Category: College News

Gower College Swansea is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Kift as its new Principal.

A former student of the College’s Gorseinon Campus, Paul has a long and successful history with Gower College Swansea, having first joined as a Director, then becoming Vice Principal and now taking up the position of Principal.

Before joining the College, Paul held senior management roles in the private and public sector, having worked in roles for Capital Law and Cardiff and Vale College.

During his time at Gower College Swansea, Paul has played a pivotal role in leading the College to award-winning status, with significant national recognition for excellence and innovation in further education and skills.

Under his leadership, the College has achieved multiple prestigious awards including two UK Association of Colleges Beacon Awards for Internationalisation (2022/23), recognising the College’s broad range of initiatives to develop learners, employers, staff and communities on an international scale, and for Widening Participation (2023/24) which focussed on the College’s Apprenticeships for All initiative, which has enhanced the social mobility of individuals with additional learning needs and disabilities.

Paul has also facilitated improvements in the quality of the College’s provision, delivered an increase in learner numbers, enhanced partnerships with industry and developed wider opportunities for learners beyond their studies.

Speaking about his appointment, Paul said:

“I’m delighted and deeply honoured to be appointed as Principal of Gower College Swansea. Having started my own journey here as a student at Gorseinon, this College is incredibly special to me. I’m genuinely proud of what we have achieved together to date and I’m excited to have the opportunity to innovate, collaborate and deliver outstanding outcomes for our learners, staff and partners.”

Kelly Fountain, CEO of Gower College Swansea, added:

“Paul’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Gower College Swansea. His deep understanding of our College community and proven leadership experience make him the ideal person to lead us forward. I look forward to working closely with Paul as we continue to deliver inspirational learning experiences and strengthen our position as a leading further education provider in Wales.”

Ian Price OBE, Chair of Governors, said:

“Throughout the recruitment process, Paul impressed us with his outstanding leadership, strategic insight and genuine commitment to our students, staff and community.

“We warmly congratulate Paul on his appointment as Principal and look forward to working with him as we continue to deliver an outstanding educational experience for our students and a supportive environment for our staff.”

Caitlin Thompson always aspired to pursue a career in Engineering and found the ideal route through an Apprenticeship with BT and Stoke on Trent College. She began her studies at the College in 2019, choosing the Apprenticeship pathway over university in order to gain hands-on experience alongside industry-recognised qualifications.

Since completing her Level 3 Maintenance Operational Electrical Technician Apprenticeship—which covered both mechanical and electrical disciplines—Caitlin has progressed steadily in her career. She now works as a Power Trainer at BT, overseeing the training of employees and Apprentices across the organisation.

“I always said I wanted an Apprenticeship, and found the course at BT to be the best way for me to achieve my Level 3 qualification,” Caitlin said. “I wanted to be an Engineer from an early age and wasn’t too concerned about which area of Engineering I went into.”

After qualifying, Caitlin joined BT’s Engineering Team and later transitioned into her current role, where she supports Level 4 Lead Engineering Apprentices both on-site and during their classroom-based sessions at the College.

“I started delivering training to other BT employees and Apprentices, and I’ve since moved into the Training Team. I organise all the sessions and really enjoy working with the new starters,” she explained.

As the only female on her course at the time, Caitlin has seen encouraging changes in the industry, with more women now pursuing Apprenticeships and careers in Engineering.

“It’s really important that we get more women into Engineering. I’ve found it to be a great environment to work in. I think some women don’t realise they can do this kind of job until they explore it as a career option,” she said.

The second cohort of Level 4 Lead Engineering Apprentices at BT have recently begun their first year and are already benefiting from new equipment, including a generator provided by BT, which enhances practical learning and links it to classroom theory.

“We’ve just had a generator brought in from BT, which will help the new Apprentices. It allows us to demonstrate how things work and connect theory to practical assessments,” Caitlin added.

She also praised the facilities at the College’s Technology Hub, which she believes offer a valuable learning experience.

“The Apprentices are going to get so much out of all the equipment available here, along with the range of Lecturers who will be teaching them throughout the course,” she said.

For aspiring female Engineers, Caitlin offered this advice: “Just go for it! I’d recommend applying—even if it is slightly outside your comfort zone, you’ll likely find a niche that suits you. Just remember, everyone in that class is in the same boat, and you will learn so much.”

Hassan Rizvi, Principal and CEO of Stoke on Trent College, expressed pride in Caitlin’s journey: “Caitlin is a prime example of how a learner can benefit from an Apprenticeship and pursue their chosen career path. As the largest provider of Apprenticeships in Stoke-on-Trent, we’re proud to collaborate with companies like BT and provide learners with outstanding opportunities to achieve their ambitions.”

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  

Buckinghamshire College Group is delighted to welcome the Secretary of State’s approval for Marlow Studios, a landmark decision that signals a new era for the UK’s creative industries and for skills development in Buckinghamshire. 

The creative sector is one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries and a key priority for national and regional economic growth. Film and TV is a priority skills area of growth in Buckinghamshire, and Marlow Studios will create significant opportunities for education, training, and employment in high-demand roles across film, media, and emerging technologies. 

Jenny Craig, Principal and Chief Executive said: 

 “This is an exciting moment for our students and the wider community. We are proud to have supported the development of Marlow Studios and played an active role in championing its approval. The development of Marlow Studios represents a commitment to future skills and careers in a world-class industry. At Buckinghamshire College Group, we are proud to support this vision by ensuring our learners are work-ready and equipped with the technical and creative expertise that employers need.” 

Buckinghamshire College Group has a strong track record of delivering technical and vocational qualifications for school leavers and adult learners, with specialist courses in media, film production, and digital technologies. Our T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production will be a key pathway for students looking to enter the film and media industries, alongside other creative and technical programmes. 

The college is committed to working in partnership with Marlow Studios to ensure that our curriculum continues to be co-designed and co-delivered with industry experts.  Our students will also benefit from additional industry placements and work experience opportunities, giving them real-world exposure and preparing them for successful careers in the film industry. This collaboration will help us deliver on our mission to connect education with industry and contribute to the growth of the creative industries locally and help shape the future of storytelling, technology, and design. 

The approval of Marlow Studios will attract significant global investment and generate many jobs across film, media, and supporting sectors, reinforcing the UK’s position as a world leader in creativity and innovation. Buckinghamshire College Group will play a pivotal role in this transformation by developing the next generation of talent through industry-led training and collaborative projects that ensure students are equipped with the skills employers need in this fast-evolving landscape.  

Tracey Matthews, Vice Principal Commercial and Partnerships added: 

 “Our mission is to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow while also supporting adults who want to retrain or upskill, enabling them to take advantage of the incredible career opportunities this development will create. With Marlow Studios on our doorstep, we have a unique opportunity to connect education with industry, ensuring that Buckinghamshire remains at the heart of the UK’s creative economy.” 

For more information about our creative courses and partnerships, visit buckscollegegroup.ac.uk  

About Buckinghamshire College Group: 

Buckinghamshire College Group (Bucks College Group) is a further education college with campuses in Aylesbury, Wycombe, and Amersham. The College provides vocational, technical, and professional skills education to over 4,500 students annually. The College provides full-time education for students aged 16 to 18, alongside a robust provision for adult learners and apprenticeships. Buckinghamshire College Group was formed from the merger of Aylesbury College and Amersham & Wycombe College in October 2017. The College is currently developing a new modern campus to be in the centre of High Wycombe which would bring together the provision offered at the existing Amersham and Wycombe sites.  

Buckinghamshire College Group is excited to announce a new partnership with Future Pro Football Academy (FPF Academy), launching at the Wycombe Campus. This collaboration will provide students aged 16–19 with the unique opportunity to combine their education with elite football development. The partnership introduces a Football Academy Pathway alongside the Level 2 Sports Coaching and Level 3 Sports & Physical Activity programmes. Learners will study towards recognised qualifications while training and competing in a professional, academy-style football environment. 

The academy will provide structured football development for both boys and girls, offering an inclusive pathway for motivated students to progress in football alongside their education. Squads will compete in appropriate leagues, delivering a high-quality and competitive playing programme for all participants. Learners selected for the academy will take part in two to three football training sessions per week during college hours and represent the academy in weekly league and cup fixtures, gaining valuable experience in competitive football. 

Matt Smith, Director of Future Pro Football Academy, said: 

“This partnership with Buckinghamshire College Group is a major step forward for FPF Academy. Our aim has always been to create genuine pathways that support young players both academically and athletically. By combining high-quality education with professional football training, we’re giving learners the environment, structure and support they need to progress, whether that’s into higher education, a career in sport or further football development.”

FPF Academy has a proven track record in player development, with 30 players signing for professional clubs in the past 24 months, including Manchester United, Brentford, Crystal Palace, Luton Town, Oxford United, Queens Park Rangers, Fulham, MK Dons, Reading, Tottenham Hotspur, Watford, Stevenage, Arsenal, Brighton and West Ham United. The leadership team includes Director of Football Conrad Mukova, an Official Arsenal FC Scout, adding professional insight and talent identification expertise. 

Tom Donati, Head of Coaching at FPF Academy, added: 

“This programme mirrors the standards and expectations players experience in professional academy environments. We focus on developing the whole player — technically, tactically, physically and mentally — while ensuring education remains at the heart of the journey. For motivated learners, this is an outstanding platform to develop and prepare for the next stage.”

The Football Academy is overseen by UEFA A Licensed Coach Tom Donati, who has previously worked within professional academies at Chelsea, Peterborough United, AFC Bournemouth and Exeter City, supported by a team of UEFA B Licensed coaches. 

Jenny Craig, Principal and CEO of Buckinghamshire College Group, commented: 

“This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for Buckinghamshire College Group. We are committed to creating opportunities that inspire and empower our learners, and this collaboration with Future Pro Football Academy does exactly that. By combining academic achievement with elite football training, we’re offering students a pathway that nurtures ambition, talent and personal growth, both on and off the pitch.” 

The Football Academy Pathway is available to students enrolled on Level 2 Sports Coaching or Level 3 Sports & Physical Activity programmes at Wycombe Campus. Students on other full-time courses may also be considered, subject to timetable compatibility and successful trial. Entry is based on trial performance, and learners may continue representing their local clubs alongside academy participation where appropriate. 

Together, Buckinghamshire College Group and Future Pro Football Academy are shaping the next generation of talent. For more information or to apply for the Football Academy Pathway, visit: buckscollegegroup.ac.uk  

About FPF Academy: 

Future Pro Football Academy is an independent football development organisation delivering structured, syllabus-led programmes across multiple centres in the UK, supporting player development and progression alongside education and career pathways within sport. 

About Buckinghamshire College Group: 

Buckinghamshire College Group (Bucks College Group) is a further education college with campuses in Aylesbury, Wycombe, and Amersham. The College provides vocational, technical, and professional skills education to over 4,500 students annually. The College provides full-time education for students aged 16 to 18, alongside a robust provision for adult learners and apprenticeships. Buckinghamshire College Group was formed from the merger of Aylesbury College and Amersham & Wycombe College in October 2017. The College is currently developing a new modern campus to be in the centre of High Wycombe which would bring together the provision offered at the existing Amersham and Wycombe sites.

Over 180 higher education (HE) students from Gower College Swansea have marked their academic achievements at a special graduation ceremony at the Swansea Building Society Arena.

The graduates were there to celebrate completing a wide range of higher-level courses including advice and guidance, computing and technology, law and criminology, leadership and management, built environment and marketing.

The College works in partnership with a number of universities to deliver?higher level programmes?including Swansea University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, University of South Wales, Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University.

“Today, Welsh Government places a great emphasis upon education, and particularly further and higher education, in terms of delivering the higher level skills that are needed to support a strong economy across Wales,” says Principal, Paul Kift.

“We are therefore delighted that Gower College Swansea is able to support this agenda whilst at the same time continuing to develop new higher education courses which meet the needs of Swansea and the South West Wales region.

“We congratulate all of our students who have achieved their higher education qualifications. They are a credit to themselves, their families, their employers and to the College and we wish them well in their future careers and look forward to hearing of their continued success.”

“At Gower College Swansea, we are committed to shaping a higher education offer that truly meets the future skills needs of employers and learners,” says Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Fountain. “Our new HE Strategy focuses on delivering flexible, innovative courses at Levels 4 and 5, some including online learning, while strengthening partnerships to ensure fast-tracked course development and accreditation. This is about creating opportunities and preparing our students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen careers.”

The evening was also an opportunity for students to showcase their talents, with the College’s talented jazz band providing the arrival entertainment in the Arena foyer and our fantastic Level 4 Performing Arts students taking to the stage to open the graduation ceremony.

This year, Gower College Swansea was honoured to award a special Certificate of Fellowship to former student Adele Thomas, an award-winning director noted for her highly physical, pared-back stagings for theatre and opera.

She is currently Co-General Director and CEO of Welsh National Opera, alongside Sarah Crabtree.

Among her other achievements are being a founding member of Freelancers Make Theatre Work, and an Honorary Fellow of Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge University.

Adele is an alumnus of Cambridge University, the RTYDS scheme and the National Theatre Young Director’s course.

Speaking about her time at College, Adele said “The big change was when I went to Gorseinon…It was heaven. That’s where I really began to experience all forms of arts – film, drama, visual art – and see possibilities. Without Gorseinon, I’d never have felt confident enough to deal with going to Cambridge.”

Buckinghamshire College Group is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Bronze Award in Trauma-Informed and Attachment-Aware Practice by the Buckinghamshire Virtual School. This recognition reflects the College’s unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all learners, particularly those who have experienced adversity.  

The Bronze Award is part of a county-wide initiative led by the Buckinghamshire Virtual School to equip educational settings with the knowledge and strategies needed to support vulnerable children and young people. Trauma-informed and attachment-aware approaches are proven to help learners overcome barriers, build resilience, and achieve their full potential.   

This achievement comes on the heels of the College’s recent Ofsted inspection, which rated Buckinghamshire College Group as “Good” across all categories, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and provision for learners with high needs.  

The College’s trauma informed work is closely aligned with its role in Opportunity Bucks, Buckinghamshire Council’s flagship programme to improve opportunities for people in the county’s most disadvantaged communities.  

Nicky Ellis, Assistant Principal for Student Engagement and Support, said:  

“We are delighted to receive the Bronze Award from the Buckinghamshire Virtual School. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff and the strength of our community. By embedding trauma-informed and attachment-aware approaches, we are not only supporting our most vulnerable learners but creating a culture where every student feels safe, respected, and empowered to achieve their best. We are proud to lead the way in trauma-informed education for post-16 learners and look forward to expanding our impact in 2025 and of course achieving our Silver Award!”  

Emma Owen, Head of the Buckinghamshire Virtual School, commented:  

“Buckinghamshire College Group has demonstrated a deep commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of all its learners. Their work in trauma-informed and attachment-aware practice sets a powerful example for others and will have a lasting impact on the lives of young people across the county.” 

As part of the Trauma-Informed and Attachment-Aware Programme, the College collaborated with twelve local schools who are now beginning their own journeys, reflecting a growing sector-wide commitment to nurturing the wellbeing of children and young people. 

This award reinforces Buckinghamshire College Group’s commitment to supporting every learner and fostering an environment where all students can thrive. The College will continue to build on this work, ensuring that trauma informed and attachment aware practices remain at the heart of its approach to education and student wellbeing. 

Following an assessment by Social Work England in August, the University Centre Grimsby has received official confirmation that they are now an accredited social work education institute.

Social Work England is the specialist regulator for the sector. It sets out the professional standards that a social worker in England must know, understand, and be able to do.

Speaking about what this accreditation means for the local area, Andy Cowdroy, Social Work Lead at the University Centre Grimsby, said:

“The aim of setting up our social work programmes is to work collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders to deliver and maintain the social work workforce. There are so many people out there who would make amazing social workers but are unable to access education. This will no longer be the case; we can now provide local social work education for local people.

“I want to say a huge thank you to all of those who have contributed to developing the programmes, as well as being part of the inspection. We could not have done it without your support.”

Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council, who worked closely with University Centre Grimsby on the programmes, said:

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with the University Centre Grimsby, which has led to a social work degree course being created and will strengthen the local social work workforce. This collaboration is a real investment in our borough’s future – giving local people the opportunity to train, qualify and build rewarding careers in social work right here in our community.

“By developing skilled and passionate practitioners close to home, we can make a lasting difference to the lives of children, young people, and adults across our area. This is an exciting step forward for social work in our borough and a testament to what can be achieved!”

John Allen, Principal Social Worker for Adults Social Care, also shared:

“Having social work programmes delivered locally at the University Centre in Grimsby is a great step forward for our community. It means aspiring social workers can train close to home, strengthening the social care workforce and ensuring we reflect the needs of North East Lincolnshire. This investment in education will help us attract and retain talented people who are committed to making a difference in people’s lives.”

From September 2026, University Centre Grimsby will offer a full-time BA (Hons) Social Work degree and a BA (Hons) Social Work Degree Apprenticeship. The new social work courses are validated by TEC Partnership as the degree-awarding body. The degree apprenticeship has been developed following grant funding from the Office for Students. Both courses represent an exciting and innovative new higher education offer for Grimsby. 

Three Learning and Development Apprentices from Stoke on Trent College have secured promotions at bet365 as they near the completion of their End-Point Assessments (EPAs).

Katie Myatt, Fabiola Pasquantonio, and Jacob Holmes all began their Learning and Development Practitioner Level 3 Apprenticeship at the College in early 2024 and have now progressed to the role of Senior Training Officer at bet365.

Fabiola Pasquantonio, who has been with bet365 for four years, saw the Apprenticeship as a great opportunity to develop her career, saying,

“An Apprenticeship is a great way to invest in yourself and your career. When my manager proposed the opportunity, it was an easy yes. The course helped me understand the full scope of what’s expected of a Learning and Development Practitioner, especially in a senior role.”

Katie Myatt began her Apprenticeship in February 2024 and viewed the programme as a chance to upskill and advance her career.

“I was around 18 months into my role as a Training Officer when my manager offered me the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and challenge myself academically. I’ve wanted to work in learning and development from a young age. As an adult learner, I felt some trepidation returning to education, but the support from our Tutor has been superb,” Katie said.

Jacob Holmes is currently completing his End-Point Assessment, expected to conclude in January. He has been serving as a Senior Training Officer since the start of the year, and said:

“The role has allowed me to explore a broader range of learning and development initiatives at bet365. Since my promotion, I’ve been building learning pathways and delivering courses. Our Tutor Diane has been fantastic, providing a wealth of resources and going above and beyond to support us.”

Katie, Fabiola, and Jacob represent the first cohort of Learning and Development Apprentices since Stoke on Trent College partnered with bet365.

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

“Stoke on Trent College is the largest Apprenticeship provider in the City, with a proven track record of delivering programmes that ensure learners are Skills Ready, Future Ready. I’d like to congratulate Katie, Fabiola, and Jacob on excelling in their Apprenticeships and securing promotions at bet365. I also extend my thanks to our partners at bet365 for supporting career progression opportunities for their employees.”

Explore the latest Apprenticeship vacancies at Stoke on Trent College: https://stokecoll.ac.uk/apprenticeship-vacancies-2/.

ENDS

• Photo caption – from left to right – Katie Myatt, Jacob Holmes and Fabiola Pasquantonio apprentices at bet365
• 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.

Gower College Swansea has welcomed the Team Wales torch to Tycoch Campus, marking a key milestone on its journey across Wales ahead of this year’s WorldSkills UK National Finals.

The torch relay is building excitement ahead of the National Finals – hosted in Wales for the very first time on 26-28 November – and shining a spotlight on the road to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, known globally as the ‘Skills Olympics’.

Across Wales, colleges have joined together to celebrate the collective effort behind Team Wales’ success in vocational skills. These competitions begin locally with Skills Competition Wales, coordinated by the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project, before progressing to national and international levels.

At the Tycoch Campus, the torch took centre stage during a special celebration event involving students and staff, local schools, employer partners, VIPs and past medal winners in a range of ‘Have a Go’ activities, demos and workshops.

Seven students from Gower College Swansea have reached the National Finals of WorldSkills 2025. Huge congratulations to:

Eva Robins – Foundation Skills: Restaurant Services
Bradley Claringbold, Hamza Imansouren and Kai Pagett – Industrial Electronics
Evelyn Howells – Restaurant Service
Ffion Davies – SFX Makeup and Hair for Film and TV
Kyle Steele – Welding

More than 400 of the UK’s most talented students and apprentices have been named as finalists for this year’s WorldSkills UK national competitions, where they’ll battle it out to be crowned the country’s best across dozens of skilled trades. They were selected from nearly 7,900 young people who registered to showcase their skills and competed in regional events. The 47 competitions include aircraft maintenance, welding and horticulture.

Wales has a strong association with Team UK and sent three competitors to last year’s WorldSkills event in Lyon.

Medallists will be announced at an awards ceremony on the evening of November 28 at the International Convention Centre in Newport. Foundation skills medallists will get their awards at a ceremony at Cardiff and Vale College earlier in the day.

“We were honoured to host the Team Wales torch at our Tycoch Campus,” said Interim Principal, Paul Kift. “We’re now eagerly anticipating the start of the National Finals on 26 November, where seven of our talented learners will proudly represent the College across a range of vocational disciplines. I’d like to wish all competitors the very best of luck – it’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase their skills and dedication on a national stage.”

Ben Blackledge, CEO of WorldSkills UK said: “With employers all over the UK crying out for high-quality skills, this is a fantastic opportunity for hundreds of learners to show they are ready for work. I can’t wait to see the finalists in action.”

Welsh Government Skills Minister Jack Sargeant hailed the move of the national competitions to Wales as ‘thrilling.’

“We look forward to showing off our beautiful country to visiting teams while our hard-working competitors prepare to demonstrate their training,” he said. “I’m keen to see our representatives excel once again across a range of disciplines on their home soil.”