Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on July 25th, 2026
•A new partnership between The Piece Hall Academy and Calderdale College is set to bring exciting opportunities to adults in Calderdale who are interested in pursuing a career in the live music and events industry. Starting in September 2026, a Level 3 course will be available for people aged 19 and over, offering hands-on experience and fully funded places for eligible learners.
Exciting New Course Launch
The upcoming Level 3 course aims to create a direct pathway into the thriving UK live events sector. As the industry continues to grow, this initiative is designed to equip local residents with the skills they need to succeed. Students will have the chance to choose between two specialisations:
- Live Event Production: This pathway focuses on staging, lighting, sound, and overall event delivery.
- Music Technology and Production: This option centres on studio recording, sound design, and music creation.
The course is fully funded for those in West Yorkshire who either do not already hold a Level 3 qualification or for those who are unemployed, self-employed, or earning less than £25,750 a year. This makes it accessible for individuals looking to change their career direction or retrain.
Hands-On Experience
One of the standout features of this programme is the opportunity for students to work on real events hosted at The Piece Hall. This includes supporting a busy schedule of seasonal markets and major live shows. The venue is known for attracting large audiences, having hosted artists like CMAT, Bastille, and Royal Otis this year alone.
Support from Industry Experts
Students will be guided by an impressive lineup of mentors, including:
- Chris Hawkins - BBC 6 Music presenter
- Gary Powel - Drummer for The Libertines
- Erik “Blu2th” Griggs - Producer at Dr. Dre’s Aftermath
- Jerry Barnes - Bass player for Nile Rodgers & CHIC
- Martyn Ware - Member of Heaven 17 and The Human League
- Others include Morris Hayes, Malcolm Joseph, and Mark Walker, who all have substantial experience in the music industry.
The guidance from these professionals will help students develop practical skills that are relevant to the industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for future employment opportunities.
Community Impact
Both Aaron Casserly Stewart, Director of The Piece Hall Academy, and David Malone, Principal and Chief Executive at Calderdale College, emphasised the importance of this partnership for the local community. Casserly Stewart stated, “These two incredible Level 3 qualifications are a huge step forward for Academy. The courses in partnership with Calderdale College and accredited by the University of Arts London offer a genuine pathway into a creative career in the North.”
This initiative aims to tackle inequality by encouraging participation from those who are currently underrepresented in the creative fields. Malone added, “By working together, we are ensuring local people can develop skills, experience, and confidence to be part of that success – both now and in the future.”
The Piece Hall: A Cultural Gem
The Piece Hall, located in Halifax, is not just an educational hub but also a cultural landmark. Originally opened in 1779, it is the last remaining Georgian cloth hall in the world. Since its reopening in August 2017, it has welcomed over 20 million visitors and contributed significantly to the local economy, generating around £680 million over the past decade.
This iconic venue hosts a variety of events, including world-class music shows and art exhibitions, making it an integral part of Calderdale’s cultural landscape. Its open-air courtyard is compared to the great piazzas of Europe and features independent shops, restaurants, and bars.
How to Apply
Applications for the Level 3 course are now open for those interested in starting their journey in the live events and music industry. More information, including how to apply, can be found on The Piece Hall's website at thepiecehall.co.uk/learn/academy.
This new educational opportunity not only aims to boost individual careers but also strengthens Calderdale’s reputation as a cultural destination, ensuring that the community can benefit from the vibrant live music scene that continues to grow across the UK.
