Hartlepool College of Further Education, Hartlepool, serves the education and training needs of students above 16 years at Hartlepool and the community. The College currently has approximately 8,000 learners following full- and part-time courses. It offers a range of courses and qualifications for all learners. Courses range from practical, work-related programmes designed to prepare the students for work in a variety of professions or industries to those, which provide them with progression to further study. The College awards foundation degrees, higher national awards, professional awards short courses and access to HE programs.