With over 25 years of experience in teaching, learning, and research, OLC is committed to widening participation and transforming lives through inclusive, high-quality education.
Founded in 1998, OLC has campuses in Bolton, Manchester, Oldham, and London. Originally established as a spin-out from the University of Salford, OLC has grown into a college of excellence, known for delivering impactful education with a strong emphasis on student-centred learning, inclusivity and resilience.
OLC offers a wide selection of career-focused qualifications across subject areas including business management, health and social care, computing, education and training, and strategic management and leadership, delivered through a mix of CertHEs, Foundation Degrees, BTECs, Diplomas, and BA programmes. Its provision is designed to support non-traditional adult learners, many of whom study while working, with flexible contact hours and personalised pastoral support that helps them succeed, as well as for college and school leavers who are more traditionally educated.
Student success is at the heart of OLC’s mission. The College offers personalised learning pathways and is built around removing barriers and raising aspirations, especially for learners who might otherwise not access mainstream higher education due to cultural, social or economic reasons.
In addition to its teaching, OLC is engaged in applied research that informs its curriculum and tackles real-world challenges. Its four Special Interest Groups explore themes such as leadership, emerging technologies, and social wellbeing, contributing to meaningful change aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Sally Dixon, OLC Principal, commented:
"I am very pleased that OLC has now joined IHE as this provides us with a great opportunity to network with other providers and learn from the best in the independent higher education sector. The support, knowledge and networks that IHE provide will support our aim to upskill our staff and will be invaluable in us continuing to provide an excellent student focused experience."
Alex Proudfoot, IHE Chief Executive, added:
"OLC is putting the values of IHE into practice through its focus on widening access to higher education and providing flexible, career-focused pathways and progression routes. We warmly welcome them to our community and look forward to helping them achieve their aims and continue to offer varied opportunities to learners from all backgrounds."
The support, knowledge and networks that IHE provide will support our aim to upskill our staff