New College Bradford hosted its partners’ dinner on Thursday 5 July at Bradford City Hall. The evening consisted of speeches, musical performances, a wonderful 3-course meal and information about the college, which is set to open in Bradford city centre in September 2019. Guests in attendance included the building contractor, local radio, faith leaders, heads and principals of local schools and universities, Connextions, representatives from Bradford council and governors and staff from across the NCLT.
Following a drinks reception, Michael Jameson, Strategic Director for Children’s Services at Bradford Council, gave an inspiring speech about Bradford’s rich history and the exciting future that lies ahead for the city. Diane Heritage, Chair of the New Collaborative Learning Trust, spoke of the importance of opportunity for learning, and Pauline Hagen OBE, CEO of the NCLT, talked about the importance of social mobility and bringing the Trust’s brand of outstanding teaching to the city of Bradford. Speeches were separated by each course of the meal and with some wonderful performances from music and performing arts students from New College Pontefract.
The evening drew to a close with New College Bradford Principal Designate, Stuart Nash, informing guests what the college will offer to the young people of the region. Current year 13 student, Joe Waters, then spoke about his 2 year experience at New College Pontefract, and how the support he received and how he had been signposted to join the college’s excellence academy programme. This inspired him to apply to some of the country’s elite universities, including Cambridge and Durham, where he has had interviews.
Speaking of the evening, Stuart Nash said, “A brilliant evening last night in the impressive 19th century banqueting hall with great collaborative conversations, inspirational speeches, and fantastic musical performances from New College students.”
