While the University of Huddersfield evolved into a degree-granting research university, Kirklees College took the path of further and vocational education.
Its history is deeply rooted in providing practical, hands-on skills for the local workforce, culminating in the major regional institution seen today.
The college as it is known today was formed by bringing together two longstanding industrial towns’ educational institutions: Huddersfield and Dewsbury.
Key Milestones
Huddersfield Infirmary Roots – 1831
The site of the original Huddersfield Technical College campus actually begins as the Huddersfield Infirmary.
In 1967, Ramsden Technical College bought the land, which quickly expanded into Huddersfield Technical College by 1971.
Dewsbury & District Technical School – 1887
In Dewsbury, local leaders raised funds to mark Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee by building a technical school, which officially opened in 1890.
This institution eventually becomes Dewsbury College, incorporating renowned creative arms like the Batley School of Art.
The Great Merger – 2008
On August 1, 2008, Huddersfield Technical College and Dewsbury College officially merge to create Kirklees College, immediately forming one of the largest further education colleges in the UK.
Waterfront Campus & Expansion – 2013-Present
To replace the ageing New North Road site, the college moves to a brand-new, £74 million Waterfront Campus in Huddersfield.
It continues to expand with specialist sites, including the Process Manufacturing Centre, Brunel Construction Centre, and restored heritage hubs like Pioneer House in Dewsbury.
Present Day
Today, Kirklees College serves around 20,000 students across multiple specialist campuses, acting as a core hub for vocational training, apprenticeships, and adult learning across the borough.
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