love about my course is how our tutors encourage us to work with employers, local authorities and community partners to drive meaningful change. Being part of the ‘Reclaim the Night’ campaign gave me the opportunity to work alongside Wakefield Council and local voices, applying my skills in a real-world setting and strengthening my passion for collaborative projects that make a difference.”

Leon Watson, T Level Business Student “I really enjoy the mix of classroom learning and the practical element of my industry placement. I’m based in Area Support within the Estates Team at Vico Homes and get involved in a range of work, including supporting tenants, financial processes, contracts and more. This has made me feel trusted and valued by Vico Homes and has meant that I’ve been embedded into the organisation. I’ve also built my communication skills which has made me a lot more confident.”

Tamika Parkinson, Level 2 Health & Social Care Student “The Student Central team has been incredibly supportive throughout my time at College, helping me every step of the way. I really enjoy my course as my classmates and I work well together whilst exploring a wide range of topics. We also regularly have work placement days, where professionals from industry and universities come in to talk about careers in health and social care, which I’ve found really inspiring.”

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Adrian Cromack, Skills Bootcamp Student, Large Goods Vehicles “This course has allowed me to get one step further in my career whilst developing my driving skills. I have refined my abilities across the board, particularly in vehicle positioning and I’ve enjoyed the practical elements of the course. It has also enabled me to gain employment in the sector.”

Lucy, DFN Project SEARCH student with Siemens Mobility Internship “DFN Project SEARCH has allowed me to get more experience and meet new people. I’m really enjoying my placement in catering and now want to work in catering in the future.”

Simon Ternent, Higher National Certificate in Engineering “Studying the Higher National Certificate in Engineering has enabled me to broaden and strengthen my skills across the sector. I’ve developed a strong understanding of how to apply Mathematics and Technology in innovative areas such as Artificial Intelligence, as well as gaining hands-on experience building robotic systems using Arduino controllers.

“The course is highly relevant to my role as an Electrical Draftsman at Drax, supporting both my current responsibilities and my long-term progression as an Engineer.”

Alongside student engagement, we build parental engagement into our planning, before a young person joins us and then whilst they are with us. We have a wide range of activities and parents events, touchpoints and mechanisms to involve and consult with parents, including an app that maximises communication, provides extensive information and opportunities to contact us and feedback.

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Our Staff All of our colleagues play a key role in the success of our Group and, ultimately, in delivering our vision and our mission.

Through the delivery of our ‘People & Culture Strategy’ and underpinning plans, we will engage with our staff through every mechanism, and two-way internal communication is key to this, including – + Staff representation on our Group Board of Governors + Group community briefings and forums + Departmental and team meetings + Themed working groups and committees, such as Inclusion & Belonging, Health & Safety and other focus groups + Staff surveys – both formal and regular ‘pulse’ surveys + Staff recognition through ‘HIVE’ Fives and the staff celebration event + Professional Development Reviews + Feedback through ‘We talk teaching’ forums + Staff conferences + Through departmental ‘Curriculum Check-In Weeks’ + Continuous Professional Development days and i>Innovate sessions + ‘Feel Good’ events and social activities + Through positive engagement with our recognised trades union partners

“Strengths of the Group are the friendliness, supportive line managers, SEND support form inclusion team, staff are not ‘watched over’ by management but are instead trusted to do a good job.”

“I feel valued and equal to my colleagues despite being a newer member of staff and feel I can approach them for help and advice if I am unsure.

The rest of the college staff seem to genuinely care about the success of their students and try their best to help them achieve their full potential.”

Stakeholder and Employer Engagement Strategy 2026-30

“Colleagues support one another really well and help each other through.

The students seem to thrive at the college which is lovely to see - they are supported through every stage of their college life.”

“A real sense of camaraderie and mutual support between colleagues.

Staff have high expectations of students and support them strongly.

Students feel nurtured and valued.”

“Inclusive, to staff and students alike.

Caring, nurturing environment for students.”

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External Stakeholders The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group engages constantly with local, regional and national stakeholders to ensure that our curriculum and skills offer and approach are going to have the impact our local communities really need.

The strength of the relationships we have with our stakeholders and partners is paramount.

Whatever kind of stakeholder, all are important in ensuring we are focused on the right things in shaping what we do and, at the same time, are able to play a meaningful role in improving our regional economies.

Civic Partners As an anchor institution, we work in partnership with other key organisations to make a positive contribution to the places we serve.

With our Group of Colleges, we serve a wide area across Yorkshire, and we take into account the economic and skills strategies of key civic partners. Castleford College and Wakefield College are based in the Wakefield District Council area, within the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) region. Selby College is based in North Yorkshire Council, and the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (Y&NY CA). Selby College also does much work in the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority (HEY CA) area, with East Riding of Yorkshire Council, and also has some learners in the WYCA area.

At a regional and local level, the strategies and plans of these organisations (please see Appendix A), and the research that has been undertaken by them, are integral to our future strategies and inform our curriculum and skills planning.

In addition, our provision links clearly to the West Yorkshire and York & North Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs), led by the West & North Yorkshire Chambers of Commerce as our Employer Representative Body (ERB) in partnership with WYCA and Y&NY CA. The LSIPs set out the key priorities needed to make technical education and skills provision more responsive to the changing needs of employers and the local economy. The LSIP process and frameworks enable us to work effectively with employers to understand their skills needs and how these need to be addressed through existing provision and further developments locally.

James Mason, Chief Executive, West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce “The West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce represents businesses across West Yorkshire and York & North Yorkshire and acts as the statutory Employer Representative Body for Local Skills Improvement Plans, ensuring skills provision aligns with business need and regional growth priorities.

“We work closely with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group and its colleges, particularly in the Wakefield district, where the Group plays a leading role on Wakefield’s Employment and Skills Board.

Through its Chamber membership and our partnership, the Group connects with senior business leaders across the region and collaborates with us to develop Local Skills Improvement Plans.

“We also work together to help shape the Group’s strategic planning, ensuring curriculum delivery aligns strongly with local business needs and growth priorities. We greatly value the role the Group plays in delivering skills priorities across the area and its proactive and supportive approach.”

Find out more about the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, here

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Clare Elliott, Service Director Economic Growth & Skills, Wakefield Council “Delivering the Wakefield District Employment and Skills Strategy relies on close and productive working relationship between the Council and the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. Significant investment in the relationship from both organisations ensures that together they can tackle employment and skills challenges facing the city and its towns.

This is demonstrated through joint leadership, including Group Principal and Chief Executive Sam Wright chairing the Wakefield District Employment and Skills Board and the partnership’s role in securing UNESCO Learning City status for the District.

“Responding to future funding opportunities, aligning programmes and ensuring the workforce is equipped with the skills needed in a changing economy are also priorities of the partnership. As the recommendations of the Wakefield Futures Commission are progressed, we look forward to working with the Group to improve higher‑level attainment, raise awareness of opportunities and create a more innovative, accessible and future‑focused skills system for Wakefield.”

Find out more about Wakefield Council, here

Clare Hunt, Enterprise Manager - Economic Growth and Skills, Wakefield Council “Wakefield Council has a strong and effective partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, delivering clear value and impact for the district. Through robust communication and close collaboration, the partnership aligns education, skills and employment with local need, supporting resident wellbeing and economic growth. Initiatives such as the Community Business & Skills Hub in Castleford Market demonstrate a practical model to achieve shared aspirations.

“By working closely together, we are able to identify opportunities to aligh education and training offers to meet the demands of the changing skills needs of a range of industries. This fosters a culture of cohesion and collaboration, creating a positive impact on the district we both serve.”

Find out more about Wakefield Council, here

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Vicky Wright, Adult Skill Manager, York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority “The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority works with partners across the region to drive inclusive economic growth and improve access to skills and employment. Our relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, particularly Selby College, is a key part of this work.

“Selby College is a strong and reliable provider that understands local context and works closely with us to ensure delivery aligns with strategic direction, funding requirements and the needs of learners and employers. The College delivers high quality provision that supports residents to develop skills, gain qualifications and progress into employment or further learning – which supports progression and improves life chances.

“The partnership is collaborative, constructive and built on shared objectives, open communication and a strong understanding of local context. Working with trusted providers such as Selby College enables the Combined Authority to take a place-based approach to skills, ensuring public investment delivers impact for learners, communities and the wider economy. We value the relationship highly and look forward to continuing to work together as devolved adult skills provision evolves.”

Find out more about Wakefield Council, here

Kathryn Daly, Assistant Director Place Shaping and Growth, North Yorkshire Council “As the local authority for England’s largest county, we support economic growth, skills development and workforce progression through Business North Yorkshire. Working closely with employers, education providers and local partners, we help businesses access the skills, advice and training they need to succeed.

“We have developed a strong partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, working collaboratively to promote skills, apprenticeships and careers opportunities. Through joint employer engagement activity and shared networks, this partnership strengthens links between education and employment, benefiting employers, learners and the wider economy.”

Find out more about North Yorkshire Council, here

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Michelle Burton Head of Employment and Skills, West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

“Skills are central to our ambitions for inclusive economic growth across West Yorkshire.

“Our Local Growth Plan sets out a clear, evidence led approach to ensuring residents and businesses have access to the skills needed to succeed, both now and in the future. Further Education colleges are critical to this mission, supporting people at all stages of their lives and careers to progress into good work and meaningful learning - an integral part of our vision for West Yorkshire to be a Region of Learning and Creativity.

“Through strong collaboration between the Combined Authority, the region’s colleges and the West Yorkshire Consortium of Colleges, we are building a more joined up, responsive and inclusive skills system.

“Colleges such as those within the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group play a vital role in translating regional priorities into local delivery, working closely with partners and contributing to shared ambitions including the recommendations from the Wakefield Futures Commission. The region’s Further Education Compact formalises this partnership, strengthening alignment between strategy and delivery and helping ensure skills provision supports opportunity, productivity and long term prosperity across West Yorkshire.”

Find out more about West Yorkshire Combined Authority here

Jo Ledgard, JCP Senior Partnership Manager, DWP “Jobcentre Plus is part of the Department for Work and Pensions.

We are currently undergoing a transformation into a unified, universal jobs and careers service, Our core vision centres on maximising employment, reducing economic activity and helping people to access, stay in and progress in work. This vision is delivered to jobseekers and those of working age who are likely to enter the job market in the future through work coaches across four Job Centres in the Wakefield area. In the early stages of organisational transformation, work coaches currently support unemployed people on Universal Credit to progress into work. We work with a wide group of people, some of whom are job ready and able to engage with employers, and others who have barriers to work including skills and confidence levels.

“To achieve our aims, Jobcentre Plus colleagues across the area work closely with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group to discuss jobseeker learning and training needs and employer skills needs, to ensure delivery of a suitable provision offer. We have a robust relationship grounded in solution finding where issues and risk are discussed. Our relationship continues to evolve through senior leader engagement as we explore opportunities to maximise impact from our collective resources and understand each other’s organisations in both priority areas and future direction.”

Find out more about DWP, here

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Claire Sutherley, Managing Director, We Are Wakefield “Skills are central to our ambitions for inclusive economic growth across West Yorkshire.

“Our Local Growth Plan sets out a clear, evidence led approach to ensuring residents and businesses have access to the skills needed to succeed, both now and in the future. Further Education colleges are critical to this mission, supporting people at all stages of their lives and careers to progress into good work and meaningful learning - an integral part of our vision for West Yorkshire to be a Region of Learning and Creativity.

“Through strong collaboration between the Combined Authority, the region’s colleges and the West Yorkshire Consortium of Colleges, we are building a more joined up, responsive and inclusive skills system.

“Colleges such as those within the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group play a vital role in translating regional priorities into local delivery, working closely with partners and contributing to shared ambitions including the recommendations from the Wakefield Futures Commission. The region’s Further Education Compact formalises this partnership, strengthening alignment between strategy and delivery and helping ensure skills provision supports opportunity, productivity and long term prosperity across West Yorkshire.”

Find out more about We are Wakefield, here

Employer Partners Across our Group, we work with more than 1,300 employers and have a dedicated cross-Group team focused on employer engagement, as well as close relationships and partnerships with employers in all our curriculum areas. We are also keen to further develop our already strong relationships with our Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses and other Employer Representative Bodies (ERBs) such as We Are Wakefield and North Yorkshire Employer Forum, who are connected to employers across the areas we serve and who provide us with invaluable feedback and support.

Our aim is to involve employers in everything we do and, although the new Ofsted Toolkit was launched in November 2025, we believe it is still useful for us to also consider our engagement with employers in the context of Intent, Implementation and Impact (Ofsted’s Education Inspection Framework, September 2019 to November 2025), as well as to ensure we are delivering against Ofsted’s new expectations.

Informing our Intent – planning and developing what we do +

Helping us to understand the changing employment demands and skill needs of different sectors through effective and regular dialogue and communication with groups of employers

+

Informing our curriculum design and planning and the range of provision we deliver – apprenticeships, and academic, vocational and technical qualifications at all levels

+

Jointly creating and developing new and bespoke programmes with employers, supported by joint tenders for funding

+

Enabling our teachers to continue to develop their industry-standard skills, to stay up-todate and prepare for future skills needs, and also to help us to recruit staff and address hard-to-fill vacancies with the right skill sets

+

Taking employer views on the development of our estate and ensuring our facilities and equipment meet industry standards and what our students will see in the workplace

Supporting our Implementation – helping us to make our delivery relevant and current

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+

Influencing the ways we teach our students in the classroom, mirroring the workplace to develop their work-ready skills and enabling them to move into jobs with good employers

+

Ensuring that our students are receiving current careers and jobs information directly from employers, through the delivery of specific modules, community projects and guest lectures that inspire them to consider careers in particular industries

+

Offering work experience and industry placement opportunities that will help our students to hone their skills and build their CVs

+

Facilitating opportunities for our students and local residents to move into meaningful jobs with our employers through our talent pipeline of work ready students seeking employment

+

Providing opportunities for those furthest from the job market into roles through partnerships with specific employers and Job Centre Plus and DWP, including our Sectorbased Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) and Skills Boot Camps

Demonstrating our Impact – and the difference we are making to our students, our employers and our local economies +

Successfully recruiting students and apprentices onto programmes in high priority skill sectors

+

Making sure all of our students within scope receive valuable employer input, work experience and/or placements

+

Receiving positive feedback from both our students and our employer partners about what we do

+

Ensuring positive destinations for all students and apprentices

Ultimately, we want our offer to inspire our students, our staff and our communities to understand and support the sectors with a high demand for skills, where those opportunities for our students exist.

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ADULT SOCIAL CARE AND HEALTH SERVICES Phillip Marshall Organisational Development, The Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust “Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust is a large acute and community provider serving Wakefield and surrounding parts of West Yorkshire, delivering services across Pinderfields Hospital, Dewsbury and District Hospital, Pontefract Hospital and an extensive range of community settings. We have benefitted from a very long and trusted relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group and consistently recognise the high quality of education and training they provide, particularly for our nursing and therapy workforce.

“The Group is our main apprenticeship training provider and works extremely effectively with multiple, diverse teams across the Trust to support workforce development. What truly stands out is their proactive approach to understanding strategic developments within the health sector. They regularly engage with us to explore how provision can adapt and evolve, giving us confidence that our partnership will support future priorities - particularly as digital transformation becomes an increasingly integral part of healthcare delivery.”

Find out more about Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, here

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING, ENGINEERING AND RAIL Craig Beech Service Operations Manager, Siemens Mobility “For more than two years, we have been proud to work in partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group through Selby College on the DFN Project SEARCH Supported Internship programme, delivered directly from our Goole Rail Village.

“Both organisations share a strong commitment and passion to supporting young people with SEND into meaningful employment, and this shared purpose has driven an exceptional level of collaboration and teamwork.

“The full-time presence of the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group team onsite ensures expertise, guidance and support are always available, helping us deliver the programme to the highest possible standard. The value this partnership brings - both to our business and to the young people involved - has been truly outstanding.”

Find out more about Siemens Mobility, here

Phil Holyome Sales Engineer, GUNT Technology Ltd “Founded in Hamburg in 1977, GUNT has built a global reputation for designing and manufacturing high-quality engineering education equipment. For the past four years, we have worked closely with Selby College, supplying the majority of its engineering teaching equipment. This partnership continues to grow, with Selby College set to become the first college in the UK to introduce our Hydrogen teaching equipment, alongside investment in our Digiskills range to embed core engineering fundamentals within the curriculum.

“Working collaboratively allows us to align equipment and teaching with industry needs, enhancing both delivery and student outcomes.

Looking ahead, we are exploring ways to further strengthen this longterm partnership, including establishing Selby College as a Centre of Excellence to promote engineering education locally and nationally.”

Find out more GUNT Technology, here

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CLEAN ENERGY AND THE GREEN ECONOMY Nick Robinson Community & Engagement Manager, Drax Power Station “For more than 50 years, Drax Power Station has been a major employer in Selby, building strong, multi generational links with the local community and supporting the regional supply chain. This long standing presence reflects a clear commitment to investing in local people and creating high quality careers across North Yorkshire.

“A key part of this commitment is Drax’s established partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. Through power station tours, STEM and careers activities and engagement led by Drax’s Community and Education team, students gain first hand insight into the energy industry. By sharing expertise and opening access to the sector, the partnership helps inspire local talent and supports a strong pipeline of future engineers, technicians and energy professionals, contributing to the long term prosperity of Selby and its evolving energy industry.”

Find out more about Drax Group, here

CONSTRUCTION AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT Dr Sarah Cooper Director of People & Culture, VICO Homesn “Vico Homes is a leading provider of homes with positive impact and a major local employer with ambitious growth plans. Based at our head office in Castleford, we are proud to have a strong and ongoing relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. This partnership plays a vital role in supporting our current skills needs, developing our future workforce and inspiring the next generation to consider careers within the housing sector.

“Together, we have worked closely to deliver a wide range of initiatives, including trade apprenticeships in bricklaying, carpentry and joinery, gas engineering, installation and maintenance, plastering, and plumbing and heating. The partnership also provides valuable placements for Business and Construction students, alongside regular half term placements for electrical, joinery, plumbing and bricklaying learners.

“In addition, the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has supported key engagement activities such as the ‘Give Construction a Try’ event and the promotion of Vico Homes through careers events and talks. The collaboration has been hugely beneficial in building talent pipelines and strengthening our ability to attract and develop skilled people for the future.”

Find out more about Vico Homes, here

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Debbie Watson, Social Value Manager, Caddick Construction “Caddick Construction is a Yorkshire headquartered, family owned contractor delivering projects across the residential, commercial, industrial and public sectors, with a strong focus on quality, sustainability and collaboration. We have developed a long standing and highly effective partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, built over many years of working together to bring classroom learning to life for construction students.

“Through regular planning and close collaboration, we’ve supported T Level industry placements, hosted work placements, site visits and week long work experience projects, contributed to student talks and workshops, taken part in events such as ‘Give Construction a Try’ and worked with the college to recruit apprentices. The Group has also been proactive in engaging employers in discussions around curriculum design, particularly in relation to green skills and future workforce needs.

“For Caddick Construction, this partnership strengthens our talent pipeline by giving us early access to job ready students and helping to shape provision that reflects the skills our industry needs now and in the future. It also delivers clear social value, creating local opportunities, improving employability and demonstrating a long term commitment to education and skills development in the communities where we work.”

Find out more about Caddick Construction, here

Sarah Muscas Senior Social Value Manager, Morgan Sindall Construction “Morgan Sindall Construction is a leading UK construction company delivering innovative, sustainable new-build and refurbishment projects across a wide range of sectors, including education, health and care, commercial, residential and leisure. We work locally for our clients through regional teams based across the country, including our Yorkshire business.

“Our team based in Yorkshire has built a strong and long standing relationship with Castleford College and we are proud to support the college through careers events, site visits, work experience opportunities and T Level placements, helping learners gain real insight into the construction industry. Our robust relationship enables us to connect local supply chain partners with training and apprentice recruitment support, whilst providing students with meaningful careers engagement and placement opportunities.”

Find out more about Morgan Sindall Construction, here

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CREATIVE AND CULTURAL INDUSTRIES Hazel Colquhoun Creative & Cultural Development Officer, Now Then!

“Now Then! is a Place Partnership programme funded by Arts Council England, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and North Yorkshire Council, co producing ambitious, inclusive and free arts and cultural opportunities with communities across Selby, Sherburn and Tadcaster.

“The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is a core partner, working closely with its Art, Design & Photography department to embed live Now Then! projects into students’ courses. Students often respond to the same briefs as commissioned artists, with their work becoming part of the main programme - from light sculptures in shop windows and films screened at Selby Library to installations at Selby Abbey. Alongside this, students benefit from artist talks, workshops, volunteering opportunities and routes into entry level freelance roles.

“The partnership brings fresh ideas, local voices and new perspectives to the programme, whilst giving students real world experience in their own communities. By creating these opportunities locally, we aim to support graduate retention and contribute to the growth of the creative industries across the area.”

Find out more about NOW THEN! here

Ian Rodley Director, DAZL “Dance Action Zone Leeds (DAZL) has worked in partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, and in particular Wakefield College for over ten years. This strong relationship has been built through the academic performing arts provision, especially the dance pathway, which DAZL recognises as a high quality professional and educational route into the creative industries.

“The Group plays a vital role in developing the DAZL workforce.

Around 70% of DAZL’s employed and freelance team, including members of the senior management team, are alumni of the course. We are also proud to see a former DAZL participants now on the teaching faculty, demonstrating the long term impact of this partnership.

“A key strength of the relationship is the opportunity for young people to experience the college environment first hand. DAZL regularly brings participants to showcases, helping to raise aspirations and build confidence in progressing into further and higher education. Each year, DAZL proudly progresses learners into academic training from Level 1 through to Level 6, creating a clear and supported pathway. This inclusive partnership also supports dancers with disabilities and learning challenges, and DAZL is confident that the Group is the best environment to meet diverse learning needs while developing strong performance, teaching, choreography and leadership skills. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking directly to students, sharing insight into the dance industry alongside practical guidance and professional expectations. The team and facilities at Wakefield College do a fantastic job in preparing young people for industry, and I hope we continue this collaborative approach for many years to come.”

Find out more about DAZL, here

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DEFENCE Christine Turner Apprenticeship & Technical Training Business Partner at Omexom “Omexom is a leading engineering organisation delivering overhead line, substation and high voltage infrastructure across the UK energy sector. Part of the VINCI Energies group, Omexom supports the transition to a low carbon future through safe, compliant and highly specialised delivery, whilst also contributing to national defence priorities by developing secure, resilient energy infrastructure and critical technical capability.

“Omexom has a positive and collaborative relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, particularly Castleford College, where many apprentices complete the academic elements of their programmes. This partnership ensures alignment between industry requirements and classroom delivery, supporting consistent learner progress and high quality technical development.

“The relationship provides clear value through reliable academic provision, shared commitment to apprentice success, and a strong pipeline of skilled talent for a sector facing national skills shortages.”

Find out more about Omexom, here

DIGITAL, DATA AND TECHNOLOGY Dr Jackie Mulligan Development Director, Game Republic Ltd “Game Republic is the largest games industry network in the North of England, supporting more than 2,000 game developers and studios. Our collaboration with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has been extremely positive – their Computing and Digital Industries department is proactive, engaged and committed to creating real opportunities for students.

“They regularly attend industry events and have brought significant value to our activity, including the WX Games Weekend, where Wakefield College delivered workshops and the Group’s Head of Curriculum presented talks to an audience of over 5,000 people across the weekend.

“Their enthusiasm, professionalism and focus on student outcomes make them a valued partner in supporting the next generation of games talent across the region.”

Find out more about Game Republic, here

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FINANCIAL SERVICES Debra Godridge Human Resources Manager, Kongsberg Automotive “Kongsberg Automotive Industrial Hose specialises in the design, manufacture, and supply of high-performance hose solutions, with a particular focus on PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) products.

We operate within demanding industrial sectors where reliability, safety, and performance are critical. We combine technical expertise with a strong focus on quality to deliver tailored solutions that meet specific customer requirements “We have built a strong and collaborative relationship with Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, particularly through Castleford College. The College has been a valued partner in supporting our workforce development needs by delivering a range of apprenticeship programmes, including Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), as well as a range of other apprenticeships and qualifications. Through this partnership, we have been able to provide both new and existing employees with structured learning pathways that combine practical, on-the-job experience with high-quality academic and professional training. The college has worked closely with us to understand our business needs, ensuring that the training provided is relevant, flexible, and aligned to our operational goals.

“Overall, we highly value our partnership with Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. Their support has played an important role in strengthening our workforce, improving capability across key areas, and helping us invest in the long-term success of our employees and the business.”

Find out more about Kongsberg Automotive, here

HEALTH, INNOVATION AND LIFE SCIENCES Amir Hassan Iqbal Pharmacist, Stone Pharmacy “As part of the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, Selby College ensures its students gain real-life work experience to prepare them for their futures.

“We’ve offered part-time roles to a number of the students who have carried out placements with us alongside their studies. This is great because we get to see the students that are enthusiastic continue to shine. This has been positive for my business and for our local community, and we are really proud to be a part of it.”

Find out more about Stone Pharmacy, here

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PROFESSIONAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES Karen Starkey Head of HR, Conservatory Outlet “The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has been my go to apprentice provider for many years. They have supported us through significant challenges, including successfully setting up apprenticeships following the Woodspeen administration and have been instrumental in developing our Manufacturing Degree Pathway and New Living Space Pathway, alongside business administration, finance and HR apprenticeships. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and the standard of delivery is exceptional - our apprentices consistently speak highly of the quality and support they receive.

“Having a local education provider we can rely on, who is always a phone call or email away, is invaluable in the ever complex world of apprenticeships. The team is flexible, professional, quick to respond and genuinely listens to employer needs. I’d like to give a special thank you to Chris Baker for his outstanding support, guidance and knowledge. It’s just great to work with a local provider that truly leads the way.”

Find out more about the Conservatory Outlet, here

Cerys Glenn Emerging Talent and Careers Coordinator, Jet2 “Jet2.com and Jet2holidays are leading UK travel and leisure businesses, with a strong commitment to developing future talent through early careers programmes, apprenticeships, work experience and education partnerships.

We have built a positive and well-established relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, working closely with its colleges to support students through careers insight, employability development and progression opportunities.

“This collaboration helps students gain real world understanding of career pathways within aviation, travel and the wider business sector, whilst supporting Jet2’s Early Careers strategy by engaging with future talent and promoting apprenticeships as a viable route into employment. Together, we are helping to bridge the gap between education and the world of work.”

Find out more about Jet2, here

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TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS Lizzi Greaves Operations Manager at Viamaster “The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has been an exceptional partner to work with. From the outset, they took the time to understand both the national shortage of LGV drivers and the very real skills gaps facing the haulage industry. Together, we have built a strong and collaborative partnership, carefully shaping the Skills Bootcamp programme to ensure it delivers not just licence acquisition, but truly work ready, professional drivers.

“Working with the Group, we have delivered Skills Bootcamps since shortly after the Covid pandemic and have consistently achieved strong outcomes, positively impacting our recruitment needs.

The programme enables learners to develop the underpinning knowledge employers need – from health and safety and tachograph use to highway code compliance.

“This partnership has benefited our business, strengthened our workforce and, most importantly, changed lives. We have seen people who were previously unemployed gain the skills, confidence and qualifications needed to enter a stable, well paid career. We would wholeheartedly recommend the Group’s Skills Bootcamps to haulage employers and partners looking to invest in the future of their workforce.”

Find out more about ViaMaster, here

Education Partners We play an active role in the West Yorkshire Colleges Consortium (WYCC), and the Y&NY Colleges Group and the Y&NY Institute of Technology. Through the WYCC and the West Yorkshire FE Compact, the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group works collaboratively with the six other FE colleges in West Yorkshire alongside the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, employers, local authorities and wider partners to support delivery of regional skills priorities, inclusive growth and the ambitions of the West Yorkshire Local Growth Plan and Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP). The FE Compact provides a framework for collective skills system leadership across the region, enabling colleges to work beyond individual institutions to support coordinated responses to labour market need, employer demand and future workforce priorities. Through shared intelligence, collaborative planning and joint engagement activity, the partnership drives more effective use of public investment, strengthens progression pathways and helps reduce unnecessary duplication across the skills system.

Our collaborative approach also supports the region’s ambitions for deeper devolution and integrated settlement arrangements by demonstrating the ability of FE in West and North Yorkshire to operate as strategic regional partners within a more coordinated and locally responsive skills system. Collectively, the colleges contribute to regional priorities linked to productivity, social mobility, net zero, health and wellbeing, digital and AI capability, workforce development and inclusive economic growth.

In addition, we work closely with other educational partners through the Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) boards in York & North Yorkshire, which are now focused on delivering other collaborative funded projects and are designed to deliver the priorities established within the LSIPs, encourage collaboration and joined-up thinking around progression routes and avoid unnecessary duplication.

Our partnerships with secondary schools are crucial and we have strong relationships with 60+ partner schools across the areas we serve. In addition, we have strengthened relationships with feeder sixth forms, for their students to progress into our HE provision. We engage with New College Pontefract regularly to discuss curriculum developments and plans. In addition, we collaborate with the adult education services, working together to ensure that our combined skills offer and approach is avoiding duplication and encouraging progression.

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We play an active role in the Construction Technical Excellence College for our region and the Y&NY Institute of Technology. We are focused on strengthening our relationships with our partner universities and increasing our engagement with Yorkshire Learning Providers through their much-valued initiatives and opportunities to collaborate.

Our Principal chairs the Wakefield Employment & Skills Board, which connects a wide variety of educational providers in working together to benefit the city. In addition, our Children’s University provision enables us to engage effectively with primary schools in the Wakefield and Selby areas.

Alex Miles, Managing Director, Yorkshire Learning Providers, and Governor at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group “I have worked with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group and its three colleges in Castleford, Selby and Wakefield for many years.

Colleagues from the Group are regular attendees and contributors at our networking and quality meetings and are represented on the operational working groups for both the West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire LSIPs, therefore demonstrating their commitment to skills development and employer engagement.

“The Group is a well-respected and valued education provider, with excellent recent results and is a positive member of our network, contributing effectively to the projects we deliver and always demonstrating a passion for serving it’s communities effectively.

“With a clear focus on meeting the needs of all of our priority skills sectors, the Group has demonstrated real innovation in terms of research around green skills and the development of new provision to support our regions in achieving net zero.”

Find out more about YLP, here

Annabel Jelley Consultant and Project Manager for the Skills Innovation Fund Partnership Project “I have worked with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group and its three colleges in Castleford, Selby and Wakefield for many years.

Colleagues from the Group are regular attendees and contributors at our networking and quality meetings and are represented on the operational working groups for both the West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire LSIPs, therefore demonstrating their commitment to skills development and employer engagement.

“The Group is a well-respected and valued education provider, with excellent recent results and is a positive member of our network, contributing effectively to the projects we deliver and always demonstrating a passion for serving it’s communities effectively.

“With a clear focus on meeting the needs of all of our priority skills sectors, the Group has demonstrated real innovation in terms of research around green skills and the development of new provision to support our regions in achieving net zero.”

Find out more about the Skills Innovation Fund, here

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Kirsty Holt, Principal at Goole Academy “We have a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with Selby College, which ensures our learners are well supported and informed about their next steps in education.

“We participate in a range of activities, including STEM@Selby, which our entire Year 9 cohort attends. Our Year 10 pupils also take part in Taster Days and the College regularly visits our Year 11 pupils to support them with their further education applications.

“We also make use of the College’s Year 11 Early College Transfer programme for students where an alternative setting is welcomed by both the school and their parents. Furthermore, Selby College’s Local College Director is a member of our Academy Advisory Board, enabling regular discussions around partnership working and future opportunities.”

Find out more about Goole Academy, here.

Robert Holmes, Vice Principal, Curriculum, Quality & Innovation – Leeds College of Building. Yorkshire & Humber Construction Technical Excellence College (CTEC) Lead “Our partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is strong, collaborative and strategically aligned.

“As a key ‘Spoke’ partner within the Yorkshire & Humber CTEC, the Group contributes vital local expertise, capacity and employer connections. They have been actively involved from the outset of the initiative, supporting early strategic design, workshops and CPD during mobilisation, and they will play a crucial role as we move into delivery - particularly in implementing a responsive subregional model aligned to local, regional and national priorities.

“Through this partnership, we are sharing innovative practice, strengthening teaching and learning, supporting employers with responsive skills pipelines and improving opportunities and outcomes for learners. By working together, we are better placed to address shared challenges, reduce duplication and create a joined-up, high-quality construction skills system that supports economic growth and social mobility across Yorkshire and the Humber.

“This collaboration is further strengthened through shared strategic engagement, including representation within the West Yorkshire Colleges Principals’ Network, ensuring aligned planning, strong regional voice and coherent decision-making in the interests of employers, learners and communities.”

Find out more about Leeds College of Building, here

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Helen Sykes, Head of Go Higher West Yorkshire “Go Higher West Yorkshire (GHWY) is a member-owned consortium that brings together a diverse range of Higher Education providers across West Yorkshire, including HE-in-FE colleges, universities and a conservatoire.

“The University Centre at Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is a founding and highly valued member of our consortium. Its senior leadership plays an active role in shaping our strategic direction, with the Executive Director of Student Experience and Support serving as Deputy Chair of our Board, and the University Centre’s Uni Connect Senior Outreach Officer chairing our Access and Participation Strategy Group for 2025/26.

“Having the University Centre at Heart of Yorkshire Education Group as a key member of our consortium enables us to showcase a broad range of high quality higher education opportunities to communities across West Yorkshire who are more likely to experience inequality of opportunity. Their extensive reach and strong, established relationships within the Wakefield district are invaluable in supporting the success of our work, particularly in an area of West Yorkshire with historically low levels of higher education participation.”

Find out more about Go Higher West Yorkshire, here

Sharon Noble Year 5 Teacher and CU School Coordinator, Barkston Ash Catholic Primary School.

“We have been a member of the Wakefield and Selby Children’s University for a few years, with the Group’s Children’s University coordinator regularly visiting our school to launch activities and celebrate the achievements of our students by presenting certificates to them.

“The Children’s University is a fantastic way for families and children to extend their learning outside the classroom, whilst positively impacting their attendance and confidence when in school. We have seen pupils develop a real love of learning through new, exciting initiatives both at our own after-school provision and at Learning Destinations across the county and UK. “Thank you for introducing us to it.”

Find out more about Barkston Ash Catholic Primary School, here Find out more about the Children’s University, here

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Wes Bush, Headteacher, Castleford Academy “We’ve always had a strong and effective partnership with Heart of Yorkshire Education Group.

“Each year, Castleford College and Wakefield College are the post-16 destination of choice for a large number of our students.

Our Careers Lead works closely with their School Partnerships Team to provide information and offer students the opportunity to experience college life first-hand through Year 10 Taster Days. The Group also supports our in-school activities such as Careers Days, Parents Evenings and Year 11 application sessions.

“We also engage with the Group’s Year 11 Early College Transfer programme, which enables selected students to access a vocational and practical curriculum in an offsite setting. This partnership consistently delivers positive outcomes, giving young people a clear pathway into further education, bringing them one year closer to employment.

“Our partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is really something special and has such a positive impact on the pupils both our organisations work with.”

Find out more about Castleford Academy, here

Dr Nena Skrbic, Head of Initial Teacher Education, Strategic Lead for the Education and Training Consortium, University of Huddersfield “The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is a well-established member of the University of Huddersfield’s Education and Training Consortium (ETC), one of the largest professional communities of FE and Skills-based teacher educators in the United Kingdom.

As part of the Consortium, the Group delivers a range of teacher training awards of the University of Huddersfield and – through its position as an anchor institution in West and North Yorkshire – makes a distinctive regional contribution to government expectations for qualified teaching staff in the lifelong learning sector.

“The University’s current affiliation with the Group is borne out of early partnerships between the University and two of the Group’s colleges, Selby College and Wakefield College. These partnerships pre-date the formation of the Consortium in its current form and date back to 1993. This longstanding association, spanning over three decades, is based on a shared commitment to providing accessible and transformative teacher training to local communities.

Indeed, the Group’s vision to passionately serve the communities in which it is anchored accords with the mission of the University’s teacher education provision which is rooted in a commitment to inclusive practice. We are proud to have the Group as a partner and look forward to many more years of partnership work.”

Find out more about the University of Huddersfield, here

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Professor John Craig Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) at the University of Hull “The University of Hull values its strong and collaborative partnership with The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. Our collective work is underpinned by a shared commitment to widening participation, supporting learner progression and ensuring positive outcomes for students.

“Within our close and constructive collaboration, we have aligned curriculum approaches, developed clear and effective progression pathways and maintained open, proactive communication between teams. This partnership approach empowers both organisations to respond confidently to learner needs and developing sector priorities. The flourishing relationship with the Group is built on mutual values. The alliance is proactive, strategic and highly effective in supporting learners into higher education and beyond.

“The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is regarded as a trusted and strategic partner, and we look forward to continuing to foster this relationship to generate further opportunities for learners and staff.”

Find out more about the University of Hull, here

Sarah Thomas UK Recruitment Manager, Leeds Beckett University “Leeds Beckett University is proud to work in partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group to support student progression and widen access to higher education across the region. As a modern, professional university with a diverse and dedicated community, we are committed to helping students develop the skills, confidence and experiences needed to succeed in their future careers.

“Our long-standing relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is built on strong collaboration between academic and professional services teams, alongside a shared commitment to social mobility and regional economic growth.

Between 2024 and 2026, more than 400 Level 3 students will have engaged in outreach activities with Leeds Beckett University, including over 150 students visiting our campuses.

“Through initiatives such as our ‘Future Ready’ programme, students have benefited from subject workshops, campus experiences and opportunities to connect with our wider university community, including employability specialists. Together, we are creating clear and accessible pathways into higher education and employment, ensuring students are equipped to make informed choices about their future and achieve their ambitions.

Find out more about Leeds Beckett, here

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Community Partners As well as delivering on skills priorities, we are here to support and to be involved in the work of community partners, voluntary and charitable organisations, to make a real difference to our local residents’ lives and their wellbeing, which includes our students, and to add value to the communities we serve.

These also include project groups that target particular cohorts, neighbourhoods, areas and communities. We recognise that we all need to work together collaboratively to reach our goals and aspirations around inclusion and driving up participation.

Many community partners also provide us with much valued assistance in terms of student engagement and support, and we will continue to work with them to enhance the student experience.

Dmitry Fedotov, CEO, The Youth Association, and Governor at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group “The Youth Association is a regional youth work charity based in Wakefield, working across West and South Yorkshire. We have had the privilege of working closely with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group for several years and have developed a strong, highly collaborative relationship that has been instrumental in shaping how we support young people locally and respond flexibly to emerging needs.

“There is a clear alignment between our missions. The Group’s commitment to informal education and pastoral support strongly complements our youth work approach, particularly in supporting young people’s mental wellbeing. Together, we have also created meaningful opportunities for young people to engage around positive masculinity and young women’s empowerment.

“A particular strength of this partnership is the Group’s active involvement in the Wakefield Youth Work Alliance, reflecting a genuine commitment to partnership working and shared outcomes. What truly underpins our relationship, however, is the quality of the connections between our teams. They are open, relational and collaborative, creating the conditions for longterm, sustainable impact. We highly value the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group as a key partner and look forward to continuing this work together.”

Find out more about the Youth Association, here

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Laura Mason CEO, NYBEP (North Yorkshire Business and Education Partnership) “Young people are growing up in a rapidly changing world, and many lack confidence about who they are and where they are heading.

NYBEP exists to change that. Our work turns potential into possibility, empowering young people to step into their futures with confidence.

“We have a strong and productive relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, collaborating on initiatives that inspire young people across the region. The Group’s proactive approach, openness to innovation and strong employer connections have enabled us to co create opportunities that genuinely engage learners. Their learner centred ethos closely aligns with our own mission to help young people see that they belong in the world of work.

“What stands out most is our shared commitment to partnership working not just as organisations, but as a united force to bridge the gap between education and employment. Together, we are helping to ensure that young people are better prepared, more engaged, and more hopeful about their futures.”

Find out more about NYBEP, here

Dr Lou Mycroft Fircroft College of Adult Education – Green Changemakers Project Facilitator “I lead the national Green Changemakers programme and we have been delighted to partner with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group to build real momentum for climate action and green skills development across its three Colleges.

“Green Changemakers is a systems and mindset change initiative designed to transform further education organisations. By training an initial 3% of the workforce across all roles and levels - in changemaking skills, we are creating a powerful community of momentum. This approach is positioning the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group to lead the future of green workforce training, with impact that will ripple across every part of the organisation.

“It has been a genuine pleasure and privilege to work with the Heart of Yorkshire team. Green Changemakers is bold and ambitious, and the Group truly matches our world‑changing intent. Not every organisation is willing to engage in deep systems, mindset and culture change, and the openness and values demonstrated here have smoothed the path for meaningful transformation. Working with staff across the Group has been an absolute joy.

“Green Changemakers is firmly putting the Heart of Yorkshire on the map for sustainability in further education. As I speak at major conferences across the sector this year, the Heart of Yorkshire story will play a significant role. It is a beautifully symbiotic partnership, and I’m so glad we found one another.”

Find out more about the Green Changemakers, here

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Stephen Frampton MBE Founder of SS4FE (Sustainability Support for Further Education) “SS4FE plays a vital role in supporting the further education sector to tackle climate change and prioritise sustainability and green skills.

Over the past two years, I have had the pleasure of working closely with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group on its climate action plan and sustainability journey. This has included working with senior leaders, governors, staff and students on staff development, governor training, student engagement and the co construction of a climate action plan rooted in cultural change and collaboration.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to work with such a committed and capable education group. The values, ambition and collective effort shown by staff and students across the Group have been exceptional. I hope our work together has helped staff and learners feel more supported, informed and confident and able to see how small, incremental changes can lead to significant positive impact for both people and the planet.”

Find out more about the Sustainability Support for Further Education, here

Ben Anderson, Broadcast Operations & Development Manager, YorkMix “YorkMix is a local media and radio station covering news, broadcasting and community activity across North Yorkshire. We work closely with Selby College on marketing and community engagement, supporting the promotion of local initiatives and helping to ensure that activity across the Selby area reaches a wider audience. This has included collaborative work to highlight events and raise awareness through our digital and broadcast platforms.

“This relationship provides a valuable and practical link between the College and the local community, enhancing visibility and demonstrating a clear commitment to engagement beyond the campus. It also supports a more joined‑up approach to promoting activity across the area. We greatly value the partnership and look forward to continuing to work together.”

Find out more about YorkMix, here

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Fiona Spellman CEO, SHINE Trust: Support and Help IN Education “At SHINE, we are passionate about giving children brighter futures by unlocking barriers to learning. We support children and young people across hundreds of schools in the North West, North East and Yorkshire & the Humber, focusing our investment in areas of deprivation where we can make the greatest impact.

“Our relationship with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has been a genuinely positive and collaborative one, with shared values around widening participation, increasing opportunity and raising aspirations across the region.

“SHINE was the Group’s charity partner for its National Apprenticeship Week 2026, raising more than £300 to support our work, increased awareness of our mission within the Yorkshire business community and championed improved opportunities for children who need them most.

“We greatly value the professionalism, commitment and shared vision shown by the Group. Their dedication to student success and community engagement aligns closely with our own, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive difference together.”

Find out more about SHINE Trust, here

Shaun Mounsey Manager, Create Café “I really value the partnership we’ve built with Wakefield College, part of the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. For over a decade, they’ve been sending SEND students to us for work experience and it’s genuinely one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. We don’t take part because it ticks a social responsibility box - we do it because we want to offer a hand up to those who need it. And it’s clear the tutors who support the students feel exactly the same.

“They’re a first class team who consistently go above and beyond, and that deserves real recognition. All in all, our ongoing partnership with the College creates a ripple effect of good - for students, for staff, for our customers and for the wider community. It’s something we’re incredibly proud to be part of.”

Find out more about Create, here

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Declan Greene Delivery Manager, The King’s Trust “The King’s Trust is one of the UK’s leading youth charities. We help young people aged 11 to 30, particularly those from disadvantaged communities and who face the greatest adversity, to develop essential life skills, get ready for work and access job opportunities.

Over the last five years, 3 in 4 young people supported by The Trust moved into work, education or training.

“One of the ways in which we do this is through partnering with organisations in the community, like the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. Wakefield College has delivered our 12-week personal development programme, TEAM, for over a decade, and it is now running at Castleford College too. They run six programmes a year currently, across the two sites.

“The partnership enables us to support young people across the Wakefield District who we wouldn’t otherwise be able to reach. They are a strong partner who consistently meet and exceed targets, always open to feedback and striving to improve. The work they do with us makes a massive difference in the lives of countless young people across Wakefield, helping to build confidence and other vital soft skills, and giving direction and focus to those that had none.”

Find out more about the The King’s Trust, here

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Our approach to stakeholder and employer engagement In all of our interactions with our stakeholders, we are committed to +

Engaging with, listening to and consulting our stakeholders regularly to ensure our provision is aligned to regional and local skills needs, improving skills levels and enhancing economic growth

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Playing a key role within the delivery of key Economic & Skills and Growth strategies within the areas we serve, as well as the Local Skills Improvement Plans

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Embracing new opportunities including new funding initiatives and policy changes that support the delivery of government and regional policy and priorities

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Collaborating and avoiding unnecessary competition through our work with other colleges and providers to co-plan our curriculum and our delivery

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With other education partners and local and national networks, sharing our learning and best practice to support system-wide improvements

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Ensuring we engage with all partners, especially employers, to plan, design and deliver curriculums that contribute to meeting skills needs at subject level and enable learners to master their skills and develop extensive new knowledge and expertise, leading to positive destinations

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Encouraging employers and partners to support with the delivery of our curriculum, including community projects, providing high-quality guest speakers and involvement with internal and external competitions

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Working with employers and partners to provide inspiring careers advice and guidance that enables them to make informed decisions about future learning, employment and / or training

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Engaging employers to enhance our learners’ employability skills and enable them to secure work experience, work or industry placements and / or work-related learning, leading to further progression and positive destinations

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+

Taking stakeholder feedback and views to shape our effective teaching practices and our industry-standard facilities to ensure we are at the cutting edge and to optimise our learners’ experiences

+

Further building relationships with employers and partners to promote inclusivity, respect for diversity and awareness of all groups of learners and apprentices. As part of this, we will widen knowledge, understanding and expertise of SEND or high needs learners, and those who are disadvantaged or facing barriers to learning and / or their wellbeing

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Working with schools, community organisations and partners to ensure our offer is inclusive, there is a place within the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group for every type of learner, and we can engage, enhance and support the progression of young people and adult learners effectively

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Working with employers, multi-agency partners and external specialists to enhance, enrich and widen our students’ and apprentices’ experiences – not just preparing them for the workplace, but also for further training or study, independence and the ability to contribute effectively to their communities

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Ensuring we have the right internal structure to deliver our strategy – Senior Leadership leads for key partnerships, boards and forums, as well as having dedicated engagement teams in place

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Communicating our plans and our offer effectively so that our stakeholders know what we’re doing, and what we’re achieving

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Measuring, evaluating and reviewing the effectiveness of our approach

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Measuring, evaluating and reviewing our approach Of course, we know that our strategies need to be measurable in terms of effectiveness and there several ways we will demonstrate this – 1.

Ensure that we are Delivering Quality through either accurate annual self-assessment or an Ofsted inspection, in particular focusing on – Intent – how effectively we have planned our curriculum, taking into account stakeholder views Implementation – how effectively we have delivered our curriculum, involving employers and partners Impact – what difference has it made to our students, our employers and our local areas

2. Growth – tracking our progress around growth of priority sectors and provision and delivering against our funding and learner engagement targets 3. Strengthening our Reputation – ensuring we have positive outcomes and feedback from employers and students and high levels of satisfaction, resulting in strengthened relationships We have set clear KPIs and objectives for the above, and progress in terms of performance is reported to Governors at each Board or Committee meeting as relevant.

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Appendix A Key Reference Documents National Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper (October 2025) Skills and Post-16 Education Act 2022 English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 Further and Higher Education Act 1992 (Section 52B) Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIP) Statutory Guidance (November 2025) Accountability Agreements for Colleges and Local Authorities (latest framework) Free Courses for Jobs (National Skills Fund) Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) Lifelong learning entitlement: what it is and how it will work - GOV.UK Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023

West Yorkshire WYCA Adult Skills Plan (2026) West Yorkshire Local Growth Plan (2024) West Yorkshire Plan to 2040 Region of Learning and Creativity Strategy West Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (2026)

Wakefield Wakefield District Plan (2025–2035) Wakefield Futures Report (2025) West Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (2026)

York and North Yorkshire (including Selby) York & North Yorkshire Local Growth Plan (2025) York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority Skills Strategy (July 2024) York & North Yorkshire Adult Skills Fund Strategic Skills Plan (2025–28) York & North Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (2026)

East Riding Hull and East Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Economic Strategy Framework (2025) East Riding of Yorkshire Economic Strategy (2023–2025) Hull and East Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Skills Framework (2025)

Stakeholder and Employer Engagement Strategy 2026-30

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