Transformed space at mill complex now hosts digital creative skills facility

A new digital creative skills hub for Calderdale College has officially opened at Dean Clough in Halifax.

Following a complete transformation of space at the mill complex, Calderdale College was able to welcome over 60 first-year students for the start of the academic year.

“Mill Studios” now serves students aged 16 plus with high-tech facilities for studies in film and TV production, design and editing, esports and games design.

The centre has dedicated learning studios with the very latest equipment and software for games design and filming as well as collaborative spaces for events, exhibitions and engagement with employers.

The 12,834 sq ft hub was made possible through a combination of funding from the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) and the college’s own capital investment.

LSIF aims to tackle skill shortages by responding to employers’ needs and giving young people the skills to get good jobs and increase their prospects.

David Malone, principal and chief executive at Calderdale College, said: “I am pleased to announce the official opening of Mill Studios at Dean Clough, a significant milestone for Calderdale College and our commitment to delivering cutting-edge education in the digital and creative industries.

“Mill Studios offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to support the growth and development of key areas such as computer games design, esports, and TV and film production.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have partnered with Dean Clough, whose spacious and professional venue provides the ideal environment for our students to thrive and excel in these fast-growing industries.

“This is just the beginning, and I look forward to seeing how our students and staff make full use of this incredible facility.”

Dean Clough is a 22-acre business and leisure destination in Halifax town centre.

With 150 businesses and over 3,000 people working on site it is recognised as a major centre for commerce in Calderdale and a trailblazer in supporting education in the arts thanks to its offering of art galleries and curated spaces.

Calderdale College also occupies 2,344 sq ft of space at Dean Clough for its Creative Arts Foundation and BA Degree courses.

Jeremy Hall, chairman and managing director of Dean Clough, added: “We are excited to see the opening of Mill Studios as an expansion of Calderdale College’s educational facilities here at Dean Clough which is fast emerging as a centre of excellence for creative industries.

“At Dean Clough we have invested many years in repurposing the fabric of a very important heritage site to create a sustainable, vibrant and diverse business hub and cultural amenity.

“Indeed, our well-established art galleries, theatre spaces and creative business operators offer real life experiences for students and emerging talent with strong career opportunities.”