Beyond the Classroom – Life and Career-Enhancing Experiences
At Hugh Baird College, real learning extends beyond the classroom, forging meaningful employer partnerships that equip students with the skills, insight, and confidence they need to succeed and real-world experiences that shape personal and professional growth.
CyberHub Trust Cyber, Security and Safety Event
Digital Development, Media Production, and Travel students enjoyed a full day of workshops and talks from leading organisations in the cyber security and digital technologies sectors, thanks to an event organised by The CyberHub Trust.
Participants took part in a map challenge using robots with IBM, a cyber quest coding activity with BAE Systems, a VR laser competition with Axon, a hacking response test with Civil Aviation Authority, and a system build activity with Currys.
A Talk with Radcliffe Home Care
Representatives from Radcliffe Home Care visited our campus to engage with Access to Higher Education students. During their visit, they provided valuable insights into the various career paths and opportunities available within the care sector. The session highlighted diverse roles and potential career progression, aiming to inspire and inform students about the rewarding aspects of working in care. Students asked questions, gained a deeper understanding of the industry, and learned about the skills and qualifications needed to pursue a career in this growing sector.
Level 3 Nail Technology Students Benefit from Expert Workshop
We welcomed Helen Farnan from Infinity Nails, who shared her extensive knowledge and expertise in gel polish application techniques. Our Level 3 Nail Technology students had a fantastic opportunity to learn directly from a professional in the industry, gaining valuable insights and hands-on experience. Helen’s session enhanced their practical skills and gave them a deeper understanding of current industry standards and trends.
King’s Trust Team Leadership Trip to the Peak District
King’s Trust Team 25 took a leadership trip to White Hall Outdoor Centre in Buxton, Derbyshire. The students had an enjoyable time developing their teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills in the stunning surroundings of the Peak District.
Year 12 Students Build Confidence in Loudspeaker Live Workshop
Sefton Sixth Form College was delighted to welcome the team from Loudspeaker Live, who delivered an engaging and interactive workshop for our Year 12 students. Throughout the session, students took part in a range of activities designed to build their confidence, enhance their communication skills, and encourage teamwork. The workshop not only provided a fun and supportive environment for students to step out of their comfort zones but also helped them form new friendships and develop valuable life skills.
Hospitality Students Gain Experience at Everton Football Club
Our Level 2 Hospitality students gained invaluable hands-on experience at Everton Football Club, where Dylan and Keira had the opportunity to work alongside Executive Chef Ciaran Symonds in the kitchen — an incredible stepping stone for their future careers.
Criminology Students Participate in Mock Trial with Local Magistrate
Criminology students from Hugh Baird University Centre and Sefton Sixth Form College had a unique opportunity to engage with local magistrates, gaining firsthand insight into the justice system. As part of the session, they attended an informative talk on the role of magistrates in the legal process and participated in a mock trial demonstration, allowing them to apply their knowledge in a realistic courtroom setting.
Voyagers Head Chef Launches Guest Chef Series at L20 Restaurant
Hugh Baird College was delighted to welcome Jake Parry, Head Chef at Voyagers Restaurant and Bar, to launch an exciting new guest chef series at the L20 Restaurant. Parry spent the day working closely with students, sharing his expertise and industry insights as they collaborated to prepare a unique dining experience. From menu planning to execution, students gained hands-on experience in a professional kitchen environment, refining their culinary techniques under the guidance of a seasoned chef.
Travel Students Experience a Day in the Life of a Liverpool Tour Guide
Level 3 Travel students gained an insider’s view of the tourism industry with a session led by Carl Quayle, a well-known Liverpool walking tour guide. The experience gave students a firsthand understanding of what it takes to lead a successful city tour, from historical knowledge to audience engagement, offering valuable insights into a potential career path in Liverpool’s thriving tourism sector.
A Life-Changing Volunteering Experience in Zanzibar
A group of health students from Hugh Baird College took part in a transformative volunteering placement in Zanzibar, Africa, in partnership with the charity African Impact. Working in the village of Jambiani, they supported education and community well-being by teaching English to both children and Maasai adults, helping young children with hygiene practices, and engaging in cultural exchanges, including traditional Maasai dance celebrations.
Beyond their volunteer work, they explored Zanzibar’s rich culture, swimming with dolphins, touring spice farms, and visiting Stone Town. The experience was described as incredibly rewarding by the students, who highlighted the valuable skills they gained for their future careers in healthcare.
Criminology Students Explore Crime History at Lancaster Castle
University Centre Criminology students took an educational trip to Lancaster Castle as part of their Crime History module. Once a fully operational prison until 2012, the castle provided a unique opportunity to explore its rich history and learn about its role in punishment and incarceration. The visit offered insights into the evolution of crime and justice in the UK, bringing historical theories to life.
Float Your Boat Challenge
Engineering students took part in the Maritime Heritage Maritime Futures project at the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port. They were introduced to the ‘Float Your Boat Challenge,’ learning about naval architecture, sustainability, and water safety through hands-on activities and demonstrations. Students explored vessel design, buoyancy, and stability while connecting with industry professionals.
Sefton Sixth Form College Film and Media Students Explore Creative Pathways at Edge Hill
Our Year 12 A-level Film and Media students attended a Film, Media, and Creative Subject Taster Day at Edge Hill University. They developed and presented film concepts, learned about narrative structures, and created their own 60-second short film ideas.
Thornton College Students Prepare for Tournament with Panathlon Challenge
Thornton College students had a fantastic time with James Dixon from Panathlon Challenge, trying out for a new 5-a-side team in preparation for a tournament at Greenbank College. We extend our thanks to James for an inspiring and energetic session.
Students Gain Event Experience at Liverpool Comic Con
Hospitality, Catering, Travel, and Creative Media Production students gained valuable volunteering experience at Liverpool Comic Con. They assisted with the photo booth stall, managed queues, directed visitors, and supported special guests at the signature stands.
Hepatitis C Awareness Project for T-Level Healthcare Students
Neil and Andy from the Hepatitis C Trust visited T-Level Healthcare students to discuss Hepatitis C awareness, testing, and treatment. They also launched a project that students will work on, culminating in presentations. It was a valuable learning opportunity.
Apprentice-Led Masterclass on Fire Door Manufacturing
Carpentry and Joinery Apprentices Max Weaver and Michael Rawlinson led a masterclass on manufacturing fire doors to industry standards. We extend our thanks to John Doyle, Director of Fire Doors and Frames, for supporting this project and providing valuable insights.
Neptune Brewery Visit for L20 Hotel School Students
Neptune Brewery hosted Level 3 Kitchen and Front of House students from the L20 Hotel School. The visit offered valuable insights into the brewing process and different beer styles, enhancing practical knowledge and supporting students’ education.
Kings Trust Students Build Skills with LFC Foundation
Our Kings Trust students (formerly known as Prince’s Trust) completed a 10-week programme in partnership with the Liverpool Football Club Foundation. Through the Global Works programme, they developed teamwork abilities, set personal and professional goals, and enhanced their employability skills.
Carpentry and Joinery Visit
Carpentry and Joinery students and staff visited the Daltons Wadkins Nottingham Showroom to see the latest in carpentry and joinery machinery. From CNC machines to spindle moulders, the trip offered valuable insights into industry standards.
Employer Led Projects (ELPs)
We have continued the excellent work done through Employer Led Projects and the use of eduScrum. Fourteen projects took place, and more are due to start soon.
Childcare
Childcare students created a ‘Santa’s Workshop’ and invited local nurseries to attend. Atherton House and Early Learners visited the College with groups of children. Our students supported the children with activities such as a reindeer food station, letters to Santa, and card making. They even gave each child a reading book to take home.
Health and Social Care
Health and Social Care students welcomed guest speaker Mark King from the Oliver King Foundation to launch their project. The entire class was trained in CPR and defibrillator use and carried out sponsored CPR, raising funds. Mark provided the Healthcare Campus with an AED (defibrillator) to benefit the campus and local community.
Catering
Level 3 Catering students designed and delivered a canape experience for a charity dinner at the Hilton Hotel. James Holden visited the College to take part in the practical session. The students then participated in a formal dinner to showcase their canapes, receiving excellent feedback from the Hilton Hotel and the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.
Thornton College
Students at Thornton College worked with the local charity ‘Care for the Paw,’ which helps support dogs living on the streets with their homeless owners or those in temporary accommodation. Students raised awareness through social media, collected donations, organised drop-off points, and used Facebook to gather additional support from staff and family.
Carpentry and Joinery Students Gain Industry Insight
Carpentry and Joinery students visited JJ Smith and Co (Woodworking Machinery) Ltd for an immersive workshop. They worked with state-of-the-art CNC crosscutting machinery, gaining real-world industry experience.
Applied Science and Geography Students Explore Sustainable Farming
Our Applied Science and Geography students visited Farm Urban, an aquaculture farming system in Liverpool. They participated in a workshop, toured the farm, and learned about vertical hydroponics. They also had a chance to taste-test the produce.
Visit to Smithy’s
Level 3 Catering students spent a day with Smithy’s mushrooms in Scarisbrick. They toured the mushroom farm and learned about the importance of using local suppliers to promote sustainability.
Level 2 Hospitality Students Visit Dublin
As part of their Wines and Spirits unit, students took a trip to Dublin to explore the home of the iconic Guinness. They enjoyed a guided tour of the brewing process and experienced the city’s sights.
Industry Talk with Photographer and Videographer Robin Clewley
Robin Clewley visited our Moving Image BA students for an insightful session on his career in photography and music video production. He shared his experiences working in the industry, highlighting the creative and technical aspects of both short-form and long-form video content. Students gained valuable knowledge on visual storytelling, industry trends, and practical techniques for building a successful career in media production. The session also provided a unique opportunity for students to ask questions and gain firsthand insights from a professional actively working in the field.
Engineering Students Workshop with Former Cammell Laird Director
Our Engineering students took part in a workshop with former Cammell Laird director Mike Moran. Guided by industry experts, they gained insights and designed their own boat models.
Green Skills Day
Our Green Skills Day gave students in Plumbing, Electrical, Engineering, Construction, and Carpentry and Joinery hands-on experience with sustainable technologies and career pathways. Industry leaders, including Cadent Gas, E.ON, Starship, JJ Smith, Lightwave, AB Engineering, and K2/Vinci, delivered engaging sessions to showcase opportunities in the green economy.
Plumbing students worked with Cadent Gas, using VR headsets to explore careers in net-zero industries and gain insights into future opportunities in engineering. E.ON led sessions for Plumbing, Electrical, and Engineering students, featuring a solar quiz with Peel Ports, a scenario-based team challenge, and an interactive Lego activity, where students designed their ideal green job.
Construction students participated in a workshop with Starship, which included CAD 2D/3D drawing, a practical session, and a Q & A. Carpentry and Joinery students explored robotics in construction with JJ Smith, learning how automation is transforming the industry. Electrical students attended a session with Lightwave, where they interacted with smart home devices designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints.
Engineering and Building Services students engaged with AB Engineering, gaining insights into career pathways and industry advancements. K2/Vinci hosted Construction and Building Services students, offering interactive activities that demonstrated sustainable innovations in the sector.
This event provided students with direct access to industry professionals, real-world experience, and a deeper understanding of careers in sustainability, preparing them for the rapidly growing green job market.
Hugh Baird College Students Take Over Voyagers Restaurant
A group of talented Hospitality and Catering students from Hugh Baird College took over the kitchen and front of house at Voyagers Restaurant and Bar in an exciting showcase event. They worked alongside industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience in high-pressure service, menu planning, and customer engagement.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for students to demonstrate their skills in a real-world setting, refining their culinary techniques and front-of-house expertise while delivering an exceptional dining experience to guests.
Black and Ginger Creative Agency Talk
Black and Ginger Creative Agency joined us to speak with our Visual Merchandising, Graphic Design, and Photography degree students about working in the design industry, personal branding, and professional practice.
Creative Makeup Design and Practice Masterclass
Our Creative Makeup Design and Practice students had a masterclass with MAC Liverpool and Nathan from their Pro Artistry team. With experience working alongside heads of artistry and Vogue, he shared expert tips on breaking into the industry, career insights, and professional techniques.
Hugh Baird College Partners with E.ON to Power the Future of Green Skills
Hugh Baird College has partnered with E.ON to equip students with the skills needed for careers in the growing green energy sector. Through this collaboration, students will gain hands-on experience with sustainable technologies, renewable energy solutions, and eco-friendly practices. The initiative aims to integrate green skills into the curriculum, ensuring learners are prepared for the evolving job market in sustainability-focused industries. By working with E.ON, students will have access to industry expertise, real-world insights, and potential career pathways in the transition to a low-carbon future. This partnership highlights the college’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that align with the increasing demand for environmental sustainability in the workforce.
Carboxytherapy Facial Demonstration for Beauty Students
Tracey from 4T Medical visited our Level 2 and Level 4 Beauty students to deliver an in-depth demonstration of the Carboxytherapy Facial. During the session, students learned about the benefits of the treatment, its application techniques, and how it can be used to improve skin health and rejuvenation. The hands-on experience provided valuable industry insights, allowing students to enhance their practical skills and deepen their understanding of advanced beauty treatments. This session was an excellent opportunity for students to engage with a professional and expand their knowledge of cutting-edge skincare technologies.
Marine Engineering Insights
Our Engineering students welcomed Marine Engineer Chris Pritchard, who shared information about robotic submersibles, oil rigs, underwater welding, and captaining ships. He highlighted how their qualifications can lead to exciting career paths.
Collaborative Work Experience with Lovell Partnerships and Cobalt Housing
The first stage of our collaborative work experience programme with Lovell Partnerships and Cobalt Housing is complete. Our Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery learners took part in onboarding and site safety at a live construction site. They will now work toward achieving their CSCS cards, ensuring they are fully prepared for their upcoming placements.
We are proud to be equipping our students with the skills and experience needed for success in the construction industry.
Thornton College Residential
Nineteen learners took part in an action-packed residential experience at NCS Dearne Valley, where they engaged in a variety of exciting outdoor challenges designed to build confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Activities included crate climbing, zip wires, and problem-solving tasks that encouraged collaboration and leadership skills.
The experience concluded with a campfire and a lively disco, providing students with the opportunity to relax, bond, and reflect on their achievements.
Exercise and Fitness Students Visit PureGym
Our Exercise and Fitness students took part in an engaging visit to PureGym, where Gym Manager Joel Sorby provided valuable career insights and industry knowledge. During the visit, students explored various aspects of gym operations, from fitness training techniques to customer engagement strategies. They also had the opportunity to participate in high-energy classes such as Body Tone and Cycle, gaining firsthand experience of different workout styles and training methods..
Art and Design Level 2 Students Take on Live Brief for Roy Castle Lung Foundation
Our Art and Design Level 2 students worked hard to meet a live brief for the Roy Castle Lung Foundation. They carried out in-depth research for their designs, and their props were later exhibited during the Foundation’s walk.
Aqualisa Training for Plumbing Students
Aqualisa’s National Training Manager, visited to deliver an informative session for our students, covering Aqualisa products, installation techniques, and career opportunities within the plumbing industry. The training also provided valuable insights into stockists and the latest advancements in smart shower technology.
Students gained an in-depth understanding of app-controlled showers, which offer enhanced safety features, particularly beneficial for households with young children. This hands-on learning experience helped students expand their technical knowledge and stay up to date with modern industry innovations.
Healthcare Students Attend Industry Showcase
Our Access to Higher Education, Health and Social Care, and Mental Health and Wellbeing students attended Nursing Live UK at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool. They spoke with healthcare professionals, talked to universities, and viewed demonstrations of new NHS equipment.
Smart Home Demonstration with Scholmore International
Neil McManus from Scholmore International visited our campus to provide Electrical Installation learners from Levels 1, 2, 3, and Apprenticeships with hands-on training in smart home devices and new technologies. There were fun quizzes with prizes, and Neil generously donated materials.
Foundation Learning Students Visit Asda Bootle
Our Foundation Learning Entry Level 3 students visited Asda Bootle as part of the Asda World of Work programme. They toured the store and got hands-on experience by making pizzas behind the counter.
Community Clean-Up with Learning for Life Students
Our Learning for Life students took part in a Sefton community clean-up in Netherton, making a positive impact and contributing toward their ‘Socially Aware’ badge in our college enrichment programme ‘The Six.’ They truly embraced the activity and demonstrated strong community spirit.
