Bath College

Bath College operates as a prominent further education institution situated within the Bath and North East Somerset (BANES) region, dedicated to empowering individuals across all ages to learn, grow, and achieve success. The college delivers high-quality education, training, and values that aim to strengthen its community and prepare learners for meaningful futures. Its fundamental mission is to inspire and transform lives through lifelong learning, providing inclusive pathways for all individuals to acquire the confidence, knowledge, and skills necessary to thrive in a changing economy. The institution also supports employers by cultivating a skilled workforce and actively contributes to the cultural, social, and economic vitality of its surrounding communities.

The college maintains two distinct campuses: a lively City Centre Campus located in the heart of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage City, and the Somer Valley Campus, which is closely connected to the local Radstock and BANES community. The City Centre Campus offers an inspiring space for learning, positioned conveniently near public transport and within proximity to historical and creative landmarks. It provides industry-standard facilities, micro-businesses, creative spaces, and practical workshops designed to help students build real-world skills. The Somer Valley Campus, focusing on practical skills and qualifications, features a modern environment that links education directly with employment opportunities to address local and national skills requirements. Students at Somer Valley gain practical experience, preparing them confidently for their next steps towards employment.

Bath College offers a comprehensive array of courses and pathways tailored for diverse learners, including school leavers, adults aged 19 and over, apprentices, and those pursuing higher education. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of vocational subjects such as construction, creative arts, health and social care, engineering, business, IT, media, performing arts, catering and hospitality, hairdressing, beauty, floristry, sport, travel and tourism, and public services. The college’s courses are designed to match local and national skills needs, ensuring that whether individuals are leaving school or seeking a career change, the institution can support them in achieving their goals. Through initiatives like 'Bath Works', students engage in meaningful work experience, participate in live projects, and access industry mentoring and employer visits, which are integral to developing practical skills and understanding employer expectations.

Beyond academic and vocational instruction, Bath College is deeply embedded in the local community, functioning as a central hub. The college fosters a supportive, learner-centred approach, where everyone is welcome to join clubs, try new activities, discover fresh opportunities, and build lasting friendships. Life at the college extends beyond classroom learning, with students having opportunities to engage in sports, volunteer, participate in fundraising, and work on community projects, thereby building confidence and teamwork skills. The institution also provides extensive student support services, including careers advice, guidance for job applications or university progression, and wellbeing services to help students manage personal challenges and ensure a healthy study environment.

Established through the merger of City of Bath College and Norton Radstock College in April 2015, Bath College carries a rich history dating back to its formation in 1892 as Bath City Science, Art, and Technical Schools. The college is committed to its core HEART values, which guide its operations and interactions. By 2030, Bath College envisions itself as an inclusive and outstanding college, recognised at the heart of its community for transforming lives and shaping the future. This vision includes achieving exceptional teaching, learning, and skills development, co-creating curricula with various partners, and leading in key sectors such as health, creative industries, engineering, green construction, and digital innovation. The college strives to ensure every learner has a clear pathway to employment, higher education, or enterprise, while also investing in its staff and celebrating inclusivity as a fundamental strength.