Fircroft College of Adult Education

Fircroft College has supported the local and regional community for over 100 years. Established in 1909 by George Cadbury Jnr. in his former family home in Selly Oak, Birmingham, the college was founded to provide education to his workers and empower them to pass their knowledge on to others. Today, it remains one of only two adult residential colleges in England.

Located in six acres of landscaped grounds, the college offers students a unique environment where nature complements learning. Learners are encouraged to reflect, connect with peers, and immerse themselves in study, away from the distractions of everyday life.

Fircroft College’s mission is rooted in social justice. It proudly serves a diverse student population, many of whom have complex support needs and are referred by recovery organisations and third-sector agencies. The college champions sustainability both operationally and through its curriculum. The Principal also serves on the Board of the FE and HE Climate Commission, reinforcing its environmental commitments.

Named “Top College in the Midlands” for student satisfaction by FE Choices in 2019, Fircroft encourages all learners to progress into employment, higher education, or voluntary work.

The college specialises in digital retraining, management and leadership, health and social sciences, and humanities. Working with employers, local government, and the voluntary sector, it delivers learning from entry level through to Level 4 via residential and some non-residential routes. Programmes span personal and social development, volunteering, maths, English, IT and social justice, including two Access to Higher Education diplomas.

The college works closely with local voluntary sector organisations who also act as referral partners and offers short and longer courses for professionals to enhance their skills and abilities in working with their service-users.

Through its tailored offer for adults with diverse needs, Fircroft plays a crucial role in supporting the West Midlands’ economic recovery and lifelong learning priorities.