A brilliant beginning: Pudsey Sixth Form College’s first half term

It’s been an unforgettable first half term at Pudsey Sixth Form College as our very first students settled into life at our brand-new campus.

When the college officially opened its doors in September, it marked a huge milestone for Pudsey and the surrounding area. Local young people can study a full range of A levels, T Levels and BTECs right here in the heart of the community – in modern, purpose-built facilities designed to support every aspect of their learning.

To mark the occasion, students created a time capsule filled with their thoughts, hopes and predictions for the future – a snapshot of this historic moment to be opened in 25 years’ time. It was a fitting way to begin a new chapter, capturing the optimism and ambition that runs through everything at Pudsey Sixth Form College.

The first few weeks were all about finding our rhythm. During induction week, students met our central teams, from safeguarding and careers to ilearn, a service where students can book one-to-one chats with mentors as well as explore helpful resources, and got a taste of the subjects they’d soon be studying. They also threw themselves into enrichment activities, trying out everything from coding and drawing to special effects make-up and British sign language. Team challenges and collaborative research projects helped new classmates bond, while a lively “marketplace” showcase saw groups presenting their work on digital literacy, research skills and the responsible use of AI.

Our first Freshers’ Fair brought together universities, employers and local organisations including Leeds Trinity University, University Centre Leeds, MindMate, Forward Leeds and Pudsey Community Project. It was a brilliant day full of conversations and opportunities – and the addition of a food donation basket, set up by Pudsey Community Project, reminded everyone of the power of giving back.

As the term went on, our enrichment programme continued to grow. Students explored everything from art and board games to coding and sign language – and took part in National Restart a Heart Day, learning vital CPR skills to help save lives. On World Mental Health Day, staff and students joined the #HelloYellow campaign, wearing yellow to show support for young people’s mental health and reminding each other that it’s always okay to talk.

October also saw our first open event, where we welcomed visitors to explore the college, meet our teachers and student ambassadors, and experience interactive subject activities. It was wonderful to see so many families discovering what Pudsey Sixth Form College has to offer – and to share our vision for helping every learner unlock their potential.

Students and staff also celebrated Black History Month, exploring the stories and achievements of influential figures in history, culture and society. Classroom discussions and creative displays helped spark conversations about equality, identity and representation – values that sit at the heart of our growing college community.

And, of course, no first half term would be complete without a touch of fun. As Halloween approached, the college came alive with creative costumes as staff and students joined our spooky fundraiser for BBC Children in Need. 

It’s hard not to feel proud of how far we’ve already come. From the excitement of opening day to the warmth of our community events, Pudsey Sixth Form College has quickly become a vibrant place to learn, grow and belong.

Here’s to the start of something special – and to many more milestones ahead.