National Apprenticeship Week 2023:
MP Visits, Awards and Roadshow for 3,000 Young People!
Bolton College is proud to be the go-to destination for hundreds of bright and ambitious apprentices so we celebrated National Apprenticeship Week 2023 with enthusiasm.
MP visits, awards and a Bolton College Apprenticeship Roadshow, enjoyed by over 3,000 young people, highlighted all that’s amazing about Apprenticeships.
The week was a huge success, showcasing all the incredible opportunities available through Apprenticeships.
We can’t wait to do the same again next year!
Engage Issue 2
2023 1.
April
Part of the University of Bolton Group 6
Above: MP Yasmin Qureshi paid a visit to painting and decorating apprentice Katelyn Dodgin
Above: One of Bolton College’s adult apprentices, Adam Shepherdson, was named Apprentice of the Year for Construction & Property Industries at The North West Apprenticeship Awards
• • • Parents & Carers Newsletter • • •
Above: Adam Corbally, a former contestant on the BBC’s The Apprentice, visited over 3,000 young people for Bolton College’s Apprenticeship Roadshow
Hear more from Corey here:
After starting out as a barbering apprentice, Corey Dickinson is now an employer and the owner of Tonsor Male Grooming, a highly-successful barbershop with over 150 five-star reviews.
Corey preferred practical tasks at school so, after discovering a love of barbering through YouTube, he became a barbering apprentice at 16.
‘It was a challenge building my client base but I was hard working and dedicated and I soon went from five regular clients to being fully booked week in, week out.
‘At 18, I became shop manager then at 19, I bought out my boss and rebranded the barbershop to Tonsor Male Grooming.
‘I now employ three Bolton College apprentices; I want to create opportunities for those who, like me, have a passion and drive to do well.
‘Not everyone thrives at school but given the right environment, anyone can become successful and achieve qualifications.’
For more information and how to apply: CLICK HERE!
2. Part of the University
of Bolton Group
entrepreneur
3. Part of the University of Bolton Group Apprentice becomes entrepreneur and employer at just 19 years old! @tonsormalegrooming @tonsormalegrooming @TonsorMaleGrooming Book an appointment at www.tonsormalegrooming.co.uk or call 01942 840 349. Employer & Apprentice Perspectives! Corey’s passionate about inspiring the next generation so he employs three Bolton College apprentices - here’s what Corey looks for when taking someone on…
Cameron Martin’s one of three Bolton College apprentices employed by Corey. A former pupil of Westhoughton High School, Cameron guides us through a day in the life of an apprentice…
Apprentice to Nursery Manager in only two years!
4.
Part of the University of Bolton Group
Katie, a former pupil of St Joseph’s RC High School, excelled at school so taking A Levels seemed like the only option.
‘Despite acing my A Levels, they weren’t for me; I’m hands-on and wanted to build a career so instead of going to university, I became an early years apprentice at Clevelands Preparatory School.
‘I wish I’d done an Apprenticeship after school, there are so many benefits: on-the-job training; working with experienced professionals; a salary and paid holidays; and achieving a debt-free qualification!’
Katie certainly made an impression at Clevelands, one of the most successful independent schools in Greater Manchester; after two years she was promoted to Nursery Manager, in charge of five staff, AND she’s training to be a teacher!
Katie’s Top 5 Tips for a successful Apprenticeship…
To learn more about our Apprenticeships in Early Years, Childcare & Education CLICK HERE!
5. Part
the
of
University of Bolton Group
At Bolton College, we’re passionate about helping your young person achieve their career goals. Our careers advice and guidance services are tailored to meet the unique needs and aspirations of your young person, whether they’re looking to take that first step on the career ladder or progress their education by going to university.
With our expert support, they can confidently pursue their dreams and fulfil their potential. That’s why we really threw ourselves into National Careers Week 2023, an opportunity to celebrate the importance of providing quality careers guidance. Here’s a taste of what happened…
Careers Fair Support Services Exhibition
Quizzes & Competitions
6.
Part of the University of Bolton Group
Boosts Job Success National Careers Week wrapped up with fantastic news of success. Mathew, a motor vehicle student, secured a part-time job after receiving job application and interview technique support from our incredible Careers and Employment Engagement Advisors. Following this, Mathew aced his job interview and was offered a position on the spot. It just goes to show that anything is possible with hard work and a little guidance! Perfect 100% for Careers Guidance! Gatsby benchmarks recognise good careers guidance and we’re delighted to hit all eight with a perfect score of 100%! This is thanks to our amazing staff who go above and beyond to ensure that our students have a quality experience when it comes to careers planning. Want to know more? Check out our brochure. Click here to view! Bolton College Gatsby Benchmarks Benchmark 1. A stable careers programme Activity Bolton College is primarily based in Bolton, but operates a number of Community Learning Centres in the surrounding area. It provides a range of courses that include vocational education, work-based learning, ESOL courses, Diplomas, Apprenticeships, Access courses and Higher Education courses. The College is a Matrix Accredited College for its Quality Standard for Information, Advice and Guidance, 2022. The College’s Student Experience Team includes a team of two Trainee Careers Advisors, who are currently working towards their Level 6 Qualification in Information, Advice and Guidance and two Information and Advice Officers of which one is qualified to Level 6 and the other Level 4. They report to the Student Experience Manager who is line managed by the College’s Group Lead. Catherine Langstreth, Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Stakeholders, is the nominated Careers Leader and is responsible for effective leadership and management processes. Catherine is supported in accessing funded training to develop them in their role. The programme is underpinned by strategic planning, staff accountability, systemic embedding of careers delivery and effective evaluation of the impact on students including whether they reach positive, personally valued destinations. Having a Careers Lead at Senior Management level allows for strategic oversight of the careers provision and for a strong channel to the Senior Management Team. The Student Experience Manager also manages other areas including enrichment, work experience, and the pastoral and wellbeing teams. The team endeavours to make the service as accessible as possible and this is promoted well across the College. The careers programme is an integral part of the College mission and commitment to students. The programme is well regarded by students, parents, staff, employers and other agencies including link schools and community partners. There are Learning and Development Mentors in each vocational area. They refer students to the Careers Team for one-to-one interviews and work closely with the team to plan group tutorials for the academic year. Governors and senior leaders are committed to careers for all. They promote a culture of high expectations and rigorously monitor achievements and destinations of students on all courses to ensure that they make good progress from their starting points. They are proactive in identifying and taking steps to overcome shortcomings in the careers programme. Monthly reports and an annual Self-Assessment for the Student Experience Team helps to shape the focus points for the academic year. The main objectives of the team are to improve the destinations of leavers, engage with the student population through methods they find relevant and accessible, and provide a service that improves student experience. Progress towards these objectives is measured through student usage statistics, feedback, surveys and student destinations. Bolton College’s Learning for Skills, Careers and Life Policy is designed to meet all eight Gatsby Benchmarks, in line with the expectations of the DfE, Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and Ofsted. This is published on the College website and is updated annually. Feedback is obtained at all parent events, including interview evenings, open evenings and parents’ evenings. 4. Bolton College Gatsby Benchmarks Bolton College Gatsby Benchmarks Bolton College has met 100% of the 18 assessment areas in benchmark 1 Bolton College Gatsby Benchmarks Part ofthe UniversityofBolton Group 7. Part of the University of Bolton Group
Student life at its best!
From exploring new horizons to discovering hidden talents, this year has been jam-packed with unforgettable experiences. Here’s what our students have been up to…
Who needs the red carpet when you can roll out the lanes at Hollywood Bowl?
The Arcade Club Bury, four floors of arcade machines, pinball, games and consoles. Let’s play!
Tattooist Dan, from Vida Loca, told us all about his ink-redible career journey!
World Maths Day kept students busy with competitions and activities, but how many sweets does it take to solve the ultimate equation: satisfying their sugary cravings?
Score goals, not hate: a GLOW football tournament for Football vs. Homophobia.
Students visit Museum.
8. Part of the University of Bolton
Group
Former student Kerry, of Doll House Co, gave a beauty masterclass: expertise shared, benefits delivered!
Forensics students took a cue from their favourite TV crime shows, turning into CSI investigators to solve a gruesome campus murder!
Guests at the Mayor of Bolton’s Charity Ball got a tasty treat as catering students inspired a winning dessert for 200 guests.
Our future hair stylists benefited from a cutting-edge experience during a masterclass.Wella Students scored big with a to the National Football Museum.
Travel & Tourism students raised nearly £200 for Boot Out Breast Cancer – thanks for making a difference!
Principal Bill and student
Shania had a royal appointment at the town hall, greeting King Charles and Camilla on their visit to Bolton.
9.
Part of the University of Bolton Group
What We Expect of Your Young Person
Positive Behaviour Policy
Positive Behaviour Agreement sets out what the College will give the students and what the College staff expect from the students in return.
Our Positive Behaviour Agreements are documents which are signed by students in class at the beginning of their studies. They support students to become successful in their studies and help prepare them for the work environment.
We will:
• Treat your young person fairly and with respect and courtesy.
• Do all we can to prepare them for their next steps to employment or further learning.
• Have high expectations for what they can achieve.
• Understand their learning needs and make sure they have the support they need to reach their goals.
• Make sure their learning is engaging and enjoyable.
• Make sure they stay on track to achieve their goals.
• Help them improve their English and maths.
• Ensure their safety and security.
• Listen to their views on how we can improve further.
• Provide opportunities to enjoy activities outside class We expect your young person to:
• Make the most of the opportunities provided for them by the College.
• Work hard to achieve their goals and fulfil their potential.
• Come prepared for learning.
• Attend all their classes on time.
• Wear their Security ID Pass at all times on College sites.
• Abide by class rules regarding the use of mobile devices.
• Show respect to others at all times.
• Use respectful language with others in our College community.
• Respect the College environment and help us to keep it clean and safe.
• Adhere to the College’s No Smoking Policy.
• Comply with the College’s zero tolerance approach to drugs and alcohol.
10. Part of the University of Bolton Group
Education and Workplace Standards:
In the classroom and on your young person’s work experience or industrial placement, we have some standards which will help them get the most from their studies with us.
√ Attend all their classes.
√ Be prepared.
√ Come on time.
√ Bring pens and the right equipment to class.
√ Switch off their mobiles or have them on silent.
√ Dress appropriately.
Behaviour for the workplace
√ Come with a positive attitude.
√ Work flexibly.
√ Pay attention.
√ Meet their deadlines.
√ Work with classroom colleagues as a team.
√ Take pride in their work.
Improving your skills
√ Learn from their feedback.
√ Ask for help when they need it/offer help when they can.
√ Reflect on what they can do to improve their skills.
√ Always do the best they can.
√ And be ready to tell us about their next steps after the course has finished!
11. Part of the University of Bolton Group
Little bookworms from the College’s Early Years & Pre-School Centre had a blast celebrating World Book Day!
On a mission to make Turkey & Syria
Sports students connected with children from local primary schools for Connecting Classrooms.
Sharples School pupils’ taste buds were dancing during a cookery masterclass and three-course meal at the College’s restaurant, Signature.
A trip to RRG Group’s Lexus Bolton Centre, where motor vehicle students met a high-flying Bolton College apprentice before taking a look at the cutting-edge technology synonymous with the Lexus brand.
Here’s a collection of wonderful students,
A visit 12.
Part of the University of Bolton Group
a difference: collecting for the Syria Earthquake Appeal.
Cupcakes and a rallying cry for parity on International Women’s Day.
100% attendance, 100% success! Recognition for students who rocked Term 1 with perfect attendance.
of recent photos and videos, showcasing our students, staff and events in College.
13. Part of the University of
visit to Old Trafford to pay homage to the Red Devils.
Bolton Group
Rising High – 1st Place for Sustainable Airline Concept
Travel & Tourism students Phoebe, Charley, Ruby, and Irmante won 1st place in the Travel & Tourism category at Trafford College's #GMCGSkills Competition.
The team designed a sustainable airline, Blue Sky Express, from scratch, including everything from the name and uniform to the meals on board. Their airline even had a sustainability focus with their slogan 'Blue Skies, Green Flights.'
Congratulations to these talented students for their wonderful achievement!
14.
the University
Part of
of Bolton Group
at GMCG Skills!
Triumph for Motor Vehicle Students
Yousif Kmala and Kacy Gresty, two of our brilliant Motor Vehicle students, took part in the fiercely competitive #GMCG Skills heats.
Yousif aced the paint competition, being crowned winner, whilst Kacy secured second place in the maintenance and repair section.
These are no mean feats; their exceptional skills and relentless drive earned them these accolades; with such bright futures ahead, this is just the start of their success stories.
Impressive Skills Secures Trophy
Lila, Rabia, Haylee and Tegan participated in the Early Years GMCG Skills Competition and absolutely nailed it!
After working through a presentation and quiz they put their practical skills to the test and secured third place in the skills category.
Our students are always eager to learn and grow; here’s Tegan and Lila holding their well-deserved trophy.
Performing Arts Students Steal the Show
Our talented Performing Arts students need to take a bow after leaving their mark in the GMCG Skills Competition heats!
They brought their A-game game against eight other colleges, earning runnerup positions for electrical performances in the Musical Theatre Level 2 and Dance Level 3 categories.
Their passion and dedication to their craft shone bright and we couldn’t be prouder!
15. Part of the University of Bolton Group
We offer a range of engaging clubs and enriching trips that your young person can be a part of, giving them the opportunity to explore new experiences and make lasting memorie
Mondays, 4.30pm-5.30pm LRC
Thursdays, 12pm-1pm AG.20
Wednesdays,A1.1812pm-1pm Imam Led Prayer
Fridays, 12.40pm-1pm A1.61A
Tuesdays, 4.30pm-6pm 2nd Floor LRC
To access all of our clubs and activities, your young person needs to visit Moodle and select the ‘WELLBEING AND ENRICHMENT’ tab.
