Yorkshire Precision Engineering Ltd (YPEL) is a UK leading subcontract CNC machining company, specialising in the supply and manufacture of high quality turned parts for a wide range of industries.

Last year, the family-run engineering firm based in Keighley, transformed its production capabilities to produce parts for the national ventilator challenge.

Founded in 2001 by Michael and Lynda Laybourne, the company was approached by Rolls Royce to work for the government’s ventilator manufacturing coalition in March

The company has been in partnership with Keighley College since 2018 and have taken on several apprentices. 

Last year, two level 3 advanced engineering apprentices from the college assisted in the production of the ventilator components. Both apprentices supported the production of parts by setting tooling and monitoring performance and consistency.

Within a week of getting the go-ahead in early April, it had produced 8,000 brass components.

We spoke to Lynda Laybourne about the benefits of taking on apprentices and how the company has adapted during the coronavirus pandemic.

How has taking on an apprentice helped your company and what would you say are the benefits? 

Taking on apprentices has given us the opportunity to train and nurture them in the way we work and how we produce quality products.The apprentices we have taken on are straight out of school and get to learn everything from the ground up.

How many apprentices do you currently have?

We currently have two on board and another two completing their first full year at Keighley College.We would definitely recommend an apprentice.

What would you say to another business (in your sector) looking to secure an apprentice?  

Make sure you get the right personality to complement your business, so that they fit in,feel welcome and happy in the workplace. Apprentices allow growth in the company, especially after they have completed a full year of training at college. They arrive ready and eager to show what they have learnt.

What are some of your latest working practices that you have adopted and that are working well for the company as a result of the pandemic?​   

In April and May 2020 we took part in the Ventilator Challenge. Working with Roll Royce, we realised early on that 2020 would be like no other year – we certainly experienced some challenges. 

We took a long term approach to the Covid-19 crisis and when a long standing customer, Wetherby Engineers contacted us with a view to acquiring all their assets and YPEL to produce their components, we stepped up to the challenge. With the assistance of the government CBILS loan scheme, in December 2020 we leased a second site in Acre Park, Keighley, employed all the remaining staff at Wetherby Engineers and purchased three New HAAS machines, along with other ancillary equipment.

Our two apprentices, currently full time at Keighley, will be joining us later this year on day release. They will be split between our two sites in Keighley. With the premises expansion we are ready for the economy to grow once again.– The future certainly looks bright for YPEL.

Apprentice, Alex Johnson joined Produmax shortly after her A levels.

The quality engineering apprentice, who said she was not sure about what she wanted to do after high school, applied for their work experience programme to get insight into aerospace engineering.

After a successful week she carried on with the Shipley-based firm, taking on a work placement day every other week in the quality department.

Alex said that being able to do that boosted her confidence, while giving her the opportunity to learn some basic skills in a working environment.

Alex, who is hoping to train as a non-destructive engineer in the future, said that she finds the idea of structural damage and how to detect faults fascinating.

We caught up with her to talk about her experiences and where she’d like to progress to next.

What made you choose to do an apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as a quality engineer at Produmax as the working environment suited me. The idea of learning and working is something I have always felt passionate about.The support that’s available is second to none and the opportunities at Produmax are endless.

What does your role entail?

Produmax has made my apprenticeship programme unique, giving me the opportunity to understand and gain knowledge on computerised maintenance management system (CMMs) and achieve vocational qualifications that are quality specific. I also wouldn’t be enjoying my apprenticeship programme if it wasn’t for the support Keighley College gives me. The courses that they have available give learner’s vital work based skills, especially in CNC machining and engineering theory.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

As a quality engineering apprentice, I really enjoy the daily challenges, as I learn something new every day. Being in a role where there is lots of customer interaction, having to learn the details of specifications and having knowledge of how to produce quality documents has really developed my technical skills.

What are your ambitions for the future?

In the future I would like to train as a non-destructive engineer, I find the idea of structural damage and how to detect faults fascinating.

What would you say to those looking to pursue an apprenticeship?

To those who are interested in apprenticeships, I would recommend applying for work experience programmes as these help you to narrow down your areas of interest and give you a chance to develop a long term relationship with a company. There are so many opportunities that apprenticeship programmes can offer you that may not be available at university and there is room to progress and build a career.

What is LGBTQ+ History Month?

First launched in the UK in 2005, LGBTQ+ History Month is an annual celebration promoting the education of LGBTQ+, the history of the gay rights movement and encourages a safer, more inclusive society where the diverse spectrum of sexuality and gender is accepted and discussed openly.

Schools OUT, an organisation aiming to make schools safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students, brought about the first LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK, sparking over 150 events across the country in its first year. 

This year’s theme is Body, Mind and Spirit. There are many ways you can get involved this year, including OUTing the Past presentations, LGBTQ+ curriculum lesson plans, taking a look at interesting resources and much more.

What does it mean to identify as LGBTQ+?

We asked members of an LGBTQ+ Society what it meant to them. 

“To me, identifying as LGBTQ+ means having comfort knowing that even if you don’t have anyone close who supports you, there’s always a community, a family, behind you ready to support you 100%. It means having a place to belong even if you don’t feel like you’re worthy of taking up the space you exist in.​” 

“Being LGBTQ+ is standing out and being different from other people, being true to yourself and being who you truly are for yourself and not others.”

“It feels like a relief that I’m not the only one who is different. It feels nice when I find someone who is the same as me, as we can help each other because we both know how hard it is to struggle with our sexuality. It feels good having people to talk to about this type of subject, as not everyone understands how you feel.”

“Being LGBTQ+ to me means that I’m free to be who I am no matter what and I’m surrounded by people who are like me and accept me.”

LGBTQ+ triumphs in history

Over the past years, there has been significant progress in recognising the rights of LGBTQ+ people. However, it’s important to take time to reflect on this and how it happened. 

1966

The Beaumont Society was founded, providing information to the general public, medical and legal professions on ‘transvestism’ and promoted research aimed at a further understanding. The word ‘transvestism’ is no longer used and the current terminology for this is now ‘trans’.

This society is now the UK’s largest and longest running support group for transgender people and their families.

1967

This year marks an important milestone in LGBTQ+ history, as the government implements recommendations from the Wolfenden Report for the Sexual Offences Act 1967, which partially legalised same-sex acts in the UK between men over the age of 21 conducted in private. 

Although an important breakthrough towards equality, there was still a long way to go.

1970

The UK Gay Liberation Front (GLF) was set up following the Stonewall Riots in New York over the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community by police. Marsha P. Johnson, a black trans-activist, is a key inspirational figure in LGBTQ+ history, as she sparked a series of protests across the world following the Stonewall incident. 

The GLF campaigned for rights of LGBTQ+ people, encouraging them to question the mainstream institutions in society which led to their oppression. 

Often protesting in solidarity with other oppressed groups, the GLF launched the very first Pride march in 1972, which is now a hugely successful and celebrated yearly event.

1973

Although the GLF disbanded, this made way for the Campaign for Homosexual Equality; a Manchester-based organisation leading the fight for equality by legal reform. 

2003

The Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed, meaning students were now able to learn about homosexuality and LGBTQ+ history and rights, with the aim to create a more inclusive environment.

2004

The Civil Partnership Act was introduced, allowing same-sex couples to legally enter into binding partnerships.

During this year, the Gender Recognition Act was passed which gave trans people full legal recognition of their gender, providing them the opportunity to update their birth certificate.

2010

LGBTQ+ employees were protected from discrimination, harrassment and victimisation at work through the Equality Act. 

This also brought together existing legislation and added protection for trans workers.

2013

This year marked a significant benchmark in LGBTQ+ history, with the Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act allowing same-sex couples in England and Wales to marry. Scotland shortly followed suit with the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act in 2014.

It’s clear to see the progress that has been made over the last half century, but there is still much more to do for equality and social acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. 

We can learn from the lessons from our past history and use them to address the issues we still face in today’s society. 

Pride

Keighley College has been a keen supporter and ally of the LGBTQ+ community. Along with staff members and students at Leeds City College, members of the LGBTQ+ societies came together to celebrate Pride Month and take part in the pride parades. Keighley College are also a proud partner of Keighley Pride as well as the Keighley Pride Flag Project. 

Celebrating at college

This year, we will be celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month digitally! Take a look at our list of exciting events and resources across the Luminate Education Group here.

Take part in our Pride Rainbow Quiz here.

See how to join in on our LGBTQ+ competition here.

For further details and information regarding resources or college events please contact balenji.mwiche@leedscitycollege.ac.uk or amy.barton@leedscitycollege.ac.uk 

LGBTQ+ support

If you are struggling with mental health or just want to chat, there is plenty of support available.

LGBTQ+ Society

As a student at Keighley College, you have access to the Leeds City College LGBTQ+ Society, which provides a safe space for those who identify as LGBTQ+ to be fully themselves without fear of judgement, criticism or discrimination. The society also welcomes straight allies who are encouraged to attend events.

If you’d like to get involved, visit the page here to see what’s going on. 

LGBTQ+ Foundation

The foundation provides a helpline staffed by a team of dedicated staff and volunteer operators who have extensive training.

Stonewall Youth

Find information on coming out, health, and LGBTQ+ community groups near you.

MindOut

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer mental health service.

Mermaids UK

Support for transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children, young people and their families.

Gendered Intelligence

Access a number of resources by and for trans young people and gender questioning young people in the UK and beyond.

Sound 

Sound is a group for LGBTQ+  young people aged 11-19 (up to 25 with disabilities) which meets in Bradford and Keighley. These groups offer a safe, confidential and supportive place where you can meet other young people. 

If you’re interested in finding out more about the LGBTQ+ terminology and definitions, take a look at the Stonewall glossary here. 

A levels at Keighley College focus on building important practical skills demanded by employers, while also developing valuable academic abilities.

We caught up with two first year students to understand more about their A level experience.

Why did you choose to study A levels at Keighley College?

Corey Cyhanko: The college offered a really interesting course pathway which involves a mixture of A level Business, IT and Law. These subjects help me understand how business works which will be useful to me when leaving school. 

Junaid Hussain: The Business, IT and Law pathway was the best option for me as it allows me to develop a strong understanding of strategy, the legal system and the IT sector. 

What has been your experience of studying A levels at college?

Corey: It has been fantastic! The teachers are so welcoming and helpful which makes a big difference. The A level environment is very comfortable, we have a quiet study area which is perfect for concentrating on work.

Junaid: It’s been a great few months since starting in September and I know it’s only going to get better. I like the fact that I can type up my notes on Google Drive, this really helps my learning process.

What are your plans once you complete A levels?

Corey: When I finish my A levels in 2022, I would like to apply to university to study law or criminology.

Junaid: I plan on attending university to one day become a chartered accountant. 
Discover more about our exciting range of A level pathways here.

Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, has paid tribute to the work that Keighley College is doing to bridge the skills gap through its work with local businesses. 

As part of the Q&A session with MP for Keighley and llkley, Robbie Moore, which centred on the recent announcement of the Skills For Jobs whitepaper, Williamson also highlighted the deep rooted industrial heritage of Keighley that has underpinned key successes in the town. 

Steve Kelly, Principal at Keighley College, said: “It’s fantastic to see Keighley College getting national recognition in parliament. Not only was the town’s steeped history highlighted, but also the work our college is doing to plug the skills gap in our district. We are committed to being at the heart of our community and working with the private, public and third sector to serve our town. 

“To be referenced by the Education Secretary as a college that is doing all the right things when it comes to building positive relationships with local businesses fills us with great pride. It’s an approach that is embedded in everything we do as we work closely with the communities that we serve, ensuring that the courses we offer are answering local demand. This national recognition further emphasises how crucial it is for the college to continue engaging constructively with the business community.

“Naturally we welcome the Skills For Jobs whitepaper as it echoes the positive work we are already doing and this will hopefully mean that other businesses will be encouraged to work collaboratively with us. We are so pleased to see that our community-led approach of forming tight knit relationships with local businesses is being recognised. We strongly believe that this will help us continue providing students with the right skills for now and in the future.

“As we look ahead to recovering from the pandemic, it will be even more important for businesses to work with us to ensure we’re supporting their needs. The college is already becoming a central driver for economic recovery in the district as a result of partnering with local support services and we want to see this continue.”

If you’re a local business and you would like to partner with Keighley College, then please contact clare.fitzgerald@keighleycollege.ac.uk.

The government’s recent national lockdown announcement means many of us will be remote working and learning until at least February half term. 

We know remote learning can be challenging at times, so here are some useful tips to help you learn effectively from home.

Wake up

Set your alarm for the same time you would for school. This helps structure your day, giving you plenty of time to wake yourself up, have some breakfast and prepare for the day ahead.

Get dressed

Changing into some comfortable clothes when you wake up will help make you feel more productive.

Find a work space

Choose an area which is comfortable and quiet, away from noise and distractions. Set up a desk space somewhere, such as your kitchen table, so you can feel like you’re in a classroom. 

Breaks

Make sure to schedule in regular breaks where you can stretch your legs, move around and get a drink or a snack. It’s a good idea to have some time away from your screen or phone during these breaks, leaving your brain feeling refreshed and ready to learn when you get back to your desk.

Stay organised

Try and use your college workbooks when studying, this will help to keep all your work in one place and will avoid the risk of losing any work. Find a safe place, such as a spare drawer, to keep your work in.

Environment

When you’ve finished learning for the day, pack up your things and move away from your workspace. This is really important, as it allows you to relax and reach a good study/life balance. 

Fresh air and exercise

Try to get some fresh air and exercise each day. During your breaks, head outside for five minutes to keep you feeling refreshed. At the end of your study day, try to get outside for a walk, this will really help to clear your mind and relax. 

We appreciate that working and learning from home can be difficult for many, and we’re here to support each student. Please get in touch with your tutor or mentor at the college if you want to have a chat.

There are also many local support groups who can help you through lockdown.

Shout

A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. To get in touch, text SHOUT to 85258.

Kooth

A first response crisis service, offering support 24 hours a day, seven days a week to people of all ages living in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale or Craven. Call 01274 2211 81 to get in contact.

Take a look at the link in our Instagram bio to find out what local support you can get for mental health.

Keighley College has taken the decision to postpone exams due to take place in January to ensure student, apprentice and staff safety during the pandemic.

The latest government update outlines that GCSE, A level and AS summer exams have been cancelled and will be replaced with teacher assessed grades. However, the decision to run BTEC and other vocational qualification assessments is down to individual institutions. 

Steve Kelly, Principal at Keighley College, said: “Cancelling January exams was an incredibly difficult decision to make, but we felt student and staff safety needed to be our top priority. The message from the government was to ‘stay at home’ to defeat the virus, therefore asking students to attend college and sit exams seemed untenable. 

“To go ahead with the exam series now would be unfair on our hard working students. The stress of the pandemic will undoubtedly affect their performance and probably has affected their preparation, potentially leading to unfair results.

“Although many are disappointed with the move back to remote learning, teachers and students are already well equipped to adapt to distance learning following the first lockdown. We’ve worked hard to enable learners to maintain their communities during these hard times, which makes a real difference to their mental wellbeing. 

“We’re proud to be at the heart of the community and as we move through this challenging time, we want to be able to support the best we can while maintaining the safety of our students, apprentices and staff.”

BTEC and other vocational assessments will be rescheduled later this year, giving students time to plan and prepare.

Foundation Studies student, Bethan Jones, is committed to developing her learning during lockdown. She added: “The support from college throughout remote learning has been brilliant. We all speak to each other daily on Google Hangouts, where we can talk through work and help each other. 

“Our tutors are constantly checking in to see how we’re doing, which really helps with any feelings of isolation. We are set individual tasks which allow us to become more independent while improving valuable skills.”

Keighley College plans to have a mass testing system in place for when students return to college after February half term.

From starting college in 2018, mature student, Claire Jopson, has an inspirational story to tell after overcoming hardships and accomplishing fantastic achievements.

Her determination and eagerness to learn has been admirable, and as a result, she has been recently awarded with Student of the Term.

Inspirational journey

When Claire started her hairdressing course, she was working through some personal problems, but was determined not to let this affect her learning.

“When I first came to Keighley College, I had not long left inpatient treatment for my eating disorder. It’s been something I’ve constantly had to battle with throughout my time at college, but I’m now in recovery and the college has been an incredible anchor of support throughout my journey.

“College has helped readjust my focus and study hard towards my qualifications. The staff have been so supportive and sympathetic, helping me build my confidence and always offering emotional support. 

“I’ve had huge amounts of encouragement and help with work along the way, and the staff have made me realise that my illness doesn’t have to stop me achieving amazing things. My tutor, Clare Ravenscroft, was genuinely committed to my wellbeing and made sure to always check in to see how I was doing.”

Student of the Term

Due to Claire’s impressive resilience and determination, she was awarded Student of the Term.

“I was so overwhelmed to receive this award! I feel very moved with the gesture and I hope this will inspire others with this illness to stay optimistic and show that there is light at the end of the tunnel. My newfound confidence has helped me deliver training at Leeds Beckett University on eating disorders and interventions with students.”

Clare Ravenscroft, Programme Manager at Keighley College, added: “Claire has come on such an immense journey since starting at college. She has overcome some huge obstacles through real perseverance and admirable courage. With 100% attendance, fantastic results and impressive progress, she completely deserves this award.

Passing with flying colours

After passing Level 2 and Level 3 hair, she has achieved a distinction in her first graded beauty practical and is on track for success.

“It had been a while since I properly laughed, but since starting college and making new friends at college I haven’t stopped laughing! I’ve loved seeing other students progress and develop into fantastic hair stylists. I have made some amazing memories which I will forever cherish.

“In the future, I hope to be a qualified hairdresser and beauty therapist, but also continue to provide training on eating disorders and support people on their journey to recovery.”

The government’s national lockdown announcement means working and learning is currently taking place online. This is because of the rising Covid-19 infection rates and this will allow our college to prepare Covid-19 testing for our students.

Key changes are below:

• We have made the decision to cancel all exams to keep our students and staff safe during the Covid-19 pandemic. Students should not attend college for their exams. 
• Apprentices will be contacted by their tutors/assessors as different arrangements may apply to them.
• When the national lockdown is lifted, all students will return to college in line with our plans for mass Covid-19 testing.

We will provide further information, including details of our mass Covid-19 testing plans, once confirmed. 

If you are a student and have further questions, please contact your tutor.

Find out more information on Keighley College blended learning here.