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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. 

We are delighted to announce the opening of our brand-new cutting-edge Net Zero Energy Training Centre at Rodbaston College, following a formal opening ceremony on Wednesday 22nd January.

Thanks to a £1.6m Getting Building Fund, the Net Zero Energy Training Centre is set to revolutionise green skills development in the region and equip the local workforce with skills needed to make the transition from carbon-based plumbing and transport technologies to carbon-free net zero technologies in line with the Government’s commitment.

Claire Boliver, Chief Executive Principal said “We are incredibly proud to open the Net Zero Energy Training Centre at Rodbaston College. This facility represents our commitment to providing cutting-edge education and training that aligns with the UK’s sustainability goals. By equipping our students with the skills needed for the future, we are not only enhancing their career prospects but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable world. A huge thank you to everyone involved in making our idea a reality”.

During the event, businesses and key dignitaries were able to take a look round the Net Zero Energy Training Centre which boasts the latest advancements in energy efficiency such as photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging, air source heat pump installations and hydrogen boilers as well as energy distribution and management systems.

Guests were also able to hear from our industry expert tutors about the revolutionary courses that are on offer. The Net Zero Energy Training Centre offers core training for electricians, plumbers, vehicle technicians, and construction workers, as well as supplementary courses tailored to meet the evolving demands of sustainable technologies. These additional training opportunities encompass specialised modules in renewable energy systems, energy-efficient building practices, advanced HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technologies, and sustainable infrastructure development for homes of the future.

Neil Sambrook, Faculty Director for Construction, Engineering, Electrical and Motor Vehicle said “The centre not only offers the opportunity to upskill and develop the existing workforce in alternative energy technologies, but to inspire, enthuse and educate the next generation entering the workforce. The last few years have seen a rise in global instability in the energy market, through adopting alternatives to fossil fuels and moving toward energy independence, the UK will be better equipped to compete both nationally and internationally.”

Tradespeople will be able to choose courses in renewal heating, electric vehicle charging, hydrogen vehicle awareness, heating and water systems, installation and maintenance of air source heat pumps, retrofit, solar PV and solar hot water systems.

The college would like to extend thanks to Cllr Kath Perry MBE, Leader of South Staffordshire Council for officially cutting the ribbon to open the Net Zero Energy Training Centre during today’s milestone event. She said “The success of South Staffordshire has been built on strong foundations of partnerships, demonstrated by the close working relationship between the College and the Council and we’re thrilled to have supported the purchase of a hydrogen vehicle rig through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This sector-leading investment will support learners and employers across Staffordshire and beyond, in an emergent market where there is limited opportunity to upskill nationally, complimenting the wide range of provision offered by the Net Zero Energy Training Centre and providing an attractive proposition for our communities”.

If you would like to find out more information about the courses on offer within the Net Zero Energy Training Centre at Rodbaston College, please visit our Net Zero Energy Training Centre website page.

Stoke on Trent College, Sandwell College and Wirral Met College are trailblazers for a cross-regional peer-to-peer review of the quality of careers education, using the Careers Impact System.

The Careers Impact System is a step-by-step staged and integrated approach to improving and assuring quality in careers, with peer and expert support all the way through.

The peer-to-peer review was facilitated on Friday 31 January by colleagues from the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Careers Hub and involved the Careers Leaders from the three Colleges sharing practice and progress against the national standard for careers guidance (the Gatsby Benchmarks), to identify what works well and areas for improvement; reviewing each other’s leadership and delivery of careers guidance and providing feedback to drive improvement, ultimately ensuring the very best advice and services are available to support young people.

The Careers Impact System was developed by the Careers and Enterprise Company, with funding from the Department for Education (DfE) and the Gatsby Foundation, and has been highlighted as making significant impact across the sector, in the Gatsby Foundation’s recently published report – Good Career Guidance: The Next Ten Years.

 

The Careers Impact System is a process that drives continuous improvement in the quality of careers education. It’s a systematic approach to raising standards and is directly linked to wider college improvement.

Dave Hopley, Assistant Principal and Designated Careers Leader from Stoke on Trent College said,

“I have seen the impact first-hand of Schools in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire who have taken part in the Careers Impact System peer-to-peer review in the region, and was keen to see if we could pilot amongst three Further Education Colleges a cross-regional Careers Impact System.  Careers education and guidance is very different in Colleges to Schools and I was keen to see if we could use the system to improve careers provision and student outcomes across our institutions.  Thanks to the support of the three College Principals Hassan Rizvi, Lisa Capper MBE and Gill Banks for their support in making this happen”

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 (SEND).
• 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  

Wakefield College welcomed Further Education (FE) Commissioner Shelagh Legrave CBE to its campus last week, showcasing the College’s commitment to delivering high-quality education for its local communities.

Shelagh was greeted by the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group’s Chair of Governors, Andrew McConnell OBE and Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Sam Wright and other members of the Executive Team, who provided her with a guided tour of its state-of-the-art campus.

During her visit, Shelagh had the chance to visit several areas of the College including the Seacole Building, home of the College’s University Centre.

Shelagh spoke to Higher Education Performing Arts students about their experience at the College and the progression opportunities which were available to them after completing their FE qualifications.

Amongst the facilities which Shelagh visited was the College’s training restaurant, where Hospitality & Catering students from Level 1 up to Level 3 were preparing for lunch service.

Shelagh’s tour concluded at the College’s Care & Early Years Department, where she spoke to T Level students about what they enjoy about their course and their career aspirations.

Sam Wright, Heart of Yorkshire Education Group’s Principal and Chief Executive Officer, said: “We were delighted to welcome Shelagh to the College and for the opportunity to demonstrate the fantastic work our colleagues do to create a safe, positive and thriving learning environment for our students. We are continuously developing our curriculum and investing in our facilities to ensure our learners develop valuable skills and experiences which will shape them personally and their career aspirations – and it was great to be able to showcase this.”

The FE Commissioner works with local authorities delivering further education to improve the quality of education for learners, strengthen financial resilience, improve the quality of leadership and reduce the risk of intervention.

Wakefield College offers a range of FE programmes, including A Levels, T Levels, Vocational courses, Apprenticeships and Adult Learning.

These programmes are delivered across a range of subjects, including Animal Care, Art & Design and Media, Business & Management, Health & Social Care and Care & Early Years, Computing, Construction, Foundation Learning, Sport, Public Services and more.

Stoke on Trent College is delighted to announce the appointment of a new CEO and Principal.

Hassan Rizvi will join the College from 13 January, from Waltham Forest College – where he worked as Deputy Principal for Curriculum and Quality.

Born in Pakistan and later moving to the UK, he has a career spanning the Further Education sector for over 18 years and has worked through various quality and curriculum focused management roles.

Before joining the education profession, Hassan proudly served in the Military providing him with a host of transferable skills.

Initially adapting his industry expertise to teach Public Services, he has also taught a range of subjects across various levels including Higher Education courses. Hassan also holds a PHD in Politics.

Hassan’s passion to create opportunities for both young people and adults, offering the chance to learn new skills and knowledge for the future aligns perfectly to the Stoke on Trent College mission and vision.

“I enjoy seeing the progression of learners to further or higher education, employment or apprenticeships. For me, FE is about supporting learners to succeed, regardless of their starting point. I passionately believe that if the right environment is offered, every individual can excel within their chosen pursuit and contribute to their personal wellbeing and the wider community,” Hassan Rizvi said.

Having followed the journey of Stoke on Trent College in recent years, he is now looking forward to taking the college to the next level.

“The opportunity to contribute to the ongoing success and to support the wider College team really appealed to me. I’m eager to ensure Stoke on Trent College remains the technical and professional college of choice across Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding area,”

“I’m really excited to work with the dedicated and motivated team here at the College, who are committed in their work, supporting learners, meeting skills needs for employers and contributing towards the wellbeing of the local community.” said Hassan.

He has also spoken about the vast potential of Stoke-on-Trent, especially as the city enters its centenary year in 2025 and the opportunities this brings for the city and College community.

“I’m looking forward to meeting with key partners and stakeholders to maximise opportunities for our learners and work in partnership to achieve a thriving and prosperous city for the wider community,” he said.

Jeremy Cartwright, Chair of Stoke on Trent College Corporation Board said:

“We are really looking forward to welcoming Hassan to Stoke on Trent College. The College has been on a strongly positive trajectory in recent years, and under Hassan’s leadership we look forward to further success and progress for the College as we continue to deliver skills and opportunity for learners in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.”

Hassan will replace outgoing Stoke on Trent College CEO & Principal Lisa Capper MBE, who has moved to Sandwell Colleges as CEO and Principal.

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