Leeds is situated in the heart of West Yorkshire close to the famous Yorkshire Dales. Famous for its historic and cultural heritage the city is home to some of Britain's most prestigious names. Cultural interests include the Northern Ballet, Opera North and the Henry Moore Institute.

Leeds has one of the largest student populations in England. Served by two large universities this city is ideally geared to the overseas student. The City has one of the fastest growing and liveliest centres, with numerous attractions and venues including some of the newest and best night clubs.

Sports fans will recognise Leeds for its' broad range of first class facilities catering for every taste. Leeds is famous for its cricket, football, rugby , swimming and cycling and has more swimming pools and sports centres than many other UK cities.

Although Leeds is a large city there are still numerous open spaces free from the hustle and bustle. Whilst the excellent centre has one of the largest commercial and shopping districts in the UK including the newly restored Victoria Quarter home to some of the most exclusive 'High Street' names.

Industry in the area has changed over the years from when Leeds was one of the richest textile cities in the World. Out of the ashes of the decline of this industry there has arisen one of the highest concentrations of high tech industry and financial institutions in the country.

In particular Leeds and Yorkshire has one of the largest concentrations of printing within the UK and in some areas, Europe. There is also a substantial publishing presence in the region. Yorkshire is a World leader in the rapidly emerging fields of electronic, Internet and multimedia publishing. These are dynamically changing industries which offer an exciting challenge, sustainable jobs and a rewarding future.

These industries offer substantial opportunities for people wishing to take up a role in editorial, administrative or management positions. As well as those looking for a career in operating high-end digital technologies.

To satisfy the needs of this local industry Leeds College of Technology has created a new Media Skills Centre. This centre is closely supported by some of the biggest names in printing and as a result several million pounds worth of investment has come into this area. Our students are now able to study on the very latest technology in our dedicated suites. These suites allow students to conduct projects from origination right through to the finished product using digital processes alone.

Leeds College of Technology, together with Leeds Metropolitan University have introduced two new degree courses in Publishing Technology and Print Management. The college also offers a range of other vocationally based courses ranging from NVQ to HNC. The purpose of these courses is specifically to meet the needs of these high-tech sectors. There are both full and part-time modes of attendance and these courses will appeal to those interested in industrial and media design, communication media, IT, electronics, manufacturing and business management. The Internet and Multimedia publishing is now an integral part of both our degree courses. Our graduates will be able to cope with the demands of these new media.

Leeds College of Technology has been in existence for 50 years, although it was originally known as Kitson College. It now supplies training geared to the needs of a varied and forward thinking community. The College offer a range of courses from A' Levels and NVQ’s through to the degree courses mentioned.

The College is situated fn the heart of the city and is ideally situated for all forms of public and private transport, Being in the Centre of the City allows easy access from a wide area whilst allowing the facilities of a modem city to be on the door-step. The College has a number of specialisms unique in the area. These include;

• Motor Vehicle studies including Car restoration
• Printing and Publishing
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Media and Communications Technology
• Information Technology (IT)
• Science
• Health and Social care

These are all offered at pre-degree levels and many of our students gain access to British Universities through our courses. Also many of our students are able to go directly into industries around the World.

For more information call Leeds College of Technology on +44 113 243 0381

Author : Andy Diccox Leeds College of Technology

This article first appeared in Educational Courses in Britain & America