Darlington College

04/06/2026

A major step forward for technical education in our region 👏

Darlington College has joined the North East Institute of Technology (NEIoT), strengthening opportunities for learners to access high-level technical education, industry-standard facilities and employer-led learning.

The partnership brings together colleges, universities and leading employers to help develop the advanced skills needed for the future workforce in areas including engineering, construction, digital and AI.

Full story: https://darlington.ac.uk/north-east-institute-of-technology-expands-with-three-new-strategic-partners/

04/06/2026

🟣 Purple pens at the ready! Our next podcast episode is incoming and it's definitely worthy of a smiley face in the margin. 😄

Join us when the next episode of the *Learned It* – Living It Podcast drops, as we explore Teacher Training at Darlington College with guests Jamie, Rani, Ciaron, Amy, Eva and Fatima.

Together, they share their personal journeys into education, from balancing family life and placements to building confidence, developing professional skills and discovering a passion for teaching.

🎙️ You'll hear how:
✨ Teacher training can be a truly transformational experience
✨ Students develop an "arsenal of tools" for the classroom and beyond
✨ Building relationships and understanding behaviour are key to success
✨ Confidence grows through practical experience and supportive placements
✨ Several guests began their own teacher training journeys right here at Darlington College

From Ciaron being told he was "destined for teaching", to Fatima sharing how the course helped her grow in confidence while balancing family and health commitments, the episode is packed with honest reflections, practical advice and inspiring stories.

One theme came through loud and clear: it's a lot of work, but it's worth it. Stay organised, embrace every opportunity and don't be afraid to keep learning because, as Jamie says, you're never truly finished learning as a teacher.

Several guests also reflect on how the course transformed their confidence, communication skills and professional identity, helping them develop not only as educators, but as individuals too.

And yes... the teachers have spoken. Apparently *Learned It* should really be *Learnt It*. 😂

We can't wait for you to hear it! 🎧

In the meantime, you can catch up on our previous episodes and explore the full *Learned It – Living It Podcast* catalogue here: https://open.spotify.com/show/40vZKNkRoVKy3l4xy7C2vw

Hubspoke Media

04/06/2026

TOMORROW

Darlington College is proud to be part of the upcoming Armed Forces Connect Hub, bringing together organisations offering careers advice, training opportunities, wellbeing support and community services for the Armed Forces community.

Whether you’re a veteran, serving personnel, reservist, Armed Forces family member or considering a future career in the Armed Forces, this free drop-in event is a fantastic opportunity to explore support and next steps in one place.

Come and speak with the Darlington College team about training opportunities, skills development and courses designed to help you progress into employment or further learning. 🙌
📅 Friday 5 June
⏰ 10am
📍 Darlington Market Square

The event will also feature a wide range of employers, charities and support organisations from across the region.

Find out more and book your place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/armed-forces-connect-hub-tickets-1987309987670

Drop-in event for veterans, serving personnel, families and future recruits. Careers, training, wellbeing and support under one roof.

03/06/2026

Elements Hair & Beauty Client Sessions Are Back! 💅

Treat yourself to a manicure or facial treatment delivered by our Level 2 Beauty students, fully supervised by industry-experienced tutors.

Available treatments:
✨ Basic Manicure - £6
✨ Luxury Manicure - £8
✨ Luxury Facial - £7.50

📅 Appointments available:
Friday 5 June
Friday 12 June

🕜 Time slots:
1.30pm
2.45pm

📞 To book, call 01325 503052 or 01325 503030.

Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment!

03/06/2026

Outdoor just got BIGGER! 🌲

Looking for a career in the Outdoor sector? Lead the way with a Foundation Degree (FdSc) Outdoor Coaching & Leadership, completing our full pathway from Level 2 right through to Foundation Degree level.

This two-year course is designed to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the outdoor and adventure industry.

You’ll gain practical experience across a range of disciplines, including:
🧗 Climbing
🚴 Mountain biking
🛶 Paddlesport
🧭 Navigation

Alongside this, you’ll explore coaching theory, sports science and adventure therapy, applying your learning in real-world environments.

With opportunities to progress through National Governing Body (NGB) awards, this course can lead to careers in outdoor centres, freelance coaching or further study.

Whether you’re progressing from a related Level 3 course or bringing relevant experience and a passion for the outdoors, this is your next step.

Find out more:
https://darlington.ac.uk/course/180320/fd-in-outdoor-coaching---leadership/

02/06/2026

NEXT MONTH

Return to Learn 📚 Preparing for Higher Education

Thinking about returning to education? These free sessions are designed specifically for adults who may have been out of learning for some time and are preparing to study at Level 4 or above.

The sessions will help you rebuild confidence, refresh key study skills and prepare for the expectations of Higher Education.

Topics include:
✅ Introduction to Google Classroom
✅ Google Docs and Slides
✅ Academic writing essentials
✅ Introduction to referencing

📍 Room CS71

Choose one session to attend:
📅 Thursday 2 July | 1.30pm – 3pm
📅 Wednesday 8 July | 10am – 11.30am
📅 Thursday 9 July | 10am – 11.30am

You only need to attend one session.
📧 To book your place, email [email protected]

02/06/2026

Study a Full-Time PGCE at Darlington College!

The Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (Further Education and Skills) is designed to develop resilient, reflective and independent practitioners, preparing you to become an outstanding teacher in the FE and Skills sector.

✅ Choose from 20 specialist subject routes
✅ Eligible for public funding through Student Finance England
✅ Up to £31,000 bursary available for eligible teaching subjects

📊 National Student Survey 2025 Highlights
(Education & Teaching – Darlington College)
• 100% of respondents agreed the course helped develop their career-ready skills
• 100% felt marking and assessment were fair
• 96% said staff explained complex topics clearly
• 94% valued the collaborative learning environment
Based on 2025 National Student Survey responses for Education & Teaching at Darlington College.

Find out more and apply:
https://darlington.ac.uk/course/179983/tu-professional-graduate-certificate-in-education-further-education---skills--ft-/

02/06/2026

Helping to shape a national conversation on the future of water security 👏

Darlington College students have contributed to a major House of Lords inquiry into drought preparedness and climate resilience, with several of the ideas they explored reflected in the Committee’s final report.

As one of only six schools and colleges in England selected for the programme, students had the opportunity to present their research directly to Members of the House of Lords and contribute to discussions on future environmental policy.

Full story: https://darlington.ac.uk/darlington-college-science-students-contribution-to-the-house-of-lords-inquiry/

01/06/2026

Your Career Journey Starts Here ✈️

Mohammed Ghrer joined Darlington College in 2021 as an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learner. Starting with no English language skills, he successfully completed his ESOL studies before progressing onto full-time Travel and Tourism courses.

From Level 2 Travel & Tourism with Cabin Crew, through to the Level 3 Introductory Diploma in Travel and Tourism, Mohammed is now completing his Level 3 Extended Diploma in Travel & Tourism and is on track to achieve a Distinction. 👏

Mohammed is now pursuing a career in the aviation industry, with ambitions of becoming cabin crew. Whatever route he takes, we know his future is ready for take-off. 🚀

Congratulations, Mohammed, on everything you've achieved so far. We can't wait to see where your journey takes you next! 🙌

For everything you need to know about ESOL, Travel & Tourism, our next Open Event and enrolling at Darlington College, visit https://darlington.ac.uk/

01/06/2026

NEXT WEEK

What Comes Next Starts Here

Join us at our next Open Event and discover where your future could take you.

📅 Monday 8 June 2026
🕞 3:30pm – 6:30pm

At the event, you can:
🔵Explore our wide range of courses
🟢Tour our industry-standard facilities
🔵Speak directly with tutors and support staff
🟢Get clear advice on apprenticeships and career pathways

Whether you’re considering full-time study, part-time learning or an apprenticeship, this is your opportunity to get the answers you need and take the next step with confidence.

We look forward to seeing you there!