BARNSLEY College has secured almost £2m in investment to help support the next phase of the redevelopment at its historic Church Street site - and it’ll accommodate up to 1,000 more learners each year.
The 93-year-old art deco building has already been transformed into a modern, technology-rich Institute of Technology to retain and enhance the classic architecture inside and out, complemented with the latest innovations in construction and technology.
It will house higher level technical qualifications in SYIoT subjects such as engineering, construction and IT.
Funding for the project is a combination of Department for Education regional investment, and college capital funds.
It started in 2024 and now has a new atrium and a combination of learning resource and study zones set over three new mezzanine floors with a new glazed roof above and a modern cafe and breakout area at ground floor level.
But that’s only phase one of the plans, and the college has now secured £1.8m from the Office for Students’ Capital Fund 2025 to 2026 for the next stage.
The upgraded spaces in the University Centre will offer technology enabled classrooms, independent study spaces, collaborative work areas and improved accessibility.
Once complete, the building will accommodate up to an additional 1,000 learners each year, supporting the growing demand from adults and school leavers for high quality, career focused progression routes.
The redevelopment will strengthen the college’s capacity to deliver programmes in seven priority sector subject areas that reflect regional and national skills needs.
These include clean energy industries within construction, engineering and manufacturing, business and financial services, health and social care, digital and technology, creative industries and early years leadership.
In line with the Office for Students’ aims for quality, capacity and choice, the project will expand delivery of higher technical qualifications, degree apprenticeships and flexible learning.
By 2026 to 2027, the college expects around 80 per cent of its HE learners to be studying in priority technical and professional sectors.
This investment marks a significant step forward in strengthening Barnsley’s HE infrastructure and supporting the skills needed for the region’s future growth.
Barnsley College principal David Akeroyd said: “This investment marks a significant step forward for higher education in Barnsley.
“It strengthens our commitment to expanding opportunities for local people to gain the skills they need for rewarding and future focused careers.
“The redevelopment of the Church Street site is about creating a modern, inspiring environment that matches the quality and ambition of our higher education offer.
“This next phase will increase our capacity, widen access and support growth in priority sectors that are vital to South Yorkshire’s economy.
“We are proud to preserve and modernise this important heritage building.
“By choosing sustainable refurbishment, we are protecting its character while equipping it for the needs of today’s learners, employers and our community.”
