University of Derby – Buxton launched in 2025
From 1 August 2025, the University of Derby’s further education and skills provision became known as University of Derby – Buxton. The university announced the change in its 2025 launch announcement.
The 2019 degree-course announcement
On 23 October 2019, the University of Derby announced plans to phase out parts of its higher-education provision in Buxton. Hospitality, tourism and event management provision was to move to Derby from 2020, with culinary arts following from 2021. Spa management and outdoor courses in Buxton were planned to close in 2022 after existing students had graduated.
The announcement described plans at the time; further education continued in Buxton. The 2025 transition described in this article concerned the town’s further-education provision.
The 2025 launch
The change followed the transfer of the Leek campus to Newcastle & Stafford Colleges Group on the same date.
Since 2012, the University of Derby has delivered a diverse range of post-16 study programmes across its campuses via Buxton & Leek College.
The university said the transition would see the Buxton campus continue to deliver further education as part of its Institute of Education & Skills.
Professor Keith McLay, then Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Derby, said: “We are proud of Buxton & Leek College’s contribution to education over the past decade.
“Now, University of Derby – Buxton will allow us to build on that foundation, ensuring we are fully aligned with the Government’s place-based national higher-level skills agenda and can meet our commitment to skills needs in North Derbyshire.
“This change provides an opportunity to consolidate our regional presence and support the seamless progression from further to higher education, allowing learners continued access to quality resources and teaching.
“We remain committed to delivering education that meets the skills needs of local industries and supports social mobility, while presenting our offer under a clear and recognisable institutional identity.”
The University of Derby and NSCG said they had worked together on the transition.
Plans and student opportunities in 2025
This article also reported the following developments and plans in 2025. See the university’s website for current courses and opportunities.
- Harpurs Bistro, part of the university’s further education provision, gained Craft Guild of Chefs accreditation. In July 2025, the university said it was the only accredited further education training provider in Derbyshire.
- The university was exploring venues and partnerships for a planned Forest School to give Education & Early Years students practical experience.
- Media students were preparing a college radio station in collaboration with HighPeak1.
- A Sport & Exercise Science programme was planned for the Buxton and Derby campuses.
- The university was working with Jackie Wragg of the Peak District National Park on the Morridge Hill Country project, offering potential conservation and sustainability opportunities for students.
- Turing Scheme funding supported plans for a student trip to Bali, Indonesia. The university later promoted a trip for 2026 at its September 2025 freshers fair.
Find current courses and information at University of Derby – Buxton.
University of Derby – Buxton, Devonshire Road, Buxton, SK17 6RY
T: 0800 074 0099
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