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Barnsley College welcomes Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Governors
Posted: 11/04/2025
Barnsley College welcomed Governors and representatives of Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – including the Director of Nursing – for an in-depth look at the hospital’s academy facilities and a discussion on how best to meet skills needs for the future.
The Barnsley Hospital academy, in the Health, Science and Social Care Professions department in Old Mill Lane, opened at the start of the current academic year – a result of the longstanding partnership between the two organisations.
It features a branded classroom adjoined to a fully realised immersive learning space which closely resembles a hospital ward with five beds, medical manikins and the same equipment students can expect to use in a healthcare setting.
The visit comprised presentations from Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive David Akeroyd, and Head of the Department Maureen Bullock – before a discussion centred around how to approach the talent pipeline which sees healthcare professionals progress from College, to university and into work, in the wake of recent curriculum reforms.
Director of Nursing Sarah Moppet, Associate Director of Nursing Diane Edwards, Trust Chair Sheena McDonnell, and Membership and Engagement Officer Andrea Spencer, alongside hospital Governors, were able to ask questions and then toured the facilities, being treated to some demonstrations of the equipment.
David Akeroyd, Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive Officer, said: “It is important that our students have a clear line of sight into their chosen profession, and that is what this academy partnership gives them.
“We know we have exceptional students and we have invested significantly in facilities that resemble, as closely as possible, what they can expect to find in the workplace.
“We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust to find ways of working collaboratively that enhance the experience for our students, and ensure they go on to the next stages of education or employment with all the skills and knowledge they need to have worthwhile and fulfilling careers.”
Barnsley Hospital Trust Chairperson, Sheena McDonnell, added: "It was a real pleasure to visit Barnsley College and meet such passionate staff. We had some fantastic discussions about how we can work together to support the Health and Care T- Levels. Partnerships like this are key to inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals and strengthening the future of our workforce."
Director of Nursing, Sarah Moppett, added: “I was incredibly impressed with the simulation facilities at Barnsley College and it was lovely to meet colleagues involved in delivering local education.
“Our partnership working with the College is so important; the strength of this partnership enables more young people to have the opportunity to take up a career in healthcare which ultimately helps us deliver the best possible healthcare to our local population. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our colleagues at Barnsley College for all that they do.”
