The 2025 CMN Roadshow has proven to be an exciting and valuable new addition to CMN events calendar, offering further opportunities for professional development for marketers in Further Education (FE). While the CMN Conference remains the pinnacle event of the year, this new series of Roadshow events has been specifically designed to reach a wider audience of FE marketing teams across the UK.
Spanning five cities – Manchester, Bristol, London, York, and Birmingham – this year’s Roadshow delivered dynamic, relevant content to 161 marketing professionals from 86 colleges across the UK, providing a unique platform for sharing knowledge, networking, and enhancing the professional skills of FE marketing teams nationwide.The Roadshow series was designed to give marketing professionals in the FE sector an opportunity to exchange ideas, gain invaluable insights, and connect with industry experts. With support from 16 businesses, including leading speakers and exhibitors, the Roadshow has become a key event in the calendar for anyone in FE marketing.
Each of the five events offered a packed agenda with a diverse range of speakers, covering the latest trends and pivotal topics shaping FE marketing today. The event format was designed to be engaging and interactive, allowing attendees to participate in focused, 30-minute presentations that kept things concise yet full of value.
A Leader in CPD for Marketing Professionals in FE
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities for marketing professionals in Further Education are limited, with many struggling to find relevant training tailored to their needs. CMN is proud to be leading the way by providing a platform where marketing professionals can access expert-led sessions, connect with peers, and gain practical knowledge that is directly applicable to their roles.
The Roadshow series was developed to fill this gap, helping marketing professionals in FE stay up-to-date with the latest tools, trends, and strategies that are shaping the future of their sector.
“The 2025 CMN Roadshow has been a remarkable success, providing a platform for FE marketing professionals to exchange ideas, gain invaluable insights, and forge meaningful connections. We are delighted to see such strong participation from colleges across the UK. We’re already planning the 2026 events!”
Emma Wilde, Executive Director of CMNThe Power of Partnerships
The success of the Roadshow wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration of 16 businesses that supported the events as speakers and exhibitors. These companies brought forward new ideas, tools, and solutions specifically designed to help FE colleges thrive in today’s ever-changing landscape. Their contributions played a significant role in creating an event experience that was both educational and practical.
Some of the businesses that supported the Roadshow included:
What Attendees Had to Say
The feedback from those who attended the Roadshow has been overwhelmingly positive. Many delegates expressed appreciation for the high-quality sessions, the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals, and the valuable ideas they took away.
Harriet Haworth, Digital Marketing Manager at United College Group (UCG), shared her experience:
“I just wanted to say a big thank you for organising the CMN Roadshow. It was such a well-run and valuable event – a great opportunity to connect with colleagues across the sector and take away some fresh ideas and inspiration.”Stef from the National College for Digital Skills also praised the event:
“This was the first CMN event I attended, and I found the range of speakers so very useful. Some great new contacts for us! I also really liked the format—short, engaging presentations. Emma did a brilliant job with preparations, hosting, and creating a really comfortable, fun, and accessible atmosphere at the event. I’m looking forward to the next one!”Looking Ahead: The CMN Conference 2026
CMN is excited to announce the next event in its calendar, the annual CMN Conference, which will be held on Monday 2 February 2026 in Birmingham. This event promises to be packed with insightful presentations, networking opportunities, and practical takeaways for FE marketing professionals. Delegates will gain valuable knowledge on the latest trends, strategies, and tools needed to succeed in the evolving marketing landscape.
As the Further Education sector continues to grow and adapt, CMN remains committed to supporting marketing teams with the resources, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed. The success of the 2025 Roadshow is a testament to the vital role CMN plays in fostering collaboration and innovation within the FE sector.
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.
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!”
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 20th 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 20th 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
.
Students on a range of art and design courses at Gower College Swansea had a fantastic opportunity to meet with employers and artists during the third annual Design 48 showcase, which was held at the Gorseinon and Llwyn y Bryn campuses.
The idea behind Design 48 was developed by the College in partnership with Rachael Wheatley of Waters Creative.
A series of talks and practical taster sessions, Design 48 is designed to inspire learners, boost employability skills and raise awareness of the educational and career pathways available within the creative industries.
“Design 48 has become a real highlight in the calendar for our students and staff,” says Learning Area Manager for Visual Arts, Elinor Franklin. “It gives our learners an incredible opportunity to meet with exciting artists and key employers and proves once again that there are lots of exciting potential career pathways to follow within Wales.”
“Gower College Swansea is a proud member of the Creative Industries Employer Board and so we were delighted to host this fantastic event for a third consecutive year, giving our students the opportunity to explore their potential and start laying the foundation for their future creative careers,” adds Learning Area Manager for Creative Arts, Liz Edwards.
Huge thanks to our Design 48 contributors:
James Owen (Stori Cymru)
Ian Simmons (UWTSD)
Rachael Wheatley and Mike Leach (Waters Creative)
Sarah Mallabar (Mallabar Films)
Tamsie Thomas (Zodiac VFX)
David Neuman (Humber College, Toronto)
James Weaver (Musician)
Hollie Singer (Musician)
Caroline Lane (Ffilm Cymru)
Derek Ashman (Photographer)
Ffian Jones (Costume designer)
Lee Thomas (Printmaker)
Zoe Rushton (One Stop Shop)
Dawn Shackley (Jewellery designer)COLEG CAMBRIA is at the forefront of a nationwide campaign to meet a surge in demand for tens of thousands of new welders.
With an ageing workforce of welders in the UK – an estimated 50% of which are set to retire in the next three years – the sector will need more than 35,000 skilled workers, according to a report by the Construction and Skills Network (CSN).
Tony Commins, a Fabrication and Welding lecturer at Cambria Deeside, said there has been an increase in students on the course this academic year.
However, many more learners need to pursue welding as a career if the skills gap is to close.
“More people have joined us but nationally there has been a decline in the amount of young people going into engineering, especially welding,” said Tony.
“There is a lot of demand – especially overseas – and so many opportunities in what is a highly skilled profession.
“Welders are highly sought-after all over the world, notably in the US and Australia, as well as the UK, so it’s an avenue they should think about.”
He added: “Given the move towards robotics, machine programming and operating is another area where there will be significant growth in the years ahead.
“For us it’s about showing learners welding is a trade where there is diversity, with different roles and options to consider.”
As well as a boom in numbers, the college has three students in the top 20 welding and construction metalwork apprentices in the UK.
Jimmy Smith, Zac Winn and Mark Wright participated in the recent WorldSkills UK national finals in November, with all three winning medals – Zac brought home the gold.
“All three are incredibly talented, and to reach the finals given the institutions, manufacturing companies and training academies we were up against was an amazing feat,” said Tony.
“They competed versus the very best, and did so well – they deserved to be there and winning those medals will have a positive impact on their future careers.”
Cutting-edge technology including plasma cutters, press breaks and specialist welding sets have also attracted learners, and forged partnerships with some of the leading names in engineering in north east Wales and beyond.
Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for more on the wide range of courses and qualifications available at Coleg Cambria.
Stoke on Trent College is now a Fostering Friendly employer – a programme facilitated through The Fostering Network which demonstrates the College’s commitment to making a real difference in the lives of employees who foster, and support others in becoming approved foster carers themselves.
The Fostering Network is the UK’s leading fostering charity. Executive Chair, Mervyn Erskine commented
“Becoming a Fostering Friendly employer is something to be really proud of. Foster carers are the bedrock of children’s social care – for the difference they make to the lives of children. It is important that this vital role is not only recognised, but also encouraged by their employers.
By supporting existing foster carers and promoting the role to other employees, this helps to build on the thousands of extra fostering households needed in the UK, for the children who need them most.”
Nova Abela, Chief People Officer at Stoke on Trent College said:
“This is a really positive accolade for the College, demonstrating our support for children in care, our staff wanting to offer those children a loving home and good prospects in life, and further highlighting the College as an employer of choice.”
Stoke on Trent College recognises and values the contribution that foster carers make to the lives of children and young people in their care and understands that some flexibility in working arrangements may be required in order that they can meet the needs of their fostered child or young person.
As such they are pleased to offer a flexible working pattern to foster carers and those going through the application process, with access to over 6 weeks extra paid leave for their fostering commitments, subject to specific circumstances. This could involve meetings with social workers and other agencies, attending training, settling young people into their new home and more.
Hassan Rizvi, CEO & Principal at Stoke on Trent College said:
“I am delighted that Stoke on Trent College has been recognised as a Fostering Friendly Employer. As an organisation we continue to develop support for our employees through our wide ranging CPD practices, health & wellbeing policies and employee benefits packages as part of our journey to providing a compassionate and inclusive workplace.”
There’s a national shortage of 9,265 fostering households, and Stoke-on-Trent is no exception.
Councillor Sarah Hill, Stoke-on-Trent City Council cabinet member for children’s services said:
“I’d like to thank Stoke on Trent College for being the latest addition to the list of fantastic Fostering Friendly Employers in the city. We’re committed to reducing the number of children in care and a supportive employer really can make all the difference for someone considering fostering.
There is no typical foster carer and I’d encourage anyone who has a spare bedroom, lots of love to offer and wants to make a difference to the lives of children in Stoke-on-Trent to contact our friendly fostering team to find out more. Anyone who would like to know more about becoming a foster carer in Stoke-on-Trent can visit https://fostering.stoke.gov.uk or call 01782 234555.”
The fostering community is open to everyone, regardless of your age, gender, relationship status or sexual orientation. If you are considering fostering, please get in touch with your local fostering service to find out more.
ENDS
Notes to Editor
- 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
On Friday, Exeter College celebrated its annual student awards at the iconic Exeter Cathedral. This extra special event marked 55 years of the tertiary college, further to its inception in 1970 as the first of its kind in the UK. To mark the occasion, 23 past and present students were awarded for excellence in their field. This celebrated the diversity of student achievements across academic, professional, and personal milestones.
John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College congratulated students, saying;
“This year’s awards marked 55 years since we became the first tertiary college in the UK and this year’s award winners really showed the impact of an education system where the schools, university and college all work together.
“The award winners were inspirational, achieving maximum marks, winning awards, excelling in sport and engaging in all that the College has to offer. For me the students and apprentices that won awards were living our values of ambition, collaboration and energy.
“I would like to extend my thanks to our sponsors: without their support, these awards would simply not happen. Their contributions help us celebrate the incredible achievements of our students and the positive impact they make to college life.
“Our ongoing success is rooted in a unique and collaborative education ecosystem here in Exeter, where amazing students, great employers, world-class partners, fantastic staff, and strong connections between schools, the college, and the university all work together effectively. It is an absolute privilege to celebrate the people that make Exeter College and our amazing community truly special.”
Sir Michael Barber KB, Chancellor of the University of Exeter, served as the guest speaker at the event. In his address, he emphasised the critical need for raising skill standards across the South West to support the region’s growth and prosperity. He highlighted the vital role that institutions like Exeter College will play in shaping the workforce of the future, over the next decade and beyond. He said:
“It’s a huge honour to be at the awards evening at Exeter College, partly because I live and work in Devon and Exeter is the centre of our county, partly because it is outstanding and recognised nationally as being one of the best colleges in the country. But most importantly, it is a chance to recognise the substantial student achievements and it a real pleasure to be part of this celebration.
“Events like this are so important. Important to recognise all types of achievement, from all types of courses in all circumstances, at a wonderful college like Exeter.”
Megan Ginsberg won Higher Apprentice of the Year, saying;
“It’s a privilege to receive the Exeter College ‘Higher Apprentice of the Year Award’ in the historic Exeter Cathedral this evening. A brilliant way to start 2025.”
Megan is now working hard on her Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship at Exeter University. Additionally, she has joined AtkinsRéalis as an Assistant Project Manager on the Project and Programme Services (PPS) Team and Infrastructure Team. She has also set up an initiative ‘Construct Ability’, which aims to make construction accessible to all.
“As a wheelchair user, this is particularly meaningful to the projects that I deliver and my life outside of work.
“Exeter College provided me with a foundation that I could build my career on, supporting my academic studies with outstanding lecturers and facilities. I cannot thank the college enough for providing the resources that I needed to gain a distinction and finish my apprenticeship six months early.”
Another award winner was Finn Phillips, who won an award for Academic Excellence. After studying A Levels at Exeter and earning un unparalleled five A*s, he is now reading Maths and Physics at the University of Bath. He said:
“It is really nice that I am receiving an award from Exeter. I very much enjoyed my two years at college, and this will be a great reminder of these times.”
Speaking of his future aspirations, he said;
“I would like to get into the water-polo first team at Bath. I am going to try really hard to get a first-class degree in Maths and Physics. My course allows me to have a year abroad and I am considering going to Australia to study at the University of Brisbane.”
Hasina Rahmani arrived in Devon in November 2021, she initially joined our community classes and has since worked tirelessly to progress to ESOL Level 2 whilst also passing GCSE Maths and is now enrolled on a Diploma in Professional Cookery. She was awarded the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Student of the Year. She commented;
“I am really proud of how hard I have worked, and this award proves how much time I have dedicated to studying.” She added;
“My professional cookery course wouldn’t be possible if I hadn’t studied ESOL. I have learned so much which has given me knowledge and confidence to study something I am passionate about.”
Higher Technical Learner of the Year went to Annabel Hodnett. She is described as an exceptional student on the Foundation Degree in Sports Therapy, actively supporting and assisting with medical cover for the College’s successful Sports Academies. Annabel is now a registered Sports Therapist at Osteo and Physio in Honiton and Exmouth. She said;
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s not just recognition of the hard work I’ve put into my studies, but also a reminder that challenges like dyslexia don’t define what we’re capable of achieving. It’s proof that perseverance and the right support can lead to great things.
“Exeter College provided a supportive environment where I could thrive despite my learning difficulties. The tutors were understanding and tailored their teaching methods to help me learn effectively. The skills I gained, both technical and personal, have been invaluable in my current journey.”
The final award of the evening was the #ExeCollProud Award, this year going to Ayomide Okesola.
Ayo was an exceptional student who fully immersed herself in all aspect of Exeter College life. She has now been recruited to the College’s Student Experience Team as a Level 5 Apprentice, with one of her responsibilities being to lead the Learner Leadership Team. Commenting on receiving the award, she said;
“Receiving this award is an incredible honour. It feels like meaningful recognition of the hard work and dedication I put into my time at Exeter College, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in all that I do.”
Speaking of her current role, she said;
“This feels like a full-circle moment for me, as the learner voice provision was something that had a significant impact on me during my time as a student. I immersed myself in it, and it helped shape who and where I am today. To now be in a position where I manage and oversee that same provision — empowering other students and ensuring their voices are heard — is truly rewarding. I am incredibly grateful to Exeter College for this opportunity to give back and make a meaningful difference.”
The student awards evening not only celebrated the individual achievements of the winners but also served as a testament to the collective effort of the entire Exeter College community. The dedication of the broader student body, the unwavering support of staff, and the contributions of industry partners all play a pivotal role in the college’s success.
Founded in 1987 by a group of college marketers, the College Marketing Network’s sole purpose is to promote and facilitate best practice. We do this through training and professional development, enabling networking, and supporting our members via a range of online and other services. CMN is a non-profit making body with no commercial ties.
The College Marketing Network is here to support marketing teams in colleges and sixth forms across the country.
CMN runs regular FREE workshops and groups where members meet (online) to share best practice, new ideas and support each other with projects. We also have email groups for specific areas of interest – see the membership section for full details.
The annual CMN Conference will give you new insights, inspiration and support from fellow marketers, giving you new ideas to take away and work with in your college. The one-day event is packed with workshops covering key topics to support your marketing developments in the ever changing landscape of FE.
The FE First Awards, hosted by the CMN each year, is a nationally recognised event to celebrate the amazing work achieved by colleges and sixth forms from all over the UK and is supported by businesses who believe in and support the education sector.
“I was blown away by the range of workshops of offer at the CMN Conference 2022 – it was difficult to choose which ones to attend! The day was very worthwhile and it’s always good to network with fellow marketers and share ideas. As always, I’ll see you again next year. These events are always very inspiring.”
Michelle Blake, Marketing Manager, College of West Anglia