The Open Day gave visitors the opportunity to meet lecturers and current students, explore course options, tour the facilities and learn more about study pathways and career opportunities. There was a strong sense of interest throughout the campus, with many visitors attending for the first time and taking the opportunity to speak with staff about course options and applications for September 2026, which are now open.
More than 30 employers attended the event, reflecting Northern Regional College’s strong industry links and commitment to partnership working. The Advanced Technologies Department sits at the centre of the new Ballymena Campus, supporting closer collaboration with employers and ensuring training remains aligned with current and future industry needs.
The £55 million Ballymena Campus brings all of the College’s provision in the town together under one roof and has been designed to support modern teaching, collaboration and progression into employment. Facilities include specialist training areas, industry-standard workshops and dedicated spaces that reflect the needs of today’s workforce.
Northern Regional College Principal and Chief Executive Mel Higgins said, “We were delighted to welcome so many prospective students, families and employers to our Ballymena Campus, including many from the local community and wider surrounding area. The strong level of engagement throughout the event reflects the value of investing in high-quality facilities alongside strong links with industry. Events like this allow people to see first-hand how Northern Regional College supports learners to develop the skills, confidence and experience needed for future careers.”
Running alongside the Open Day and as part of NI Apprenticeship Week, the College also hosted its Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) Event at the Ballymena Campus. The event was designed to support prospective students, school leavers and existing employees who are considering ‘earn while you learn’ pathways, while strengthening links between education and industry. Employers attending included NIE Networks, Creagh Concrete, Moore NI, Northstone Materials Ltd, FP McCann Ltd, Woodside Logistics Group, Kiverco, ATI, Moore Concrete Products Ltd and TTP Thermo King, alongside College representatives from Computing, Accountancy, Business and Childcare. Attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with employers about current and future apprenticeship opportunities, progression routes and the skills required for careers across a range of sectors.
Patrick Wallace, Head of Work Based Learning at Northern Regional College, said, “Now in its third year, this event continues to grow in popularity as awareness and interest in Higher Level Apprenticeships increases. Bringing employers and prospective apprentices together this year in our new Ballymena Campus highlighted the breadth of Higher Level Apprenticeship opportunities available and how these pathways lead directly to skilled and sustainable careers.”
One prospective student who attended the Open Day said, “Seeing the facilities and speaking directly with lecturers and employers really helped me decide that Northern Regional College is the right choice for my next step.”
Applications for courses at Northern Regional College are now open.
For more information, visit www.nrc.ac.uk.