Bradford College Hosts Adult Community Stakeholder Event in The Grove 

Bradford College’s Adult Community department welcomed local organisations, community centres, and businesses to The Grove restaurant for a stakeholder event showcasing collaborative projects and opportunities for adult learners. 

The event highlighted the ongoing ‘We Belong in Bradford’ initiative, a collaboration between Adult & Community Lecturer, Rashid Hasan and the College’s Library Team Lead, Lakshmi Banner, aimed at fostering inclusion and engagement within the community. Attendees also heard from Skills House, who presented their work supporting individuals with employment and skills development. 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.” 

Guests enjoyed catering provided by Adult Catering students, who prepared and served a selection of dishes as part of their practical training in the College’s on-site restaurant. The event offered a valuable networking opportunity for local stakeholders to learn more about Bradford College’s adult skills provision and explore ways to work together to support learners across the district. 

Seima Mahmood, Curriculum Team Leader for Community Learning, said: 

“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.” 

The event also marked the start of an exciting new collaboration with South Square Centre, where Bradford College will continue to deliver an 11-week Art & Design course beginning in January. This initiative will give adults the chance to explore a variety of art and craft techniques in a welcoming community setting.  

The students, who are taught by Helena Flood, are also contributing towards the ‘We Belong in Bradford’ project by producing illustrations for the stories. 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.” 

Bradford College remains dedicated to creating inclusive learning opportunities and building strong partnerships that help learners thrive.