Stakeholders newsletter issue 3 june 2014 (3)

Issue 3 • Summer Term 2014

TheReview

www.hull-college.ac.uk www.harrogate.ac.uk www.goole-college.co.uk

2 TheReview • Hull College Group • Stakeholders’ Newsletter

Editor’s WelcomeThe Summer edition of The Review celebrates the excellent monitoring visit of our 14-16 college by Ofsted. As one of only five colleges nationally to enrol 14-16 year olds full-time from September 2013 we are delighted Ofsted has recognised the excellent curriculum offer and quality of support we are providing for our students.

The long awaited decision by Siemens to invest in the region has finally been made and will create up to 1,000 jobs . The Group is continuing to invest in state-of- the-art facilities and was delighted to launch its new fully refurbished welding workshop at Goole College. This will form part of the Humber Energy campus for the region.

From 24 to 26 June, Hull College will be hosting the three-day Skills Show Experience, allowing young people and adults from across the City and region an excellent opportunity to try their hands at a range of exciting career pathways including Engineering, Construction and Digital Industries.

Best wishes for a relaxing summer break.

Gary Warke MBEChief ExecutiveHull College Group

Hull College Group’s 14-16 College has been awarded the highest possible rating by Ofsted in its first monitoring visit. Inspectors said the College had made ‘significant’ progress in all areas assessed in the time since it launched in September 2013. Inspectors looked at a number of key areas focused solely on full-time provision for 14-16 year olds, including the curriculum, teachers, student support, safeguarding, and steps to ensure continuous improvement. A series of strengths were identified, and the students were praised for their strong aspirational goals, and the progress they have made since joining the College.

The Hull College Group comprises Hull, Harrogate and Goole Colleges, and has 14-16 Colleges at its Hull and Goole sites. The Group’s 14-16 College is one of just five colleges in the country to launch in 2013/14 having been granted permission by Government to enrol pupils from age 14. The 14-16 College model combines GCSEs in core subjects with vocational elements. Students at Hull can choose from five vocational pathways in sport, creative arts, construction, engineering, and health and social care. At Goole, the choices are health and social care, engineering and business.

Hull College Group Chief Executive Gary Warke MBE, who was part of the national steering group established to set up full-time recruitment of students in Further Education colleges at 14 said: “We’re delighted by the outcome of the Ofsted visit. Staff and students within the Hull

Hull College Group achieves best possible result from Ofsted

3TheReview • Hull College Group • Stakeholders’ Newsletter

College Group 14-16 College are extremely committed to achieving the best possible outcomes, and the report is a reflection of this. Many of the students with us have made enormous progress since starting studying with us, and they are rightfully proud of this.”

“Monitoring visits by Ofsted are particularly important to ensure that the College is meeting students’ expectations and delivering the best possible standard of learning. We welcome the report and will continue to drive forward the 14-16 model and focus on ensuring all of our students achieve their educational ambitions and fulfil their potential.”

Unlike a full Ofsted Inspection, colleges are not awarded an overall grading following a monitoring visit. However, the inspection is extremely robust, and focuses on five key areas: admission policies; staffing; strength of curriculum; steps to ensure continuous improvement; and support and care for students. Colleges are rated as

Hull College Group achieves best possible result from Ofsted

having made ‘insufficient’, ‘reasonable’ or ‘significant’ progress in each area – Hull College Group scored the top rating of ‘significant’ in every area.

Inspectors particularly praised a number of practices and outcomes of the Hull College Group 14-16 College, including: anti-bullying measures; improved attendance levels from previous schools; thorough monitoring of student progress; support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN); the choice of vocational pathways; and the committed staff and governors.

The Ofsted report also identified particular strengths within the Hull College Group 14-16 College. These included students’ participation in the Job Club, where they are commissioned to create real-life projects – at the time of the visit, they were working on an 8ft-tall replica Dr Who tardis – and methods of teaching Shakespeare which left students extremely enthusiastic.


Digital Manifesto launched across Hull College GroupHull College Group launched its Digital Manifesto in an event attended by key local businesses and members of the media on Thursday March 20. Hull College’s Horncastle Theatre was packed with speakers, guests and staff, on Thursday morning, as the Group launched its Digital Manifesto.

The Manifesto is a pledge to lead the way in providing a superb digital curriculum, capable of equipping the region’s workforce with the knowledge and expertise to drive forward the growing digital sector. The Group is to increase digital education provision, introducing new study programmes, including Higher Apprenticeships. A physical hub as a Centre of Excellence will be created on the Hull College campus, which will include support for students engaged in digital start-ups. The Manifesto also includes a pledge to introduce digital consultancy services, to work closely with key employers to develop training aligned with the needs of businesses.

The launch event took the form of a breakfast meeting, followed by a series of presentations inside the theatre. Speakers from key businesses around the region took to the stage, including Jon Moss of C4Di, KComm’s Director of Information Services and Call Centres, Anita Pace, and key note speaker Andrew Dixon, who led the City of Culture 2017 bid win. Hull College Group Chief Executive Gary Warke, and Hull College Principal Graham Towse also delivered speeches.

Speaking in his opening address, Mr Towse said: “The Manifesto is our pledge to prepare the local workforce for growth in the Humber region’s digital economy. The Creative Digital sector is subject to significant predicted growth and development locally – this growth will in turn will provide significant opportunities across a number of sectors within the supply chain too.

“What Hull College Group needs to do is to ensure we are ready for this growth. Key to maximising these opportunities will be creating a workforce with the skills and training to drive local business forward and position the Humber region firmly as a national hub of digital excellence.”

The launch event drew a total of around 70 visitors, and received significant local media coverage on KCFM, Radio Humberside, and within the Hull Daily Mail.


There was fantastic news for students at Hull and Goole Colleges, when global manufacturing giant Siemens announced it would proceed with a previously announced turbine construction, assembly and service facility at Hull’s Alexandra Dock, plus a new rotor blade manufacturing facility at nearby Paull. The total investment by Siemens and landowner Associated British Ports is £310m and the facilities will create up to 1,000 jobs directly, with additional employment during construction and indirectly in the supply chain.

Hull College Group is already preparing students at its Hull and Goole sites for careers within the green energy industry, and learners welcomed the announcement, saying it gave them fresh confidence for a bright future locally.

Gary Warke, Hull College Group Chief Executive, championed the announcement as a “huge boost” for the region’s economy, pledging that Hull and Goole Colleges would continue to focus on developing the skilled and employable workforce required by companies such as Siemens and other investors in the Humber.

He said: “This is a huge boost for the economy of Hull and the Humber and a fantastic vote of confidence in this region by one of the world’s biggest and most admired companies.

“With other major investors likely to follow Siemens’ lead, we now have a tremendous opportunity to establish the Humber as the UK’s green energy capital and create a world-class centre of skills and expertise in renewable

technologies.”

Mr Warke said the College was already providing a huge range of training opportunities to develop skills required by businesses investing in the region for the first time and local companies aiming to grasp opportunities from the region’s renewables renaissance.

He added: “There is nothing locally that can’t be delivered to meet the requirements of Siemens and other investors. We’re well ahead of the game because we’ve had an exceptionally strong and growing focus on skills for the renewables sector and wider energy industries for a number of years.

“We’ve been building strategic partnerships with employers around the training and skills they require and their expectations of employees. We’re committed to producing the workforce businesses and the region need for sustained growth.”

Hull College Group identified renewables as a key driver of the region’s economy some time ago and has invested £6m in state-of-the-art facilities over the past six years. Hull College Group, which includes Hull and Goole Colleges is the region’s leading provider of training and skills for the renewable energy sector, with more than 150 courses related to over 100 different careers in green energy industries and associated supply chains, from NVQ Level 2 qualifications to honours degrees.

Phil Addison, 15, studying engineering at the HCUK 14-16 College.

“This is really great news for young people who want to get into the renewables industry, and people who want to study an Apprenticeship. With this and the City of Culture, it’s a fantastic time to be living in Hull.”

Siemens announcement heralds bright future for students

Emily Young, 15, studying engineering and travel and tourism at the HCUK 14-16 College.

“There still aren’t as many women involved in careers like engineering as there are men, so hopefully more will be encouraged because there will be extra opportunities. We’re no different, we do the jobs just as well. I was attracted to engineering as a career because I wanted to do something practical – I know it’s the field I want to go into”

Jack Carter, 15, studying engineering and travel and tourism at the HCUK 14-16 College.

“This will mean more people stay in Hull – the investment means

there will be more jobs here, and better jobs too. I’d like to move into the field of chemical engineering, which is one of the areas which should benefit from the development.”

Sunny Rahmani, 15, studying engineering and mechanics at the HCUK 14-16 College.

“I’ve now got a great chance of getting the career I want

here in Hull. There’s a better future for people in the city and I think it will mean people are more likely to stay in Hull instead of moving away for better careers.”


Group displays its green credentialsHull College Group is demonstrating its green credentials, as part of drive to be awarded Green Accreditation status by Government-supported body Investors in the Environment. The Group has made a significant number of positive changes over the past five years, working to drive down energy consumption, waste sent to landfill, water usage and more.

Investors in the Environment is a not-for-profit environmental scheme, designed to help businesses become greener, more energy efficient, and save money. The scheme, which is supported by the Department for Energy, offers three levels of accreditation – bronze, silver and green. To earn status, companies must fulfil a series of criteria all of which are focused on being as green as possible.

Hull College Group has written an action plan, which details how the environmental impact will be lessened at its three sites. A key part of the strategies involves engaging staff and students, and making sure everyone who uses College facilities plays their part in being greener.

Steps staff and students are helping to earn the Green Accreditation through a variety of actions, including:

• energy saving – switching off lights in rooms not in use; switching computers off at the end of the day

• recycling – recycling all waste where possible, only printing materials where necessary, and recycling resources within the College where possible

• Sharing fleet vehicles where possible, and using a minibus which regularly runs between the three sites.

Hull College Group Chief Executive Gary Warke said: “Be-ing greener and more energy efficient is very important to us as an organisation. Both individuals and businesses must do their bit to help preserve the environment and take positive steps to reduce environmental impact. In working towards earning the Investors in the Environ-ment, we are demonstrating our commitment to be greener and more energy efficient, and to save money.

“We are pleased with the response we have received from staff and students – people are very much working together and doing their bit to achieve the award and improve our green credentials”.The Group has pledged to make a series of measurable changes in order to obtain the Accreditation, including: a two per cent reduction in consumption of electricity, a five per cent reduction in consumption of gas, and a two per cent reduction in consumption of water. Steps taken include monitoring usage and reducing wherever possible, as well as ensuring buildings and equipment are as energy-efficient as possible. Improvements include replacing windows and thermostats, as well as promoting simple messages to staff and students, like ensuring they are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions.The College will receive confirmation of whether it has achieved Green Accreditation in September this year.


A focus week designed to highlight the importance of maths and English skills in everyday life took place at all three Hull College Group sites. The week included a range of activities, performances, demonstrations and more, all designed to get students involved and emphasise the significance of these core skills to every study programme within the Group.

Throughout the course of the week, organised events were well-attended, with students attending workshops on everything from budgeting to discovering apps to help learning and enjoying live performances of GCSE texts.

Highlights included:• AQuidsInprojectstall,where

students could discover why maths is essential in everyday life, including for setting budgets and at work

• AdramaticreadingofWilfredOwen’s Dulce et Decorum Est – the well-known WWI poem is essential reading for GCSE students, and the performance brought to life its stark visual imagery

• AninteractivesessiononhowEnglish and maths are essential within the hair and beauty trade, and how learning these skills is integrated into the study of the subject

• Apracticalsupportsession,lookingat how assistive technology can help learning

• Ademonstrationofhowaccessibilitysoftware for tablets can help with studying, from games and revision guides, to electronic read-aloud tools.

Over the course of the week, hundreds of students participated in the selection of workshops, demonstrations, tutorials and performances of offer. All three sites saw a significant amount of interest and enthusiasm for the programmes of events.

Hull College Group Chief Executive Gary Warke said: “English and maths are two skills which are fundamental regardless of which study programme or career path you choose to follow. For example, if you set up your own business, good maths skills are vital, whether that business is within the beauty, construction or IT industry. Maths is also important within every individual’s personal life in terms

of managing bills and saving for important purchases.

“Similarly good English skills can be fundamentally important to a whole range of careers, from an admin assistant who may be asked to write a letter for their employer to a graphic designer asked to update a website.

“The aim of the week was to highlight both the significance of these skills, and the range of support available within our Colleges to ensure students develop them.”

For further information about the range of English and Maths courses Hull College Group offers, including entry and higher level programmes, visit: www.hull-college.ac.uk, www.harrogate.ac.uk, and www.goole-college.co.uk.

Action week puts spotlight on English and maths skills


Apprenticeships were firmly in the spotlight at all three Hull College Group sites during National Apprenticeship Week. The focus week takes place nationally every year and is intended to highlight the benefits of both becoming and employing an Apprentice.

A range of activities, have-a-go taster sessions, open events and presentations took place over the five-day period, generating interest from both prospective Apprentices and employers. Events at Hull College hit the media, with Principal Graham Towse and a selection of the College’s current Apprentices appearing on local radio station KCFM and newspaper the Hull Daily Mail.

At Hull, activities during the week comprised an Open Event with a special emphasis on Apprenticeships, as well as talks, demonstrations and taster sessions organised by a range of different schools, including Hair, Beauty and Catering and Construction. The evening event drew a large number of visitors, with many inquiries about signing up for an Apprenticeship. The week was brought to a close with a successful networking at the KC Stadium where guests were treated to a Rugby match between Hull FC and Bradford Bulls.

On the night pledges were received to take on apprentices as well as Skills Support for the Workforce (SSW) sign ups.

In Harrogate, there was a drive to match employers and Apprenticeships with a dedicated networking event. The recruitment fair provided an opportunity for would-be Apprentices to discover opportunities in their selected fields and for employers to meet and speak to prospective employees – it was also a chance for both sides to learn more about

how Apprenticeships work and the benefits of undertaking or employing one. The event was well-attended, boosting inquiries from both parties.

Goole College also hosted an Open Evening during the week, which gave visitors the opportunity to discover all courses offered, including an Apprenticship in Hairdressing. The College also employs two Apprentices, one working in Learner Support Services and one in Data Services.

Across the Group, a total of 27 Apprentices are currently employed, with recruitment underway to boost numbers even further. The pathways are available in a wide range of vocations, with Apprentice working in a number of roles at all three sites, including: photography, graphic design, customer services, business, admin, learner support, exams administration and more. They provide support within different departments, including Marketing, Faculty of Arts, Data Services, IT, Admissions, 14-16 College and Commercial Services.

In total across Hull College Group, there are six Apprentices working within Business Support, five in Data Services, four in Student Services and Learner Support, three in Marketing, two in Commercial Services, one in IT, one in 14-16 College, one in Partnerships and Franchising, one in Exams and one in the Faculty of Arts.

Lists of available Apprenticeships both with Hull College Group and partner employers are available at: http://www.hull-college.ac.uk/apprenticeships/current-apprenticeship-vacancies and: http://www.harrogate.ac.uk/apprenticeships/current-apprenticeship-vacancies.

Hull, Harrogate and Goole celebrate National Apprenticeship Week

Tim Canniffe, 34, is studying for an Apprenticeship in Sales Support – Telesales. He is based within the College’s Commercial Division. He says: “I was amazed by the range of Apprenticeships available within the College and ended up being offered a position within the Commercial Division which has been fantastic. I’ve gained experience in areas I hadn’t even considered and I really enjoy what I do. I’d recommend an Apprenticeship to anyone – I was worried that it would be a real financial struggle returning to education, but there is so much help available and you earn while you study.”

Shannon Colton is a Business Administration Apprentice based within the College’s Marketing Team. She says: “I chose an Apprenticeship because I didn’t want to be based within a

classroom. I wanted to get a job when I left school but also wanted a qualification. I think I’m more employable than I would be if I’d done a business course and I’m more aware of what it’s like within the field I work in than if I was based in a classroom. I’ve experienced working in so many different situations, including event organisation and learned a lot of skills that I will be able to transfer.”

Lyndsay Meikle is undertaking a Creative Media Apprenticeship and works within Hull College as a graphic designer. She says: “An Apprenticeship allows you to experience working life in the real world. You learn a range of skills that you know employers will want to see – I work with clients on a daily basis, both over the phone and face to face. My experience of real-life situations will put me ahead when I’m going for jobs in the future, and I’ll also have a qualification at the end of this.”

9TheReview • HullCollegeGroup•Stakeholders’Newsletter

Student Brad already scoring career goalsHull College student Brad Rial, currently in his second year of study for a BA (Hons) Journalism and Digital Media, has proved he’s on the ball when it comes to career goals. The aspiring sports reporter has had a regular slot writing for the Hull Daily Mail for more than a year, and has now expanded his CV to include a stint for the BBC.

Sports enthusiast Brad collates live text updates for the Hull Daily Mail website live from the press box at the KC Stadium for Hull City home games. His reports have also been published in the paper. Now, he has added radio experience to his repertoire, after spending a day shadowing BBC Sports Reporter Damian Johnson.

Hull-born Damian was one of the guest speakers at the recent Journalism Day organised by staff from Hull College’s BA (Hons)

Journalism and Digital Media course, in partnership with the Hull Daily Mail. Brad made contact with Damian after Journalism Day and was offered the shadowing opportunity.

Brad said: “My work experience started when I wrote two articles on Hull City for the Hull Daily Mail’s website. Then I was asked to cover the matches and write live, interactive commentaries for the website. I also wrote a season review for the website.

“As an aspiring football journalist, the experience I have gained from working with the Mail and the BBC has been really valuable, and hopefully it will lead to more opportunities in the future”.

Jackie Goodman, Associate Dean for the Faculty of Arts at Hull College, said: “Students on the course are expected to develop their employability and freelancing skills by

taking on work experience throughout their three years of study and learning how to develop professional networks – Brad has not only fulfilled this expectation, but gone above and beyond it.

“He works very hard and we’re delighted for him that he has secured work experience in an area he is enthusiastic about with two superb media organisations.”

Goole College students proved their health credentials in a series of challenges designed to get them thinking about eating well and keeping fit. The students participated in the Health Week and Get Moving Goole challenges, with the winners scooping a series of health-themed prizes.

In a fitness trial, pupils tried out an interactive velodrome, which pitted their cycling prowess against each other. Competitors battled it out on two fixed bikes which simulated velodrome conditions. Prizes were then handed out to the two fastest around the track.

A further competition called for students to create a bold and beautiful poster to encourage people to walk or cycle rather than travelling by car. The imagination and quality of the entries were high, with students coming up with themes, logos and artwork. A first place and runner-up prize were given out. Bounty for the successful students included gym memberships, goodie bags and Love2Shop vouchers.

The Get Moving Goole project. is

funded through a successful bid to the Department for

Transport’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund, made by partner organisation the East Riding of Yorkshire Council (ERYC)’s Transport Policy team. Get Moving Goole aims to encourage people to swap travelling by car for more energetic forms of transport, including walking and cycling.

In a prize-giving session held at Goole College, the winning group collected their prizes from Goole College Principal Lynne Richardson, in a ceremony attended by College staff and representatives from the council and Drax Power Station.

Lynne Richardson said: “We were extremely impressed by the standard of posters created by participating students and were delighted by the enthusiasm they showed for the cycling challenge.

“This was also a valuable opportunity to work closely with some of our partner organisations. We appreciate

their commitment to projects like this, which really reinforce healthy living and encourage learners to think consider important issue like fitness.

“I offer my congratulations to all of those who took part.”

Goole College students awarded health accolades

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Hull College hosts Community Safety ConferenceHull College was the venue for a key community event, when it welcomed the Community Safety Conference 2014. The event was hosted by the faculty of Business & Science in association with Hull Community Safety Partnership. The event comprised of lectures from Police and Crime Commissioner of Hull, Matthew Grove and Chief Inspector Ian Dixon; a discussion of the Police and Crime Plan and its wider implications on the city of Hull; and the application of theory of community safety to the strategy and practice of the police. It also included interactive workshops for the College’s Criminology students to attend, providing an excellent opportunity for students to build knowledge of the crime issues in Hull and challenge their preconceptions, values and attitudes.The conference was a great success, with high numbers of students attending the morning lectures and the afternoon workshops. Matthew Grove spoke passionately about the value of education and encouraged students to embrace all opportunities to develop both their knowledge and skills. He described his own education and the impact

of having dyslexia, but overcoming challenges to now be in a position of responsibility. He also discussed his strategies for the next few years for the safety of communities in Humberside. In an open forum he responded to student’s questions and concerns, with hot topics including ‘drunk tanks’ and reduced funding for third sector organisations. The afternoon also provided a fantastic opportunity for students to meet members of the Community Safety Partnership undertaking workshops regarding: drug intervention; domestic violence; the night time economy; life in prison, and the work of the Together Women Project.Chief Inspector Iain Dixon (Humberside Police), then gave a presentation on violent crime in Hull highlighting key issues and management responses identifying key areas of most incidents.Hull College Principal Graham Towse said: “Hosting the Community Safety Experience provided an excellent opportunity for our students to engage directly with the Police and Crime Commissioner, ask him questions about the force, and to gain a real insight into the local police force and how it operates.

“Mr Grove delivered a very passionate speech and it was particularly interesting to hear how he had overcome his own educational obstacles. We are always keen to foster links between the College and a wide range of stakeholders within the community – this is an excellent example of the benefits these links bring”.


Hull College Group has won the Humber Renewables Award for Excellence in Renewables Skills and Training. The Group secured this prize in a strong category, beating two excellent finalists – Grimsby Institute Group and HETA.Hull College Group was announced as the winner at a ceremony at the KC Lightstream Stadium (Thursday March 6). Sponsored by Mail News & Media and a number of key local businesses and organisations, the accolades recognise companies around the region making a significant impact within the renewables sector.The citation given for selecting Hull College Group as the champion of its category highlighted the group’s ‘significant investment in resources’ and ‘clear strategy’ regarding the future of renewables.It reads: ‘Hull College Group has shown it is willing to invest significant investment and resources to ensure it has courses, skills and staff ready for the renewables industry as it exists now, but also to be a major provider of skills, recruits and

expertise as the industry grows.‘With skills and training playing such a major role in the future of the renewables industry, Hull College Group has displayed a clear strategy in how it will define its important role ensuring students and staff will be at the heart of that bright future.’The award was the Group’s second prize within a week, after it scooped a Times Education Award for Outstanding use of Technology in Further Education.Hull College Chief Executive Gary Warke said: “It’s an honour to receive this award. Our renewables-related education and training is absolutely at the heart of our provision as a College – for the Humber region to take full advantage of the opportunities the renewables industry can offer, we must have a well-skilled and qualified workforce. We are continually working to ensure our courses are able to help deliver that workforce.“We’re delighted judges have recognised the scope and scale of our renewables-related education

and training, and our extensive work with partners, other training providers and businesses to develop green skills. “The awards serve as a superb showcase for all that the Humber region is able to offer the renewables industry. We are proud to be involved, both as a finalist and as a sponsor of the Renewables Education Award – I extend my congratulations to the category winner, Humberside Engineering Training Association (HETA).”

Renewables training nets College prestigious award


Hull College is set to host a huge three-day skills-themed event which will give visitors the chance to try their hands at a range of exciting career including Engineering, Renewables, Welding and Construction, Digital Industries and Visitor Economy careers such as Hair, Beauty and Catering.From June 24-26, the College will provide the setting for The Skills Show Experience, supported by the European Social Fund and the National Careers Service. One of the biggest careers events of its kind in the country, the Hull College Skills Show Experience is free and open to the public and provides real ‘Have a Go’ experience of a wide range of skilled occupations. The event will also include the College hosting the Yorkshire and Humber regional finals of Skill Build the largest multi-trade competition in the country for construction trainees and apprentices, covering ten craft occupations. The winners will then go on to take part in World Skills UK finals at Birmingham NEC in November.The event is aimed at anyone interested in taking their career in a new direction, from school leavers, to adults looking to retrain, or those looking to get back into the job market. Local schools are invited to visit the exhibition, and the College’s doors will be open to the public throughout with over 2,000 visitors

expected to take part.Departments around the College will be participating, with the theme firmly focussed on letting guests ‘Have a Go’ at everything from building a wall to creating salon styles. A specially customised HGV trailer called MANTRA will be a key attraction – the 17-metre truck is packed with the very latest machinery and virtual reality simulators which allow participants to have a virtual taste of a wide variety of high tech industries. Hull College Principal Graham Towse said: “We’re very excited to be hosting The Skills Show Experience and I really want to encourage people to come and see what it’s all about. It’s a rare opportunity to explore a new career, whether it’s something you’ve always dreamed of doing, or a trade you have been curious about but never had the opportunity to try. “There will be a huge amount going on at the College over the course of the three days, from live demonstrations and presentations, to the Have a Go activities which are at the heart of the event. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re an adult who would like to embark on a new career path or a school pupil trying to find out what career interests you.“If you find something you like, we will have College staff on-hand to help you

pursue your new-found passion and careers advisors from the National Careers Service will offer specialist guidance on pathways to future careers. We have a huge range of learning pathways which can lead to a career in a skilled trade, including those within our HCUK 14-16 College, and part-time courses which can be completed around work and family commitments.”The Skills Show Experience forms part of the European Social Fund Technical Assistance project, awarded to the Skills Funding Agency to promote the European Social Fund. In addition, the programme is co-funded by the Skills Funding Agency to deliver the National Careers Service at the events.Working in partnership with The Skills Show premier sponsors City & Guilds, the Edge Foundation and Premier Colleges, The Skills Show Experience provides young people with opportunities to discover what they are good at and what they enjoy, through interactive activities and experiences helping shape their futures and transform their livesThe Skills Show Experience takes place at Hull College from Tuesday June 24 to Thursday June 26. For further information, call: (01482) 329943.

Try a new career atHull College Skills Show Experience


Building new Architecture provisionWith Hull set for City of Culture status in 2017 and significant investment through the development of the Siemens- and ABP-funded Greenport, the city is poised for development and growth. In preparation for the changes to infrastructure that those developments will bring, Hull College is now able to offer an Architecture Masters qualification, ensuring Hull will have access to a hub of home-grown designers and architects.

The course (officially known as an M. Arch) is accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and is delivered by lecturers, practicing architects and visiting lecturers from a variety of specialisms. Hull School of Art and Design, part of Hull College Group is the only college institution in the UK to offer the course – all other providers are universities. It is also among just a handful of educators which houses its Architecture course within an arts school, giving the students access to a range of facilities, including 3D workshops which allow designs to be created and tested in timber, metals, card, plastic and other materials. Learners can also use the state-of-the-art A1 laser cutter and have full use of craft workshops and the chance to create full scale models.

Sarah Humphreys, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Hull College, said: “We’re

delighted to be able to offer the next generation of architects the chance to study their craft within the city. We carried out extensive liaison with local architectural design practices and the local council and it was universally highlighted that there is a clear shortage of architectural graduates to supply the regional needs.

“Directors of local architectural practices claim a shortfall in qualified staff has hindered their ability to expand and tender for larger contracts and schemes which in turn would benefit the local economy. Most recent major projects have been executed by practices from outside of the region.

“Hull was previously home to the former Hull School of Architecture, which attracted applications from Ireland, Mainland Europe, Scandinavia, China, Brunei and Malaysia. The reinstatement of the Architecture programmes will help fuel regional design and increase the design ambition of the community. Architectural practice will, in time, become the beating heart of the community allowing a substantial local contribution to the fabric of the City”.

The course is extremely comprehensive and there are a number of benefits for students, including lower fees than those charged by universities. The College also has strong links with local

architecture firms, outstanding facilities and a programme of guest lecturer visits.

Hull College’s Higher Education programmes are charged at £6,000 per year for full-time courses and £3,000-£4,000 for part-time courses – the average annual fee for a course based within a university is £8,647, while more than three quarters of universities charge £9,000 per year.

The College also offers opportunities for students to claim financial support to help with their studies. Full details of the range of bursaries and grants available can be found here: http://www.hull-college.ac.uk/higher-education/fees-grants-and-bursaries. In addition to this, part-time students can now take out loans to fund their studies. Details of loans and the application process are available here: http://www.hull-college.ac.uk/higher-education/fees-grants-and-bursaries/part-time-higher-education-student-loans.

The course is open for applications now. For more details, visit: www.hull-college.ac.uk/higher-education.


A Hull College scheme organised in partnership with a local company has helped 90 people find work in just 18 months. The Sector Based Work Academy (SBWA) has been running within the College’s Employability Hub since early 2012. The academy, which is available to individuals referred by Job Centre Plus (JCP), comprises three weeks of classroom-based training and a guaranteed interview with Hull-based ResQ, an outsourcing telesales company. Recently, the tenth group of recruits this current

academic year (beginning September 2013) completed their training and progressed to the interview stage. Seven of them have been selected for the next stage of the interview process, after which they will discover if they have been successful in gaining employment.

Since September 2012, 150 students have enrolled onto this programme and 90 of them been successful at interview.

Sue Lister, academy participant, said: “Before the course I had low self-esteem and confidence issues. With the support of the tutor and the group these have been addressed and I feel a lot better in myself. I also learned a lot from the course through good teaching and student input”.

Another successful recruit, Sacha Dagnall, added: “On this course I gained more confidence and learned new skills such as team working and interview skills. The tutor was very

helpful and friendly as were the rest of the group”.

Dean Ross, who also gained employment after participating in an academy, added: “I enjoyed meeting great new people on a very informative course with a good tutor. Courses like this pave the way for great opportunities to move forward with your career”.

Julie Lockley, Hull College Employability Skills Manager, said: “Res Q are big supporters of the college’s Sector Based Work Academies approach and can see how it supports their recruitment process. This partnership approach between the college, Res Q and the Jobcentre Plus has helped to maximise opportunities for unemployed adults within Hull”.

Hull College Group’s Women in Sustainable Technologies (WIST) group is making strides towards boosting the number of women joining industries historically dominated by men. Launched in March 2013, the group is specifically for female students studying trade and technology qualifications – many who joined the group have since gone on to become WIST ambassadors themselves.

Group members benefit from a range of activities designed to promote career opportunities, breakdown barriers, and encourage participation. Events have included a visit to the Morgan Sindall site where students met with female role models including the Head Buyer and Quantity Surveyor. They enjoyed an opportunity to hear first-hand how

the high-flying women manage their careers in highly male-dominated areas. Open discussion took place on the discrimination that some had faced on their journey and how they had personally tackled the issues. The students reported that the visit helped increase their confidence and aspirations.

One student, enrolled on a painting and decorating course, said: “It has given me a boost to carry on with the course and made me realise that there really are job opportunities at the end of it and in areas that I’d never thought about before”.

In addition, marketing materials have been produced to promote WIST and ‘career swap’ sessions have been set up, which will see Joinery students trade places with their peers on Hair & Beauty courses. The

cohorts will both get to experience practical sessions of each other’s work, to get a taste for a totally different study path.

As a result of the WIST project, links have been made with Doncaster College and an exchange visit for students is being arranged. An action plan to promote good sector practice around gender equality has been developed, which includes the allocation of female staff as buddies/mentors to act as the first point of contact if students have any issues or would like to talk to someone who may have experienced a similar situation.

Success for Sector Based Work Academy

Group encouraging women into trade professions


The companies who attended were: CMS distribution NYBEP (NHS) Teeside Uni Continued Care Home Instead TSYS Apprenticeships Newcastle Uni Sainsbury’s Nuffield Health Leeds Met Peter Gothards Hair Holiday Inn York St John Uni Whitbread RAF Belmont House Business EnterpriseHE Progression (Harrogate) HCUK

A successful careers event was held at Harrogate College at the end of March. A large number of key local businesses and organisations exhibited at the careers fair, highlighting the College’s strong relationships with external stakeholders. It also drew a high number of student visitors, who came to discover more about employment opportunities and discuss progression routes, including work and higher education (HE).

Harrogate College Principal, Debra Forsythe-Conroy, said: “Organising events like careers fairs is extremely important for our students. It provides them with the opportunity to explore employment opportunities, meet local employers and organisations, take a look at university provision, and to generally plan what their next step will be in terms of progression.

The event was run by students themselves – those studying Business subjects took full responsibility on the day, ensuring proceedings ran seamlessly.

“The College has superb links with employers in the region, and we were able to provide a real cross section of sectors for students – from Apprenticeships to universities, and corporate organisations to the armed forces and the beauty and care industries.

“Feedback we received was extremely positive, with students taking away some very useful information. It

was also a useful opportunity for the employers, who got to talk to future members of the workforce and potentially discover a student who would be a perfect fit for their organisation.

“I was particularly proud of our Business students for their organisation skills on the day. With their help, the event ran extremely smoothly – it was a valuable opportunity for experience in planning a real-life event”.

Harrogate careers event draws a crowd


Tutors from the Yorkshire region and beyond gathered at Harrogate College for the Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education (CACHE) Regional Tutor Group meeting. The annual event is an opportunity for members of the sector to come together, discuss developments within the field and share ideas and best practice.

The conference was led by John Beck, Regional Development Executive for Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Humberside, and attended by 17 tutors from all over the region. Participants discussed the

new CACHE Early Years Qualifications and heard the very latest news from government regarding new regulations for childcare practitioners.

Tutors were also able to experience Harrogate College’s fantastic outdoor learning environment in action and took part in a “Stay and Play Session” organised by Harrogate and District Toy Library and supported by the College’s Early Years students. This on-going community partnership project allows local children the unique experience of a stimulating natural play environment and provides our students with the opportunity to interact with children during outdoor play.

Many tutors who attended the CACHE meeting said they were inspired by this visit and much discussion took place about the value of developing outdoor provision for both children and students.

Harrogate College Principal Debra Forsythe Conroy said: “We were pleased to host the CACHE regional meeting.

These sessions are an invaluable opportunity for colleagues within the care, health and education sector to come together, share their experiences and forward plan.

“Those who participated in the meeting held at Harrogate College were inspired by our fantastic outdoor facilities, which sparked an enthusiastic discussion about the benefits of providing such a space.

“It is a reflection of the College’s close partnerships with external organisations that it was chosen as the venue for the CACHE meeting.”

Harrogate College Apprentice Nathan Stevens has been recognised at an awards ceremony which celebrates the best Apprentices in the region. Nathan took home the Intermediate Apprentice of the Year award at the Leeds City Councils Apprenticeship Awards, which celebrates the achievements of Apprentices working for local employers.

Held at Leeds Civic Hall, the ceremony recognised ten local apprentices and four employers for the outstanding contribution they have made to the Leeds economy.

Now in their third year, the council-run awards welcomed His Royal Highness The Duke of York KG, who met a number of the nominees at a special reception ahead of the main ceremony.

Judges at the event said Nathan

had ‘made a positive impression on everyone around him’, with local council, Cllr Lucinda Yeadon, saying: “Once again these awards have given us a chance to celebrate the vital contribution apprentices and their employers make to our city and its economy.

“All our award-winners are shining examples of how hard work, passion and dedication can see young people accomplish their goals and be successful in whatever career they choose.

“I hope seeing what our apprentices and employers have accomplished here will encourage even more businesses and individuals to get behind the apprenticeship programme both now and in the future.”

Harrogate College Principal Debra

Forsythe-Conroy said: “We are extremely proud of Nathan. He joined us as a School Links student, completed three years on a joinery programme and then went on to the Apprenticeship.

“He is a credit to the College and a great example of how it’s possible to join us early in your academic life and discover your perfect career patch. Apprentices work extremely hard and the competition for these awards really was tough, so for Nathan to stand out is particularly impressive.”

Harrogate College Apprentice named one of region’s best

Harrogate College hosts regional care and education sector meeting


Students create work for Fountains AbbeyCreative students at Harrogate College have collaborated with local landmark Fountains Abbey over two separate projects which have seen them create posters for the high profile visitor attraction.

Students on the L3 BTEC Extended Diploma Art & Design worked with both the National Trust and the Abbey to produce a range of stunning posters. The 11 participants were tasked to follow a brief set by the Trust, which involved incorporating the organisation’s branding and giving their designs a fresh, contemporary feel.

The brief also requested all submissions were ‘striking graphic and photographic posters showing the whole site in a range of exciting and innovative ways whilst retaining that ‘spirit of place’ so loved by regular and new visitors’.

All their designs were exhibited at Fountains Hall, with members of the public invited to vote on their favourites. Sarah Thompson was eventually selected as the winner by both the public and judges, with her atmospheric images a clear winner.

In a second project, first year Extended Diploma Art and Design learners were asked by Fountains Abbey to produce ten designs for their annual Easter Egg Hunt. The students came up with a range of bright, eye-catching egg-shaped designs. These were presented to the Abbey and were used in the hunt, which is extremely popular with families.

Harrogate College Principal Debra Forsythe Conroy said: “The experience our students gain from participating in live projects like this is invaluable. Their finished pieces for both projects show a diversity of interests, skills and influences and reflect the thought and hard work behind their production. They really embraced the opportunity to follow the design process including creating design sheets and presenting initial ideas to the client. When it comes to putting together a CV, work experience like this is crucial and can make the difference in terms of being noticed by employers.

“Staff at the Abbey and the National Trust have been extremely impressed by their creativity and commitment – all those involve should be very proud of their achievements.”


Goole College has officially opened its welding workshops in a launch event attended by a number of high profile guests.

The state-of-the-art £500,000 department is designed to give students valuable training to meet an emerging local demand for skills in the sector. The college hosted a number of dignitaries including Humber Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Chief Executive Kishor Tailor and representatives from Weldability Sif, the company which provided the cutting edge equipment on Friday, May 2 when the ribbon was cut at the facility.

Guests were shown the College’s welding equipment and practical engineering facilities, as well as the Virt-U-Weld technology, which allows pupils to virtually weld using a computer programme and virtual reality welding kit. The development originated when the Hull and Humber area was awarded City Deal status by the Government. City Deal status, meaning that decision making powers in the area that would usually sit with

Whitehall being rolled out locally, giving Hull and the Humber increased powers to establish the UK’s energy industry within the region.

The project is part of work to develop a Humber Campus for energy skills with £1.245m of FE capital funding, matched by £1.9m from the five participating Humber colleges. The ‘Humber Campus’ is designed to deliver the skills agenda required to support the Humber’s development as a Centre of Excellence for Energy Skills.

Andrew Percy, Brigg and Goole MP, cut the ribbon at the welding workshop, watched by staff, students and other guests. Local press also attended, giving the event significant coverage.

Goole Principal Lynne Richardson said: “We were delighted to officially launch our welding facilities. They really are the highest possible standard and provide students with fantastic experience in a realistic working environment. The addition of the Virt-U-Weld means they can practice essential skills limitless numbers of

times without wasting resources, or requiring the time of setting up a bay and preparing it for each new student.

“Welding and engineering skills will be more essential than ever following the announcement by Siemens and ABP to proceed with the Greenport development in Hull. This will provide a wealth of opportunities for those who train with us.”

Mr Percy added: “I am absolutely delighted to be opening this facility which will give pupils from Goole the skills to hopefully step into careers in an emerging local energy sector. The

investment made by companies such as Siemens in the Humber area is fantastic, but it is up to us to make sure that our workforce is ready.

“We have seen significant investment locally and this area is growing substantially. Many of the key projects such as Siemens will require skilled welders and we really want to ensure that local people can capitalise on this”.

Goole College launches fully refurbished welding workshops


For the second time this year a group of budding poets from the Goole 14-16 College have been recognised for their creative writing.

The latest competition where would-be Wordsworths have found success is the Young Writers’ The Poetry Games. Six learners; Alisha Wilcock, Maddy Balkham, Shannon Harvey, Claudia Woods, Oliwia Wantoch-Rekowska and Walter Dlugi have been successful and will have work published in a special anthology.

The Poetry Games 2014 received thousands of entries from all over the UK and work has been selected for publication based on perception, imagination, expression and creative use of language.

The book will be sent to libraries

across the UK and Republic of Ireland and a copy sent to the British Library.

Previously, student poets Oliwia Wantoch-Rekowska and Megan Foster from Goole’s 14-16 College won The Young Writers’ Power of Poetry competition and saw their work published in a special anthology.

Goole College Principal Lynne Richardson said: “We are extremely proud of all the pupils – to have one success within the field of a poetry competition was fantastic, but to win a second time really is remarkable.

“Once again, this is an example of the extremely high standard that the students within our 14-16 College are working to. Not only are they excelling in class, they are excelling

in extracurricular activities. As principal, it is so inspiring to see their enthusiasm for learning. Many of them have made enormous progress since joining the 14-16 College and are on target for great results in their exams.

“Hopefully, experiencing success in the poetry competition will help to inspire in them a lifelong passion for reading and writing. A sincere well done to all involved.”

Students from Goole College have had a taste of working life with a work experience stint at Goole Hospital. The dedicated learners tried their hands at a range of tasks and practice dealing with patients during the four-week taster, working closely alongside hospital staff.

The four girls, all studying Level three Health and Social Care, worked real shift patterns and tried out a variety of different departments within the hospital. Emma Stow, Amy Petch

Stephanie Betterridge Grey and Laura Kinnaird were extremely enthusiastic about putting their skills into practice

and getting an insight into their chosen careers.

Emma Stow said: “It was so exciting, what an opportunity! I was really pleased to to learning new skills and had a unique experience at the hospital”.

Amy Petch added: “I am so lucky to have had a placement at the hospital, I was very excited about it and I believe it gave me valuable experience I require for my future”.

Lynne Richardson, Principal at Goole College, said: “We’re delighted to be able to offer our students the chance to gain experience on a real ward. They saw fully qualified nurses working, practiced dealing with patients and really got a taste of the fast-paced atmosphere in the hospital. It was also a valuable opportunity to use the skills they have worked so hard to learn at College.

“We’re able to offer the placements because we have a strong working relationship with the hospital and we

appreciate them giving our learners the chance to work with their staff and to learn from them. It is still a tough job market and for students, having real work experience on their CVs is more important than ever. Progression for our students – into a job, or on to a further qualification – is an area we place strong emphasis on and Hull College Group, which Goole College is part of, has a progression rate of more than 90 per cent”.

Goole College offers a wide range of qualifications, both full- and part-time, including vocational courses. Goole College also offers the 14-16 College, which opened last year. The College, which takes pupils from Year 10 onwards, offers a combination of vocational training and GCSEs in core subjects with clear progression pathways to apprenticeships, higher level courses, university and employment. Students at Goole have a choice of studying health and social care, engineering or business.

Further success for young Goole poets

Student nurses take to the wards


Hull CollegeQueen’s Gardens CentreWilberforce Drive,Hull HU1 3DG.T: (01482) 329943F: (01482) 308047

Goole CollegeBoothferry Road,Goole DN14 6SR.T: (01405) 762420

Harrogate CollegeHornbeam ParkHarrogateN.YorksHG2 8QTT: (01423) 879466

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Stakeholders newsletter issue 3 june 2014 (3)