Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) is a forward-thinking institution renowned for its commitment to delivering high-quality education and vocational training. Located in Burton upon Trent, the College offers a diverse portfolio of programmes ranging from further education and apprenticeships to university-level study. BSDC’s curriculum is shaped by industry needs, ensuring learners gain practical, career-ready skills.

Facilities such as the Mulberry Bistro, Innovations Hair and Beauty Salon, and the Hardy Signs Print Academy provide real-world environments where students apply their learning. The College’s Skills Promise guarantees that every learner will develop the essential skills required for employment, including digital literacy, communication, and teamwork. BSDC also works closely with employers to co-design courses and offer work placements, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce.

BSDC’s approach to skills development is deeply embedded in its teaching philosophy. The College offers specialist training across sectors including construction, engineering, health and social care, hospitality, and creative industries. Learners benefit from hands-on experience in purpose-built facilities such as the Stephen Burke Construction Academy and Fleet Street Fitness. Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of BSDC’s provision, with strong employer partnerships enabling students to earn while they learn.

The College also supports adult learners through flexible programmes designed to upskill and reskill for career progression. ESOL courses and community learning initiatives further extend BSDC’s reach, helping individuals improve their English and integrate into society. Through its inclusive and personalised approach, BSDC empowers learners of all backgrounds to achieve their potential and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Internationally, BSDC has established itself as a global education provider. The College has delivered bespoke training and curriculum development across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and was recognised with the British Council Award for Internationalism. One standout initiative is its partnership with the Korean Global Practical Training Programme, which brings Korean students to BSDC for a combined programme of English language tuition and vocational training.

Learners engage in practical sessions alongside UK students in areas such as childcare, hospitality, and media make-up, fostering cultural exchange and shared learning. BSDC has also adapted to global challenges by offering online English language programmes to students in South Korea and Japan during the pandemic, using virtual reality and simulation to enhance delivery. These international collaborations not only broaden BSDC’s impact but also enrich the learning experience for its home students.

BSDC’s international ventures extend to the Middle East, where it operates in Saudi Arabia. This partnership has enabled the College to deliver technical education to female learners in Jeddah as part of Saudi Arabia’s Colleges of Excellence programme. BSDC’s involvement has contributed to the development of vocational skills in the region, supporting national goals for workforce diversification and female empowerment.

The College’s global footprint is a testament to its adaptability and commitment to excellence in education. By exporting UK vocational standards and collaborating with international partners, BSDC continues to influence education policy and practice worldwide. These experiences feed back into the College’s domestic provision, ensuring that its learners benefit from a truly global perspective and are prepared to thrive in an interconnected world.