A major new partnership between The Piece Hall Academy and Calderdale College is set to create a direct pipeline of talent into the UK’s growing live events industry.

The new Level 3 course launches in September 2026, offering people aged 19+ a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in live events and music production, with fully funded places available for eligible learners.

The Piece Hall Academy was established to train, support and develop the next generation of creatives through short courses, long-term mentoring, industry experience days and work placements. The new programme builds on this work, creating a clear progression route into the live events and music industries.

The Piece Hall has generated an estimated £680 million for the economy over the past decade, with projections of around £90 million annually – highlighting its growing role as a driver of regional growth, tourism and cultural activity. This new course is designed to ensure local people can access the opportunities created by that success.

Students will choose between two specialist pathways on the Level 3 one-year course, including Live Event Production, focusing on staging, lighting, sound and event delivery and Music Technology and Production, centred on studio recording, sound design and music creation.

A special feature of the programme is the chance to work on real events at The Piece Hall, supporting its busy programme of seasonal markets and major live shows. The venue continues to attract audiences from across the UK, this year hosting global artists including CMAT, Bastille, Royal Otis, The Ks and Turnstile and many more.

The course is fully funded for students across West Yorkshire who do not already hold a Level 3 qualification or hold a level 3 qualification but are unemployed, self-employed or earning less than £25,750 per annum. It provides an accessible route into careers in the creative industries, including live events, music performance and production or further study.

By combining classroom learning with real-world experience in a nationally recognised venue, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing talent, supporting the local economy and strengthening Calderdale’s reputation as a cultural destination.

Applications are now open for September 2026.

For more information and to apply CLICK HERE.

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