Samantha Laycock, Chair of the Bedford Town Deal Board and Manager for the Harpur Centre, said:
“This is our first project within the Town Deal reaching completion. It will help local people develop and refine their skills for future employment in areas where employers say there is a need. It increases the curriculum and student capacity whilst also benefitting the existing learners and environment.
“The new entrance leading to the riverside bridge is already working well to connect Bedford College to the town centre and its businesses”.
Situated in Corby, the eco-friendly campus has already welcomed its inaugural students studying various A Level subjects and Diplomas.
The facility is poised to expand, aiming to welcome up to 660 students annually, offering a range of subjects such as maths, English, sciences, humanities, languages, and diplomas in business, health, and social care. This collaborative project between The Bedford College Group and North Northamptonshire Council became a reality through funding from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities received by NNC. The Corby Towns Fund was pivotal in facilitating the project, with the Corby area receiving £19.9 million from the Central Government for four projects, including the new Sixth Form.
Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, said:
“The new Sixth Form has been open to students for a couple of months now and the surrounding area is already seeing a positive impact, with students and staff contributing to the local economy.
“It is great to see the classrooms and impressive facilities in use and students learning about a variety of topics. This is start of the College’s journey and I look forward to seeing it grow, welcoming more students over the coming years.”
Kingshill Farm Redevelopment
A sum of £2 million has been invested in the farming facilities at Kingshill Farm to support curriculum changes that aimed to deliver T Levels in Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care. The redevelopment was funded by Government T level grants and contributions from The Bedford College Group. As a result of the investment, the farm now features a new workshop, classrooms, and staff offices. It is scheduled to open officially in the spring.
