Member News Subjects

From Bronze to Silver: Heart of Yorkshire Education Group Excels in National Diversity Accreditation

The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has been awarded the Investors in Diversity Silver accreditation by the National Centre for Diversity, recognising its commitment to creating a truly inclusive workplace and learning environment. This achievement follows the Group’s earlier Bronze accreditation, which focused on laying the foundations for inclusion by embedding the FREDIE framework –…

Published in - , , , ,

Student Central battles football club and London hotspots for national award

The University of Bradford’s student social area, which underwent a £2 million makeover, has been shortlisted for a national award alongside a Championship football club and leisure venues.   Bradford’s Student Central is a finalist in the Fit Out Project of the Year – Hospitality category at the Fit Out Awards UK 2025, a celebration…

Published in - , , ,

UN report on AI to launch at global conference in Bradford

A major new United Nations report calling for artificial intelligence (AI) to be used to support people, not take their place, will be launched at a global conference hosted by the University of Bradford.  The Human Development Report 2025, produced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will be a key focus of the annual…

Published in - , , , , ,

Bradford College celebrates 100% pass rate successes

Bradford College students joined the hundreds of thousands opening their GCSE, BTec and Cambridge National results this week (Thurs, 21 August). While the GCSE pass rate has fallen again across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Bradford College is bucking the trend with some exceptional results. Overall, 67 courses for 16-18-year-olds had a 100% pass rate,…

Published in - , , ,

York celebrates Key stage 4 (GCSE) students’ success

City of York Council education leaders have congratulated students across the city on their GCSE results today (Thursday 21 August). Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s Executive Member for Children, Young people and Education, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the students who have received their GCSE and Key Stage 4 results today, and thank the…

Published in - , ,

71% of GCSEs at The Grammar School at Leeds awarded top 7/8/9 grades

Students at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) have achieved excellent exam results, with 71% of all GCSEs awarded the top grades of 7, 8 or 9 (A/A*). 49% of entries were awarded grade 8 or above, and 25% awarded grade 9. GSAL’s GCSE Class of 2025 includes a GB swimmer, an international hockey player…

Published in - , , ,

Your future starts here: Explore Foundation Year options at Bradford

Prospective students have been encouraged to enrol on a Foundation Year programme at the University of Bradford from this September.   The Foundation Year, available through Clearing, is a pre-degree access programme which provides people with a basis for future full-time undergraduate study at the University of Bradford. This one-year course is designed for students…

Published in - , ,

Pioneering mental health partnership goes from strength to strength

2025 is turning into a landmark year for Converge, the partnership between York St John University and mental health service providers that offers educational opportunities to adults who use mental health services.    Now celebrating its 17th year, Converge has:  won the Educate North Award for Community Engagement for the first time  welcomed its largest intake…

Published in - , ,

First-ever T-level students celebrate success at Bradford College

Bradford College marked this year’s Level 3 results day (Thursday, 14 August) with an exciting milestone – the completion of its first-ever group of T-level students. The talented bunch has shown what dedication and hard work can achieve, with a 100% T-level pass rate (compared to a national pass rate of 91.4%), and 80% of students…

Published in - , , ,

Student partners Marek and Ness blaze trail in Paramedic Science

A man studying Paramedic Science alongside his partner at the University of Bradford has encouraged others to follow in their footsteps through Clearing.   Marek Jurkowski and partner Ness Peacock met six years ago while volunteering as Community First Responders. Marek had moved to the UK from Poland, where he worked in the ambulance service,…

Published in - , ,

Proud student nurse mum calls on others to follow her Clearing path

A mum-of-three is urging others to apply for nursing through Clearing, after transforming her life by joining the University of Bradford’s Adult Nursing course.  Bethany Higgins, 31, had spent years working as a healthcare assistant in a GP practice, juggling part-time hours and family life. But last August, she decided to pursue her dream of…

Published in - , ,

An Outstanding Results Day 2025

Well done to all of our Upper Sixth cohort who collected their results today – it’s been another exceptional year! We are proud to announce that our class of 2025 Notre Dame students have once again received outstanding results in their Level 3 qualifications, across A-levels, BTECs and CTECs, and T Levels. Some of this year’s…

Published in - , , , ,

York celebrates A Level students’ success

City of York Council education leaders are congratulating students who have received their A Level, T level and post 16 vocational results today (Thursday 14 August). Cllr Bob Webb, City of York Council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education said: “Today is a great opportunity to celebrate the academic achievements of so many…

Published in - , , ,

Bradford named University of the Year for Social Inclusion

The University of Bradford is today named as University of the Year for Social Inclusion in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026. The University is also shortlisted for overall UK University of the Year 2026 and its ranking has increased to 42nd in the country (up from 48 in the 2025 guide and 49 in…

Published in - , , , ,

Coding your future by joining the AI revolution

People can be at the forefront of the ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution’ by studying Computer Science at the University of Bradford.  With AI transforming how we work, learn, and communicate, the demand for skilled professionals is soaring. The University’s Computer Science programmes equip students with the knowledge, technical skills and adaptability needed to thrive in…

Published in - , , , ,

62% of A-levels at The Grammar School of Leeds awarded top grades of A/A*

Students at The Grammar School at Leeds have achieved exceptional A-level results, with 62% of A-levels awarded top A/A* grades. Seven pupils secured places at Oxbridge to study subjects including engineering, law, classics and medicine, two of whom, Anna and Claire, each achieved four A*s. Over 80 of the cohort (190 students) achieved top grades…

Published in - , , ,

Leeds College of Building named one of first ‘technical excellence colleges’ in £100m construction skills drive

Leeds College of Building (LCB) has been named one of the first ever ‘construction technical excellence colleges’ (CTEC) and will receive a share of £100 million in government funding to tackle construction skills shortages. Only 10 colleges across England have been given the status for the 2025 to 2026 academic year, with LCB selected to…

Published in - , , ,

Less stress with an accommodation guarantee for Clearing applicants on A level results day

On Thursday 14 August, thousands of teenagers across the country find out if their A level results have secured them a place at university. For those who get grades that are better or worse than expected, want to swap courses, or make a last-minute decision to study a degree, Clearing provides an opportunity to join…

Published in -

Clearing: A parent’s cheat sheet

Clearing opened on July 5 and runs until October 20, offering prospective students the chance to secure a place at university but the big day this year will be Thursday 14 August… here’s how to make sure you’re prepared. Prospective students may include those taking all A-level/T-level (or equivalent) qualifications, or mature students who want…

Published in - ,

Accu helps student engineers to achieve lift off!

Precision engineering component distributor Accu, based in Huddersfield, has demonstrated its commitment to STEM (Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics) by sponsoring three successful student teams, in the Race2Space Rocketry competition, a national propulsion competition and education initiative designed to boost the UK space sector. As part of its sponsorship, Accu provided £1,550 worth of high-quality…

Published in - , ,

Sky Lounge Leeds shines in new collaboration with local film school

Valor Hospitality joins forces with leading multimedia school to support arts education Film students in Leeds have been given exclusive access to produce a new film showcasing the city’s highest rooftop bar – Sky Lounge at DoubleTree by Hilton – in a brand new partnership between MetFilm School Leeds and Valor Hospitality. The new film,…

Published in - , , , ,

Inspectas announces support for British Deaf Association

Compliance specialists Inspectas has announced its support of the British Deaf Association for the next 12 months. The 40-strong business is keen to introduce British Sign Language (BSL) training in a bid to help develop inclusive communication when visiting customers onsite. Its charity support includes an initial £1k donation alongside a pledge to hold fundraising…

Published in - , ,

Bradford College renovation project achieves property awards hat-trick

A £6.9 million refurbishment project that saw a derelict building transformed into Bradford College’s cutting-edge Garden Mills facility has been selected as a finalist in three prestigious property awards. The extensive Garden Mills building project on Thornton Road was selected as a finalist in the Constructing Excellence Yorkshire & Humber Awards 2025, as well as…

Published in - , ,

Community leader Dennis Robbins recognised with honorary doctorate from Leeds Beckett University

Dennis Robbins received his award for his outstanding service to the city. The award celebrates Dennis’ exceptional and inspiring leadership of The Hunslet Club, one of the UK’s largest and longest-standing youth organisations, along with his lifelong commitment to helping young people reach their potential. Dennis first joined The Hunslet Club as a member in…

Published in - , , ,

Tom Riordan CBE receives honorary doctorate from Leeds Beckett University

Tom Riordan CBE is being recognised for his service to the city. In his career to date, Tom has spent almost 30 years working in senior public sector roles in Leeds – first at Yorkshire Forward and then as chief executive of Leeds City Council for 14 years to 2024. His most recent role as…

Published in - , ,

Wyedean leads “timeless” fairtrade project with Haworth school

Exploring Fairtrade on the doorstep was the theme behind a unique collaboration between a Haworth manufacturer and its local primary school. Wyedean Weaving, which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year, has opened its doors to Haworth Primary School pupils to help support their understanding of Fairtrade and global trade. Haworth – the first village to…

Published in - , ,

Bradford wins ‘College of the Year’ at Edufuturists Awards

Bradford College has won a prestigious award recognising its groundbreaking use of digital technology to enhance student learning. The annual Edufuturists Awards are dedicated to those at the forefront of teaching and learning. At a special award ceremony in Manchester, Bradford College was announced ‘College of the Year’ in a highly competitive category. A group of…

Published in - , ,

Leeds College of Building competes at ‘The Big Construction Diversity Challenge’

A team of Leeds College of Building (LCB) staff have competed in ‘The Big Construction Diversity Challenge’ for the first time. The annual event, held at Newark Showground, promotes the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion in the construction industry today. Twenty teams participated, including prominent industry names such as Axis CLC, Worcester Bosch and…

Published in - , , ,

University of Bradford academic awarded historic honour by Royal College of General Practitioners

Professor Mahendra Patel becomes first pharmacist in England to receive RCGP Honorary Fellowship Professor Mahendra G Patel OBE, a distinguished academic pharmacist with deep-rooted ties to the University of Bradford, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP)—the highest honour the medical College bestows on a non-GP and the…

Published in - , , ,

Sudha swaps Corrie cobbles and Virdee squabbles for campus

A former soap star says she is honoured to be named Artist-in-Residence at Theatre in The Mill, the University of Bradford’s arts organisation.  Sudha Bhuchar, who has starred in EastEnders and Coronation Street, will host masterclasses with district residents and stage performances of her solo show, Evening Conversations, as part of her residency, which helps…

Published in - , ,

Leeds College of Building launches aspirational new branding and website

Leeds College of Building (LCB) has marked its 65th anniversary in education with refreshed branding and a new website. The rebrand launch follows 18 months of work with branding agency Born Communication to help find a way to better reflect a modern and inclusive construction industry workforce. The project involved months of planning and research, as well…

Published in - , , ,

New research-informed podcast series launched to help boost SME productivity

A new joint podcast series from Leeds Beckett University (LBU) and business support experts Exemplas is bringing research-led insights to business owners and policy makers – offering practical, real-world advice on how to drive productivity and sustainable growth. The six-part series of bite-sized, accessible episodes are focussed on what really makes a difference when it…

Published in - , , , ,

Bradford cancer screening for South Asian women project hailed

A research project aimed at increasing the uptake of cancer screenings among South Asian Muslim women in Bradford by working with their male family members has been hailed a successful community engagement programme.  Developed in partnership with women in Bradford from the South Asian community, the Muslim Families Screening 4 Life project has seen researchers…

Published in - , ,

Leeds College of Building Principal attends Construction Skills Mission Board at Westminster

Senior leaders from across construction and Government Ministers will launch the construction sector skills mission this week, to ensure the sector has the workforce it needs to deliver. The Construction Skills Mission Board will meet today, 26 June, to set a strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 workers a year by the end of the…

Published in - , , ,

Bradford Vice-Chancellor to retire to spend more time with family

University of Bradford Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon is to retire at the end of 2025 to spend more time with her family.   Professor Congdon is the University’s eighth vice-chancellor and the first woman to hold the position, which she has held since August 2019.   Her legacy includes leading the University to four successive number one rankings…

Published in - ,

University nursery to remain open following consultation

The University of Bradford Nursery will remain open following consultation over its future.   The University announced a review of its early years’ service in March as part of a drive to save at least £16m in the next 12 months.  The consultation involved talks with staff, parents and carers, trade unions and other stakeholders.  Dave…

Published in - ,

Bradford City fans’ stories shared at stadium project

Bradford City AFC supporters’ memories of the club have been brought to life through an innovative virtual reality (VR)-inspired project from the University of Bradford. ‘Stories from Valley Parade’ has seen academics create a digital copy of the University of Bradford Stadium, traditionally known as Valley Parade, which people can explore through VR. The project…

Published in - , ,

GSAL Principal wins national Headteacher of the Year award

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is delighted to announce that Principal, Sue Woodroofe, has been named Headteacher of the Year (Independent) at the Tes Schools Awards 2025. The awards ceremony, which took place in London on Friday 20 June, celebrates the very best in education across the UK’s state and independent sectors. Known as…

Published in - , , ,

Ranking success for University of Bradford

The University of Bradford has been 511 in the world and 47 in United Kingdom, according to the 22nd edition of the world’s most-consulted university rankings. The QS Word University Rankings 2026, released today by global higher education analyst Quacquarelli Symonds, sees University of Bradford move up 20 places from last year’s ranking of 531….

Published in - , ,

Stark warnings about World War 3 from Soviet-era nuclear test site

“Brutal.” That’s how Dr Becky Alexis-Martin, from the University of Bradford, described her recent trip to  Kazakhstan to understand the long-term effects of four decades’ of nuclear testing.  Her comments are especially poignant given the current state of affairs in the Middle East, as the conflict between Israel and Iran ramps up and the threat…

Published in - , ,

Pot shot for Bradford archaeology student

University of Bradford archaeology student Lucy Benoit has spoken about working with Time Team Online on a site where experts unearthed a rare Anglo-Saxon pot known as the Bromeswell Bucket. Time Team’s dig at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk revealed an Anglo-Saxon burial – Lucy was filmed for a live broadcast on YouTube, helping with the geophysical…

Published in - ,

Propolis: rise of the nutraceutical

It’s time we redefined our relationship with our immune systems. Consumers now look much more seriously at natural products in the context of mounting difficulties, dilemmas, side-effects and other problems with pharmaceuticals, particularly antibiotics. What consumers want is to move away from the folklore and witchcraft remedy process and thanks to our long-term collaboration with…

Published in - , ,

Laughter, legacy and local pride: The Cryer officially opens at GSAL in honour of Barry Cryer

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) marked the official opening of The Cryer on Saturday evening – a state-of-the-art performing arts centre and landmark investment in the arts at the school, named in honour of the late Barry Cryer (OL53), renowned comedian, writer and Leeds Grammar School (LGS) alumnus. The special launch event brought together…

Published in - , , , ,

LBU Impact Series: Leeds Beckett research team partners with urgent care provider IC24 to tackle stress in NHS 111 call centres

A new research-driven collaboration between Leeds Beckett University and urgent and primary healthcare provider Integrated Care 24 (IC24) is using innovative technology and psychological science to improve staff wellbeing and reduce stress for NHS 111 call handlers. The three-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project, part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, brings…

Published in - , , ,

Memories of Bradford City fire shared in new project

People will be invited to share their recollections of the 1985 Bradford City fire for a new project by the University of Bradford. Student Mia Coe will speak to survivors of the May 11, 1985 fire, friends and family of the 56 people who lost their lives, the emergency service workers who treated the 258…

Published in - ,

JB Priestley’s 1933 Wedgewood vase surfaces after 40 years

A vase decorated by JB Priestley in 1933 and sold at auction following his death in 1984 has been donated to the University of Bradford’s Special Collections.  The Wedgewood vase is recalled in the Bradford-born author’s 1934 work English Journey but disappeared into a private collection after his death. In his 1934 account, Priestley recalls visiting…

Published in - ,

Brighter classrooms, smaller bills: UK schools cut carbon and costs with Drax Foundation funding

Schools across the UK are taking the lead on important energy saving measures, reducing their carbon footprint and reaping the rewards where it matters most, in the classroom. Over £1.5 million worth of investment from the Drax Foundation has enabled 27 schools across the country to slash their carbon emissions, saving thousands on energy bills…

Published in - , ,

Leeds Beckett University celebrates reaccreditation of prestigious Small Business Charter Award

Leeds Beckett University has been reaccredited after a recent assessment, recognising the ongoing impact of its work supporting small businesses, student entrepreneurship and local economic growth. The award, granted by the Charter Association of Business Schools and the Small Business Charter, places Leeds Beckett among a select group of UK universities acknowledged for their deep…

Published in - , , ,