Author: Emma Wilde

Six staff from Stoke on Trent College have signed up to become Menopause Champions; giving others staff support when dealing with menopause.

Menopause Champions will provide an approachable and friendly face across both campuses, answering questions about menopause plus signposting for further support and advice.

Each of the volunteers have enrolled in a Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Menopause in the Workplace; and will liaise with college senior management to ensure appropriate support is in place for people with menopause.

The College also plans to offer the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Menopause as a distance learning course for businesses in Stoke-on-Trent in the near future.

One of the Menopause Champions, who has signed up is Claire Gordon, Head of Inclusion at the College, who said:

“I’ve recently completed the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Menopause in the Workplace, which has given me a deeper understanding of the challenges menopause can present for women at work.

“With this knowledge, I am delighted to be taking on the role of Menopause Champion — aiming to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and help ensure that colleagues feel supported and understood during this important stage of life.

“It’s an exciting and important step towards creating an inclusive and empathetic workplace, and I’m glad to be part of this.”

Nova Abela, Chief People Officer at Stoke on Trent College said:

“At our college, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all staff is a top priority. Appointing menopause champions is a meaningful step in ensuring that colleagues experiencing menopause feel understood, respected, and supported.

“By raising awareness and promoting open dialogue, we’re not only challenging stigma but also reinforcing our commitment to staff wellbeing and equity. This initiative is part of our broader vision to create a workplace where everyone can thrive, at every stage of their career.”

Hassan Rizvi, Principal and CEO at Stoke on Trent College said:

“We’re delighted to have six staff signed up as Menopause Champions. Once they have attained their qualification, they will be fully equipped to provide vital support for our teaching and business support staff.

“The response, has been so positive; we already have another five staff signed up to take the course during the 2025/26 academic year.”

Find out more about courses at Stoke on Trent College here – https://stokecoll.ac.uk/courses

ENDS

 

Notes to Editors

Picture caption – (Left to right) Stoke on Trent College Menopause Champions Claire Gordon, Gill Walker, Sally Lunn and Kelly Clarke

• 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.
• 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  

Waltham Forest College is proud to announce it has been awarded full College-wide accreditation to the nationally recognised Matrix Standard, a significant milestone that reflects the exceptional quality, reach, and consistency of its careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) services for learners and apprentices.

The Matrix Standard, owned by the Department for Education, is the international quality benchmark for organisations delivering effective information, advice and guidance (IAG). Achieving whole-college accreditation demonstrates a shared, cross-departmental commitment to delivering outstanding learner support and aspirational career progression outcomes.

The rigorous five-day assessment, led by an independent Matrix Assessor, involved interviews with staff, learners, and a range of valued partner organisations including employers. The final report commended the College for embedding high-quality CEIAG at every level, from leadership to frontline delivery, developing highly effective strategic partnerships and for fostering a culture of inclusion, aspiration, and learner achievement.

The Matrix report highlighted several key strengths:

• CEIAG is seamlessly integrated across the organisation, championed by the Board and Senior Leadership Team, and clearly visible in day-to-day teaching and support practices. Learners recognise and value the guidance they receive in shaping their futures
• The College exemplifies its core values of Integrity, Inclusion, and Excellence through high achievement rates, inclusive recruitment, accessible progression pathways, and a ‘no wrong door’ philosophy. These values are evident in the positive behaviour, warmth, and pride demonstrated across the College community
• Collaborative work with external partners has generated tangible benefits for learners, including enhanced employability and improved progression opportunities
• The adoption of the national Skills Builder Framework has strengthened the development of essential, transferable employability skills within the curriculum
• The College prioritises the wellbeing of its students and staff, providing robust support systems that ensure individuals feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive.

Janet Gardner, Principal and CEO at Waltham Forest College, commented:

“Achieving the whole-college Matrix Standard accreditation for Waltham Forest College is a powerful endorsement of our high aspirations for our learners and our communities. It affirms the exceptional quality and consistency of our support for learners and reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence.

This recognition highlights the strength of our culture, the professionalism of our staff, and our ability to translate vision into meaningful outcomes. It is also testimony to the highly effective strategic partnerships developed with a range of employers and stakeholders that adds value and impact, helping students to successfully progress and achieve their aspirations. As a leading London college, we remain resolute in our mission to equip every learner with the skills, confidence, and ambition to thrive in a dynamic and evolving world.”

This prestigious accreditation reinforces Waltham Forest College’s mission to inspire ambition, unlock potential, and transform lives through high-quality education and guidance.

We are delighted to announce the opening of The Bowker Centre, our brand-new state-of-the-art animal T Level facilities at Rodbaston College, following a formal opening event on Thursday 22nd May 2025. 

Thanks to a £1.15 million investment from the Department of Education, the Bowker Centre will help to ensure our students are able to learn using industry-standard equipment ensuring that they are well prepared for careers within the animal care and management sector. 

Within the Bowker Centre are two multi-use high specification classrooms, a state-of-the-art technology room, an aquatics resource and a high welfare and technological advanced quarantine space. 

The Bowker Centre sits within Rodbaston Animal Zone, the on-site Zoo at Rodbaston College. Rodbaston Animal Zone is home to over 750 animals from 150 species, which offers a fantastic hands-on learning resource available for our animal care students. 

Dr Richard Sands, the Head of Education and Conservation at Twycross Zoo officially cut the ribbon to open the facilities with Chief Executive Principal, Claire Boliver. Richard said “Today isn’t just about opening a building, it’s the opening of a future. A future where more young people have the skills and the passion to protect our natural world, to step into industries that matter and to shape the kind of future that we all want to live in”. 

Following the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to take a tour of the new facilities, led by our animal care tutors. As part of the tour, guests were able to see a live demonstration of the facilities from our T Level students. They demonstrated the anatomage table which allows users to interact with and manipulate 3D images of animal anatomy, which provides a more realistic and immersive experience for students. Guests were also able to put their communication skills into practice utilising the Body Scan Virtual Reality software and talk to our T Level students about their poster symposiums about sustainability in animal collections.  

Marcus Roberts, Landbased Faculty Director at South Staffordshire College said “What began as a bold vision – a bid for Government support and belief in what we could achieve has today become a reality. It fills me with immense pride and excitement, today is the launchpad for ambition, a celebration of opportunity and the beginning of a new chapter for technical education at Rodbaston College”. 

The college’s investment into the new facilities marks an exciting era for the animal care department. The cutting-edge resources will allow the college to continue offering high quality, career focused teaching. 

Claire Boliver, Chief Executive Principal said “We have named the Bowker Centre after Jim a former student and then a valued employee for 27 years.  He was a significant part of Rodbaston, who touched so many lives here before he sadly passed away at the start of this year, and it’s only fitting that this incredible facility stands as a lasting legacy to his memory”. 

If you’d like to learn more about how you can Skill Up and Stand Out for a career in the animal care sector at South Staffordshire College why not check out our courses or come along to our next open day on Saturday 21st June. 

Gower College Swansea was delighted to welcome former international rugby player and broadcaster Jonathan Davies OBE, to Sketty Hall Business School as part of its management masterclass series.

The event, which was hosted by the College’s Business Development Consultant and former Wales rugby international, Stuart Davies, brought together staff and leading figures from the local business community for a rare opportunity to gain first-hand insight from one of Wales’ most respected sporting figures.

Jonathan drew from his distinguished career in elite sport to deliver a powerful and engaging session which explored core themes critical to success in today’s business environment, including resilience, goal setting, crisis management, and the ability to navigate both success and failure. 

Blending compelling personal anecdotes with deep professional insights, Jonathan clearly showed the strong parallel between elite sport and high performing businesses. 

His reflections offered invaluable takeaways for those in leadership roles, highlighting how the disciplines of sport can directly inform and enhance strategic decision making, team dynamics, and organisational culture. 

Business leaders from across South Wales were in attendance from companies such as Kier Construction, Castell Howell Foods, Admiral and Pobl as well as the Ospreys and Swansea City AFC.

Speaking after the event Jonathan said:

“It was a real pleasure to speak at the College and share some of the personal experiences and lessons I’ve learnt throughout my career in sport and broadcasting. I believe the parallels between sport and success in business are clear — from building resilient teams to leading through challenges. 

Events like this are a great way to open new perspectives and encourage a culture of collaboration between business.  I hope those who attended came away with ideas and inspiration they can apply in their own professional journeys’’

Mark Jones MBE, Chief Executive Officer of the College, was delighted to welcome Jonathan:

“Our vision for Sketty Hall Business School is to give all of our students an introduction to leadership and management in a very real and practical setting.  Jonathan’s masterclass was not only inspiring but also a powerful reminder of the transferable skills that elite sport offers to the world of business. We’re proud to offer our students and local business leaders’ opportunities to engage with such influential names.’’

Ben Davies, Managing Director of LBS Builders Merchants, who attended the event said: “It was a fantastic event and a valuable opportunity to hear how the principles of effective people management in sport — leading teams, building trust, and bringing out the best in individuals — can directly translate to the business.’’

Simon Pritchard, Chair of Manufacturing Wales, also added: “Jonathan Davies’ talk, Beyond the Try Line, was a masterclass in leadership lessons from sport. His insights on building a supportive culture, embracing calculated risks, and leading with resilience resonate deeply with the challenges we face in Welsh manufacturing. As Chair of Manufacturing Wales, I’m inspired to apply these principles to foster innovation and unity across our industry.”

This latest masterclass further enforces Gower College Swansea’s commitment to bridging education with real-world experience. By inviting voices from the world of elite sport and beyond, the College continues to foster meaningful dialogue that inspires, growth, innovation, and excellence across all sectors.  

The Heart of Yorkshire?Education?Group has been awarded the Matrix standard for its Careers Guidance and Course Information services – helping to deliver outstanding, impartial support to more than?10,000 learners across Castleford, Selby and Wakefield.

Acting on behalf of the Department of Education (DoE), the Matrix Standard is the international quality benchmark for organisations providing information, advice and guidance (IAG) services.

As part of the accreditation process, inspectors praised the relationships the Group has developed with local universities, employers and health and local authority services, enabling students to benefit from seamless referral routes and up?to?date labour?market insight.

The experience and knowledge of the Group’s Careers Team were also acknowledged, highlighting that students receive expert, personalised guidance.

This ensured measurable student outcomes, with retention and achievement rates above national benchmarks. Students are clear about their future plans, with destination data demonstrating a rise in progression to further study, apprenticeships and employment.

One student stated: “We know who the Careers Adviser is from the beginning of our journey and they have one-to-ones with us so that we can explore what we want to do. Our tutors are always asking about this and every week we talk about either coming back to college, getting a job, volunteering or getting an apprenticeship.”

Leigh Allsopp, Group Strategic Careers Leader at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, said: “We’re proud to have once again earned this external accreditation which is a clear recognition of the exceptional service delivered by our Careers and Course Information teams. Their commitment, professionalism and drive made this possible. The rigorous assessment included in-depth conversations with students, staff and stakeholders across the Group, along with a detailed review of outcomes and impact. This result confirms that students at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group receive high-quality advice and guidance that empowers them to make informed, confident decisions about their futures.”

Wakefield and Selby Children’s University is hosting a free, fun-filled event for local children and their families during half-term – providing them with the opportunity to enhance their learning.

After successfully running for nine years, May-Hem will return to Castleford College on Wednesday 28th May 2025, from 10am to 2pm, and will include a range of exciting activities.

The event is designed for Children’s University (CU) members and their friends and families but is also open to the public for children aged 5-to-14.

The day will be packed with engaging activities delivered by local Learning Destinations, including Biffa, Castleford Heritage Trust, Castleford Library, Girlguiding Whitwood Division, Phoenix Martial Arts, Rothwell Gymnastics, RSPB St Aidan’s, SDAH Red Watch, Wakefield City Emerald’s Cheerleaders and Wakefield Museums & Castles.

In addition, children and their families will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of hands-on activities led by College tutors across subject areas such as Automotive, Care & Early Years, Carpentry & Joinery, Hair & Beauty, Public Services and Sport.

Attendees also have access to the College’s next-generation technology hub, I-Innovate, where they can try out Virtual Reality and drone equipment.

Children’s University members will receive learning hours for attending the event while non-members aged 5-14 are also welcome to attend and find out more.

Rachel Rayner, School Liaison Coordinator for Wakefield and Selby Children’s University, said: “We’re really excited to be hosting the May-Hem event at Castleford College for the ninth year, bringing together our Learning Destination providers, College tutors and families for a fun and engaging day of learning. It’s a brilliant opportunity for children to discover new interests, try hands-on activities and explore the exciting courses we offer across our Colleges. Events like this are all about inspiring young minds and showcasing the power of learning beyond the classroom.”

Georgie Brown, from Whitwood Division of Girlguiding, said: “We’re proud to be a Learning Destination provider as the scheme opens up real opportunities for young people. It helps them build confidence, discover new skills and realise their potential – proving that learning doesn’t end when the school day does. Events like May-Hem give them the chance to explore what’s on their doorstep and see just how many exciting opportunities their local area has to offer.”

Children’s University promotes extra-curricular learning for young people across the district. As part of the initiative, pupils receive a ‘Passport to Learning’ which they use to collect codes each time they participate in a learning activity such as an after-school club, with the aim of collecting as many codes and hours as possible via the college and Learning Destinations.

Once the academic year ends, the children’s achievements will be commended at an annual Children’s University Graduation Ceremony, hosted by the College and attended by parents and carers.

One of Wales’ largest further education colleges, Gower College Swansea, has appointed Kelly Fountain as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Kelly, who has served as the College’s Principal since January 2024, will transition into her new role following the retirement of current CEO Mark Jones MBE, this summer.

The appointment comes as the College prepares to bid a fond farewell to Mark Jones, MBE, whose dedicated service as CEO has ensured the College’s success and strategic direction over the last 12 years.

Kelly brings over 20 years of experience in the further education sector across both England and Wales. Prior to joining Gower College Swansea, she held the role of Vice Principal for Academic Services at NPTC Group of Colleges and has an extensive background in strategic leadership, quality improvement and cross-college development. During her time at the College Kelly has made a significant and positive impact and has overseen the development of the new College’s strategic plan including launching the new College vision, mission and values.

In her new position, Kelly will take on overall responsibility for driving forward the College’s strategic vision, representing the College externally working closely with governors and stakeholders to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality education and training across the region and beyond. Kelly will also oversee the implementation of the College’s ambitious estates strategy, digital transformation and continue to develop a strong and inclusive organisational culture.

On behalf of the Governors, Ian Price, Chair of the College Governing Body, said:

“We would like to congratulate Kelly on her appointment as the new CEO of Gower College Swansea. I am grateful to all those involved in the appointment process and am really looking forward to working closely with Kelly over the coming year and we look forward to the continued positive impact that she will make.”

Speaking about her appointment, Kelly Fountain said:

“I am deeply honoured and privileged to be appointed as Chief Executive Officer of this exceptional College. Having begun my own educational journey here as a student in 1995, I have experienced first-hand the transformational impact that the staff at this College had on my own personal journey – and our staff continue to be outstanding today, consistently pushing boundaries and inspiring excellence.

“I look forward to building upon Mark’s exceptional legacy over the last 12 years and working alongside our Corporation Board to build upon our many successful achievements, deepening connections in our business sectors and communities, and working closely with staff, governors and partners.

“This is truly an exciting chapter for our College – with our newly established strategic plan, ambitious estates strategy, and numerous opportunities for growth. I am committed to expanding our reach and impact, collaborating with our key stakeholders and ensuring we continue to deliver an outstanding learning experience for our learners, communities, and employer partners.”

ENDS

Gower College Swansea is one of the largest FE colleges in Wales with over 4,500 full time and 8,000 part time learners – including 3,000 apprentices – from across Swansea and neighbouring counties studying each year. The College operates from seven locations and is one of the largest employers in the region with over 1,000 staff and an annual turnover of £60m.