Author: Emma Wilde

Stoke on Trent College has announced the start of construction on a £2.3 million Advanced Green Technologies (AGT) Hub at its Burslem campus. Funded through government Levelling Up money, distributed to the College by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the new facility will support both construction and engineering education, offering dedicated teaching spaces for learners from Level 2 up until Level 5. It will also serve as an incubation hub for employer partners working in green and digital technologies.

Set to open in Spring 2026, the AGT Hub will provide hands-on training in areas such as retrofitting, ground and air source heat pumps, solar energy systems, and emerging digital solutions including drone technology and robotics. The initiative aims to boost advanced manufacturing and engineering employment across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire by training young people, adults, and apprentices, creating a pipeline of skilled local talent.

Principal and CEO of Stoke on Trent College, Hassan Rizvi, stated, “Stoke on Trent College is the leading technical and vocational further education provider for Staffordshire, and facilities like the Advanced Green Technologies Hub will further strengthen our ability to deliver the best career pathways for our learners. Through Level 2 up to Level 5 qualifications, including T Levels, focused on green technologies, we can provide a route to higher-level apprenticeships in areas such as surveying, digital modelling, and advanced manufacturing.”

Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, added: “This facility provides vital training opportunities in key sectors that will shape our future workforce. Funded through government support allocated by the city council, the AGT Hub will deliver cutting-edge education in green and digital technologies. This Advanced Green Technologies Hub, funded through Government money allocated through the city council, does just that – providing the very latest learning opportunities in green and digital technologies.”

Construction is now underway, with the Hub set to become a cornerstone of sustainable skills development in the region.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• Stoke on Trent College serves up to 7000 students a year including young people, adults and apprentices. Working with a wide range of employers in key growth areas of the economy such as Digital, Construction, Engineering, STEM and Health and Social Care and more.
• The College also work with young adults who may have a special educational or additional need.
• A wide range of flexible and distance learning is provided by the College to individuals and businesses.

For all media enquiries, please contact marketing@stokecoll.ac.uk  

Students and staff at Gower College Swansea are celebrating a fantastic year of academic achievement, as envelopes were opened to reveal another impressive set of A Level and vocational Level 3 results for 2025. 

This year the College has seen a rise in its overall A Level pass rate, which stands at a remarkable 100% (the Wales national average is 97.5%), with 1250 individual exam entries. 

Among these, 12% achieved the highest grade of A* (up from 9% in 2024 and higher than the Wales national average of 10.5%), 34% are at A*-A (Wales national average is 29.5%), 65% are at A*-B, and there is a continued improvement in our A*-C grades which stand at 85%, reflecting the high standards of achievement at the College.  

The overall pass rate at AS Level is very strong and stands at 94% (Wales national average is 90.9%), with 73% of grades awarded at A-C and 54% being awarded at grades A-B. 30% of grades were awarded an A (in comparison to the Wales national average of 22.7%). There were 2127 separate exam entries for AS.

The College’s vocational results are also very strong again this year, with an impressive 98% pass rate across those learners completing their two-year Level 3 programmes. Among these high achievers, 37% of students achieved at least one Distinction and 9% attained a top Distinction* grade.

These results underscore the College’s commitment to providing high quality vocational education, ensuring our learners achieve high standards and success.

“We know how much hard work has gone into these results so we are absolutely delighted to share in the success and celebrations of our students today,” says Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Fountain. “To have an overall 100% pass rate is a fantastic achievement for the College and we are particularly pleased to see another increase in those top grades of A* and A*-A, which demonstrates once again our drive for academic excellence.

“As well as maintaining our very high overall pass rates at A Level and AS Level, our vocational learners have also achieved outstanding results.

“I would like to offer my congratulations and best wishes to all the students collecting their results today. And a sincere thanks to all the staff at Gower College Swansea, who are tireless in their support of our learners both in and outside of the classroom.

“I really hope everyone got the results they expected and needed to move onto their next step but, if you didn’t, please don’t worry. We are here to help. Come and talk to us – we have dedicated staff to provide personalised advice and guidance for learners.

“At Gower College Swansea, we are proud to offer a wide range of pathways to support every learner’s ambitions. From higher education courses to apprenticeship routes, and dedicated employability support for those heading straight into the workplace – our aim is to ensure that every student has access to the opportunities that best suit their goals. We remain firmly committed to helping each individual achieve their full potential and succeed in whichever path they choose.”

“Today marks the culmination of your hard work and determination – be very proud of what you have achieved and how far you have come,” says Rebecca Evans, MS for Gower. “Thank you to all the teachers and support staff who have guided, encouraged, and supported the students. Your dedication has helped them reach their potential and has opened up exciting horizons and opportunities for their futures.”

“Huge congratulations to all students at Gower College receiving their results today,” adds Torsten Bell, MP for Swansea West. “Behind every one is months and years of hard work, including the vital support offered by teachers and other school staff. Well done! No one can take away what you have achieved today. Whether you’re now stepping into a university course or a job, whether you stay in Swansea or not, I hope the next step on your journey brings you fulfilment, pride and purpose.”

“ColegauCymru is proud to congratulate learners at Gower College Swansea and across Wales today as they receive the results of their hard work and commitment,” says ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk. “Reaching this point takes determination, resilience, and the unwavering support of staff across both vocational and academic pathways. Congratulations to everyone at Gower College Swansea on your achievements – you should be very proud.”

Among the students picking up their results were:

Alex Barnett (formerly Cefn Hengoed Community School) achieved a Distinction in the UAL L4 Professional Diploma in Performance and is heading to Rose Bruford College to study European Theatre Arts.

Jessica Bevan (formerly Olchfa School) received triple A* grades in the L3 Extended Diploma Health and Social Care: Principles and Contexts?and is going to study Occupational Health Therapy at university. 

Aaron John achieved ABB in the L3 Extended Diploma Health and Social Care and is heading to Lancaster University.  

Jessica Johnson (formerly Penyrheol Comprehensive School) achieved A grade in the L3 CCPLD: Practice and Theory and is heading straight into employment as a teaching assistant in a local primary school.

Alex Mort (formerly Morriston Comprehensive) achieved three A* grades and is heading to Cambridge University to study Engineering.

Caerwyn Richards (formerly Gowerton School) achieved Distinction in the BTEC L3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and is heading to British Airways in Cardiff to start a career in aircraft maintenance. 

Alexander Rigbey achieved triple B grades in L3 Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development and has gained a place at Swansea University to study Early Childhood.

Rosie- Ann Rune, who studied Travel and Tourism at College and is now off to Bath Spa University to study Creative Writing. 

Steffi Saji (formerly St John Lloyd Catholic Comprehensive School) achieved one A* and three A grades and is progressing to study Medicine at Cardiff University.

Leah Spackman (formerly Penyrheol Comprehensive School) who achieved two A* grades and  is going to Cambridge University to study Education.

Kara Thomas, who achieved triple A* after completing the L3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care and is heading to Swansea University to study Psychology. 

Lois Travers (formerly Bishop Gore School) who studied L3 Business and is now progressing to Swansea University to study Business Management and Finance. 

Leri Watkins (formerly Bryngwyn School) who achieved an A grade in the L3 CCPLD: Practice and Theory and is heading into employment as a nursery practitioner.

Friends Libby Wittey and Olivia Griffiths both received triple A* grades in Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development and are heading to Swansea University to study Education Psychology. 

Inspire Education Group (IEG) is celebrating a year of exceptional student success, with 1 in 2 students achieving top grades A*-B at A Level or D*D*D* to MMM in equivalent diploma qualifications, including the first-ever cohort of T Levels students.

Among the successful students receiving their A Level results today is Jayde Clementson, who achieved AAB in Geography, Biology, and Sociology. She said:

“Studying at Stamford Sixth has been great, I loved the independence you get, I had responsibility for my own work and was treated like an adult.” She added, “I was also able to get so much support in my university application from the Careers Advisor.”

Jayde is delighted to have been accepted into the BSc(Hons) Environmental Sustainability and Management at the University of Reading in September.

Many students flourish in the flexibility of the College learning environment. Alexander Watson, who was delighted with his A*AC in Maths, Business and Sociology, said:

“I’ve really enjoyed the learning environment here” Alexander added, “they let you be independent, but your teachers still give you support when you need it.” Alexander is heading to study a BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance at the University of Reading. 

Students who have studied diploma and T Level courses at Peterborough and Stamford Colleges also collected their results. Equivalent in value to A Levels, these qualifications are accepted by 95% of universities, giving our students an excellent start to their future careers.  

Ella Boyce, one of IEG’s first T Level Adult Nursing cohort, said,  “The course has opened doors for me. I’m hoping to become a Healthcare Assistant and work my way up. There was a great balance of theory and practical work. I would definitely recommend this course for people who want to go into healthcare!”

Lottie Dawson, Early Years and Childcare T Level student said, “I’ve really enjoyed the T Level course, especially the support from lecturers and making friends at College. Lottie, who completed her work placement at Acorn Childcare added, “ the work experience has been brilliant for my learning and I’ve loved getting hands- on experience.” Lottie is now progressing her studies to a BA (Hons) in Primary Education at Bishop Grosseteste University.

Connor Saunders, a Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity student at Stamford College, achieved a DD in his end-of-year exams. He said, “ Borderville is a nice community to learn in, I’ve developed lots of  skills over my course, including coaching in local primary schools.”

Lauren Watkins achieved a D*D*D* overall in her Level 3 Media course and praised the social aspects of her time at the Media and Journalism Centre (MJC). “The MJC is a nice space, and the people I met there are really nice. I am going to Lincoln University to study Media Studies!” she said, highlighting the value of the connections she made.

Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough, said, “I want to congratulate all students across Peterborough receiving their results today. You have put the work in and should be incredibly proud of your achievements. I wish everyone the best for the future.“

Julia Bates, Chief Curriculum Officer, said, “Today’s achievements are more than just results, they represent the growth, determination and potential of every student. At IEG, our vision is to be an exceptional learning organisation, and it’s moments like these that show the power of education to shape futures. To all of our students, we are so proud of how far you’ve come and even more excited for where you’re heading.”

Got your results and changed your mind? It’s been months since you applied to university, and like thousands of other students, you may have changed your mind and are considering reaping the benefits of studying close to home. If this is you, we are here to help!

University Centre Peterborough is here to offer you a fresh opportunity through Clearing. Visit www.ucp.ac.uk. 

Peterborough College, part of Inspire Education Group (IEG), is celebrating national recognition after apprentice Ronnie Pratt was awarded Best Apprentice 2025 by the Institute of Cast Metals Engineers (ICME).

The award, sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Founders, honours the most outstanding apprentice in the UK’s cast metals industry and was presented at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire.

Ronnie began his apprenticeship with Omega Sinto Foundry Machinery Ltd in Peterborough at the age of 16, choosing a vocational pathway over sixth form to pursue a more practical and hands-on career. Attracted by Omega Sinto’s advanced workshop and supportive environment, Ronnie combined work-based learning with his BTEC in Engineering and CAD training at college. He has since progressed to become the company’s youngest Bay Leader, working independently to lead projects and contribute to the company’s innovative, sustainable engineering solutions.

Alan Stones, Production Manager at Omega Sinto Foundry Machinery, said:

“The Omega team are proud to celebrate Ronnie Pratt, winner of the Founders’ Best Apprentice Award at the ICME National Awards! Now in his fourth year, Ronnie continues to thrive, feeling confident, valued and ready for the future. This prestigious award is open to apprentices across the industry, and we’re thrilled to see Ronnie’s talent and hard work recognised on a national stage.”

This success follows IEG’s recent announcement of a 10% increase in apprenticeship achievement rates, alongside being ranked in the top 10% of general further education colleges nationally in the latest National Achievement Rate Tables (NARTs).

Ronnie’s achievement reflects the strength of IEG’s apprenticeship provision and its role as a regional anchor institution, providing high-quality technical education that meets industry needs, supports employer success and contributes to economic growth across the region.

Through partnerships with employers like Omega Sinto, IEG is setting the standard for apprenticeships that drive skills development, support business growth and strengthen the regional economy. At Peterborough College, the Employer Engagement team work with over 1,000 organisations to develop their workforce locally, regionally and nationally.

Rhyllan Taperek, a Level 2 Bricklaying apprentice at Stoke on Trent College, has qualified for the national finals of the SkillBuild UK competition, a prestigious event showcasing emerging talent in construction.

Rhyllan began his education at Stoke on Trent College at age fourteen, studying Level 1 Construction Skills following elective home education. He has been familiar with the construction industry from an early age, having gained experience through his father, Simon Taperek, a College alumnus and owner of Kobra Construction.

Building on his prior exposure to construction, Rhyllan demonstrated a strong aptitude for bricklaying, leading to a first-place finish in the Guild of Bricklayers competition, where he competed in the senior category. He later secured third place in the national round of the same event.

Earlier this year, Rhyllan won the SkillBuild UK regional heat in the bricklaying category at Trafford College. He will now represent Stoke on Trent College in the national finals of SkillBuild UK, scheduled for 17–20 November at MK College in Milton Keynes, having placed among the top eight participants nationwide.

Rhyllan intends to pursue a Level 3 apprenticeship with Kobra Construction and aspires to become a site manager. He is working toward obtaining a gold CSCS card, which is required for supervisory roles in the industry.

Jenny Scrivens, Head of Apprenticeships and Skills, commented on Rhyllan’s progress:

“Rhyllan has consistently demonstrated high standards in bricklaying through both competition results and apprenticeship performance.

“The apprenticeship offer at Stoke on Trent College is focused on learners, ensuring they get the best employer to fit their career aspirations and skillset.”

Hassan Rizvi, Principal and CEO at Stoke on Trent College added,

“Stories like Rhyllan’s really resonate with our learners and the local community of Stoke-on-Trent, as it shows we are helping learners to be skills ready, future ready.

“We’re extremely proud of Rhyllan’s achievements to date, and are so excited that he will be representing Stoke on Trent College in the SkillBuild UK bricklaying finals.”

To find out more about all the different apprenticeships available at Stoke on Trent College, please visit – https://stokecoll.ac.uk/apprenticeships-2/

Notes to Editors

Picture caption – Stoke on Trent College Level 2 Bricklaying apprentice Rhyllan Taperek

• Stoke on Trent College serves up to 9000 students a year including young people, adults and apprentices. Working with a wide range of employers in key growth areas of the economy such as Digital, Construction, Engineering, STEM and Health and Social Care and more.
• Stoke on Trent College is the largest apprenticeship provider across Stoke-on-Trent
• The College also work with young adults who may have a special educational or additional need.
• A wide range of flexible and distance learning is provided by the College to individuals and businesses.

For all media enquiries, please contact marketing@stokecoll.ac.uk  

Sketty Hall Business School, part of Gower College Swansea, is proud to announce the expansion of its Advisory Board with the addition of six dynamic new members:

Luciana Ciubotariu, Chief Executive of The Celtic Freeport, a project which covers the ports of Milford Haven and Port Talbot and spans clean energy developments and innovation assets, fuel terminals, a power station, heavy engineering and the steel industry across south-west Wales.

Russell Greenslade, CBI Director of Wales, joins following the transition of Ian Price, former CBI Director of Wales to become the College’s Corporation Board Chair

Andrew Walker, Development Director at Resource Limited, which provides high-level commercial and management support to an ever-expanding number of partner companies

Elliott James, former College alumni and Head of Talent Development at Pobl Group, the largest social landlord in Wales

Rachael Flanagan, former College alumni and founder/CEO of Mrs?Buckét, a multi award-winning cleaning company and

Natasha Fulford, Managing Director at reTHINK, one of Wales’ longest established integrated PR and marketing agencies.

These six new appointments bring fresh perspectives and a wealth of experience to the Board, which plays a vital role in guiding the Business School’s strategic direction and ensuring its curriculum remains aligned with the evolving needs of employers across the region.

Paul Kift, Vice Principal of Skills and Partnerships at Gower College Swansea, said:

“We’re thrilled to welcome Luciana, Russell, Andrew, Elliott, Rachael and Natasha to the Advisory Board. Their insights and expertise will be invaluable as we look ahead to the next few years, particularly in addressing skills gaps, supporting economic growth and ensuring our learners are equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the future.”

The Advisory Board continues to support the Business School’s ambition to deliver an employer-led curriculum that reflects regional priorities and drives economic growth. Their insight and guidance have directly contributed to new curriculum development and successful funding bids, including those through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and the Swansea Bay City Deal’s Skills and Talent Programme.

Michael Kavanagh, Commercial Manager at Concrete Structures and Floors, and Chair of the Advisory Board, added:

“The strength of our Board lies in its diversity and depth of experience. With these new members on board, we’re even better placed to respond to the fast-changing needs of businesses and to help shape a future-ready workforce for south Wales.”

Sketty Hall Business School remains committed to enhancing collaboration between education and industry, creating a pipeline of talent, innovation, and leadership that will drive the region forward. Most recently, as part of its masterclass series, the School welcomed former international rugby player and broadcaster Jonathan Davies OBE to gain insight into how the disciplines of sport can directly inform and enhance strategic decision making, team dynamics, and organisational culture.

ENDS

About Sketty Hall Business School

In 2022, with the support of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, Sketty Hall was transformed into a hub of innovation, leadership and professional development. The Advisory Board is central to this mission, bringing together leaders from across industry, education, and the public sector to help shape the skills agenda for south Wales and beyond.

Members of the Advisory Board are as follows:

Alison Orrells: The Safety Letterbox Company, CEO and Managing Director and CBI Wales Chair

Andrew Walker: Resource Limited, Development Director

Chris Foxall: Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions, CEO

Deb Bowen-Rees: Non Exec Director – Dwr Cymru, Independent Non Exec Director – Airport Cood Ltd, Non Exec Director – Port of Milford Haven

Elliot James: Pobl, Head of Talent Development

Gareth Hopkins: Vodafone, Head of UK Professional Services

Ioan Jenkins: Tidal Range Alliance, Chair

Louise Harris: Tramshed Tech, CEO and Founder

Luciana Ciubotariu: Celtic Freeport, CEO

Lucy Cohen: Mazuma, Co-Founder

Lucy Hole: Secret Hospitality Group, Director

Michael Kavanagh (Chair): Concrete Structures and Floors, Commercial Manager

Natasha Fulford: reTHINK, Managing Director

Rachael Flanagan: Mrs Bucket, CEO

Rhodri Jones: Swansea Council, Head of Achievement and Partnership Service

Russell Greenslade: CBI Wales, Wales Director

Ryan Hole: Secret Hospitality Group, Managing Director

Gower College Swansea is delighted to announce that it has been named a winner in the British Training Awards 2025.

The British Training Awards is an annual campaign that sets out to discover and celebrate the teams and individuals who are truly passionate about learning and development’s role in building a thriving workforce.

“We are absolutely delighted to have won the Public Sector Initiative award for our continued focus on promoting menopause awareness in the workplace,” says Sarah King, Vice Principal People and Wellbeing.

“To have been Highly Commended in the Awareness Campaign of the Year category as well is a fantastic testament to the hard work and commitment of our HR and Wellbeing team, who have developed an ongoing programme of information sessions, workshops and professional training around the topic.”

This is just the latest in a long line of awards the team has won in recent years, following on from their success at the CIPD Awards, the British HR Awards and the Inside Out Awards. The College’s work around menopause awareness also made the news when Sarah was invited to participate in a special roundtable at 10 Downing Street to mark International Women’s Day.

This year, over 360 entries were received from organisations across the UK, so competition to be named a winner proved to be fierce. Firms taking part ranged from start-up pioneers to public sector heroes, tech trailblazers, global titans and everything in between.

Among the organisations joining Gower College Swansea in the running for awards were Routes Healthcare, GAIL’s Bakery, BT Group and Deloitte.

Winners were revealed at a special celebration event in Covent Garden, London, hosted by comedian Lucy Porter. A range of categories were awarded, including Training Initiative of the Year, AI in Learning Initiative of the Year and Leader of the Year.

The British Training Awards 2025 judges include:

• Sally Baines, Director of Talent, Development and Learning at OVO
• Paul Buckland-White, Senior Director of Global Learning and Development at Smith+Nephew
• Alistair Cumming, Head of Learning and Development/Talent Management at Lidl GB
• Angela Davies, Head of Learning and Development at AJ Bell
• Shannon Drew, Head of Learning and Development at Nuffield Health
• Olive Gardiner, Director of Learning and Development at Serco
• Kate Large, Director of Learning and Development at Mitie
• Sarah Maclot, Group Learning and Development Director
• Keith McDougall, Global Director of Learning and Development at Bupa
• Chris McLaughlin, Global Learning Experience Senior Manager at Booking.com
• Jenny Morgan, Head of Talent and Learning at Starling Bank
• Gemma Paterson, Head of Culture Innovation at Lloyds Banking Group
• Prachi Prasad, Global Head of Leadership and Learning Development at dunnhumby
• Jodie Pritchard, Director of Learning and Development at Barnardo’s
• Karen Suddards, Global Learning Manager at Bentley Motors
• Dr Paul Taylor-Pitt, OD Consultant and Director at Metamorphosish
• Liggy Webb, Author, Presenter and Consultant

Nate Harwood, Founder of New Possible, said: “Organisations increasingly need to be agile, innovative and fast – and we believe L&D is the catalyst for that. The British Training Awards are proud to celebrate the exceptional teams and individuals making this happen. Congratulations to all the Winners and Highly Commended.”

The British Training Awards is powered by New Possible, an employee insight platform. New Possible helps people leaders build healthier organisations by providing meaningful insight that can drive real change.