Author: Emma Wilde

A blind farmer who studied in Warwickshire is helping to inspire the next generation of farmers living with visual impairment. 

Mike Duxbury studied at Moreton Morrell College in the late 1980s, which is part of WCG (Warwickshire College Group) and was then known as Warwickshire College of Agriculture. 

He was the first ever blind student at the college, became a pig specialist and won National Pig Development Student of the Year in 1989. Mike remains one of the only blind farmers in Britain.

Mike is the co-founder of Inclusive Farm, which had its first site in Bedford and has opened a second farm in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

Inclusive Farm has been created to show people with disabilities a route into agriculture and give them the confidence to pursue a worthwhile and fulfilling career.

Mike has now been passing on his experiences to a current student at the college. John Sharlot has been studying at the college for three years and has a visual impairment.

John, 21 from Southam, has been invited to Mike’s farm to build his experience, confidence and develop his skills.

Mike said: “I would do anything for Moreton Morrell College, they gave me an opportunity that very few would. They opened their minds to differences. I was a student like everyone else and not treated any differently.

“Moreton Morrell has passed on what they did for me to John. This is a college that said in the 1990s that all people should be treated equally and it’s what they are still doing now.

“A big part of having John come to visit and work at the farm has been in building his confidence, being able to be with people from similar circumstances and people that are succeeding in their field.

“John first visited us at our first Inclusive Farm site in Bedfordshire. He spent a couple of days with us, reinforcing what he had learnt in college and showing how that can be put into practice on our farm.

“You have seen John’s confidence grow during his visits to our farm in Bedfordshire, and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to our Scotland site to continue that development.”

John has recently completed a Level 2 Agriculture qualification at Moreton Morrell College. Farming is in the blood, with his family running Gallops Farm, a cattle and arable farm.

He started studying at the college at the Gatherum Centre, which works with supported learning students, and has gone on to study Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications.

John said: “I’ve had great support from the college since joining, they adapted the course so I could access it and was allowed to complete some parts of the course, for example tractor driving at my home farm.

“The college introduced me to Mike, who had been in a similar position to me, and he invited me to spend some time on the farm in Bedfordshire. I definitely came away from the experience with more confidence in my skills.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to go up to the farm in Scotland next. My long-term ambition is to be a farmer and run a small unit independently which specialises in calves and cattle.”

To find out more about studying at WCG visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study 

Pershore College Celebrates the Success of the “Helping You Grow a Better Future” Horticulture Conference

Pershore College proudly hosted the inaugural “Helping You Grow a Better Future” horticulture conference on Wednesday 12th February 2025. 

The sold-out event brought together 40 students from Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and BSc programs alongside industry professionals, fostering collaboration and career development. The event showcased the potential of uniting students and experts, providing insight into the industry’s future while creating lasting professional relationships. 

Student organiser Ross Dyke described the event as “a unique opportunity for aspiring horticulturists to gain industry insights while forming relationships that will shape the future of horticulture.”

Industry leaders shared their expertise on innovation and sustainability. Sam Rivers from ICL Growing Solutions discussed advancements in sustainable crop protection, while Nigel Pugh of Impact Aerial Ltd explored the use of drones and technology in modern horticulture. Boyd Douglas-Davies from The Boyd Partnership provided an overview of the industry’s future, and Michael Perry, known as “Mr Plant Geek,” highlighted emerging horticultural trends. 

Neil Gow of The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation spoke about scholarship opportunities, and Anjana Patel from WCG examined sustainable horticulture technologies and Pershore College’s BSc program. David Denny from The HTA presented recent industry research, and Rob Boswijk from Proptek introduced groundbreaking air pruning technology.

Sara-Jane Watkins, CEO and Principal of WCG and WCUC, emphasised the importance of the conference, stating, “This event embodies our commitment to advancing horticulture and agri-tech, providing students with opportunities to learn from industry leaders, explore new technologies, and connect with potential employers.” Jason Daff, Secretary for the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, praised the event for “affirming career choices in this valuable industry.” Rob Boswijk, a former Pershore College student, reflected on his experience, saying, “What I learned here gave me the foundation for my career. It’s not just about knowledge but about learning how to grow and adapt in this field.”

The conference was widely praised, with many hoping it will become an annual tradition. Chris Chambers from Pershore High School remarked on the event’s impact, stating, “It was inspiring to see engaging speakers, networking opportunities, and enthusiasm for horticulture encouraging students in their future careers.” 

Pershore College remains committed to fostering opportunities that empower students and strengthen the horticulture industry. The success of this event highlights the power of collaboration and the bright future of horticulture.

For more information about future events or horticultural programs at Pershore College, visit: https://wcg.ac.uk/pershore

We are delighted to announce the opening of our brand-new cutting-edge music studio at Lichfield College, following a formal opening event last night. Guests were able to enjoy an acoustic performance from Tia Lamb upon their arrival whilst enjoying canapes prepared and served by Tamworth College catering and hospitality students.

Councilor Dave Robertson MP for Lichfield formally opened the new music facilities with Chief Executive Principal, Claire Boiler by cutting the ribbon. Guests were then invited to take an immersive behind the scenes tour whilst JAYLER performed and recorded a song live at the event. James Bartholomew, Tyler Arrowsmith, Ed Evans and Ricky Hodgkiss who together are JAYLER, are former South Staffordshire College students, and were recently signed by Adam Parsons Entertainment.

The college’s investment into state-of-the-art music facilities marks an exciting era for the music department and provides students with industry standard facilities to enhance their musical education and creativity.

Curriculum Manager for Creative Arts, Claire Pinder Smith said “It’s an exciting time for the Creative Arts department, and we can’t wait to see the incredible work our students will produce in this fantastic new space. The new music studio is equipped with advanced recording and production tools, which will give our students hands-on experience with industry-standard resources and this investment ensures that our students are well-prepared for future careers in the music industry.”

Guests remarked during the event what exceptional facilities the music studio boasted for our students. Music performance and production students will have the opportunity to learn within state-of-the-art recording studios, perform within rehearsal / live performance spaces and produce music within the cutting-edge control room.

At the heart of the new facilities, the control room features an Audient ASP4816 mixing desk, selected for the exceptional audio quality and flexibility it allows for both recording and mixing. The team selected a Heritage Audio equalizer to bring warmth and character of vintage analog to recordings, and the HA609 processor to add punch and clarity to mixes.

Other cutting edge outbound gear was selected from the Warm Audio range. Students will be able to utilise industry standard software such as Pro Tool Ultimate, Avid Dock and S1, Ableton and Logic within the control room to produce music with the best possible sound quality.

Claire Boliver, Chief Executive Principal at South Staffordshire College said “We are thrilled to be able to offer our students these exceptional facilities to learn in. The investment reflects the colleges commitment to providing an outstanding learning environment for our students and fostering the next generation of musicians”.

Budding musicians within the region can study music, performing and production arts, music production and working musicianship, music performance and music production at Lichfield College.

If you’d like to learn more about how you can Skill Up and Stand Out for a career in the music industry at South Staffordshire College why not visit check out our courses or come along to our next open day on Saturday 17th May.

On the final day of both Colleges and Careers Week, South Staffordshire College was delighted to welcome Gavin Williamson, MP for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge to Rodbaston College.

The purpose of the visit was to explore the new and cutting-edge learning facilities on offer at Rodbaston College for residents within his parliamentary constituency to get the skills they need to Skill Up and Stand Out.

The visit began at the new state-of-the-art Net Zero Energy Training Centre, which was formally opened earlier this year, by Councillor Kath Perry, thanks to a £1.6m Getting Building Fund. The Centre will support the Government’s ‘net zero’ commitment by equipping the local workforce with skills needed to make the transition from carbon-based plumbing to carbon free technologies. The Net Zero Energy Training Centre is equipped with the latest advancements in energy efficiency such as photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging, air and ground source heat pump installations and hydrogen boilers as well as energy distribution and management systems.

Following this, Mr. Williamson took a return trip to Rodbaston Animal Zone to explore the new T Level teaching facility, recently funded by a Government T Level bid. This provided a wonderful opportunity to hear from students currently studying the Level 3 animal care T Level programme to hear about their experience on the new qualification.

Chief Executive Principal at South Staffordshire College, Claire Boliver, said “We would like to thank Gavin Williamson MP for visiting our college today during Colleges and Careers Week. We are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. Today’s visit highlights the importance of ensuring that our students can learn in industry standard facilities to ensure a smooth transition to the workplace post college”.

#NCW2025 #CollegesWeek

An Oldham College apprentice has been recognised as one of the country’s top young bricklayers after being named runner-up in a prestigious national competition. 

Ethan 19, was one of three finalists in the Bricklaying Apprentice of the Year award, run by the Association of Brickwork Contractors, and the only finalist from the North of England.  

He attended the awards ceremony in London on Friday 28th February, where he and one other competitor were named runners-up alongside the overall winner. 

Ethan began his studies at Oldham College in 2021 and is currently completing an apprenticeship at Oldham College with Marlborough Brickwork, which he joined in 2022.  

His employer nominated him for the competition after recognising his dedication and technical ability. Judges praised both his skills and his career progression. 

Speaking about his apprenticeship experience, Ethan said: “My tutor advised me to do an apprenticeship because I enjoyed the more practical side of learning.  

“It’s helped me gain confidence not just in my brickwork skills but also in speaking to people and working as part of a team.” 

Ethan has worked on major construction projects, including a large tower block in Manchester and a newly constructed college building.

He believes his apprenticeship has given him the best start in the industry, stating, “I get paid while I learn, and I know I have a job at the end of it. If I went to university, I wouldn’t be guaranteed that.” 

His tutor and assessor, Paul Monaghan, said: “I’m incredibly proud of Ethan for reaching the final three of the competition. His success is a testament to his hard work and the high standard of work that he produces, along with his excellent attitude and work ethic.” 

Marlborough Brickwork, which has supported Ethan throughout his apprenticeship, praised his dedication and potential. Paul Donnelly, Managing Director, said: “Ethan has demonstrated outstanding commitment and ability and has developed into an essential member of the team on a key project for Marlborough.  

“He has a bright future in the industry, and we are thrilled to see his efforts recognised at a national level.” 

Hannah Cutler, Director – Construction, added: “This is exactly what apprenticeships are about, giving young people real-world skills, qualifications, and a direct route into employment.  

“Ethan’s success highlights the fantastic opportunities available at Oldham College and the incredible talent coming through our apprenticeship programmes.” 

Ethan’s future looks bright, with Marlborough Brickwork eager to support him in progressing to a Level 3 apprenticeship. He hopes to continue advancing in the industry, with ambitions to become a site manager and eventually run his own business. 

Oldham College is proud to support apprentices like Ethan in achieving their career goals. Find out about the apprenticeship programmes available at Oldham College by visiting www.oldham.ac.uk.

Higher Education Art, Design & Media students from Selby College have launched a month-long sustainability-themed exhibition at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York.

A new piece of artwork is being installed each week throughout the exhibition, which will be on display to the thousands of visitors the shopping centre attracts.

Paul Tyler, Centre Manager at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York, said: “We’re delighted to have partnered with Selby College on this project which not only promotes sustainability, but supports and encourages local artists. The exhibition is already being enjoyed by our guests and we look forward to supporting more initiatives with the College in the future.”

Student Ruby Duffy, whose artwork was the first to be displayed at the Designer Outlet, said: “I put a lot of consideration and labour into creating my exhibition, so it feels amazing to have my work displayed at Designer Outlet York. The idea behind the piece is to showcase 32 white, flat flowers which are meticulously arranged in uniform so that you can only see them from a specific angle. It’s designed to get observers to question how we choose to see the reality we want.”

Creating sustainable artwork has been embedded into the students’ studio practice, which has seen them design pieces which are made from recycled materials.

Elaine Whitehead, Curriculum Development Manager for Art, Design & Media at Selby College, said: “To enhance their professional development, we ensure that all of our Higher Education Art, Design & Media students have the opportunity to exhibit their artwork beyond our campus. This expands their experience in working to a real-life client brief, whilst also boosting their confidence in creating conversational public pieces of art.”

The work of the College’s talented Higher Education Art, Design & Media students will also be on display as part of the Department’s end-of-year shows, which will take place on Thursday 12^th June and Thursday 19^th June 2025.

In conjunction with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group’s Sustainability Week, Level 1 and Level 2 Art & Design students will be exhibiting their ecofriendly artwork at Selby Abbey on Monday 17^th March 2025.

As part of the project, the students have produced pieces by collecting and reusing waste materials, with Selby Abbey’s artists in residency, Mandy Keating and Helen Brook, providing them with feedback on their pieces.

Making their mark on Selby Abbey, Level 3 Art & Design students will also be taking part in a light project exhibition at the venue alongside NowThen Creative and installation light artists, Henrick and Palmer.

This includes a light trail which will start at Selby Abbey and be displayed in the shop windows of local businesses in the Town.

As part of its efforts to enrich the learning experiences of local children, Wakefield College’s Care & Early Years Department welcomed over 50 children and their parents to a storytelling event at the College during half-term.

Hosted by its Childcare students and tutors, children aged four to seven and their families attended the event where they enjoyed a morning of fun activities, storytelling and dress-up – all to enrich children’s learning experiences.

From space to animals, science, traditional tales, under the sea and more, each classroom had a theme and were decorated to immerse the children into the stories.

Besides the storytelling sessions, the morning was full of varied activities such as arts and crafts, biscuit decorating, sandpit play and face painting, meaning there was something for everyone.

Claire Deering, Lecturer in Care & Early Years and lead organiser of the event told us: “This initiative has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and employability skills within the education and early years sector. As part of this project, students have honed their digital media skills by creating an advertising campaign, planned activities for young children with careful consideration of their developmental needs, and nurtured a love for stories. They have also undertaken critical tasks such as writing risk assessments, budgeting for resources, effectively communicating with staff, families and young children, and leading various activities. This initiative not only provided valuable learning opportunities for our students but also emphasised the significance of community involvement.”

Fiona Haddock, a parent who brought her child to the event said: “I’m passionate about the role of stories in children’s learning as they teach them skills and broaden their imaginations. The event has been a great way for children to explore books, socialise with others and have fun. It was also free which is important due to the cost-of-living crisis making it much harder to find affordable activities for children during half-term holidays.”

The Care & Early Years Department at the College is actively involved with the community in Wakefield, with many of its students currently carrying out work placements around the district including in nurseries and primary schools.

Hannah Whitby, T Level Education & Early Years student said: “I worked in the space-themed classroom where children explored their five senses through different interactive activities including the sensory den. It’s been beneficial to be involved as I’ve been able to learn what kind of activities the children find most engaging which I can use to help with my work placement at a primary school.”

Community collaboration was key for the event, with Wakefield Hepworth donating den-building resources and Bowkirk Joinery sponsoring a book for each child, enabling them to take a book home to kindle their love for reading.

Members of Wakefield’s Children’s University were also able to collect learning hours by attending the event, which encourages 5-14 year olds to take part in extra-curricular activities in and outside of school.

Carla Cantrell, Head of Care & Early Years at Wakefield College said: “It was a pleasure to welcome so many children and their parents to the College to celebrate the world of storytelling and reading. I am incredibly proud of the Care & Early Years students for leading the event, organising the activities and engaging the children in the sessions and hope to do it again soon.”

If you would like to find out further information about the Care & Early Years Department at Wakefield College, you can visit the website here: Childcare, Early Years & Childhood Studies

Learn more about Wakefield College, at: Wakefield College

Fourteen A Level students from Gower College Swansea have been offered places to study at Oxford or Cambridge University in 2025.

The students are all following the College’s GCS Honours programme at the Gorseinon Campus, which aims to provide the best possible preparation for students aiming to progress to Oxford, Cambridge and Russell Group universities. They are:

• Evie Beck (formerly Pontarddulais Comprehensive) offered a place at New College, Oxford to study Biomedical Sciences
• Mia Brown (formerly Cefn Hengoed Community School) offered a place at Brasenose College, Oxford to study Geography
• Sophie Hill (formerly Bishopston Comprehensive) offered a place at Lincoln College, Oxford to study Biochemistry
• Claudia Croft (formerly Bishopston Comprehensive) offered a place at Corpus Christi College, Oxford to study Experimental Psychology
• Carys Morgan (formerly Cwmtawe Community School) offered a place at Jesus College, Oxford to study Music
• Gwinnie Pinnock (formerly Bishopston Comprehensive) offered a place at Worcester College, Oxford to study History
• Milly Walker (formerly Bishop Gore School) offered a place at New College, Oxford to study Law
• Jasmine Haynes (formerly Olchfa) offered a place at Hertford College, Oxford to study Biology
• Frances Mackie (formerly Glan y Môr School) offered a place at Churchill College, Cambridge to study History and Spanish
• Lily Parker (formerly Bishopston Comprehensive) offered a place at Clare College, Cambridge to study Education
• Violet Williams (formerly Bishop Gore School) offered a place at Queens College, Cambridge to study Education
• Alex Mort (formerly Morriston Comprehensive) offered a place at Kings College, Cambridge to study Engineering
• Ruby Zaire (formerly Gowerton School) offered a place at Churchill College, Cambridge to study Law
• Leah Spackman (formerly Penyrheol Comprehensive) offered a place at St John’s College, Cambridge to study Education

The College’s GCS Honours Programme incorporates weekly tutorials, preparation interviews with Oxbridge alumni and local acaemic professionals, an aptitude test and assessment preparation for relevant subjects.

Learners who wish to apply to study medicine, dentistry or veterinary science attend additional sessions which prepare them for admissions tests and competitive interviews. They also have opportunities to hear from guest speakers from a range of employers and university courses.

The College has also integrated the Seren Academy, a Welsh Government initiative dedicated to helping Wales’ brightest learners achieve their full academic potential in Wales, the UK, and overseas, into its GCS Honours programme. Available to all academically able learners in Year 12 and Year 13, the Seren Academy offers interactive sessions and unique study experiences to support ongoing learning and expert guidance to help young people make informed decisions about applying to leading universities.

Gower College Swansea is also proud to be part of the Step Up initiative, which is coordinated by New College, Oxford. The Step Up team support students by attending the Gorseinon campus to talk through the application and personal statement process and providing opportunities for our learners to visit Oxford.

“To have 14 GCS Honours and Seren Academy students holding offers from Oxford and Cambridge this year is an incredible achievement and we are proud of them all, I’m so pleased that all their hard work has paid off,” says the College’s GCS Honours Coordinator/Coordinator of the Swansea Seren Hub, Dr Emma Smith.

“Once again, it’s good to see that so many different comprehensive schools are represented on this list. And I’m delighted that the range of subjects these students are going on to pursue are so varied – from education and law to music and engineering – this really represents a diverse range of future career pathways. I wish them all the very best for their exam results in August!”

“Our GCS Honours provision has demonstrated once again that is the perfect springboard to success for students who are aiming to attend the UK’s top universities,” says Principal Kelly Fountain.

“To have 14 students holding Oxbridge offers in one academic year is a reflection not only of the their individual talent and dedication, but also the commitment and support offered by the GCS Honours team, led by Emma, and all of our A Level lecturers and support staff. My congratulations go to them all.”

Apprenticeship Week Wales is an annual celebration that shines a spotlight on the vital role apprenticeships play in shaping the future workforce, empowering learners and driving business success.

This year, Gower College Swansea has commemorated the campaign with a week of activities including a recruitment fair, an awards ceremony, and a suite of information sessions for individuals and employers alike.

The College was also delighted to welcome Eluned Morgan MS, First Minister of Wales, to Sketty Hall Business School where she met with staff and students from a range of apprenticeship pathways including leadership and management, health and social care, accountancy, and housing.

Around 900 people attended the Apprenticeship and Recruitment Fair at the Tycoch Campus, where they were able to talk with College staff about how to access apprenticeships. Also in attendance to promote their apprenticeship opportunities were over 50 local organisations with close links with the College including Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea Council, Ecolab, DVSA and Great Western Railway.

A special apprenticeship awards ceremony was held at Swansea.com Stadium which honoured the outstanding commitment and dedication of the College’s apprentices, staff and employer partners from across Wales and England. The event, which saw over 40 awards handed out to worthy winners, was hosted by presenter/broadcaster Ross Harries with apprenticeship advocate and senior policy advisor at HMRC, Joseph Lennox, as guest speaker.

“Apprenticeships are a key priority area for many employers in terms of meeting the skills needed to develop and grow their business,” says Principal Kelly Fountain. “I’m delighted that, especially in recent years, the College has been able to respond to this demand so positively, with over 2500 apprentices now enrolled with us at any one time. Our apprenticeship programmes continue to go from strength to strength, being recognised nationally at the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru, the Inspire Tutor Awards, the TES FE Awards, the Annual Apprenticeship Conference Awards and Association of Colleges Beacon Awards.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support Apprenticeship Week Wales 2025 with so many varied and engaging events. Almost 1000 learners and parents attended our recruitment fair and the feedback has been overwhelming positive, with many now feeling more confident and informed about choosing an apprenticeship pathway.

“It was also a great honour to welcome the First Minister to Sketty Hall where she had an opportunity to meet some of our current cohort of leaners and hear from them directly how much they have benefitted from their apprenticeship and the College’s continuing support.”

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “It was great to visit Gower College Swansea and meet so many apprentices for National Apprenticeship Week.

“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to get into a rewarding profession, with opportunities across Wales for people of all ages. Apprenticeships cover everything from construction to creative industries, from energy and the environment, from financial and professional services, to tourism and the life sciences.

“All the best to the apprentices and students at Gower College Swansea with the rest of your training and in your future careers!”