Category: CMN News

Level 2 Hospitality and Catering learner Nic Tachenny will represent Stoke on Trent College at the final of the illustrious Combiguru Challenge in Venice, Italy on Friday 4 April 2025.

Nic, was ranked among the top 40 competitors from FE colleges right across the United Kingdom, and will now be jetting off to Venice to compete in the Oven Challenge.

To win a place in the Oven Challenge, Nic completed an app challenge set by organisers Unox, who visited the college’s Hospitality and Catering Level 2 learners in February.

The Oven challenge gives each competitor 3 hours to prepare a main course and dessert.

All contestants will also be given the opportunity to explore the stunning city of Venice, immersing themselves in the Italian culture as well as having an unforgettable dining experience.

The first place winner of the Combiguru Challenge will win their college a 5-tray CHEFTOP MIND.Maps PLUS commercial oven with second and third place winning a professional knife with the competition logo offered by partner company Maglionero.

Nic Tachenny said;

“This Hospitality and Catering course has helped me a lot to gain new skills, and I’ve learned a lot about the hospitality and catering sector.

“I really want to win this competition, as well as experiencing the different culture and try their foods too. I am a bit nervous but really fired up.”

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

“We would like to congratulate Nic on making the finals of the Combiguru Challenge. This is a fantastic opportunity for him to showcase his skills to industry leaders in the hospitality and catering industry.

“We’re extremely proud that he will be representing Stoke on Trent College.”

To find out more about the Combiguru Challenge please visit – https://www.combiguruchallenge.com/en_gb/

Find out more about Hospitality and Catering courses at Stoke on Trent College here – https://stokecoll.ac.uk/course-areas/hospitality-catering/

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Notes to Editors

• 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  

As part of Wakefield’s upcoming Rhubarb Festival, the Art & Design Department at Wakefield College has teamed up with the Community Foundation Wakefield District to create an upcycled rhubarb-themed fashion exhibition.

Level 3 Fashion & Textiles students were tasked with transforming clothes which were donated through the charity’s Community Give Box, designing pieces that resonate with the rhubarb theme.

Year 2 students started the creative process with mood boards and samples that inspired the designs of their garments, which they had to make for a range of dress sizes.

Research started with observations of the leaves and stems of rhubarb followed by further exploration into what can be created from the vegetable, with the students inspired by its textures, colours and how it is used in recipes.

Year 1 Fashion & Textiles students also used pre-loved materials and donated items to make dolls and their clothing, utilising a range of textile techniques including dyeing, printing and embroidery. The students then further enhanced their display by introducing rhubarb stems, leaves and soil.

This comes following the success of its previous Community Give Box project, which saw the students create fashionable garments using clothes donated to the charity shop.

Sally Poskitt, Lecturer in Art & Design at Wakefield College, said: “Given the success of last year’s project, the students were really keen to work with Community Foundation Wakefield District again to showcase how pre-loved clothes can be upcycled to create garments which are on-trend. It’s been fantastic to see how the students have used their creativity and expertise to transform donated materials into artful pieces which resonate with our local heritage, celebrating both sustainability and Wakefield’s beloved rhubarb.”

Lisa Milburn, Executive Director at Community Foundation Wakefield District, said: “Fast fashion is one of the greatest contributors to global warming and at the heart of our partnership with Wakefield College is our mission to raise awareness of sustainability. We’re delighted to be able to bring this exhibition to the public with the support of Wakefield BID and Woodhead Investments.”

The exhibition will be on display at Community Foundation Wakefield District in Cross Square in Wakefield from Thursday 13th February until Monday 24th February 2025.

The Level 3 Fashion & Textiles course is designed for those who have a creative mind, want to develop their design knowledge and skills and have a real passion and desire to work in the creative industries.

Hair and beauty studios at Stoke on Trent College have undergone a makeover, providing students with an authentic work environment and the tools to become the next generation of barbers and hair and beauty therapists.

Continuing the college’s investment into both campuses, the studios have been transformed with the following investments:

• Creation of an industry standard barbering studio
• A state of the art nail and beauty studio
• Dedicated learning spaces for hairdressing apprentices

 

The college has also developed key relationships with renowned industry partners HABIA, Dermalogica, Sculp Pro Aesthetics and L’Oreal.

Joan Scott, CEO and Chair at Habia added,

“HABIA are delighted to work closely with Stoke on Trent College, on their recently refurbished hair and beauty facilities, working with high-quality brands to provide a state-of-the-art education for their learners. We’re proud that the college is also presenting the HABIA Future Star Awards this year with two exceptional learners who have so much to offer the sector.”

With the newly refurbished facilities and high demand for barbering and hair and beauty courses, the college is keen to increase the number of partners, who can help to shape the curriculum offer to help meet the skills needs of the industry via regular employer panels.

The launch comes during National Apprenticeship Week, where the College is championing current apprentices as well as speaking to apprentices of tomorrow and companies who are keen to work together to help deliver them.

The facilities are already yielding results. Former Level 3 Barbering student Joel Grant, enrolled on the course after retiring from professional football.

Joel Grant commented,

“Coming to Stoke on Trent College gave me an exit route from football that I didn’t have before. This has given me a new career path, a new lease of life. It is daunting leaving the world of football, as you are so dedicated and you don’t think about anything else.”

Joel is now working at Twocees Cuts barbers, based on Bucknall New Road in Hanley, having previously completing an apprenticeship during his studies.

First Year Level 2 Beauty Therapy student Emilou Squire is also reaping the benefits of the new facilities, while fulfilling her dream to become a beauty therapist.

Emilou Squire commented,

“My dream is to have my own business and have a chain of salons spread across the area.

“It’s a really interesting course and you learn so much in a short space of time. There is a split of 60/40 between practical and theory, but you learn something new every day in the theory side.

“Our tutor is always telling us about the business side of beauty; and this is something which will definitely benefit my career.”

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

“Our learners deserve the very best facilities, as this will help them to achieve their career goals in the industry.

“These are really competitive careers so offering the best learning space with dedicated, experienced teachers will show them all the possibilities available. Members of the general public can also benefit from the facilities by booking a haircut, style or an array of beauty treatments at very affordable prices.”

To book a treatment in our Beauty Salon or Hair Salon please call the Hair & Beauty Reception on 01782 603542 for availability.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• 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  

Nineteen learners and staff from Stoke on Trent College, have flown to Cape Town, South Africa for a life-changing trip as part of a 9-month, flagship enrichment programme.

The long-standing Challenge South Africa experience, now in its 20^th year, gives learners the opportunity to sample the culture, traditions and history of South Africa whilst learning about equality and diversity.

Ashraf Karriem, Principal of Talfalah Primary School in Cape Town, who has been part of Challenge South Africa since its inception in 2005, said,

“Over the years I’ve met some exuberant young students from Stoke on Trent College and they have made a great impact on our learners, who eagerly await their arrival every year at the school. 

“For the students involved, this trip provides an opportunity to engage with new communities, build new friendships and provides a platform to allow them to support and give back to those less fortunate than themselves.”

To prepare for this unique trip, learners have undertaken social and personal development activities and community-based, fundraising events before heading to Cape Town.

Before jetting off, participants were given a special farewell event at the College’s Hammersley Restaurant, which also saw past Challenge South Africa participants share their experience around the impact the trip has had on their lives.

Jack Bailey-Birch, former Stoke on Trent College Alumni, took part in Challenge South Africa in 2023, and shared his experience:

Jack Bailey-Birch said:

“I would say the South Africa trip was the highlight of my two years at college and is something that I will keep with me for the rest of my career. I would advise anyone lucky enough to be a part of this project to jump out of your comfort zone as much as possible, always remember that the people around you want you to succeed and they will support you.”

The 10-day trip sees learners visiting local townships and working with communities in and around Cape Town in order to gain perspective on life in South Africa following the fall of Apartheid. The nineteen learners will also deliver sports coaching in schools, visit an AIDS orphanage, take part in a safari and exploring Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Skye Goodwin, Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery student, is one of the 19 learners who will be part of Challenge South Africa, and said:

“I first heard about Challenge South Africa in May, I saw the video online from 2023 and it looked like an incredible experience. We are going to visit young children of different ages, and help them out with different sessions plus delivering food parcels to those in need.

“I’ve never been to South Africa before, and I’m really looking forward to the experience but also supporting different communities.”

Learners will also provide hosts with a selection of ceramics gifts provided by Emma Bridgewater and will distribute over 100 food parcels to local shanty towns, within the community of Parkwood.

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

“Challenge South Africa, is an award-winning enrichment programme that complements our curriculum and gives our learners the opportunity to explore different cultures that will enhance their personal and professional skills.

“In its 20^th year, Challenge South Africa remains one of the most unique enrichment experiences offered.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• 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  

Stoke on Trent College’s Youth Social Action Committee are embarking on a social action project that will support homeless communities across Stoke-on-Trent.

The college is working with local organisation Brighter Futures, as well as other local charities with a particular focus on homelessness.

Starting this month, the college Youth Social Action Committee, will be creating 15 care packages to support customers of Brighter Futures, with donations from staff and students across both campuses.

The care packages will be delivered to Brighter Futures on Valentine’s Day, in support of sharing love and kindness for the wider community.

The Youth Social Action Committee will also be taking part in The Big Sleep Out 2025, supporting the Macari Centre and the Stoke City Community Trust; who work with homeless people across the city. Those participating will be raising a minimum of £25 sponsorship each as well as attending on the night to help raise awareness of homelessness.

The Youth Social Action Committee will also be organising a staff versus students’ dodgeball game, with a raffle on-the-day raising money for local and national charities that support the homeless community.

To support these initiatives, the committee successfully applied for funding from the Association of Colleges and the Pears Foundation. Funds awarded will support these activities and provide students with further opportunities and an understanding of budgeting for campaigns and projects.

The youth social action project runs until April, with a presentation of the results planned for early summer.

Umaiza Noveed, Level 3 Health & Social Care student said:

“The Youth Social Action Committee talked about causes that were close to our hearts, and we decided to support homeless people across the city. We have seen in our own communities and towns that we have a number of homeless people, and hope through this project we can raise funds and awareness about homelessness.

“The care packages we are creating will be distributed to Brighter Futures, and will include essential items such as unopened toiletries, hats, scarves, gloves, and food items to provide support throughout winter and into the spring.”

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

“It is vitally important for our students to lend a hand and support our local community. We know there are a number of homeless people in Stoke-on-Trent, but with this series of projects we are hoping to make a difference to their lives.”

Dave Hopley, Assistant Principal Student Experience at Stoke on Trent College added:

“The students, working closely with the Enrichment team have chosen excellent local charities to support whilst building people skills that will help them in every walk of life.”

Stoke on Trent College has teamed up with the Association of Colleges, for Phase 2 of the Youth Social Action Project that will develop students’ employability skills, whilst giving back and supporting the local community.”

To keep up to date with the youth social action project, please follow Stoke on Trent College on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/stokeontrentcollege

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• Association of Colleges is the national voice for further education, sixth form, tertiary and specialist colleges in England. We are a not-for-profit membership organisation established in 1996 by colleges, for colleges. Our members make up almost 95% of the sector – transforming 2.2 million lives each year.
• 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  

South Staffordshire College is proud to have signed the Dying to Work Charter on Thursday 30th January marked by a formal signing ceremony. Claire Boliver, Chief Executive Principal, Karen O’Reilly, Assistant Principal – HR, and College union reps Dean Reid and Lousie McLean signed the charter to mark the occasion with Adrian Watts, Branch Secretary from UNISON and Rob Johnston from the Trades Union Congress.

The Dying to Work Charter, an initiative by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), aims to provide additional employment protection for terminally ill workers. It ensures that employees can make informed decisions about their work without the fear of losing their jobs due to their illness. By signing this charter, the college ensures that its staff members facing terminal conditions receive the protection and support they need during challenging times.

Claire Boliver, Chief Executive Principal at South Staffordshire College, said “We are deeply committed to the well-being of our staff. Signing the Dying to Work Charter reflects our dedication to providing a supportive and compassionate work environment especially during the most challenging times of their lives”.

By adopting the Dying to Work Charter, South Staffordshire College joins a growing number of employers dedicated to safeguarding the rights and dignity of terminally ill workers. This initiative is part of the college’s broader commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace for all employees.

Rob Johnston, Interim Regional Secretary at TUC Midlands said: “Your job should be the least of your worries when you get a terminal diagnosis. I’m delighted that South Staffordshire College has shown real leadership in this area, working with unions to guarantee fair treatment for terminally ill workers. We now have over 1.5 million workers being covered by the Dying to Work charter across the country, and we expect more employers to commit in the coming months”.

To find out more about Charter, please visit the Dying to Work website

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