By KLTV Newsdesk –

Gough & Kelly and Kirklees College partnership offers students real-world experience and new career horizons

A pioneering partnership between Yorkshire security firm Gough & Kelly and Kirklees College is reshaping how students view careers in the security sector and delivering real opportunities along the way.

Through the initiative, students on the college’s Uniformed Services course are gaining hands-on experience stewarding high-profile events at venues such as Castleford Tigers and Leeds United.

The scheme not only supplements their education but also introduces them to a vital yet often overlooked sector.

Now a year into the programme, six students have already secured permanent part-time roles with Gough & Kelly — a clear signal of its impact.

Katie Stanley, Programme Manager at Kirklees College, said:

“People tend to think of uniformed services in terms of police, fire service and paramedic roles, and not necessarily security positions such as manned guarding and stewarding.

“We’re very grateful to the team at Gough & Kelly for showing students what a career in the security industry can look like and giving them opportunities to experience it for themselves alongside their studies.”

Fresh talent, new perspectives

Leeds-based Gough & Kelly has long been a leader in event security and stewarding across the region, but this partnership represents a conscious step toward rejuvenating the industry by attracting younger talent.

Sean Morgan, Client Manager at Gough & Kelly, said: “A lot of people come into the security industry as a temporary measure, or later in life, following careers in the army or prison services.

“We would like more young people to see and experience security services as a career option, which will in turn bring fresh ideas into the sector.”

Confidence, qualifications and a clear path forward

The benefits for students have been wide-ranging. From increased confidence to nationally recognised qualifications, the experience is helping shape futures.

Katie added: “We have seen real change in some students as a result of their practical experience; increased confidence and pride in their work.

“Gough & Kelly has also sponsored some students through additional National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ).

“These qualifications and experience will change the lives of some of these students.”

A model for meaningful industry-college collaboration

As industries across the UK look to address skills gaps and attract the next generation of workers, the Gough & Kelly and Kirklees College partnership offers a strong example of how practical learning, mentorship, and employment opportunities can go hand in hand.

With students now gaining not only experience but employment, this model could be a game changer for how security and other service industries engage with young people, and how education providers prepare them for the world of work.