Bradford College Hosts Adult Community Stakeholder Event

Local organisations meet to discuss adult education and community projects

Bradford College recently held a stakeholder event at The Grove restaurant, bringing together local organisations, community centres, and businesses to discuss collaborative projects and opportunities for adult learners in the area.

Focus on community inclusion and skills development

The event highlighted the ongoing initiative titled We Belong in Bradford, a project developed in partnership between Adult & Community Lecturer Rashid Hasan and the College’s Library Team Lead Lakshmi Banner. This initiative aims to promote inclusion and engagement within the Bradford community.

Attendees also heard from Skills House, an organisation that supports individuals with employment and skills development, providing insight into their work in the local area.

Networking and practical training

Guests were served a selection of dishes prepared and presented by Adult Catering students as part of their practical training at the College’s on-site restaurant. This provided an opportunity for students to gain experience in a real-world setting while supporting the event.

The gathering offered a chance for local stakeholders to learn more about Bradford College’s adult skills provision and explore potential collaborations to support learners across the district.

Statements from college representatives

• Javier Gomez, Head of Department for Adult Skills, said: “By connecting education, skills, and community partnerships, we’re building bridges that transform lives across Bradford.”
• Seima Mahmood, Curriculum Team Leader for Community Learning, commented: “This event was a fantastic opportunity to bring together partners who share our commitment to empowering adults through education and skills. By showcasing projects like We Belong in Bradford and hearing from organisations such as Skills House, we’re strengthening connections that make a real difference in our community.”
• Sarah Odor, Curriculum Area Manager for Community Learning, added: “We Belong in Bradford is more than a project—it’s a movement to create inclusive spaces where every adult feels empowered to learn and grow.”

New community art course announced

The event also marked the launch of a new collaboration with South Square Centre, where Bradford College will deliver an 11-week Art & Design course starting in January. This course will offer adults the chance to explore various art and craft techniques in a community setting.

Students on this course, taught by Helena Flood, will contribute to the We Belong in Bradford project by producing illustrations to accompany community stories.

Commitment to adult education and community partnerships

Bradford College continues to focus on creating inclusive learning opportunities and building strong partnerships that support adult learners throughout the Bradford district.