Students Embrace Global Learning

Hartlepool College is celebrating an extraordinary year of international achievement through the Turing Scheme, with students across multiple disciplines completing life-changing placements in Spain, Italy, Germany, and Greece throughout 2025. The Turing Scheme, which provides funding for UK students to gain study and work experience abroad, has enabled Hartlepool College learners to develop professionally whilst immersing themselves in new cultures. The college has integrated these opportunities throughout its curriculum, providing students with practical workplace experiences that enhance their employability and broaden their perspectives.

Between February and July 2025, learners from diverse curriculum areas spanning Health and Early Years, Engineering, Construction, Hospitality & Catering, Travel & Tourism, Sport, and Public Services embarked on placements across European destinations. The students' professionalism and dedication earned widespread praise from international hosts. One Seville placement provider highlighted how Charlotte Pullen "demonstrated excellent skills from day one" and would "make an outstanding professional in her field."

Similarly, engineering students in Salerno impressed their hosts with their technical aptitude and work ethic. Mr Granozio of SG Informatica S.R.L. noted: "The students were attentive, eager to learn, and developed a genuine passion for the work. They approached every task with care and dedication."

The college's #FlagIt4HCFE social media campaign captured these international adventures, generating 74 photo submissions of students proudly flying the flag for Hartlepool College across Europe. Each image shared a unique story, from our engineering students gaining hands-on technical experience in Italian workshops to health and social care students developing their skills in Seville's healthcare settings, all while exploring local landmarks, food, and culture. Will Crannage, L3 Advanced Mechanical Engineering Student, said: “I have wholly enjoyed the experience. This has made me a better person, with increased confidence to begin my career and adulthood."

The overwhelming response to the #FlagIt4HCFE campaign further underscores the profound impact these experiences have had on the college community. To mark this success, the college has announced the winner of a £30 gift voucher for an outstanding photo submission of 12 students from our School of Service Industries, creating an unforgettable moment at Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate. The winning image captures the Sport and Public Services cohort in a display of athleticism and team spirit, with students performing handstands against the backdrop of the historic monument while others hold the Hartlepool College banner proudly displaying "Leben verändern", German for "Transforming Lives." The photo perfectly encapsulates the energy and excitement that have defined these international placements for our students.

After thoughtful deliberation, tutors selected Amelia Pickering out of the participating students for the £30 Amazon voucher prize, recognising her exceptional contribution during the Sport and Public Services placement in Berlin. "Amelia was picked for her positive and proactive attitude," Mary Kernan, Student Success Coach, explained. "She readily supported fellow students when they struggled, was always smiling, and made a positive impact on the entire group.”

Vice Principal of External Relations, Gary Riches, reflected on the programme's profound impact: "The Turing Scheme has equipped our students with the confidence, skills, and global mindset essential for success in their careers and communities. For several of our learners, these placements represented the opportunity to leave the region for the first time in their lives. We're proud to be supporting our learners to leave their mark on the world by gaining local and international work experience.'