A new creative training centre has officially opened to help develop the next generation of talent in Bradford.
The Producing Academy at Bradford College was launched by Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, in a ceremony held at the college’s David Hockney Building.
Designed to support the growing creative industries in West Yorkshire, the new facility will offer specialist training in music production and broadcast media, digital storytelling, fashion and photography, and eSports and games development.
Sarah Towan, vice principal of recruitment and communication at Bradford College, said: “The Producing Academy at Bradford College is designed for the filmmakers behind the lens, the sound engineers shaping future music, the journalists and content creators changing society, and the innovators in fashion, photography, gaming, and digital arts.
“Bringing all these disciplines together under one roof, the Academy launches as Bradford’s creative energy remains in the national spotlight following the success of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.
“Through cutting-edge courses in producing, content creating, digital storytelling, entrepreneurship and influencer culture, we’re building the next generation of CreateTechs backed by some of the biggest brands in the content industry.
“We’re not just teaching skills—we’re opening doors. Our students will gain real-world experience, industry mentorship, and progress to organisations that are leading a multi-billion-pound industry.”
West Yorkshire’s creative sector is the fastest growing in England outside of London and is currently valued at around £2.2 billion.
The region is home to nearly 7,000 creative businesses employing more than 100,000 people. A new plan aims to expand the sector to £4.1 billion by 2035 and create 50,000 new jobs.
“I’m thrilled that this new academy will help more creatives to unleash their potential in a stronger, brighter region that works for all.”
Ms Brabin added: “There’s so much talent and ambition in West Yorkshire, and Bradford’s year in the spotlight as UK City of Culture is inspiring the next generation.
The Producing Academy will operate alongside Bradford College’s established School of Arts and will complement the BRIT School North, which is scheduled to open in 2026/2027.
More information about the academy and its courses is available at bradfordcollege.ac.uk
(Image: Ren Conrad)
