Record demand for occupational courses prompts Luton college to encourage early applications

Young people across Bedfordshire are being encouraged to consider their futures earlier after record demand saw some courses at a Luton college fill up before GCSE results day. 

Barnfield College in Luton, which is part of the West Herts College Group, reported that a number of construction and engineering courses were already full for 2026-27 before students even knew the outcome of their exams.

Figures released by the college show the number of school leavers choosing to study in these industries has more than doubled, rising from 344 in 2021/22 to 871 in 2026/27, an increase of 153 per cent.

Tammy Nuthall, principal at Barnfield College, said: “We are thrilled that so many young people had already chosen to study with us, and it shows just how sought after some of our courses have become.

"Our message to anyone thinking about joining us next year is simple: there are still plenty of opportunities available, but our construction and engineering courses fill quickly, so it's worth exploring your options and applying early.”

Applications for full-time construction and engineering courses across the West Herts College Group are particularly popular with figures showing they have increased by more than 96 per cent since 2021/22.

Demand for part-time and apprenticeship provision has also grown by 143 per cent. The strongest growth has been seen in engineering at the Barnfield campus, where applications increased by almost 125 per cent, while full-time construction courses in Watford recorded a 91 per cent rise.

Tammy added: “We think this proves that Barnfield College is firmly established as an excellent learning environment, which inspires students and prepares them for the outside world.

“We’re very proud of the vast range of educational opportunities we provide, which include career-focused full-time courses, apprenticeships, degrees and Higher National Diplomas, and we are continuing to invest in our facilities.  We’re encouraging anyone who hopes to continue their education with us next year to come and see us early and find the right course for them.”

Barnfield College, part of the West Herts College Group, works closely with employers, including Willmott Dixon, to ensure its curriculum reflects industry requirements and emerging workforce needs. Learners benefit from industry-standard facilities, employer partnerships and practical experience designed to prepare them for employment, apprenticeships or further study.

Peter Olawaye, social value manager for Willmott Dixon (London & The East), said: “The construction industry is currently facing a growing skills gap and engaging the next generation of talent is more important than ever.

“Colleges play such a crucial role in equipping young people with the skills and confidence to build successful careers, and we work hard to support this as a main contractor. If we can create clear pathways into construction today, we will help develop a skilled and sustainable workforce for us in the future.”

Tammy added: “All our courses provide fantastic opportunities for people looking to build rewarding, long-term careers. We are experts in providing further education and hands-on experience within industries that are evolving rapidly. Our dedicated course leaders and tutors ensure they remain up-to-date with their specialist sectors, embracing new technologies, sustainability and innovation, so they can pass on their knowledge to their students.”

The College will be holding an open day on Saturday, November 14.

For more information from the College, visit www.barnfield.ac.uk