Elevating Higher Education in Further Education: A Campaign That Shows the Power of Collaboration
Tight budgets, fragmented marketing, and the challenge of raising the profile of Higher Education (HE) within Further Education (FE) settings are familiar struggles for college marketing teams. But what if there was a more effective way to overcome these obstacles?
The College Marketing Network (CMN) recently united more than 20 colleges to demonstrate that collaboration is the key to success. By pooling their resources, these colleges launched a high-impact national marketing campaign to spotlight the power of local, College-based Higher Education (CbHE).
A Campaign to Meet a Critical Need
In the UK, over 130 FE colleges provide higher education to around 100,000 students annually. These programmes are vital for economic growth, primarily because they:
- Serve adult learners, with over 70% of students aged 21 or older.
- Deliver vocational courses tailored to local industry needs.
- Offer flexible study options for those already in the workforce.
- Widen participation by making higher-level skills accessible to all.
In short, colleges are already delivering the bulk of England’s higher technical education. This campaign, built around the tagline “You don’t have to go far to go further,” was designed to bring this essential contribution into the national spotlight.
Bringing the Vision to Life
At the heart of the campaign is an inspiring film produced by the award-winning agency Clearhead. But the collaboration didn’t stop there. Participating colleges received a full suite of creative assets, including social media clips and still photography, with some featuring their own college branding. This provided each institution with high-impact, ready-to-use marketing materials at a fraction of the cost of going it alone.
The creative focuses on authentic student stories from diverse backgrounds, showcasing how they advanced their careers through courses at their local colleges. By highlighting relatable journeys, the film powerfully conveys that accessible, high-quality HE is available right on your doorstep.
The campaign’s national reach was secured by the specialist marketing agency Forward & Thinking, which managed a broadcast slot on ITVx. This ensured the message reached a broad audience of prospective students and influencers, amplified further by social media sharing from every partner college.
Endorsed by the Sector
The campaign’s launch was perfectly timed following the publication of a recent report; ‘Taking Higher Education Further: Widening Opportunity through College Based Higher Education’, published by Lifelong Education Institute (LEI) in partnership with the Mixed Economy Group. The report described colleges as “a vital strand” of higher education and emphasised the urgent need to raise awareness – a goal directly addressed by this campaign.
The initiative gained the support of the LEI, who shared the campaign with their members. This broad backing adds significant credibility and highlights the sector-wide consensus on the importance of promoting and expanding College-based HE.
A New Standard for Collaboration
This innovative project demonstrates what can be achieved through unity and creativity. As the LEI report states, “working together, colleges and universities can open up accessible opportunities and make a real difference to people’s lives.”
The “You Don’t Have to Go Far to Go Further” campaign turns this principle into action. By pooling budgets and ideas, the participating colleges have not only raised the profile of their HE offerings but have also created a tangible, cost-effective marketing package and set a new template for future collaborative marketing in the sector.
“By pooling our budgets, we created a campaign with impact and quality far beyond what any one college could achieve alone. This project exemplifies the power of connection and collaboration that CMN champions. It’s one of the many benefits of being part of the network.”
Sean Howitt, Head of Marketing & Communications at Solihull College & University Centre
Watch the video >>>
The Power of Connection and Collaboration
As we continue to face the challenges of tight budgets and fragmented marketing, this campaign serves as a shining example of what’s possible when colleges collaborate and pool resources. The “You Don’t Have to Go Far to Go Further” initiative is just one way CMN is helping colleges amplify their voices, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change within the Further Education sector.
The power of connection and collaboration cannot be overstated. This campaign not only demonstrates the incredible impact that can be achieved when colleges work together but also sets a new benchmark for future marketing collaborations in the FE sector. As we look to the future, CMN remains committed to supporting colleges in their efforts to grow and thrive, helping them showcase the vital role they play in delivering accessible, high-quality higher education.
“This initiative really shows that when colleges come together through the CMN, their collective voice can make a huge impact on the Further Education sector.
“At CMN, we’re here to support our members and boost the growth of FE by building connections and sharing knowledge. Being part of CMN means joining a network that fosters collaboration and provides a platform to thrive.”
Emma Wilde, Executive Director, College Marketing Network (CMN)
By joining forces, we can continue to shine a spotlight on the incredible work taking place in colleges up and down the country, ensuring that more students can access the higher education they need to thrive. The future of Further Education is brighter when we work together.
Peterborough College Apprentice Wins National Best Apprentice Award from ICME
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.
Apprentice Bricklayer Rhyllan Taperek to Compete in SkillBuild UK National Finals
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 Welcomes New Advisory Board Members
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
College Named a Winner at the British Training Awards 2025!
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.