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City College Plymouth has proudly launched its cutting-edge Cyber Security Suite, further cementing its reputation as a leader in digital education. This milestone comes as the College celebrates being awarded the prestigious 2024/25 AoC Beacon Award for Digital Innovation – a national recognition of excellence in further education.

The new Cyber Security Suite has been designed to provide students with practical experience in addressing today’s cyber security challenges. Supported by BIT Training and The CyberHub Trust, and funded by the Local Skills Improvement Plan, this state-of-the-art facility reinforces the College’s commitment to bridging the digital skills gap and equipping students for high-demand roles in the digital economy. With demand for talent across the cyber security sector significant, this initiative ensures students are well-positioned to access high-value jobs in the tech industry.

As the South West’s first Google for Education Reference College, City College is a leader in digital skills education. This latest facility builds upon the College’s digital learning environment, which includes cutting-edge resources like a high-tech immersive room, a digital skills lab, and extensive IT resources, all designed to prepare students with future-ready skills.

The launch event featured an interactive demonstration by students and a networking session with industry leaders and professionals, providing attendees with insight into the suite’s capabilities. 

“We’re excited to launch our new Cyber Security Suite at City College Plymouth,” said Jackie Grubb, Chief Executive. “It highlights our commitment to equipping students with essential digital skills through hands-on experience with industry-standard tools to protect data, secure networks, and counter cyber threats.

“These facilities bridge the digital skills gap, preparing our students for in-demand roles and supporting regional economic growth. We’re grateful to BIT Training and The CyberHub Trust for their invaluable support in making this initiative possible and ensuring our students are ready for a technology-driven world.”

Mike Dieroff, CEO of BIT Group said, “By partnering with City College Plymouth and The CyberHub Trust, BIT Group is helping to build a more resilient workforce across the South West. We have fostered a long-term relationship, which is maturing and improving into areas of co-delivery between industry and education. Our expertise in information security consultancy and global cyber training delivery, combined with the Cyber Security Suite’s advanced technology, will provide students with hands-on experience in defending against real-world cyber threats. We are excited to be able to provide access to these skills, to even more people in the region with this partnership!”

Level 3 computing student Jay Fitzgerald shared his enthusiasm for the new facilities, saying, “I am really excited about the new security operation centre, as it inspires me and will hopefully inspire others to take an interest in cyber security. Having more advanced equipment will allow me a fuller understanding of threats that organisations face, and I cannot wait to study this subject at a higher level as a result.”

The Cyber Security Suite features advanced technology for incident response and business continuity training, simulating real-world scenarios that prepare students for the challenges of a technology-driven world.

City College Plymouth has been recognised as a trailblazer in digital innovation, winning the prestigious Jisc-sponsored Effective Use of Digital Technology category at the 2025 Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards.

Developed in-house using Google Workspace’s ‘no-code’ technology, this pioneering tool streamlines previously time-consuming, manual processes. By reducing administrative burdens and boosting staff productivity, it ensures greater personalised support for students, reinforcing City College Plymouth’s commitment to excellence in education. 

Jackie Grubb, Chief Executive of City College Plymouth, said: “Winning this award is a reflection of our bold approach in embracing cutting-edge technology. Our AI-powered Quality of Education tool is not just enhancing learning – it’s revolutionising the way we support our staff, ultimately benefiting our students. By leading the way in digital transformation, we are ensuring that Plymouth remains at the forefront of education innovation, preparing students for the careers of the future.”

The College’s innovative use of AI and digital technology has already seen significant success, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs, while ensuring that students’ voices remain central to its development. Input from student forums has played a key role in refining the tool, ensuring it directly enhances their learning  experience.

The AoC Beacon Awards are among the most prestigious honours in UK further education, celebrating colleges that demonstrate exceptional innovation and impact. This recognition reinforces City College Plymouth’s position as a pioneering, digital-first college – leading the way in the South West and beyond.

Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills, and Apprenticeships at Plymouth City Council added: “This is absolutely fabulous news. As Cabinet Member I have to reiterate all of this. It’s excellent news for the College, even greater opportunities for students and brilliant news for the City of Plymouth. Congratulations to all and well deserved acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of the staff.”

Paul McKean, Director of Further Education at Jisc and Beacon Award judge said: “Congratulations to City College Plymouth on achieving the top spot in the Jisc sponsored effective use of digital technology category at this year’s AoC Beacon Awards.

“The College won for their innovative new AI powered Quality of Education app that has enhanced productivity and reduced teacher workloads in a simple, fast, accessible and cost-effective way, allowing more time to spend one-on-one with learners.

“The use of Google Workspace’s ‘no-code’ technology has supported greater buy-in from staff, making it easier for those without a technical background to enjoy the same benefits and produce the same outcomes for learners – a true example of using tech for good.”

Highly influential publicity, artist and repertoire (A&R) and label management expert Chris Abbot delivered an inspiring guest lecturer to our music students at Lichfield College today.

Growing up in Walsall and now residing in Lichfield, Chris dropped into the college to share anecdotes from his illustrious career working with some of the most famous and talented artists and labels in the industry.

Collaborating with major labels including EMI, Sony Music, Heavenly, Sire, Palm, Polydor, Universal, and Underground Resistance, Chris’ extensive experience and industry insights provided students with a unique and inspiring perspective on the music business.

During the lecture, Chris emphasised the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the need to listen to all kinds of music. His engaging and inspirational talk was filled with amazing stories and insights, highlighting the incredible opportunities available in the music industry for students with passion and hunger.

Chris began his music business career in publicity and label management, eventually moving on to work at renowned labels such as Heavenly Records and Creation Records. With his own label, Infonet Electronic Recordings, he pioneered new techno music from New York, Detroit, and London, overseeing the visual and promotional aspects of the artists. At Creation Records, Chris worked with iconic bands including Oasis, Primal Scream, Robbie Williams, Fatboy Slim, and U2.

Music tutors, Dan Gallagher and Geoff Hornsby said “We would like to extend a huge thanks to Chris for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit our students. His visit has left our students feeling motivated, inspired and eager to pursue their own careers in the music industry – and we can wait to see what amazing things they go on to achieve”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#NCW2025 #CollegesWeek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Wakefield College, at: Wakefield College