Prime Highlights
- Barnsley College has secured £1.8 million to redevelop its Church Street campus into a modern University Centre.
- The upgraded centre will provide 1,000 more higher education places each year and focus on career-focused courses for students.
Key Facts
- The redevelopment will support seven priority sectors, including clean energy, technology, health and social care, and creative industries.
- By 2026–2027, around 80% of higher education students are expected to study in these important career-focused areas.
Background
Barnsley College has received £1.8 million from the Office for Students’ Capital Fund 2025–2026 to support the next stage of redevelopment at its historic Church Street campus, now known as Barnsley College University Centre.
The funding will enable phase two of the college’s long-term estate strategy, transforming 21,500 sq ft of the heritage site into a modern, flexible higher education (HE) centre. The new facilities will have classrooms, group work areas, quiet study spots, and easier access for students.
The University Centre will welcome 1,000 more students a year for career-focused courses. The redevelopment will help Barnsley College offer courses in seven key areas, such as clean energy, construction, engineering, manufacturing, business, health and social care, technology, creative fields, and early years leadership. By 2026–2027, about 80% of higher education students at the college are expected to study in these important career-focused areas.
David Akeroyd, Principal and CEO of Barnsley College, explained that the funding is an important step for higher education in Barnsley. He said it will help create more opportunities for local people to gain skills for rewarding careers. The Church Street redevelopment will provide a modern and welcoming learning environment while updating the historic building to meet the needs of students, employers, and the community.
The University Centre will boost South Yorkshire’s economy by training skilled graduates.
