Further Education College of the Year
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College is delighted to announce that it has been awarded Further Education College of the Year 2026 at the prestigious Educate North Awards 2026. The award recognises the College’s exceptional educational outcomes, transformational impact, and unwavering commitment to supporting students from highly disadvantaged and diverse communities. In their citation, the…
Stella Maris Leadership Gold Awards 2026
On Wednesday, we hosted the Stella Maris Leadership Gold Awards. This year, an impressive 76 students achieved their Gold, a record-breaking number since the award was established in 2019. To earn their Gold, students must have earnt their Bronze and Silver award, achieved virtue commendations from all four categories; Civic, Moral, Performance and Intellectual; had…
AOC Nationals 2026
Last weekend, Team ND attended the Association of Colleges (AOC) National Championships in Nottingham. The weekend brings together the top sporting students from colleges around the country, each representing their county with the aim of winning the Wilkinson Sword. We brought representatives for Yorkshire in volleyball, badminton, table tennis, tennis, and endurance running. The weekend…
Introducing Gresham Office Furniture
Since 1976, we’ve been at the forefront of British workspace furniture manufacturing. For nearly 50 years, we’ve combined expert craftsmanship, innovative design, and precision engineering to create premium furniture solutions made right here in the UK. With thousands of products and decades of industry expertise, we help bring modern workspaces to life. From personalised design…
GSAL named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026
The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 in the Big Organisation category, in the school’s first year of entering the national awards programme. Published in partnership with employee experience platform WorkL, founded by Lord Mark Price, the nationwide survey celebrates organisations leading…
AAB welcomes two firms in latest strategic growth deal
BpH Wealth Management and Jane Smith Financial Planning join AAB as Assets Under Advice reach £2.5 Billion AAB’s award-winning chartered financial planning team, AAB Wealth, continues to implement its strategic growth plan with the acquisition of two firms – BpH Wealth Management and Jane Smith Financial Planning. The move will mean AAB Wealth serves over…
What could YOU do with an extra day a week?
That’s the question we ask every business owner we meet, because most teams spend hours each week on emails, routine admin, reports, and repetitive tasks that AI can handle in minutes. At iThink365, we help and show businesses how to put Microsoft 365 Copilot and AI Agents to work properly. Not as a gimmick, not…
Residents from Hambleton Grange enjoy immersive historical day out at Leeds Armouries Museum
Residents from Hambleton Grange Care Home in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, enjoyed a memorable and long-awaited trip to the Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds after requesting a visit during their regular residents’ meetings. Thanks to a timely opportunity to swap the care home minibus to a day when the museum was open, the lifestyle team were able…
K-pop Korner to launch first Yorkshire store at Leeds Merrion Centre
The Merrion Centre is set to welcome one of the UK’s fastest-growing specialist music retailers as K-pop Korner opens its first Yorkshire location this May. Officially soft launching on 22 May 2026, K-pop Korner Leeds will open as an initial pop-up store, becoming the brand’s fourth UK location and its first in the North of…
Chadwick Lawrence appoints Leanne Franks as Equity Partner
Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has promoted Leanne Franks to equity partner, recognising her outstanding contribution to the firm over the past 11 years. As partner and head of the corporate and commercial department, Franks has played a key role in strengthening the firm’s commercial offering and shaping the direction of the team. Now…
Family fun with Shaun The Sheep & White Rose this May
A new Shaun the Sheep augmented reality trail will visit White Rose Shopping Centre next month, alongside a line-up of fun half-term activities. Families are invited to embark on a free adventure with the Shaun the Sheep: Fun with the Flock augmented reality trail at the city shopping destination, bringing the much-loved Shaun the Sheep character…
Leeds Wellbeing Week returns for 2026 with HelloHope at the helm and EGYM Hussle as headline sponsor
Leeds Wellbeing Week will return from Monday 1 June to Sunday 7 June 2026, marking its seventh year and the first time the week has been run by HelloHope. The city-wide celebration of wellbeing will feature dozens of events across Leeds, bringing together businesses, residents, students and communities for a diverse programme of activities, workshops…
Football’s coming home – new bar & huge new football venue announced for England fans this Summer
Trinity Kitchen will turn into one of the city’s biggest hotspots to watch the World Cup this summer, transforming into an evening fan zone with three super-sized 5m x 3m screens, a brand new bar, DJs, brass bands and space for up to 1,000 supporters. Free to attend and opening in time for the start…
Kids’ Carnival comes back to White Rose due to popular demand
Families are in for a treat this half term as the ever-popular Kids’ Carnival returns to White Rose Shopping Centre with rides and games for all ages from 21st – 31st May. The free-to-enter carnival will run from 11am – 9pm during school holidays and weekends, and from 3pm–8pm on weekdays outside of school holidays. Guests can…
Salko UK awarded nine month contract extension across RWE’s Pembroke and Staythorpe sites
Leading mechanical and electrical solutions provider, Salko UK, has been awarded a nine month contract extension securing continued delivery of ongoing maintenance support RWE’s Pembroke and Staythorpe sites through to the end of 2026. Establishing itself as a trusted partner for RWE, the leading power generator in the UK, Salko UK will oversee ongoing maintenance…
Big Changes and Bigger Fun: The All-New Village Hotel Leeds South!
Check Out What’s Bubbling Under One Roof! The secret is out—Village Hotel Leeds South is having a major glow-up, and we can’t wait for you to see it! We’re taking our “Everything Under One Roof” vibe to a whole new level with serious upgrades across the board. Whether you’re here to sweat, sleep, or socialise,…
AAB Wealth recognised at 2026 VouchedFor Client Experience Awards
AAB’s chartered financial planning team, AAB Wealth, has been recognised at the 2026 VouchedFor Client Experience Awards, winning the Client Communication Award, in recognition of its commitment to delivering clear, client-focused financial advice. Hosted by VouchedFor, the UK’s leading review platform for financial advisers, the Client Experience Awards are based entirely on verified client feedback….
University Centre Leeds launches new FinTech degree
A brand new degree, designed to equip learners with the future-ready skills needed to thrive in FinTech, one of the fastest-growing global sectors, is starting in September 2026 at University Centre Leeds. Open for applications, BSc (Hons) Financial Technology is a dynamic three-year programme which blends core principles of finance and accounting with cutting-edge training…
Breaking free from the spreadsheet trap
How Excel Could Be Holding Your Organisation Back For many organisations, Excel has slowly become embedded in everyday operations. Holiday tracking, scheduling, order handling, approvals and finance processes. If a workflow exists, chances are someone has built it in a spreadsheet. And initially, that works just fine. But as organisations grow, expectations increase, and AI…
Leeds Beckett Innovation projects earn top ‘Outstanding’ rating from Innovate UK
Two research-led Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) projects between Leeds Beckett University (LBU) and Yorkshire-based companies Sniffers Pet Care and Ardent have achieved the highest possible grading of Outstanding from Innovate UK. The recognition highlights the significant commercial impact, innovation, and long‑term growth and sustainability delivered through the university’s research expertise and close collaboration with its industry partners…
Yorkshire engineering firm celebrates success at HSBC’s Small Business Awards
Leading mechanical and electrical engineering firm Salko UK, is celebrating after its family business has been recognised by a leading national award. Salko UK was awarded the Yorkshire, Humber and the North East ‘Family Business Award’ at last night’s HSBC Small Business Awards. The business was recognised for its strong family ethos and active involvement…
Making tax digital for landlords and sole traders
What You Need to Know (and How to Prepare) If you’re a sole trader or landlord running a small property business, you’ve probably heard about Making Tax Digital (MTD)—but many are still unclear on what it actually means in practice. MTD for Income Tax is a significant change being introduced by HMRC that will affect…
Jerk Junction announces launch date at Trinity Kitchen
Caribbean street food favourite Jerk Junction has announced it will open to the public at Trinity Kitchen next week – with 100 prizes up for grabs, alongside a live DJ. Food fans will get to ‘spin the wheel’ for the chance to win free meals, sides, drinks and Jerk Junction merchandise when it opens at…
Chatang launches custom bubble tea and malatang at Merrion
New grab-and-go destination for handcrafted teas and bold East Asian flavours arrives in Leeds A fresh and exciting concept has arrived in Leeds as Chatang opens its doors on Woodhouse Lane, introducing a vibrant menu of authentic East Asian flavours at the Merrion Centre. Following an initial soft opening, Chatang will officially celebrate its Grand…
The Grammar School at Leeds unveils exciting plans to transform its sixth form centre
The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has announced plans to refurbish and upgrade its sixth form centre, creating a space to enhance independent learning, collaboration and student wellbeing. The project forms part of the school’s ongoing investment in its 140-acre campus, following the opening of The Cryer, GSAL’s performing arts centre, in 2025, and reflects…
New innovation partnership to accelerate growth of Shipley textile manufacturers
Marketing and business experts at Leeds Beckett University (LBU) are partnering with Shipley-based Specialised Covers to secure the long-term growth and sustainability of the family-owned bespoke protective textile cover manufacturers. The two-year project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, and is led by Dr Catherine…
Aspire completes third acquisition in two years with Scotland-based NVT group deal
Aspire Technology Solutions, one of the UK’s leading providers of managed IT, cyber security, and modern workplace solutions, has completed the acquisition of managed service provider NVT Group, headquartered in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. The deal marks the company’s third acquisition in two years, reinforcing its strategic expansion across the UK, with a strengthened market position…
Millions invested in Bradford Communities amid growing need
Independent grant maker GiveBradford has helped more than 16,000 people in communities across Bradford since 2023, as it continues its work alongside hundreds of community organisations in a collective mission to tackle poverty and inequality. Working with business partners in Bradford, such as JCT600, The Bartlett Group and Schofield Sweeney, has helped generate vital funds…
Property Investment – The Why, the Do’s and Don’ts
With increasing tax pressures on landlords holding property in their personal name, evolving regulation through the Renters’ Rights Act, the expansion of selective licensing, and the potential for stricter EPC requirements, many investors are reassessing whether property still represents a worthwhile investment. The short answer is yes, but only if you approach it the right…
LCB to receive over £919k in Government funding for renovations
Leeds College of Building (LCB) is one of 18 colleges in Yorkshire and the Humber set to benefit from government funding for essential estates and building improvements. In a recent announcement, it was confirmed that LCB will receive £919,871 from the FE College Condition Allocation (FECCA) fund. This latest £30 million package from the Government…
Family fun with Shaun the Sheep and White Rose this May
A new Shaun the Sheep augmented reality trail will visit White Rose Shopping Centre next month, alongside a line-up of fun half-term activities. Families are invited to embark on a free adventure with the Shaun the Sheep: Fun with the Flock augmented reality trail at the city shopping destination, bringing the much-loved Shaun the Sheep character…
Bluey set to bring half term fun to the Merrion Centre
Families invited to enjoy free interactive story time sessions this May half term The Merrion Centre is excited to announce another fantastic free family event, as Bluey arrives for a series of live story time sessions this May half term. Taking place on Wednesday 27th May 2026 in The Green area on the main mall,…
A sweet new arrival: White Rose to welcome Rassam’s Creamery
White Rose Shopping Centre is set to welcome Rassam’s Creamery, the award-winning dessert brand known for its bold flavours, immersive experiences, and show-stopping creations. Opening this summer, the new White Rose location will be Rassam’s largest and most impressive site to date, bringing a whole new level of excitement to South Leeds. Rassam’s Creamery is…
Yorkshire engineering firm celebrates success with project extension at Europe’s deepest mineshaft
Leading mechanical and electrical engineering firm, Salko UK, has successfully secured a year long contract extension with Redpath Deilmann to continue providing mechanical labour at Woodsmith Mine – Europe’s deepest mineshaft once completed. The contract extension will see a dedicated team completing the mechanical labour, reinforcing Salko UK’s long term involvement in one of the UK’s…
Do you budget for Microsoft 365 or just hope nothing breaks?
Microsoft 365 quickly becomes business‑critical. Teams, approvals, workflows, automations, before long, people rely on them every day to get work done. Licences are planned and solutions are delivered. However, what often isn’t planned is what happens after go‑live. Keeping things running Improving what’s clunky Adapting as Microsoft changes Instead, support tends to be reactive. Something…
Transforming a Buy-to-Let property in Pudsey, Leeds
Across West Yorkshire, many buy-to-let opportunities are not defined by the condition a property is purchased in, but by the potential it offers once improved. A recent project in Pudsey, Leeds highlights how a considered approach to property sourcing, renovation and interior design can enhance both rental appeal and overall property performance. The property was…
Health T Level Placement Awards
Our Health T Level students received some exceptional feedback and results at the recent Placement Awards at St James’ Hospital recently. Notre Dame students secured a clean sweep of all award categories ahead of Leeds City College, who we partner with through the Leeds Health and Care Academy for T Level Health placement opportunities. The…
Understanding property opportunities across West and North Yorkshire
West and North Yorkshire continue to attract interest from property buyers, developers, and business owners, supported by strong regional demand, ongoing regeneration, and a diverse mix of city centres, suburbs and surrounding towns. While Leeds is often seen as the focal point, the wider region, including Bradford, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Harrogate and York, presents a range…
How do we better connect people with opportunities in tech?
Join education providers and training innovators from across Leeds as they explore the evolving tech skills pipeline, from traditional degrees to alternative routes like bootcamps, apprenticeships, and tailored training programmes. Chaired by Kirsten Brumfitt, Chief People Officer at PEXA UK, this event will offer expert insights along with a panel discussion to unpack how different education models are helping to open up access to tech…
Fashion Retailer schuh Steps into Trinity Leeds
Fashion footwear retailer schuh has announced it will debut its new store at Trinity Leeds on Friday 17th April – with giveaways, competitions and free coffee for visitors on opening day. To celebrate the launch, Vinyl Grounds will be offering complimentary barista-made coffee, and customers who purchase from BIRKENSTOCK will get an exclusive anklet with a choice of a charm from Nelle Studios. Customers can also be in with a chance of winning a pair of BIRKENSTOCK when signing up or checking in to THE SCHUH CLUB loyalty programme. The store will showcase the…
HE Day 2026
Last Thursday [19th March], students benefitted from an inspiring and informative Higher Education Day, an annual event designed to support students in their decision-making for their next steps after college. The event, which was compulsory for all Lower Sixth students, featured a carousel of activities throughout the day. In the morning, students had the opportunity…
Notre Dame signs up to Leeds City Council’s Future Talent Plan
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College has formally pledged its support to Leeds City Council’s Future Talent Plan, a city-wide initiative to ensure Leeds becomes a place where no one is left behind in an increasingly competitive labour market. The pledge, submitted by Principal Justine Barlow, reflects Notre Dame’s commitment to supporting young people across…
T Level Partnerships at Notre Dame
T Levels are Level 3 qualifications that are equivalent to three A-levels. They were created in collaboration with employers and businesses, so the content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for work. Students are provided with a genuine experience of the workplace through practical learning via a 315-hour or 45-day industry placement. We…
North Yorkshire homebuilders celebrate 17 years of five-star customer ratings
Leading housebuilders Barratt and David Wilson Homes have once again received the maximum five-star rating in the new Home Builders Federation (HBF) annual New Homes Customer Satisfaction Survey. This is the 17th year in a row that Barratt and David Wilson Homes have achieved the top five-star rating – an accomplishment no other major housebuilder has…
Excitement builds as the LEGO Group announces April launch date at Trinity Leeds
Excitement is building as the LEGO Group announces its new store will open at Trinity Leeds on Thursday, 23rd April. The 456sq m store will give shoppers the chance to fully immerse themselves in the world of LEGO building – with specially-designed, Yorkshire-inspired LEGO models available to see and pose with on launch day. The new…
LCB reaches regional apprenticeship awards finals with 13 shortlistings
Leeds College of Building (LCB) is a finalist for 13 awards across ten categories at this year’s West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. The annual awards event celebrates outstanding apprentices, employers, and training providers across fields such as engineering, law, and construction. This year will mark the fourth edition of the awards, first set up in 2022…
Leeds Beckett Cyber Security degree fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre
Leeds Beckett University has announced that its BSc (Hons) Cyber Security degree is now fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre, a part of GCHQ. The certification places Leeds Beckett among a small group of UK universities to hold full certification for an undergraduate cyber security degree, recognising the quality and rigour of the…
The Smarter Way to Support and Improve Microsoft 365
“Structured support and continuous improvement for the solutions you rely on” Most businesses don’t set out to build complex Microsoft 365 environments. It starts with a few flows. A SharePoint site. A Teams‑based process that works well… until it doesn’t. Over time, Microsoft 365 ends up supporting important day‑to‑day business processes but keeping everything running…