Delivering hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills

Background

Calderdale College, located in Halifax, is at the forefront of engineering education in West Yorkshire. 

Through its Engineering Centre, the College is committed to delivering high-quality T Levels and apprenticeships, providing students with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in modern engineering careers. A key part of this commitment is the use of Denford machinery and participation in the F1 in Schools initiative, which provides students with hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills.

Denford Equipment at Calderdale College

The College’s Engineering Centre features specialist Denford machinery, including:

• Turn 270 Lathe
• VMC1300 Milling Machine
• Router 2600 Pro

These tools are integral to the College’s practical training approach. Denford was chosen as the supplier due to its local manufacturing base, and strong reputation in the Education sector. 

James Kitson, Engineering Lecturer, comments: “Denford’s equipment not only supports hands-on learning but also aligns perfectly with the requirements of T Levels and engineering apprenticeships, making it an ideal partner for the College”.

The Decision to Join F1 in Schools

The F1 in Schools initiative has become a cornerstone of Calderdale College’s efforts to engage students in STEM education. This global competition encourages students to design, manufacture, and race miniature F1 cars, providing a thrilling, real-world application of engineering concepts. 

Partnership With WYMS and Local Industry

Calderdale College works closely with West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services (WYMS), which serves as both its landlord, for the Engineering Centre, and a key business partner. This relationship strengthens the College’s ties to local manufacturing, providing students with pathways into employment.

The partnership with Denford further enhances these opportunities, as one of the College’s apprentices is directly employed by the company. This collaboration evidences the importance of local industry connections in creating a robust pipeline of skilled workers.

Supporting T Levels and Apprenticeships

Denford’s equipment plays a pivotal role in Calderdale College’s engineering curriculum, supporting both T Levels and apprenticeship programs. The machines are ideal for teaching advanced manufacturing techniques and developing critical problem-solving and design skills. James adds: “By integrating Denford’s tools into our programs, the College ensures that students thrive with practical expertise aligned with industry standards”.

Impact on Students

The hands-on experience provided by Denford machines and the F1 in Schools initiative has had a transformative effect on students. These programs:

• Nurture creativity and innovation through design challenges.
• Build technical skills such as CNC machining and CAD design.
• Enhance problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.

Conclusion

Calderdale College provides a great example of how education and industry can work together to inspire the next generation. Through its partnership with Denford, involvement in the F1 in Schools initiative, and dedication to T Levels and apprenticeships, the College provides students with a pathway to success.