Bishop Auckland College reveals huge improvements to student experience as numbers continue to grow

Bishop Auckland College has unveiled a major £1.1m investment in its campus facilities, delivering a significant boost to the student experience as enrolment numbers continue to rise year on year.

The extensive refurbishment, designed to accommodate the college’s sustained growth and modernise its social spaces, was delivered in partnership with Manners, the historic North-East construction company.

As the college continues to see a steady increase in applications following successive years of continuous improvements, leadership recognised the pressing need to expand and upgrade the campus environment.

The substantial investment has transformed the main social areas, creating a top-class setting that matches the high standard of education it provides.

To execute this ambitious campus upgrade, the college turned to a trusted local partner. Manners, which recently rebranded from T Manners & Sons (retaining the same team and service), was selected to deliver the new facilities.

Shaun Hope, CEO and Principal of Bishop Auckland College Group, said: “We are thrilled with the refurbishment work Manners carried out. It is great to have a local company supporting us as we modernise the student experience at our college.

“When we took on the project, the aim was to increase the capacity of our main social areas, as the number of students coming to Bishop Auckland College continues to grow year on year. We needed facilities that not only match that growth but also provide the high-quality environment our students richly deserve.”

The upgrades span across various aspects of campus life, catering to both academic needs and student wellbeing.

 

Shaun said: “We have added a new fitness suite with state-of-the-art equipment that will be used for both curriculum activities and student enrichment. We now have new student services facilities, a new reception, and an expanded retail shop, alongside a brand-new coffee shop.

“There are new meeting spaces for students and opportunities for collaborative group work, and we have significantly increased the size and offering of our food court.”

The decision to partner with Manners was driven by a shared commitment to the local area.

Formed in 1860, Manners is believed to be the oldest family-owned construction company in North-East England. Managing director Simon Manners is the great, great-grandson of founder Thomas Manners, and the business has proudly remained in family ownership since its formation over 160 years ago.

Shaun said: “During the procurement process, we were clear that we wanted a partner capable of delivering high-quality refurbishment work – and in Manners, we got exactly that.

“Not only did they meet our high standards, but we also found a company that is loyal to its local area. Just like our college, they have the community at the heart of everything they do. This is one of many things we will do with Manners to help our local community here in Bishop Auckland.”

 

 

And Simon, managing director of Manners, highlighted the broader impact of such investments.

He said: “Education projects are about far more than buildings; they are about creating environments that inspire learning, support wellbeing and provide opportunities for future generations to thrive.

“We are proud to have worked with Bishop Auckland College on a project that will benefit students, staff and the wider community for years to come.

“With more than 160 years of experience and a strong track record across the education sector, we understand the importance of delivering high-quality facilities while maintaining a collaborative approach with stakeholders and minimising disruption to day-to-day operations.

“Projects like this demonstrate how investment in education infrastructure can help unlock potential, strengthen local skills and create lasting value for the communities we serve.”

Bishop Auckland College offers a diverse array of pathways ranging from vocational courses and apprenticeships to adult skills training and higher education.

The college is renowned for its practical, career-focused curriculum, encompassing everything from construction and engineering to digital skills, hospitality and health and social care.