Gloucestershire College is preparing to open its second campus in Cheltenham later this year, transforming the former University of Gloucestershire Hardwick site into a state-of-the-art learning facility. Located just a 10-minute walk from the town centre, the refurbished 37,000 sq ft campus has been secured through Gloucestershire-based MF Freeman Group.
This expansion addresses the rising demand for post-16 education across the county and will initially focus on Construction and First Steps programmes, set to commence in September 2026. The First Steps courses aim to support young learners by building confidence and essential skills in English, maths, and digital literacy, while also providing guidance on future study and career pathways.
Matthew Burgess, Principal and CEO of Gloucestershire College, expressed pride in the project: “Expanding our Cheltenham presence with a bespoke facility marks a significant investment in the county’s future skills pipeline. We have a strong track record of responding to learner needs, and this new campus will offer a modern, accessible learning environment tailored to support young people in overcoming barriers and progressing toward positive, sustainable destinations.”
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Luke Freeman, CEO of the MF Freeman Group, which facilitated the site acquisition, shared enthusiasm about the redevelopment: “Repurposing the building into an educational space for Gloucestershire College is exciting. As we continue our vision for the entire site, we aim to create a vibrant living and education campus that benefits the local community. Celebrating our 60th anniversary, we remain committed to delivering quality redevelopment projects like this.”
Refurbishment of the Hardwick site will begin in the coming weeks, along with recruitment for new roles to support the campus. The facility is expected to welcome its first cohort of learners and staff in autumn 2026.
This initiative aligns with Gloucestershire County Council’s One Plan for Children and Young People 2024–2030, which emphasizes accessible education, better transitions into adulthood, and enhanced support for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). By expanding local post-16 provision, the college reduces travel barriers and promotes inclusion, enabling more young people to stay in education, acquire new skills, and transition smoothly into further study or employment within the Cheltenham area.