WELCOME
Deciding what to do after GCSEs is a big decision and it’s important to make the right choice for you.
We aim to give you the best possible learning experience while you’re with us and the best preparation for when you leave us, whether that is for university, an apprenticeship or work.
Open Days
We can’t wait to meet you and show you around! Choose a date (or two) from the list below and come along: Sat 16 Nov 2024 10.00am-1.00pm Sat 25 Jan 2025 10.00am-1.00pm
Thurs 24 April 2025 5.00pm-7.00pm
WHY JOIN US?
FANTASTIC EDUCATION
Ofsted rates us ‘Good’ with ‘Outstanding’ features, so you’ll receive the very best education to ensure your success.
WIDE RANGE OF SUBJECTS
Our vast range of study programmes and apprenticeships ensures you will find a career pathway you love, opening up more choices, opportunities and experiences.
LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS
Many of our tutors work, or have worked, in the industry they teach – what better way to learn about the real working world than from people who have experienced it.
FANTASTIC FACILITIES
Train in industry-standard environments from workshops and studios to salons and theatres.
PERSONALISED SUPPORT
You will be assigned your own Learning Mentor to assist and support you throughout your college experience.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Participate in the perfect work placement for you thanks to our links with thousands of top employers. This real life on-thejob experience will enhance your CV and prepare you for employment.
SUCCESS GUARANTEED
We are so confident you’ll achieve your qualification with us that if you don’t we’ll give you £100 or refund any fees paid.
GUARANTEED PROGRESSION
All full-time students can progress on to the next level with us, right up to degree-level.
OUR CAMPUSES
OUR campuses IN BEDFORD AND KEMPSTON INCLUDE:
MAIN CAMPUS
Bedford College
Cauldwell Street
Bedfordshire MK42 9AH
ADVANCED AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE
Brunel Training Centre
Brunel Road
Bedford MK41 9TJ
BROOKS HAIR & BEAUTY
85 High Street
Bedford MK40 1NE
GAS & PLUMBING TECHNOLOGY CENTRE
Triumph Way Woburn Road
Industrial Estate
Kempston MK42 7QB
We’re confident you will find something you love here at Bedford College but if you would like more options, do take a look at our other colleges.
bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk
OUR FACILITIES
ADVANCED AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE
Our automotive training facility is the ultimate environment to develop your skills. The Centre is equipped with engine and repair bays, paint mix and spray rooms and a body repair area.
BROOKS Hair & Beauty Salon
Our modern, commercial salon is home to our Hair & Beauty students. The Salon is equipped with up-to-date equipment and has a modern and relaxing feel. Our realistic working environments
will help you hone your technical skills and practice your technique in dedicated workshops.
Buchanan Centre for Advanced Engineering
Our Advanced Engineering Centre houses analytical equipment, BIM software and robotics.
Connolly Centre for Modern Construction
The Connolly Centre for Modern Construction is the brand new £4.3m Modern Methods of Construction Centre.
Premanufacturing homes and shipping them to a building site has been identified as the most efficient and costeffective way of meeting the huge demand for housing, and the Centre will provide this off-site construction training to meet the industry needs of the future.
Gas & Plumbing Technology Centre
Our City & Guilds and British Plumbing Employers Council (BPEC) approved training centre will provide our Plumbing & Gas students with the equipment and skills to succeed.
Library
Our Library is the place for you to spend time studying outside of classes, with spaces for both individual and group study, and over 30,000 resources. You can also access computers or make use of our free WiFi.
LIVE Lounge
The hub of the College community, this room is your dedicated space to relax between classes.
Munch & Mocha
Our restaurant and coffee shop is the ideal place to debate your last class over a coffee or savour a delicious lunch with friends.
Parking
Limited student parking is available with a student parking permit.
South Bank Arts Centre
This impressive building includes: graphic design suites, photography suites, art rooms, fashion and textile workshops, music technology and recording studios, video studios, a dance studio and theatre.
Stansfeld Building
This beautiful building, in keeping with the historic streetscape, provides a specialist environment for students aged 16+ with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.
Technology Block
Home to our electrical installation and mechanical engineering.
Our locations in Bedford are easily accessible by bus, foot, bike, car and train.
GETTING TO OUR CAMPUS
Bus
To view the most up-todate bus timetables visit:
CAR
Limited student parking is available at our Cauldwell Street campus with a student permit. Our Kempston campus has free on-road parking, with easy access to Woburn Road Industrial Estate just off the major A421 road.
Bike
There are bike racks at our Cauldwell Street campus, Kempston campus and Brunel Road sites.
Train
Bedford’s mainline station is a 15 minute walk from our Cauldwell Street campus and BROOKS Hair & Beauty Salon. Bedford St Johns station is only five minutes from our Cauldwell Street campus The nearest station to our Kempston campus is Kempston Hardwick, which is served hourly by the Marston Vale line* between Bletchley and Bedford.
*Please check with rail provider for details.
TRAVEL BURSARY
Full-time students aged 16-18 and living more than three miles from College may be entitled to subsidised travel from their local authority. If your local authority is unable to help, and you have a household income less than £40,000, the College has a Travel Bursary worth up to £720 which you may qualify for.*
Aged 19 or over with a household income of £45,000 or less? If you’re not eligible for other transport support and have applied for an eligible study programme, you will also qualify for the Travel Bursary.
Worried about travel costs? SCAN ME
*Subject to terms and conditions.
If you are a school leaver aged 16-18 on 31 August 2025, the study programmes in this prospectus are FREE.*
FEES & FUNDING
Are you aged 19 or over?
All full-time Level 2 programmes are now FREE for everyone to study. If you are looking to study a Level 3 qualification (equivalent to three A-Levels), your course could still be FREE if you’re aged 19-23 and studying your first full-time Level 3 qualification.
Other FInancial support
You may have to pay for specialist textbooks, uniforms or equipment, as well as trips and visits that boost your understanding of your subject. You can find out if there are any additional costs by viewing your study programme on our website.
A range of financial support packages are available, which include help with essential costs, travel and meals.
STUDENT
*Subject to terms and conditions.
Passionate about video games? Our new eSports course could be for you!
New eSports Course!
Passionate about video games? Our new eSports course could be for you!
Featuring practical and industry-relevant skills, our new eSports course is the perfect place to start your career in this fastgrowing industry. You’ll be able to use your passion for gaming to gain a variety of transferable skills that can be used in any industry.
SCAN ME for more information
College is not just about studying –you also have the chance to get involved in lots of enhancement activities, events and clubs
We aim to give you the opportunity to access free LIFESTYLE, INVOLVEMENT, VOICE and ENHANCEMENT activities that will broaden your horizons, help you to develop new skills and contribute to your personal and social development.
Call today: 01234 291 000
Support & Interest groups
A great way to meet students with similar interests is through our Support and Interest groups. We have a variety of student led groups such as The Q Agenda (LGBTQIA+) and Transform (Trans support). These groups offer students a chance to share experiences while the Black Culture Club looks at celebrating and supporting culture and history across our campuses and the Disability Awareness Group - ENCOMPASS – works to champion students of all abilities.
Well-being
If you are looking for information on healthy eating, budgeting, exercise, sexual health, smoking, drugs or wider health issues, the Student Experience Team are on-hand to help. Specially trained staff can help answer questions and giveyou information and advice. Our College works with local professional organisations to provide you with the best services in the area.
STUDENT LIFE
Themed activities
Throughout the year we run a number of themed activities to help share key information that affects students’ lives. This includes the Freshers Fair, Black History Month, Health & Wellbeing events and Culture Days.
Sports & activities
You will have a chance to try your hand at sports and activities during your breaks and down time. All of these sports and activities are student led, which could include badminton, football, tennis and more.
Talks
We provide the opportunity for students to listen and talk to speakers on a range of topics. Talks take place throughout the year and are also available as podcasts.
Workshops
Our team of experts can deliver workshops and sessions for your groups or peers, including:
Managing Anxiety
Sleep Hygiene
Dealing with Exam stress
Mental Health Resilience
Stop Smoking
Sexual Health awareness
Student SupporT
Student Voice Network and the Student UNION
Across all our campuses we hold Student Voice Network meetings. These bi-monthly meetings discuss relevant college topics and there is an opportunity for Student Ambassadors to feed back on more general issues/ideas at every session. This means any changes requested by students can be discussed and resolutions put in place. You will also have an opportunity to nominate yourself for Student President or Student Governor roles
Broaden your College experience
Enhancement is a key part of your study programme, giving you the opportunity to broaden your College experience. Taking part in trips and visits, as well as having guest lecturers and speakers, all give you the chance to meet new people; it may make a difference between getting a job or being accepted into university.
Additional support
We have specialist support staff for those with an identified learning difficulty and/or disability.
Financial advice
You can speak to our Student Services team for all money matters relating to College.
They can also provide information on bursaries and grants that may be available to you whilst you study with us.
Equality
We believe that the unique experiences, abilities and backgrounds of each individual add to the overall learning experience.
Safeguarding and well-being
We are committed to keeping you safe at all times and we offer a safeguarding and welfare team. Our mental health support team are also available to offer guided self-help.
Pastoral support
As a student, you will be assigned a Learning Mentor who will support you during your studies with pastoral support, attendance and progression. As a full-time student you are entitled to at least three individual tutorials per year, plus regular group tutorials which will be delivered by teaching staff. Within the first six weeks of your course your Learning Mentor will meet with you for your first one-to-one tutorial to make sure you are settling in and are on the right course.
Careers service
Our professionally qualified Student Services Coordinators provide impartial, confidential careers advice and guidance to help you:
• Decide what you are going to do next
• Find out more about your options in education, training and work, both at College and beyond
• Get support with job searches and with your university application (UCAS) put your plans into practice
If you are looking for information or have a quick query, you can drop into the Student Services office where a Coordinator may be able to help you.
The Students’ Union
The Students’ Union works in partnership with the College, striving for outstanding teaching, learning, services and facilities. To find out more, speak to our Student Experience team.
TOTUM cardStudent Discount
As a student at our campus you are also entitled to purchase a TOTUM card. This gives you access to over 250 student discounts and now acts as an official proof of age ID. Some local shops and stores that offer student discount will accept your student card as proof of student status.
You can join by visiting www.totum.com
ENGLISHEnglish & Maths
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
This study programme is ideal if you are a student whose first language is not English and you wish to develop your listening, speaking, reading and writing skills for further study and employment.
This is available as a full-time course for 16-18 year olds. If you are 19+, you can take this course part-time.
Need to improve your English & Maths skills?
These courses will help you to develop the essential skills and confidence to further your education and career prospects.
We also offer English and Maths GCSEs – it’s never too late to take these core qualifications, which can open doors to a whole range of opportunities.
Free functional skills courses in English & Maths
The Functional Skills English & Maths courses are designed to develop your knowledge up to Level 2, so you can confidently apply your learning while in education or in work.
THE PRINCE’S TRUST
This 12-week, full-time, personal development programme is aimed at young people aged 16-25 years old.
It improves your chances of moving into a job, education or training. Practical projects and team-working exercises will give you a real sense of achievement and the skills you need to move forwards in the future.
How does it work?
The team are encouraged to work autonomously to aid development and undertake a number of challenges over the 12 weeks, including:
• Team building
• Social action project
• Work experience
• Supporting others in the community
• Final presentation
Open Days
Attend one of our Open Days to find out more about our campuses and courses. Book your place at our next Open Day on our website
bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/events
APPLICATION PROCESS
Shortlist your favourite Study Programmes
Visit our website for the full list of our study programmes.
Attend your Discovery Day
You will be invited to attend a Discovery Day in June 2025 where you will get a taste of College life, meet your tutors and make new friends.
GCSE Results
Thursday 21 August 2025
Good Luck!
Don’t worry if you don’t get your grades, you can get advice at our GCSE Advice Days.
Apply online
Apply for your chosen study programme. If you do not have access to a computer you can contact us for help with your application.
Enrolment
You will be invited to enrol on to your study programme.
Receive an offer
We will arrange an interview or information, advice and guidance session with you so you can find out more about your course. You will have the opportunity to chat with a tutor who will make you a course offer.
Induction
Join your classmates at your induction in September. Find out where you are going and what you are doing before you start full-time.
Start your Study ProgrammEe! Term starts in September 2025.
YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME
We are committed to helping you and guarantee your progression on to the next level of study with us.
We can support you to progress all the way from Level 1 up to Level 6.
LEVEL 4
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
(YEAR 1)
Typical Entry Requirements
• T Levels
• A–Levels OR
• Level 3 qualification OR
• Related industry experience
Qualifications available
• Higher National Certificate (HNC) OR
• Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)
LEVEL 1
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
Entry Level
Typical Entry Requirements
• 3 GCSEs grades 9-1 OR equivalent, and a keen interest in the subject
• Other relevant levels of qualification or experience will be considered
One year programme
LEVEL 5
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
(YEAR 2)
Typical Entry Requirements
• Level 4 qualification OR
• Related industry experience Qualifications available
• Higher National Diploma (HND)
• Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)
• Foundation Degree (FdA or FdSc)
• Higher Level Apprenticeship
LEVEL 2
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
GCSEs
(9-4)
Typical Entry Requirements*
• One year programme
• 3 GCSEs grades 9-3 OR equivalent
Two year programme
• 3 GCSEs grades 9-1 OR equivalent, and a keen interest in the subject
• Other relevant levels of qualification or experience will be considered
Study Programmes available
• Diploma
Apprenticeships available
• Intermediate Level Apprenticeship
LEVEL 3
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
A-LEVELS
Typical Entry Requirements*
• 4 GCSEs grades 9-4 OR equivalent
Study Programmes available
• T Levels
• Diploma and Extended Diploma
• Access to Higher Education
Apprenticeships available
• Advanced Level Apprenticeship
“I chose The Bedford College Group University Centre because it is definitely the best around for Photography. The course is one day per week, but I always come back in for a second day so that I can benefit from tutor support.”
Laura, Photography HNC
LEVEL 6
EQUIVALENT LEVEL (HONS)
BA/BSc
Typical Entry Requirements
• Level 5 qualification OR
• Related industry experience
Qualifications available
• Top-up Degree Level 6
We work with over 1,000 employers each year and, as the largest provider of apprenticeships in the South East Midlands, we have the experience to help you excel during your apprenticeship.
Apprent
Apprenticeships are a FIrst-class way to start your career.
As an apprentice you will gain the knowledge, skills and personal qualities needed to obtain the right level of training and competence for a specific job role. We are the largest apprenticeship provider in the South East Midlands which means whatever career path you are interested in we will have an apprenticeship to suit you.
Accountancy
Assessor/Coach
Autocare Technician
Bricklaying
Business
Administration
Carpentry & Joinery
Construction
Site Supervisor
Countryside Worker
Civil Engineering
Customer Service
Practitioner
Early Years Educator
Engineering
Engineering
Operative
Fitted Interior
Installer
Gas
Engineering
Hair Professional
Call
Operative
Hospitality
Human Resources
Information
Communications
Technician
Installation
Electrician
Learning &
Skills Teacher
Motor Vehicle
Maintenance
Technician
Horticulture & Landscape
Operations Manager
Painting & Decorating
Plumbing & Heating
Surveying Technician
Teaching Assistant
Team Leader/
Supervisor
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a programme of work-based learning. To be enrolled as an apprentice, an organisation must have offered you a contract of employment and agreed to pay your wage and support you throughout your training. Your job role must include a range of work relevant to the apprenticeship qualification you wish to undertake.
How long does it take?
Apprenticeships take between one and four years to complete depending on the type and level undertaken.
How will I spend my time?
The part-time study element of an apprenticeship fits around the job commitment, and will be agreed with the employer. You might attend one day per week (day release), or in blocks of a week or more (block release), or 100% work-based delivery.
Iceships
The BeneFIts
You’ll need enthusiasm and commitment to study and work in a particular industry, but the rewards will be significant:
Get the best of both worlds by earning as you learn.
Choose from a wide range of practical trades and jobs.
We will help you find an employer from our excellent links with hundreds of top employers.
Gain industry-recognised qualifications, Functional Skills and specialist techniques that could see you progress to high-level jobs in your chosen sector.
Learn from valuable job experience and time spent developing your skills on a day-to-day basis.
INFO FOR Parents & carers
We know how difficult it can be to navigate the choices at this crucial time when you most want to be able to guide and support your child.
For all the answers on what each qualification involves, what they can lead to, as well as information on finance, transport, student support and much more...
Access to Higher Education
If you are aged 19 or over without the qualifications you need to enter higher education, these one-year, intensive courses are ideal for you.
Our Access to Higher Education Diplomas build the skills, knowledge and confidence you need to progress on to university level in the subject area you’re interested in. They are recognised by universities across the UK and allow entry on to higher education courses in your chosen specialist area.
Access courses are widely recognised by UK universities for entry on to undergraduate courses. Last year, over 20,000 Access students achieved their Diploma and progressed to university courses across the UK.
Why choose us?
Studying with us means you can choose from a wide range of subject pathways, which can be studied from as little as 12 hours per week for one year.
At the end of the year you’ll be able to access a course that will lead to a full degree. We are the largest provider of Access to Higher Education Diplomas in the region and each year 85% of our students progress on to higher education.
EXPERT TUTORS AND TOP-CLASS FACILITIES
With small class sizes compared to universities, and all the individual support you need to get back into education, we will help you succeed and reach your goal. Our experienced tutors have been teaching Access to Higher Education Diplomas and developing the programme over a number of years. Many of our tutors are industry professionals, helping to inspire your learning.
All of our campuses house impressive creative spaces with a range of cuttingedge industry-standard facilities, including 3D model-making equipment, screen and silk screen printing, dark rooms, drawing studios and graphic design studios.
STUDENT SUCCESS
Our degree-level qualifications are run in partnership with local universities. Once you complete your Access to Higher Education course, however, you don’t have to go straight to university.
If you prefer, you can go on to study a higher education course with us at The Bedford College Group, and then just do your final year at university to topup to a full degree. Staying local while studying will help you reduce your student debt and will also allow you to study alongside other commitments, such as family and work life.
We offer:
• Full-time courses
• Part-time courses
Art & Design
The only limit is your OWN creativity
If you love using your original ideas to create something special, then working in the creative sector will be a fun and rewarding experience that enables you to demonstrate your artistic flair.
It’s a competitive industry but one the UK currently excels in. Creative people are highly sought after by many employers, including large organisations and design companies.
You could be animating video games, designing your own line of clothes or seeing the artwork you’ve produced in a national publication. The only limit is your own creativity.
Why choose us?
We offer a range of Art & Design qualifications from introductory programmes right up to degree-level courses.
The department also welcomes many visiting speakers and you can be sure that our courses will give you the opportunity to sample a range of art and design activities, build a portfolio of creative work and focus on your chosen specialist area.
You will be able to exhibit your work to the public in our end of year shows and have plenty of opportunities to enter competitions to showcase your talents, giving you the chance to see how others respond to your ideas and enabling you to network with professionals from the industry.
Industry Opportunities
We have strong links within the creative industries through our membership of professional bodies such as D&AD, (Design & Art Direction) and the Design Business Association.
You will have the chance to be involved in practical work experience projects as part of your course. Just a few of the organisations that our students have worked for recently include Bedford Borough Council who commissioned Fine Art students to design a graffiti mural for an underpass.
Our students have also worked with The Landmark Trust, local design company TigerLily, the Content Manager and Photographer at John Lewis, Fine Art engineer Alex Chinneck and Fine Artist Andy Holden, plus many more.
“Our students have featured in Royal Academy sponsored shows, exhibited at New Designers in London and D&AD each year as well as winning international design competitions including the YCN Glovers Award.”
EXPERT TUTORS AND TOP-CLASS FACILITIES
You will be taught by practising professionals who will strongly encourage individuality and creative flair, to equip you with the confidence and innovation to work independently after your course.
All of our campuses house impressive creative spaces with a range of cuttingedge industry-standard facilities, including 3D model-making equipment, screen and silk screen printing, dark rooms, drawing studios and graphic design studios.
We offer:
• Full-time courses
• Part-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Business & Management
Let’s get down to business
Every business organisation needs people who can set and meet objectives.
Roles range from managers who devise policies and make decisions, to clerical workers, who collect, store, interpret and distribute information. In the business sector, you must make sure systems run smoothly and show a flair for organisation and communication.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Our Business department boasts very high student success rates in many subjects – putting you in touch with the most up-to-date thinking on business issues and preparing you for the modern workplace. We offer a variety of courses to enhance your career prospects, including our part-time qualifications, which will open up more senior roles on your career journey as you enhance your knowledge of related professions.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
Our courses are accredited by Pearson, The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), CMI, CIPD and APM. This accreditation means that you can be confident that the skills you are learning have real industry value. Our experienced tutors will take you through each of the elements of your chosen programme, providing practical examples to ensure that the theories learned can be applied to the working environment.
We have also forged strong links with local businesses, who provide work experience, enhancing your employability and giving you the chance to put into practice what you have learned.
On some of our part-time courses we offer blended learning courses in partnership with Mindful Education and The Skills Network, providing a flexible study option which is the perfect combination of online learning alongside regular lessons on campus.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• Distance learning
• Full-time courses
• Part-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Care & Childcare
Give back with a career in care
Many people are drawn towards a career in one of the caring professions.
The variety of job roles is enormous and the personal involvement is immensely satisfying and rewarding. To work in this sector it is essential to enjoy working with and supporting people. It will be challenging but if you have good listening skills, observational skills and the ability to relate to people without being judgmental, you will enjoy a very rewarding role in this sector.
Why choose us?
Whether it is care of the young or elderly, teaching or nursing, each demands qualifications for entry. Topics covered include: health, safety, nutrition, child development, anatomy, physiology and the sociological and psychological aspects of caring and supporting children’s play.
We are recognised for delivering quality vocational training in the care sector, so you can feel confident that you will leave us ready to launch a successful career in your chosen area.
Industry Opportunities
A key part of many of the programmes is supervised, practical placements to support your collegebased programme. You will gain valuable work experience in local primary schools, hospices, residential care homes, nursing homes, nurseries, special schools, hospitals, day centres and mental health services.
The enrichment programme gives you the opportunity to participate in activities such as baby massage, which will give you additional skills, above and beyond what you will learn on your course. These extra-curricular events will enhance your readiness for work, and student survey results state that students felt they had gained skills that would relate to their employment.
Expert tutors & top-class facilities
The vocational expertise of our teaching staff is exceptional. You will benefit from tutors who have previously enjoyed careers as nurses, health visitors, social workers, nursery nurses, care assistants, foster carers, childminders and more. This will enable you to draw on a huge range of real vocational experience and learn best practice from individuals who have incredible knowledge of the care sector.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• Distance learning
• Full-time courses
• Part-time courses
Computing & IT
Be part of an exciting future
If you want to be in-demand and work in a fast-paced, constantly changing industry, then a career in IT is definitely for you. A qualification in IT can also be a great stepping stone towards a career across a wide range of industries.
Why choose us?
We ensure you are at the cutting edge of this exciting subject by teaching you the latest skills and techniques accredited by the world’s leading IT companies, such as Oracle, CompTIA and Cisco.
Qualifications range from beginner through to degree-level over a wide range of specialisms such as programming, software testing, systems analysis, web design, networking and PC maintenance.
Industry Opportunities
Our close links with the computing sector mean that you will benefit from the knowledge and insight of industry experts and guest lecturers. We also regularly work with organisations such as the British Computer Society, Cisco, and CompTIA, as well as local employers to deliver courses that are tailored to the workplace.
Educational visits are also organised to give you the opportunity to see how IT is used in a real-life setting; students have previously been to France to learn about the role IT has to play in the rides and exhibits at Disneyland.
EXPERT TUTORS AND TOP-CLASS FACILITIES
Our experienced tutors will take you through each of the elements of your chosen study programme, providing practical examples to ensure that the theories learned can be applied to the working environment.
You will also benefit from the expertise and contacts of our specialist computing tutors who have worked in the IT industry in a wide range of roles including networking, programming, PC maintenance, website development and helpdesk support.
To ensure you are familiar with the latest technology used in the computing industry, we provide you with up-to-date facilities including a Cisco networking suite for practical networking and a range of Layer 1, Layer 2 and Layer 3 equipment for all forms of networking.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• Dis tance learning
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Construction
Strong foundations for your career
If you are looking to work in one of the varied trades within the construction industry, or further your existing skills, then our wide range of courses will equip you with what you need.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
We have excellent links with industry, helping students to gain apprenticeships and employment with local companies.
Our courses also have an excellent reputation with employers, many of whom have direct input into what you learn to ensure that you stand out from the crowd when it comes to looking for a job. So whether you see yourself as a builder, painter and decorator, joiner, project manager, surveyor or one of the many related office-based roles, enrolling on a course here will give you strong foundations for your future career.
Expert tutors
& top-class facilities
We’re at the cutting-edge of construction with our industry-class workshops and equipment. Our tutors have enjoyed successful careers in the industry and now take the lead in shaping the UK’s construction and building services sector, talking at high profile industry events such as Ecobuild, the leading event for sustainable design, construction, energy and the built environment.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
COURSES
WHY CHOOSE US?
The construction industry is going through massive changes to incorporate green technologies and meet the demands of government targets and their customers for carbon reduced construction. Join us and you will develop renewable technology construction skills that will put you at the forefront of the job market. Sustainability is embedded within most of our construction courses as employers are demanding workers have skills in this area to meet the demands of their customers.
Electrical Installation
Find your spark
Does working in the electrical technology field spark your interest?
Our comprehensive courses offer practical learning in the College’s workshops that will prepare you for success in this hands-on career, while our part-time courses provide you with the nationallyrecognised skills and qualifications you need to carry out a range of electrical installation work in the industry.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Our Electrical Installation courses will enable you to access a range of electrical jobs and careers, following in the footsteps of past students.
Our students also enjoy going on trips including to look at how power stations operate, as well as to Alton Towers to see how the rides work. Plus they take part in both internal and external competitions with other colleges throughout the year with great prizes on offer.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
We have excellent links with industry and have helped students to gain apprenticeships and employment with local companies. All of our fulltime students are required to complete work experience as part of their study programme.
Every year we have local employers contact us to recruit our best students, give talks on what they look for in an individual and give away prizes for the best and most improved student.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
Engineering Engineering a better future
Our Engineering study programmes enable you to choose an area to specialise in and gain transferable skills, such as problem solving and project management, making you particularly attractive to potential employers.
We have excellent links with industry, working with high technology companies such as Vauxhall, Lockheed Martin and Millbrook Proving Ground, so you will always be up to date with industry changes and developments.
Industry Opportunities
We have a long standing commitment to meeting the needs of industry. We work closely with many major employers in the region to develop the right course content to ensure employability of our students when they complete their study programmes.
We work with large technology companies and students complete projects by working with companies such as London Electronics, Cranfield Precision and Pressfab Engineering. Apprentices enrolled onto HNC/HND Electrical & Electronic Engineering are employed by local and national engineering firms with whom the Group maintains an excellent training relationship, including Danfoss Randall and Network Rail.
Why choose us?
We have a wide range of engineering courses designed to equip you with a broad base of engineering skills, as well as knowledge and experience of the sector.
Depending on your specialist area, topics you will cover could include radio communications, microcontrollers, analogue and digital electronics, CAD, electronic circuits and wiring, gas turbine engines and aircraft maintenance.
Expert tutors & top-class facilities
Our £4.5 million Advanced Engineering Centre at Bedford College houses newer, lighter, analytical equipment, BIM Software and robotics to enable you to move through to the higher level training essential in today’s manufacturing and civil engineering markets.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Foundation Skills Programme
Laying the foundations of an exciting future
The Foundation Skills Programme is aimed at young people with identified learning difficulties and/or disabilities.
The programme will enable you to develop your social, personal, employability and independent learning skills within a supported environment. You will take part in a range of subjects, which will include independent living skills, work preparation, community skills, English and maths.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
You will get plenty of opportunities to apply the skills that you have developed while studying outside of the classroom with supported work experience placements. We have developed successful partnerships with many local employers, who offer both voluntary and paid employment opportunities.
Previous students have been placed with major retailers such as Wixams Retirement Home, Kiddi Caru Nursery, Gallones Ice Cream Parlour, Kempston Library, Energie Fitness gym, British Heart Foundation shop, Albero Lounge brasserie and Trinity Arts and Leisure Centre.
WHY CHOOSE US?
You will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of trips and learning activities.
Previously, students have gone on team building exercises at Shuttleworth College and Milton Keynes, as well as trips to London and local community venues. These trips will build your confidence, self esteem and develop your teamwork skills ready for the world of work.
Expert tutors & top-class facilities
Our dedicated centre, the Stansfeld Building, provides a bright and welcoming environment. Alongside good-sized classrooms there is an independent living flat and kitchen, which support the development of independence skills.
Students are taught in a small group setting (of up to 12 students) by a team of specialist teaching and support staff.
We offer: • F ull-time courses
HAIR, BEAUTY & BARBERING
BECOME A CUT ABOVE THE REST
To work in this industry you will need creative flair, teamwork and communication skills and there are many different career paths to suit your specific interests.
As well as hair styling, there’s a growing demand for spa therapists. Working hours and conditions will vary, from local salons to large multi-specialist spas, and many people in the hair and beauty industry go on to run their own businesses.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
We also offer apprenticeships to give you the chance to gain skills and experience in a working salon, at the same time as you work towards a formal qualification.
For example, 5th Avenue, a hair and beauty salon in Bedford, currently employ a number of former students who report that they have been able to build up their own clientele, gained lots of confidence and customer care skills and enjoyed the opportunity to be creative and experiment with different techniques, with lots of support from both the salon and their tutors at College.
We regulary enter into national competions and have won the Concept Hair Magazine’s colour competition for student of the year.
WHY CHOOSE US?
We can offer you the chance to gain all the skills that you will need to begin a successful career in the hair, beauty and holistic therapies industries.
Our courses will equip you with the professional skills, competencies and knowledge you will need.
Expert tutors & top-class facilities
You will train in the facilities at our commercial hair and beauty salon, Brooks Hair & Beauty.
A key factor in the success of our students is the industry knowledge that staff provide them with, which keeps them up to date with the latest techniques and trends. Our experienced team of tutors will work to develop your professional skills.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
Media Take a lead role
Take a lead role in developing your media career by choosing The Bedford College Group.
You will need natural talent, dedication and determination, and we will help you build confidence in areas such as expression, teamwork and communication.
Expert tutors and top-class facilities
Our South Bank Arts Centre has fantastic facilities. It has a state-of-the-art theatre, rehearsal studios, recording and television studios, plus its own radio station. The studio theatre has hosted many performances and is fully equipped with technical lighting and audio control facilities.
WHY CHOOSE US?
We have dedicated facilities and passionate tutors to help you excel. For instance, if you are keen to develop your skills to work in TV or on location, then our fully-equipped TV studio and editing suites will help you create your projects. You can shoot your films using HD cameras, access green-screen facilities and excellent sound recording equipment. Our students also participate in trips away, such as to the London Film Museum.
You will benefit from the expertise and contacts of our tutors who have had successful careers as professionally-trained musicians, music producers, directors, moving image producers, scriptwriters, video producers, film festival organisers and musical theatre performers.
We offer:
• F ull-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Motor Vehicle
GET UP TO SPEED IN THIS FAST PACED INDUSTRY
Working in this vast and vital industry means you could find yourself repairing and maintaining prestige vehicles, rescuing someone from a breakdown, re-spraying the wing of a car, or assessing the damage after an accident for an insurance claim.
You will need manual and mechanical expertise, but communication skills are vital too, as you’ll be dealing with members of the public every day.
WHY CHOOSE US?
If you are already working in the motor mechanics trade, we offer parttime courses to improve and enhance your knowledge and skills.
If you have a passion for cars, mechanical, electrical and electronic systems, a motor vehicle course could be just what you are looking for to get started. As a Motor Vehicle student, you’ll work hard but also have the opportunity to go on trips – students recently visited Santa Pod to watch drag racing.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
The Group has had a long standing commitment to meeting the needs of industry. We work closely with many major motor vehicle employers in the region to develop the right course content to ensure employability of our students when they complete their study programme.
Our students also benefit from professional links with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) as well as from direct contact with major employers in the area to keep abreast of industry changes: just one example is Vauxhall Motors, who have donated a number of ex-trial vehicles to us to help students test their diagnostic skills on the very latest technology.
Expert tutors & top-class facilities
Our Advanced Automotive Technology Centre provides realistic working environments for students to accomplish the full range of skills required for these careers.
The centres are kitted out with engine and repair bays, paint mix and spray rooms and a body repair area. They are the ultimate environments in which to learn if you are a budding vehicle technician, and of course a place to learn techniques that are likely to become compulsory in the future.
We offer:
• apprenticeships
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
OUR SUCCESS STORIES
May 2022
The Group’s Motor Vehicle Team were named Silver Award winners at the prestigious Pearson National Teaching Awards 2022.
Music
Striking the right note
If you love making music and have the creativity and dedication required to develop your skills, then you will be successful in this industry.
Creative talent is vital, but won’t be enough on its own. Determination and perseverance are key – as are having the facilities you need to hone your skills.
WHY CHOOSE US?
The way in which music is consumed is changing; the rapid growth of the media sector over the last ten years has created many opportunities for audio professionals, from sound design and composition for moving picture, to audio technologies for games and mobile phones.
We aim to provide you with a solid grounding in the workings of the music industry, whichever level you are currently at, and to give you the skills to succeed.
Expert tutors and top-class facilities
If you want to learn music production, live performance, sound design, music for media or studio techniques, you’ll learn cutting edge skills in our amazing facilities.
At our Bedford campus, our Apple Logic and Pro Tools Training centre houses the latest equipment with two recording studio suites, computer editing rooms, rehearsal rooms, performance rooms and a theatre.
You will be taught by excellent tutors with many years of experience from across areas of the industry.
We offer:
• F ull-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Performing Arts Showcase your talents
Performing Arts is a huge and exciting industry but it is also very competitive so you will need to be passionate and committed.
Determination and the ability to cope with rejection are key to thriving in the industry. Those with experience of performing or helping in school or college productions, local workshops, events and festivals will almost certainly be at an advantage.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Our students work on a variety of projects and shows, and follow a programme which covers core skills such as acting and musical theatre, as well as technical aspects including lighting and sound.
You will also have plenty of opportunities to enter competitions, learn tips from practising professionals and display your work and talent, not least in the renowned Performing Arts Showcase. Our Performing Arts students also compete in the National Theatre New Connections competition.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
You will have the opportunity to participate in workshops with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), Frantic Assembly, Rambert and the O2 British Music Experience.
We also organise educational trips in both the UK and overseas, attending the Music Live exhibition and backstage tours of theatres.
Expert tutors & top-class facilities
Our superb facilities include a performance theatre with professional grade lighting, dance studio, rehearsal studio and specialist soundproof music rehearsal rooms; all equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, plus large costume wardrobes. We are confident that you will not find better educational facilities for performing arts and music anywhere else in the region.
You will be taught by practising professionals who will strongly encourage individuality and creative flair.
We offer:
• F ull-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
Plumbing & Gas
Find your place in this essential trade
You’ll learn the technical skills you need for this demanding trade at our specialist facilities, which recreate the real working environments you’ll encounter in your plumbing career. If you are already working, our professional qualifications will help you to update or enhance your skill set.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Approved by industry bodies including City & Guilds and the British Plumbing Employers Council (BPEC), our facilities and professional qualifications will provide you with the very latest knowledge of traditional gas and plumbing techniques and state-of-theart renewable technologies.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
We have excellent links wwith local employers, many of whom have direct input into the design of our courses and will provide you with work experience.
Opportunities like this not only improve your practical skills but demonstrate to future employers that you are enthusiastic, motivated and willing to learn on the job. Just a few of the companies that we work with include: Danfoss, Salamander Pumps, Stuart Turner Pumps, Speedfit, Smith Bros Stores and Worcester Bosch.
Expert tutors & FIRST CLASS facilities
Our Gas & Plumbing Technology Centre has numerous plumbing bays, airing cupboard spaces, steel pipe areas, unvented hot water training areas and an integrated gas assessment centre, as well as gas cookers, fires, boilers, heaters and domestic appliances to practice with.
We offer:
• Apprenticeships
• F ull-time courses
• Part-time courses
Science
Apply yourself to an exciting new world
Do you have a keen interest in science but also love problem solving and finding solutions to complex questions? Science plays a pivotal role in the world; something we’ve all been reminded of recently. It’s a subject you can get into studying whether you’ve just left school or are returning to education later on in life. There’s a lifetime of discoveries out there to be made!
Industry Opportunities
You will be supported in your studies by various trips and visits to related organisations and places to enrich your knowledge and understanding on your chosen pathway, including cutting edge science laboratories and research institutions.
Expert tutors and top-class facilities
We have outstanding facilities in our labs and classrooms. Our tutors always aim to teach the huge variety of topics with a vocational focus, which is quite different to studying A-Level Science. They also all have vocational experience of working in the science sector which gives an extra dimension to lessons.
We offer:
• Full-time courses
Sport & Fitness Set your
own goals
Working in the sport industry means you will always be part of a huge team effort.
If you are highly motivated, energetic and dynamic, our Sport & Fitness courses will enable you to study and specialise in areas such as outdoor leisure, development and fitness, and personal training.
Why choose us?
You can be reassured that you will experience the highest-quality sporting education with us. We were one of only a few education establishments in the country to win the right to use the prestigious ‘Get Set’ 2012 Olympic logo. This was in recognition of our commitment to the Olympic and Paralympic values of friendship, courage, respect, excellence, determination, inspiration and equality, through our work within College and the local community.
Our Sport students work hard but also enjoy a variety of trips to sporting venues including Lilleshall National Sports Centre, York College and the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield, and of course, watch live sport at matches and major events across the UK.
Industry Opportunities
If you are a high-level sports performer, or keen to further develop your skills in football, you can apply for one of our study programmes combined with Kempston Rovers Academy.
Kempston Rovers Academy is designed to improve players in all aspects of the game and give them a platform from which to take their next steps. The academy will give you amazing opportunities to develop your skills in a semi-professional environment, compete on behalf of the College and can even lead to a career as a professional sportsperson.
Some of the sport-related work experience opportunities you will benefit from include sports development work with children in local schools, fitness testing, coaching and personal training with local community groups.
EXPERT TUTORS AND TOP-CLASS FACILITIES
Our extensive sports facilities include fitness suites, synthetic pitches, sports fields and sports halls. We also have access to fitness labs for sport science testing and Kempston Rovers football ground for outdoor sports. We offer:
• dis tance learning
• FULL-time courses
• Part-time courses
• UNIVERSITY LEVEL QUALIFICATIONS
“The variety of careers in the sports industry is vast and the opportunities are endless.”
Travel & Tourism
Get your career off to a FLying start
If you want to be part of an exciting, constantly changing industry that enables you to travel, meet new people and develop transferable skills, then Travel & Tourism is for you. The sector covers a wide range of roles including holiday representatives, airline work, conferencing and events. So if you’re an outgoing, friendly, people person and work well under pressure then we can help you get your career off to a flying start.
Why choose us?
By studying one of our Travel & Tourism programmes you will be able to gain the key skills and knowledge necessary to get a head start in this industry. Study programme units focus on worldwide tourist destinations, marketing and event organisation. You will also have the opportunity to work towards additional qualifications including our Cabin Crew training.
Our students also enjoy trips away including: a three day trip (including overnight ferry) from Hull to Rotterdam and Amsterdam; a day trip to Edinburgh and a residential trip to Malta. We have also visited British Airways to complete their practical safety training day and have explored British seaside resorts such as Brighton and Southend.
Industry Opportunities
You will benefit from the excellent links we have with local employers who regularly come in as guest speakers and assessors, or to deliver full sessions.
For example, staff from Swissport have previously come into College to interview students on our Level 3 course and Thomas Cook attended our recruitment and selection event where they interviewed students wanting to become children’s representatives at their overseas resorts.
Other companies we’ve worked with include Ryanair, easyJet, Flitwick Manor, TUI, Menzies, The Embankment Hotel, Henlow Grange, Thameslink and Harrods Aviation. All of this helps you to develop the skills that will make you more employable and successful when applying for jobs.
EXPERT TUTORS AND TOP-CLASS FACILITIES
You will benefit from the expertise and contacts of our tutors who have worked in the travel and tourism industry including roles as cabin crew, holiday representatives, travel agents, tour operators, conference and event organisers.
Our specialist facilities and equipment include life jackets, oxygen masks, interactive globes, trolleys, PA systems, dictaphones and flip cameras, and computer software to simulate airport check-in. We offer:
• F ull-time courses
CONTINUING YOUR JOURNEY
full-time courses
Any of our full-time courses are available to learners of all ages.
Full time doesn’t mean 9-5 Monday to Friday. You will only be in college four days a week and will have plenty of free study time which means you can still earn money alongside your studies.
Part-time courses
Because we offer a range of day, evening or weekend classes, the course you choose can live alongside your life, and work around your job.
Professional Courses
Many of our professional qualifications are accredited by leading industry bodies and are perfect for developing yourself within an existing role at work, or to help you switch career. Our tutors are experts in their fields with plenty of industry experience, so the skills you develop will fit right into your working life.
LEISURE COURSES
If you’re looking for a more relaxed course, there are a variety of options from improving your painting skills to learning how to keep livestock.
Our short leisure courses enable you to learn new skills and meet new people at one of our many locations across the region.
It’s never too late to learn! We offer a variety of courses that will prepare you for employment, help you develop new skills or enable you to dive into a new interest or hobby. Whatever you choose, we can help to take your life or work in a new direction.
WE ALSO OFFER:
• Access to Higher Education
• Apprenticeships
• Distance Learning
• ESOL (English for speakers of other Languages)
• GCSE and Functional Skills
• Multiply - Maths skills for life
• Teacher Education
• University Level QualiFIcations
SCAN ME For INFOMATION
DISCLAIMER: While every effort is made to ensure that the information within this prospectus is correct at the time of printing, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the study programmes, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if student numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course, we will refund any fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.