SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
Sir David visits Nursing Suite
Lisa Williams on Team GB Basketball call up
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Owning the Future Page 4
End of Year Show at Coulsdon Page 20
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CROYDON Education Matters
CONTENTS 03 Looking for your next step? 04 Own the Future 06 News and views 06 Book your own tour 06 Students plant data on field trip 07 It all adds up! 07 Hospitality and Catering students take on mammoth cooking exam 10 Croydon University Centre 10 Welcoming Epsom and St Helier 11 Croydon Futures propels local development and opportunities 13 College Alumni & New Faces 14 World of Work 14 Virtual Work Experience Conference inspires positive thinking 16 News and views 16 Students support Croydon charity at Queen’s Jubilee lunch 18 Coulsdon Sixth Form College 21 News and views 21 Unlocked 22 Matilda the Musical 22 We’re sponsoring the Croydon Awards 23 Chefs ready to serve the public 23 Unlocked - End of year art exhibition 24 Diary Dates 2022/23
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A SEASON TO CELEBRATE As the sun starts to shine more consistently overhead, it signals that time of year when our students put their knowledge and learning to the test in exam season. We wish every one of you all the very best and hope you achieve the academic success you deserve. Whatever your own personal outcome, your learning journey doesn’t end after your exams. Some of you will be progressing on to the next level of your course, some may be taking on an Apprenticeship, or developing your employability skills. Some may be stepping up to University degree courses, or entering the world of work. Whatever your next step may be, you can be proud of all your efforts and truly celebrate your success.
CAIREEN MITCHELL Principal & CEO Croydon College Group
And there is plenty to celebrate this term! Two of our students together with their teachers enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea at the House of Lords after winning the South London Best Learner and Teacher Awards. Find out more on page 17.
It’s unbelievable Jeff! Croydon College and Coulsdon Sixth Form College Under-19 footballers, in partnership with FTF (Full Time Football UK Academy), won the Regional Championship, a fantastic achievement! Well done everyone – meet the players on page 18. In Croydon, our new Esports BTEC arena is well underway with painting, decorating and rewiring the space to turn it into a stateof-the-art gaming space, as well as a complete refit of classroom space ready for the new Engineering & Manufacturing T Level course starting in September. On campus at Coulsdon Sixth Form College we are building a brand-new laboratory to make room for the new Science T Level. Our investment in building these new facilities demonstrates once again our passion and commitment to being the go-to educational institution in the borough, providing the skilled employees and workforce of the future needed by our local businesses and public services. Other new exciting courses for September also include Level 2 Barbering, Level 2 Gym Instructing, Level 3 Cyber Security, Level 3 Aviation and a new BA Hons in Children’s Nursing. There is so much opportunity and great careers start here! Find out more and use our course search finder at www.croydon.ac.uk/course-finder. We’re looking forward to even more celebration with the Access Graduation ceremony on 14 July, and the HE Graduation ceremony on 10 October - dust off those mortar boards! I hope you enjoy reading this newsletter which showcases all our achievements this term, our vision and commitment to building on the impact we have as the Croydon College Group on the borough we live and work in, and may the sun continue to shine on us all.
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
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Courses for everyone from 16+ A Levels BTECs Degrees Diplomas Apprenticeships
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Looking for your next step? Apply now!
Apply now!
Apply now!
Apply to Croydon College for 2022/23 and plant yourself in the heart of a thriving south London destination.
Coulsdon Sixth Form College is surrounded by scenic green space and is a premium London college for sportsbased courses and sport enrichment activities. Courses launching this September include our brand new Science T Level, Aviation Operations, Cyber Security, Creative Arts - Costume and Special Effects, and Digital production.
Croydon University Centre has been successfully launching post-18 courses and Higher Education degrees for more than 30 years.
Croydon College offers a wide variety of courses and is a leading provider of Apprenticeships, so you can earn while you learn. We’re offering new courses from September including Esports and a T Level in Engineering.
FIND OUT MORE To find out more information about what courses Croydon College offer, please scan the QR code.
FIND OUT MORE To find out more information about what courses Coulsdon Sixth Form College offer, please scan the QR code.
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Our courses, validated by the University of Roehampton, include Higher Apprenticehips, Teacher Training and Business degrees, as well as Nursing Undergraduate courses, which will also give you access to our state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation facilities.
FIND OUT MORE To find out more about the courses Croydon University Centre offer, please scan the QR code.
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CROYDON Education Matters
Learners Own the Future with interactive workshop More than 100 of our students came together to collaborate with staff and fellow learners to own their futures – and how we can all work together to shape and achieve their career goals.
Owning the future This interactive assembly brought together a diverse group of students of all ages and across all of our institutions – Croydon College, Coulsdon Sixth Form College and Croydon University Centre – to explore ideas around inclusivity, potential future life and work in the UK. Designed and led by the Head of Learning and Quality, with the support of our Student Experience Team, the Teaching, Learning and Mentoring (TLM) Team, volunteer staff and external organisations, this event took place over the course of a day in collaboration with Autograph Photography Gallery and the Royal Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA). The RSA provided four economic models, based on a range of emerging data, that offered different scenarios of what living and working in the UK might look like in the future.
students to comment on what, and how, it should be taught. Learners also explored Brittany Packnett’s ideas that confidence requires three key ingredients: permission, community and curiosity.
“It was a great eye-opener on what the future could be like and I am glad I got a better understanding of how to prepare for it.”
Learners explored the theme of identity, engaging with a photo exhibition titled ‘The Missing Chronicles’, showcasing people of colour from the Victorian and Edwardian ages, using images to represent themselves in an activity facilitated by gallery Education Project Manager Ali Eisa.
The RSA’s models helped students discover the impact on life and work, and will be supporting upcoming Own the Future forums to develop student discussion groups exploring issues of inclusion, destination and next steps, inviting
The event marks the start of joint working between Student Experience Officers, Student Exec Teams, TLM and teachers to discuss issues that matter to the College community, help focus the College community on its intended destination and celebrate diversity and futureproof success for all.
NEXT STEPS
Students gave ideas on other topics to explore, including things that could be included at future events. Ideas included how to buy a house, how taxes work, involving students more in talks about what future career choices could be, allowing more opportunities to develop confidence including public speaking classes, and more presentations on how to prepare for the future and how things could change.
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
“Students need to have a voice and take charge.”
“Should run more events like this. 100% every term.”
“I felt loved and confident.”
“It was great, I met new people and learnt new things.”
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CROYDON Education Matters
NEWS & VIEWS VICE PRINCIPAL FADIA CLARKE JOINS DEVELOP CROYDON BOARD Our Vice Principal Training Skills & Higher Education, Fadia Clarke, has been appointed to the Develop Croydon board for 2022-24. One of four new members on the board, Fadia will play a key role in deciding the direction, activities and finances of the 70+ member Community Interest Company, which promotes Croydon as a location to invest, work and live. Develop Croydon represents key stakeholders across the private, public and third sectors who want to contribute to the regeneration and economic growth of the borough. Members include landowners, occupiers, construction professionals, investors, service providers, developers and anyone else with a vested interest in Croydon and its long-term future. Fadia said: “At Croydon College we are focused on, and driven by, the
success of our students – both during their time with us and after they move to the next step of their careers. “I’m really pleased to have been appointed to the board and play a role in directing the future of Develop Croydon and the people, businesses and organisations within it.” Fadia joins NewPlace Director Joe Garner, Peter Sutcliffe, Director, Head of Building Engineering UK & Ireland, AECOM and Henry Riley CEO David Needham as the board’s newest members. Richard Plant, Develop Croydon Chair and SHW Partner, said: “These four members are clear in their commitment to the borough and driving forward positive growth for residents, employers, employees, organisations, investors, developers and visitors. “I can’t wait for us to get together and continue to work on exciting plans for 2022 and beyond.”
We’re hosting a series of free, bespoke tours to introduce you to Croydon College, Coulsdon Sixth Form College, Croydon University Centre, our facilities and the courses on offer. You can tailor your tour to focus on an area that interests you most, or you can request a more general tour of facilities to explore your options. You’ll get to see our great facilities, quality teaching spaces, art studio, and industry standard workshops. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet members of staff and ask questions. To book your bespoke tour scan the QR code.
STUDENTS PLANT DATA ON FIELD TRIP Our Level 3 BTEC IT students went to Chipstead Downs to collect data on the diversity of plants. The trip, as part of the students’ Data Modelling unit, saw the students visit four fields, each of which is managed in a different way – two grazed by cows, one grazed by sheep, and one mown for hay – to maintain the rich species diversity of a remnant chalk grassland.
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
MAYOR OF CROYDON JUDGES STUDENT CAKE COMPETITION
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It all adds up!
Croydon’s Civic Mayor for 2021-22, Councillor Sherwan Chowdhury, with Councillor Toni Letts and local cake business owner Tracey Rashid joined Croydon College’s Vice Principal Ann-Christine Harland for our cake competition. Our Level 2 and 3 Catering students were given the brief to design a cake that represented Croydon to them. The impressive designs showcased Croydon’s diversity, its inclusivity and community spirit, local businesses, and its drive to stamp out youth violence. The winner was Ummee Mohamoodally. The Mayor of Croydon said: “It’s amazing to bring people together and see the excellent work from the students. It encourages others that we were joined by cake expert Tracey Rashid.” Councillor Toni Letts added: “The thought that went into these designs created a great competition showing just how
professional the students are.” Tracey Rashid said: “I was really impressed with how the cakes tasted and the range of flavours. It’s amazing the thought that went into the Croydon designs. It’s brave to put a knife crime design on a cake, but it’s good to see that. It’s been lovely to see the students take care of the whole service from start to finish.” Clare Price, our Head of Professional Services, added: “I’m so proud of the students and staff for continuing to be so committed and enthusiastic every day. I’m grateful for a wonderful team!”
Hospitality and Catering students take on mammoth cooking exam
Croydon College students took part in the Further Education Maths Challenge, competing against 7,000 students from across London. Tekleab Weldu, Tejasvi Mohit, Do Minh and Wai Wong got to the final of the challenge, competing against 10 other colleges, coming second in the GCSE Go Forth category. We’re enormously proud of our students for their fantastic achievement. The Further Education Maths Challenge is a competition for post-16 students who are working towards gaining a Functional Skills maths qualification or improving their GCSE Mathematics grade.
Croydon BME Forum supports students’ mental wellbeing
Croydon BME Forum came to Croydon College for Mental Health Awareness Week in May.
Ephemia
Mary
Ummee
Our Level 2 Hospitality & Catering students completed a five-hour exam in May, flexing their culinary skills in the kitchen and producing some amazing, mouthwatering dishes.
The guests hosted a stand at the College, providing lots of useful information and guidance for students who might want or need to access their mental health support services, as well as tips and tricks for how to practice mindfulness.
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CROYDON Education Matters
NEWS & VIEWS
Lisa Williams on the FIMBA European Championship Our very own Lisa Williams has been selected to play for the FIMBA GB women’s basketball team at this year’s European Championship. We caught up with Lisa to find out more. Hi Lisa! Before we get started, what do you do at Croydon College? I work in the School of Business Engineering and Technical Professions as a sports lecturer. I teach across all the NCFE sport programmes available at Croydon College, including the new Level 2 Gym Instructing course. What is maxibasketball? Maxibasketball is a competitive category for players retired from regular basketball who wish to continue playing in high performance competitions against players in their age group. In the UK, maxibasketball is also referred to as ‘masters basketball’, but you will find the term maxibasketball more commonly used at international events. It’s divided into competition categories which rise in five-year increments, 30+, 35+, 40+, and so on. GB maxibasketball is a world championship medalwinning programme supported by every national basketball governing body in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. It caters for high-level male and female players aged 35 and up. The GB maxibasketball programme is strategically recognised as part of the England Talent Pathway for junior to senior level players to achieve GB international honours. The ambition is to provide players with a highquality platform to continue playing basketball and competing at performance level through regular training and international events. We’re currently preparing for the European Championships in Malaga, Spain. When does the European Championship take place? The FIMBA European Championship will start on 24 June. How did you qualify? Players are generally recruited as former national league, ex-international, and ex-professional players. There is a rigorous selection process where players from across the home nations are put through their paces by elite coaches, who then base their selection on the performance levels required to potentially medal at the championships. Do you play for a club team? I currently coach and play for a London-based team
called the London All-Stars. We just finished number one in the London Metropolitan Basketball League, whose focus is engaging and empowering women and girls into basketball and building an environment that supports the development of women in sport. How does it feel to be representing Great Britain at an international sports tournament? It feels amazing that I get this opportunity to represent GB at my age. I have played and coached basketball at a high level for many years and have been afforded so many positive opportunities through my love of sport. This is something that I can tick off my bucket list and add to the positive experience I have in my memory bank. To now play with players I have played against over the years is truly inspiring. Especially seeing that we can still get up and down the floor and perform at a good and competitive level is a blessing. It’s also empowering to the young girls I coach. For them to see me and other players still doing what they are just starting to do shows them the opportunities available to them if they continue to work hard. I think the tournament will be super challenging. The teams at this European Championship will be talented. They’re joining from Spain, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Latvia; all countries with a strong history of basketball talent, so we’ll have our work cut out for us. I hope all the training we’ve undertaken over the months will put us in the best position to come back with a medal – fingers crossed!
Good luck Lisa and the team!
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
Health, Social Care and Childcare Fair showcases wealth of opportunities
College bake sale raises money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity the-art equipment and groundbreaking research, to creating the very best patient environments, we will never stop looking for ways to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
Coulsdon students held a bake sale to raise money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. We hosted the Health, Social Care and Childcare Fair on 26 May with talks on progressing to University, Apprenticeship opportunities, and the blood, organ and stem register. Legacy Youth Zone, Croydon’s premium hang-out spot for young people, was also in attendance, showcasing potential opportunities, while our Student Wellbeing Lead Gemma Sparks delivered an interactive employability skills presentation. Attendees could also benefit from a free health check, looking at blood pressure, BMI, and lung capacity, and there were 15-minute treatments on offer, including Indian head massage. The event included a mini session on how to communicate in Makaton, the unique language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to enable people to communicate. For those interested in childcare, there was a practical task on how to top and tail a baby and properly change a nappy, and Busy Bees recruitment agency was also on hand to discuss jobs in childcare. Cynthia, one of our student representatives, said: “I love working with kids and helping them to develop their future. “I’ve started working in a nursery to develop my passion for childcare, having gained my qualifications.”
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The team managed to raise more than £500 to support the charity’s life-saving work.
“It is thanks to extraordinary people, such as yourselves, that we can continue to invest in the latest innovations and improve the outcomes for patients here and around the world.” More information about the incredible work done by The Royal Marsden can be found at www.royalmarsden.org
We even received a thank-you letter from The Royal Marsden. The letter thanked students and added: “Your donation will help us ensure our nurses, doctors and research teams can provide the very best care and develop life saving treatments, which are used across the UK and around the world. From funding state-of-
Former footballer gives presentation to support students’ resilience Former professional footballer and community pioneer Paul Canoville has given a presentation to College students to promote resilience. Paul, who was Chelsea’s first black football player, spoke to students, many of who are refugees, as part of Croydon charity Communities First’s Community Wellbeing Service. Paul, who founded the Paul Canoville Foundation in 2015, works with schools, colleges and youth organisations to promote confidence, wellbeing, diversity and resilience through workshops and sporting activities.
He spoke to students about “motivating resilience” with an inspiring talk, and encouraged those getting picked on and racially abused because of their background, to report it anonymously through Fearless, which is a safe place to give information on crimes completely anonymously. Paul said: “I think it went really well. I was relaxed, the students were relaxed. “We’re here to support and assist these young people – I’m looking forward to doing more and hopefully it’s something we can do again next year.”
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CROYDON Education Matters
Partnership working brings Children’s Nursing degree to Croydon We have expanded our strategic partnership with the University of Roehampton by launching an undergraduate degree in Children’s Nursing at Croydon University Centre. The announcement builds on the introduction of Adult Nursing last year, and enrolled students will be taught in the £1million Clinical Simulation Centre and - upon graduating - will help support the healthcare needs of children and their families across south London and beyond. The new course, which is open for study from September, has a distinctive focus on community and primary care nursing, which will provide new graduates with the ability to work in a huge range of healthcare settings across the NHS and beyond, from community nursing teams, to hospitals and GP surgeries. The course will be delivered in partnership with the University of Roehampton. Fadia Clark, our Vice Principal Training Skills & Higher Education said: “I’m delighted to be working with colleagues to bring Children’s Nursing education to Croydon. Our borough has a diverse range of health care needs, and this course will help us continue to fulfil our mission of educating individuals equipped to address those needs.” Paul Newcombe, Director of Nurse Education at the University of Roehampton said: “This course, with its unique focus, will equip a new generation of healthcare
“This is an exciting development for Croydon residents, and I’m thrilled that we’ll be able to deliver this course for local people in a local setting – where they can learn the skills to help local children.” professionals to support the physical and mental health needs of children and their families. Graduates from this programme will help address the workforce needs of local healthcare providers.”
FIND OUT MORE To find out more information on the new BSc Children’s Nursing course scan the QR code.
WELCOMING EPSOM & ST HELIER This term we have welcomed Epsom & St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust to Croydon University Centre. A team from the NHS Trust has taken occupancy of their own bespoke education and skills training facility to support training, further cementing the continued innovative collaboration between us, the University of Roehampton’s Nurse Education team and the Trust. Close collaboration between the three ensures local people will continue to have the opportunity to train locally.
Miemie Neethling-Taylor, our Head of Higher Education, said: “We are delighted to welcome the team from Epsom and St Helier to our campus. It shows the potential true Further Education and Higher Education partnerships can achieve and the power of shared goals. Our students are so privileged to have such a fantastic opportunity on their doorstep.” Jo Rixon, our Head of Nursing, said: “This is such a positive approach to partnership working and aspiring students on a journey from their Access course to Pre-registration
Nursing and then on to postqualifying study, all available in one place.”
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022 in partnership with
HEALTH EDUCATION ENGLAND VISIT UNIVERSITY CENTRE’S STATE-OF-THE-ART NURSING SUITE
Croydon Futures propels local development & opportunities
Croydon Futures, a careers and education fair, came to Croydon University Centre on 23 March. The Chair of Health Education England (HEE), Sir David Behan, visited Croydon University Centre’s state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Centre to find out more about the Adult Nursing degree on offer and from some of those who study on the new course. Sir David was joined by one of HEE’s Non-Executive Directors, Professor Soraya Dhillon, watching the students demonstrate the care they would provide in real-life scenarios. Of the 46 students in the first cohort of the degree, nearly half of them are from Croydon. The course, run in partnership with the University of Roehampton, means local students can remain in the borough to study this course and excel in this career option. Students use a combination of the Clinical Simulation Centre and placements in NHS Trusts to gain
experience. The £1million nursing suite, located within our campus in the heart of Croydon town centre, allows students to practice a number of clinical situations including taking a patient’s blood pressure, practising drawing blood, and much more. Sir David and Professor Dhillon spoke to students about their journeys into nursing and experiences on the course so far. Many students had a busy home life to contend with alongside their studies and coursework, some had completed previous degrees, and some had worked in care roles before moving into nursing – but there was one constant throughout - they all had a passion for helping others. One student, Anndel, told the pair: “I didn’t choose nursing, nursing chose me.”
PITCHING IN 60 SECONDS
First year Business &
Management students have been supported by Natwest to explore the differences between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset, pitching business ideas in 60 seconds. The workshop helped students with their Entrepreneurship assessments.
The event was the first in a series of employability events piloted by the BIG (Business, Innovation & Growth) South London Partnerships’ employability group headed up by the University of Roehampton. More than 200 visitors attended the College to explore both work and educational opportunities. We were joined by employers from the construction, business, and healthcare sector, including Mott MacDonald, Constructing London, The Princes Trust, ASK Apprenticeships, the Met Police, and Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, among others. Miemie Neethling-Taylor, our Head of Higher Education, said: “We’re proud to host this pilot employability fair as the first of the Careers Future projects aimed at people within the borough. “Through the BIG South London Partnership, we’ve been able to collaborate with like-minded universities, colleges, and employers to help people get into work or develop their skills.” BIG South London is a programme of support that combines worldclass knowledge, expertise and the facilities of London-based universities and colleges to support the economic recovery of South London businesses and communities.
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DISCUSSION & DEBATE AT SOCIETY EVENT Our Business and Management students and staff enjoyed a great evening with The Edmund Burke Society on Friday 27 May at the grand surroundings of The Oriental Club in central London. The Edmund Burke Society explores and discusses a new vision of society immersed in philosophy, political theory, and sociology. Staff and students were invited by Ian Alston from the Society. Distinguished criminal barrister and writer on the subject of prisons and the legal system, Harry Potter, spoke at the event, which included a discussion proposing Alexander Paterson as one of he greatest penal system reformers.
Collaborating with the Independent Office for Police Conduct We hosted the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for an interactive workshop day. The event welcomed introductory speeches from Fadia Clarke, our Vice Principal Training Skills & Higher Education, and Graham Beesley, IOPC Regional Director, after which case studies and informative talks were delivered to Undergraduate and Access to HE Criminology students. Students worked with a member of the local IOPC to address public concerns in the police complaints system, diversity within the IOPC, and other topical issues. One of the IOPC’s main objectives for this programme is to increase the profile within the community and this engagement day provided a platform for this. It also presented an opportunity for students to find out about careers and the different roles within the IOPC, such as the Aspiring Professionals Programme. Althea Jones, Social Sciences Lecturer, who helped organise
the event, said: “The engagement day was certainly very thoughtprovoking and it was good to see students applying the theory they’ve learnt to real life scenarios. We welcome the close collaboration within the local community.” Miemie Neethling-Taylor, our Head of Higher Education, said: “I was really pleased to see this event come to life. We’ve been planning a collaboration with the IOPC for more than two years and to finally welcome Amanda Spencer and the team from the Croydon IOPC offices to work with our students was just amazing.”
DEBATE DAY TACKLES BIG TOPICS
Members of our Business Society took part in a debate day, taking in important issues within the sector. The Business and Management students used their learning from Management Organisations Behaviour, Contemporary Issues in Management, and People Management modules to discuss management approaches. The debates looked at Carillion and its downfall, asking whether greed was the main factor contributing to it, whether Artificial Intelligence was affecting recruitment in HR, and whether the theory of Taylorism is still alive. Results from the debates were shown through Q&A polling app Slido.
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
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COLLEGE ALUMNI Even after leaving education, we love to stay in touch with our former students who remain a key part of our community. Theatre costume designer Celia won the award for Best Costume Design at the UK Pantomime Association Awards, where she was also nominated for Best Set Design. Celia was awarded for her work on the stage production of Aladdin. Celia trained in Theatre Design at Croydon College and has designed more than 30 productions for Manchester’s Oldham Coliseum, ranging from pantomimes to musicals, plays and comedies, and more. The UK Pantomime Association
CELIA PERKINS celebrates panto by reflecting on its past, adopting contemporary practice, and inspiring the future. A total of 27 awards were presented at the ceremony hosted by Christopher Biggins.
CLLR ALISA FLEMMING CROYDON CIVIC MAYOR Congratulations to former Coulsdon and Croydon student Councillor Alisa Flemming, who has been named Croydon’s Civic Mayor for 2022-23.
Photo taken by Brad Merrett bradmerrett.com, @brad_merrett
NEW FACES It’s not just students we’re welcoming here regularly at the Croydon College Group; we’re also being introduced to new staff all the time. Find out about two of our new faces below:
JOSEPHINE MANTEY - Student Experience Officer, Croydon College Josephine joined us in March of this year. Passionate about working with young people, she has previously volunteered in youth groups leading into her first job in education – combining her passion and interest for planning events into one. Josephine said: “I have met great students who have a wealth of Ideas for clubs
for the enrichment programme and I look forward to developing these ideas with them further.” Josephine enjoys working with external agencies, including open mic ventures and art galleries, so students – after working on projects internally – can get an idea of what is available outside of the College. “I want the students to enjoy rich experiences during their time here. I want to branch out and give them something extra so they don’t just come into the building for class and immediately leave.”
MITCH NELSON - Sport Student Experience Officer, Croydon College A former professional footballer at clubs including AFC Bournemouth and Colchester United, Mitch joined us in April, with a desire to support young students and be a positive role model to them. While playing professionally Mitch studied Personal Training and Sports Therapy. When he moved into nonleague football he studied Engineering at PROCAT
(Prospect College of Advanced Technology), before working for Transport for London as an electrical engineer on the London Underground for more than eight years. Mitch said: “I worked in schools previously throughout my football career and I wanted to get back to working with students. I found it tough at school myself and I want to share my experience to support students and be a positive role model. “I have started a fitness club with good uptake and I look forward to promoting mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing through sport.”
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CROYDON Education Matters
WORLD OF WORK College Wins Funding for
Croydon College – based in the heart of one of the top 10 tech destinations in the UK – will be working with 17 of the borough’s employers to ensure residents can obtain the digital skills needed to excel in their careers. The Greater London Authority (GLA) has granted funding to Croydon College to lead the Croydon Digital Skills Hub with John Ruskin College, which will support learners to gain access to tech training, apprenticeships, work placements, job opportunities and increase digital inclusion, while also supporting employers in the digital sector to understand how to break down barriers and increase inclusivity. At the College we are covering four subject areas, all of which are free for learners who currently don’t hold a Level 3 or higher qualification: •
BCS Level 3 Certificate in IT User Skills (ECDL Advanced) (ITQ)
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NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Cyber Security Practices
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NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Coding Practices
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Gateway Level 3 Certificate in
Systems Infrastructure Croydon College will also provide access to its careers coach service, while John Ruskin College has received funding to deliver two Digital Skills Hub courses – Nonregulated Level 2 ICT and a Certificate in IT User skills ECDL (ITQ). For employers referring an existing member of staff, an obligation to co-fund the training with a 30% contribution is required. Fadia Clarke, our Vice Principal Training Skills & Higher Education: “We are delighted to have been successful in receiving GLA funding to deliver the Croydon Digital Skills Hub, which will make local residents’ gain much-needed skills to improve their employability and confidence. “As Croydon continues to excel as a tech destination, the Digital Skills Hub will play a key role in ensuring the borough remains there, boosting outcomes for learners and employers. “The Digital Skills Hub will also empower employers to upskill their
employees, enabling businesses to diversify their offerings and bring in new revenue streams. “We can’t wait to get started in playing an even greater role in supporting our borough’s residents and employers.” Kam Dehal, Executive Director, Commercial & Partnerships, Orbital South College Group, said: “John Ruskin College is proud to be part of this really important collaboration in delivering the digital skills that are needed to serve our businesses and communities. The world of tech is fast paced, vibrant and broad in its offer, and impacts every aspect of our lives. The Digital Skills Hub will allow us to help deliver the skills that are needed today and into the future, impacting Croydon and its surrounding areas.”
FIND OUT MORE To find out more information on the Croydon Digital Skills Hub at Croydon College, and to apply, scan the QR code.
Virtual Work Experience Conference inspires positive thinking Cloudreason hosted a Virtual Work Experience Conference for Business, IT and Travel alongside the College, putting the spotlight on career pathways and how the smallest positive actions can make the biggest impact.
out with the attendees that I’d be as honest as possible during my sessions about my career challenges, the work it’s taken me to get here, my own mental health journey, and what it means to work in the world today.
Namuli Katumba, Strategic Account Director at Cloudreason, spoke candidly about her career journey and gave students plenty to think about.
“I’m so glad to have helped the students understand more about the world of work and navigating their futures. I hope they realise how much they also help me to have hope for the future.”
Namuli said: “I’ve always set
Cloudreason are independent advisors, supporting managed service businesses and cloud infrastructure providers for more than 20 years.
SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2022
CONSTRUCTING AND ENGINEERING THE FUTURE Eight local employers joined us, students and local residents for a Construction and Engineering Jobs Fair. Employers including Mullaley, Lendlease, Axis Europe, IRS, Michael J Lonsdale and L&Q attended the Fair, which took place on 7 June. L&Q reported they had an excellent response from attendees who they hoped would be able to start roles in bricklaying and as painter decorators, while IRS praised the well-organised and attended event, offering interviews for their Summer Internship position and a permanent role in the office. Michael J Lonsdale were impressed by all students but singled out one attendee who they said was one of the best management candidates they had seen in a long time. Attendees were equally positive in their feedback, highlighting the wide range of employers on hand, the excellent advice they were given to further their careers, and the friendly and open welcome they received from college staff.
APPRENTICESHIP ASSESSOR – JUBIN MOTAMED Our Apprenticeship Assessors support and ensure our Apprentices are meeting the standards required to succeed. We caught up with Assessor Jubin Motamed to find out more about the role. For more information on Apprenticeships, scan the QR code. Tell me a bit about you? I am a Chartered Construction Manager (MCIOB), Corporate Member of Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) since 2011. I was awarded a PhD in Structural Engineering from University of Westminster in May 2010. Please provide an overview of your industry experience so far? I have 40 years of experience in construction and worked my way up from Labourer (Chainman) to Project Manager, Company Director, Senior Resident Engineer, Site Manager, Setting Out Engineer and Construction Management Consultant. Why did you become an assessor for apprenticeships? After gaining my PhD I was offered a job as Senior Research Fellow at the University of Greenwich. During my employment, I taught Construction Management to university students. I enjoyed teaching and assessing students. In the past 12 years I have been mainly
employed to teach Construction Management at Higher and Further Education levels. What do you want to achieve or implement within your role? In the past two years of my employment at Croydon College we have developed the HNC Construction and Built Environment course. We now have 26 Apprentices, the majority of whom are employed in successful organisations. What are the highlights you think employers seek from students you provide through your apprenticeship training? Employers would like to see their Apprentice employees learn about improved quality of construction work, better technical understanding and improved awareness of money and time. What is your day to day like as an assessor for apprenticeships? I enjoy it very much because my students are aged between 20 and 50 with responsible roles in industry. They challenge my teaching and it is satisfying for me to meet their challenges. What is the best piece of advice you have been given so far? Never accept a student may be incapable of achieving their academic goal.
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CROYDON Education Matters
NEWS & VIEWS A Royal Relationship: Croydon College & the Queen
Students support Croydon charity at Queen’s Jubilee lunch Students from Croydon College’s Catering and Public Services courses played a key role at an event celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and recognising the borough’s Armed Forces veterans. The students helped serve guests at Braithwaite Hall a three-course lunch at an event arranged by leading charity Croydon Commitment. The students helping were Dilon Fletcher, Kavish Boodhram, Taylor Neil, Malcom Cross, Kieran Wickendon and Dianna Richards. Speakers included Jason Perry, Croydon’s first directly elected Mayor, Colonel Ray Wilkinson QVRM TD DL VR, Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Croydon
and Croydon Central MP Sarah Jones. Lecturer Neil Ming said: “This was a great opportunity for our students to understand what’s needed to work in a front of house role and support a great local charity in the process. I’m delighted we were able to help and I hope both the students and veterans, who also got the chance to talk to each other throughout the afternoon, enjoyed their afternoon.” Melinda Ashford, Partnerships and Programme Manager at Croydon Commitment said: “We are delighted to have found so many veterans to join us for a memorable day of sharing memories. We’d particularly like to thank the students from the college who worked hard and received a big round of applause from our guests.
In the run up to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, we reflected on our royal relationship with the Queen, spanning more than six decades. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, formally opened Croydon College on 2 November 1960. Her Majesty declared the College officially open at Denning Hall, which is now our ground floor arts space, before enjoying a tour of the catering facilities on the third floor – now our IT department – the refectory and the fashion department, and meeting with YMCA representatives.
In 2014, Croydon College received the Queen’s Award for Volunteering, celebrating our services to the community.
Public Services students plant olive tree Our Public Services students planted an olive tree outside Croydon College in honour of the Queen’s 96th birthday and Platinum Jubilee. The new addition of the olive tree symbolises peace and friendship. It’s also good for the environment and brings a little more greenery to the heart of Croydon.
And in 2015 our very own Di Layzelle went to Windsor to collect her MBE.
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CROYDON COLLEGE HONOURED AT SOUTH LONDON BEST LEARNER & TEACHER AWARDS We celebrated winners from Croydon and Coulsdon at the South London Best Learner and Teacher Awards at the House of Lords, Westminster. Read about our winners below.
STUDENT WINNER: ROSA DUAN
STAFF WINNER: CLAIRE PLATT
STUDENT WINNER: JULIUS LEWIS
Rosa is an incredibly talented, creative, mathematical, resilient individual who deserves special recognition for everything she has achieved at Coulsdon Sixth Form College.
Claire Platt is an exceptional Fashion and Textiles teacher. Hard working and reliable, she provides invaluable support to the whole Faculty, and is an incredible role model.
After being inspired by his Grandmother to learn a trade, Julius Lewis started a Bricklaying Apprenticeship at Croydon College in 2017.
Having moved to the UK from China during her secondary school education, she achieved extremely well through hard work and determination. Rosa has grown from a shy and quiet learner to a very confident one who inspires and supports others, setting a very positive example.
The support Claire offered her students throughout lockdown was invaluable; understanding and supporting their needs throughout this difficult period. The growth in Rosa (see left) over the last two years is wonderful to see and Claire’s support has very much contributed to this.
He successfully completed this and then returned to College two years later to study Construction Contracting Operations at Level 3. Initially, Julius doubted his ability, but he worked hard and passed the course with distinction. Julius continues to visit the College and offers inspirational talks to other students about his journey to becoming a Site Manager.
STAFF WINNER: ANTONY LAWRANCE Antony began his career as an Apprentice Carpenter more than four decades ago. He attended College himself and gained his Advanced Craft Certificate from City & Guilds. Since then, he’s worked as a Carpenter, Site Manager and a Project Manager. He gained an Assessor Award in 2016 and luckily for us, joined us as a Construction Assessor. Antony enjoys passing on the vast experience and knowledge he has built up through his career and watching students like Julius develop into skilled tradespeople.
Find us at Croydon Food & Music Festival We will be represented at this year’s Croydon Food & Music Festival on Sunday 26 June. The Festival returns for the first time since the pandemic, bringing quality cuisine and cocktails to Croydon. There will also be live entertainment from local artists and musicians.
Visitors can find us at the Festival and explore the opportunities Distance Learning, Further and Higher Education have to offer. We’ll be showcasing what makes us a great choice to study and thrive. This year’s Festival promises to be a big one with thousands of
visitors flocking to the area. Don’t be a stranger; come over, say hi and discover how to take your career to the next level. More information on the festival can be found at: www.croydonfoodfestival.co.uk
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CROYDON Education Matters
COULSDON SIXTH FORM COLLEGE FTF ACADEMY CROWNED REGIONAL CHAMPIONS Full Time Football UK Academy’s (FTF) Under 19 team, in partnership with Coulsdon Sixth Form College and Croydon College, have been crowned regional champions! FTF also held their awards ceremony at the beginning of May. Please join us in congratulating our very worthy winners (left to right): • Ousainou Bah – Academy Player of the Year • Nigel Nizer – Academy Coaches Player of the Year • Jake Brennan – Academy Most Consistent Player of the Year • Mouctar Diallo – Most Improved Academy Player of the Year FTF Academy aims to develop and improve individual technicality, skill, and mentality to create top class footballers, offering routes to degrees, scholarships, and professional football.
Coulsdon student named runner up in national competition A Couldson Sixth Form College photography student has been named a runner up in a national photography competition. Leigh-Marie Munday’s image Still Life was runner up in the 2022’s FE Nationwide Student Competition Your Things category. The competition, now in its second year, is run by London Met University Photography Department and is entered by many colleges and schools across the country. Yevish Bucktawar and Venni Mckenzie-Knight were two of four Coulsdon students’ submissions that were highly commended. Neal Vaughan, Course Leader, Visual Arts A Level, Coulsdon Sixth Form College, said: “Great news once again for our amazing photography department, and thanks to Claire Platt and Roz Inett for the group effort in teaching and supporting the students.”
Teaming up with Hammerson to create art trail Our Creative Arts Faculty at Coulsdon teamed up with Whitgift and Centrale Shopping Centre owners Hammerson plc to present ideas for the Croydon Music City Arts Trail. Ten groups of eight students from across the Faculty worked hard together to produce proposals for music, performance and art installations to celebrate the life of famous Croydon musicians. The clients were incredibly impressed by the innovative ideas, the standard of the work and the professionalism of the pitches, especially as they were produced in just a few days. The two winning teams were awarded £160 of vouchers. The experience taught students a wide range of transferable skills including teamwork, planning and liaising with clients.
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Performing ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ Our Upper Sixth Performing Arts students performed ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ over two nights. With a full house for both performances, the students showcase some excellent acting, singing and dancing skills. Head of Faculty Fiona Brennan said it was the best performance and collaboration she had seen in many years, and congratulated all involved.
AFTERNOON TEA TRIP
DofE Practice
Hospitality students have visited the Hilton Hotel Croydon (Purley Way) to help reinforce learning for their Lower Certificate.
Seven Coulsdon students have taken part in practice days ahead of their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award later in June.
The students were given a tour around the hotel and given a demonstration on napkin folding, before being served Afternoon Tea. The students used everything they’d learned on the trip to serve an Afternoon Tea to staff as part of the their practical assessment for the Food and Drink Service Unit.
The students had to camp overnight and navigate between 10km and 15km on their own using a map and compass. Our Pathway Centre students also camped for a night and took in a 3.5km walk. Our Student Experience Officer, Jeremie Jean, said all students were “amazing” in carrying out the challenge. Students had to cook their meals, including dinner and breakfast the next day. Mr Jean added: “The students will have gained more life skills, for example putting up a tent, setting up sleeping mats and sleeping bag. “The students were all independent however they would know when to seek support when required.”
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CROYDON Education Matters
COULSDON SIXTH FORM COLLEGE
Cocktail Masterclass for Hospitality students Our Hospitality students headed to SiOn London in Dulwich for a cocktail masterclass, helping them in their Alcoholic Beverage Service unit. The students made cocktails and mocktails, demonstrating how to pour single and double measures, as well as the key components of cocktails. Gabriel Sion, Owner and Manager of SiOn London, gave the students insight into running a hospitality business, advice on careers paths and skills/ attributes needed to succeed in the Hospitality industry. Following the trip students were offered work experience and training opportunities.
END OF YEAR SHOW
Our Creative Arts students have presented their annual end of year show. The in-person show allowed students to showcase their art, graphics, textile and photography work, supported by live performances from Music and Performance Arts students. Head of Creative Arts, Fiona Brennan, said: “The show was an enormous success and an opportunity to celebrate the students’ achievements. “We wish them all great success as they move onto universities, art colleges and apprenticeships.”
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NEWS & VIEWS
Unlocked Croydon College End of Year Art Exhibition & Art School Taster Week Parfitt Gallery Croydon College College Road, CR9 1DX
A showcase of Croydon College students’ hard work throughout the COVID-19 lockdowns is taking place with a public exhibition. ‘Unlocked’ features the work of final year students, whose studies were disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. As well as acting as an art exhibition, the week-long public viewing in the Parfitt Gallery aims to inspire future students with schools being invited and encouraged to make a visit. For students, there are six workshops along with an interactive tour of the exhibition and art teaching areas.
INTRODUCING TAKE YOUR FU URE TO THE NEX LEVEL in the real world and foster We’re introducing T Levels Scan the QR codes to discover more confidence that can be applied to at Croydon College and skilled employment. Coulsdon Sixth Form College CROYDON COLLEGE our members. The College also supported me with Why did you choose from September 2022 to help weekly meetings to see how I was I was getting on We are currently investing in ENGINEERING AND an apprenticeship? students kick start their careers and were major refurbishment work toalso there for me to ask any questions. and acquire MANUFACTURING Because whilevaluable studying hands-on my A Levels I knew university ensure we have the best facilities experience. wasn’t going to be for me – so I startedavailable looking atto support Maintenance, What does the future holdInstallation for you at practical other options and Apprenticeships came up, and I and RepairFund? for Engineering learning and set students on their Protection Applicants can enrol for a T Level the Pension love the idea of earning while learning. career journey. and Manufacturing in Engineering and Manufacturing At the moment I don’t know, but one of the amazing at Croydon College, while things about the PPFTo is that move around What’s the PPF findyou outcan more students applying to Coulsdon to different parts of the organisation, whether that it scan the QR code experience like?can study Sixth Form College through a secondment or a full time role. The PPF experience has been amazing. The support Science (Laboratory Science). I get from my managers and also my tutors has been Students willquestions spend 80% of their great and any I have I know I can go to COULSDON SIXTH FORM COLLEGE chosen in the classroom them. Thecourse PPF have been so welcoming to me and SCIENCE with the remaining 20% spent made sure I had enough time every week to complete Laboratory Science on an industry placement with my College work. I have learnt so much about what an employer. The practical the PPF do and how we support our members, and I To find out more experience enables students to scan the QR code am able now to answer the calls we receive daily from put learned skills into practice
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CROYDON Education Matters
NEWS & VIEWS
LINO CUT CARDS
Level 1 Art and Design students continue to wow us! This time it’s with their lino cut card collections. They spent the day working on these designs, thinking about colours and creating beautiful, intricate designs for cards.
MATILDA THE MUSICAL Students in our art department went to see Matilda the Musical at Cambridge Theatre London.
Gaming tournament raising money for Croydon Drop In
Everyone had an incredible time and loved every second, with a fabulous set accompanied by even better music. Students were also lucky enough to meet and chat to one of the cast members after the show, giving everyone some inspiration ahead of their next show. Overall, it was a great trip, in spite of the English weather!
We’re sponsoring Croydon Awards The Croydon Business Excellence Awards celebrates the borough’s incredible business community, and this year, the awards are back live and in person. We’re sponsoring the Business Commitment to Education & Skills award category which applauds the businesses that have worked to support young people into
employment by collaborating with schools and education institutions to offer work experience opportunities and mentoring. More information can be found at www.croydonawards.co.uk
Students at our Croydon campus have taken part in a gaming tournament as part of Mental Health Awareness week, raising fund for Croydon Drop In. Croydon Drop In is a local charity, providing services such as outreach and Talkbus in school and community settings across the borough. The tournament was won by Hayden Adlam, and more than £25 was raised for the charity.
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GAME ON.
as Croydon College introduces Esports BTEC For more information on the Esports BTEC, and to apply, scan the QR codes below:
LEVEL 2
LEVEL 3
NEW MENTAL HEALTH AMBASSADORS Students from both Croydon and Coulsdon have been selected and given an introductory training to become Mental Health Ambassadors in their colleges. The aim is to increase awareness about the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and knowledge among students about support, the importance of early help and College campaigns and events. It is hoped having young people in these positions will help students access support at an earlier stage, through informal peer to peer contact, reduce the stigma about mental health difficulties, and keep young people’s views central to College policy and decisions about mental health. The ambassadors will be clearly identifiable, and present at key events throughout the College year. They will receive ongoing training and support from their College Student Services team and mental health professionals from the NHS Trailblazer project. The Coulsdon Mental Health Ambassadors are Kioni Meseorisa, Ellie-Mai Adams, Lauren Veitch, Georgia Lalande, Abdullahi Ibrahim and Samantha Brown, and the Croydon Mental Health Ambassadors include Saffie Gillen, Amanda Kelly and Zareena Motala.
Chefsready to serve the public Croydon College’s public-facing training restaurant, Chefs, has been hosting the public and catering for business events this term, giving students the opportunity to gain experience and serve the community. Chefs has hosted six events this term, seeing Croydon’s business community come together to network and allow College students to practice new menu ideas and add new recipes to their growing cookbooks. Open to the public, Chefs has a set menu served at lunch with two and three course options – available 12noon-2pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with Afternoon Tea served between 12noon and 2pm on Fridays. All dishes are prepared and served by students, under the supervision of fully qualified teaching staff. Groups large and small can be catered for, and all diners have to do is book in advance. Two courses are £10 and three courses are £15.
FIND OUT MORE For more information on Chefs, and to book, scan the QR code.
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CROYDON Education Matters
DIARY DATES 2022/23
*LATE ENROLMENT DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY BE EXTENDED DEPENDING ON ENROLMENT NUMBERS.
EVENT DATE Last Day of Term
Friday 1 July 2022
A Level Results Day
Thursday 18 August 2022
GCSE Results Day
Thursday 25 August 2022
Autumn Term
Monday 5 September – Friday 16 December 2022
Open Event
Thursday 6 October 2022
Autumn Half Term
Monday 24 October – Friday 28 October 2022
Open Event
Saturday 5 November 2022
Christmas Holidays
Monday 19 December 2022 – Monday 2 January 2023
Spring Term
Tuesday 3 January – Friday 31 March 2023
Spring Half Term
Monday 13 February – Friday 17 February 2023
Open Event
Thursday 23 March 2023
Easter Holidays
Monday 3 April – Friday 15 April 2023
Summer Term
Monday 17 April – Friday 30 June 2023
Bank Holiday
Monday 1 May 2023
Summer Half Term
Monday 29 May – Friday 2 June 2023
Open Event
Thursday 29 June 2023
Last Day of Term
Thursday 30 June 2022
A Level Results Day
Thursday 18 August 2022
GCSE Results Day
Thursday 25 August 2022
First Semester
Monday 12 September – Friday 13 January 2023
Study Week
Monday 24 October – Friday 28 October 2022
Open Day
Saturday 5 November 2022
Christmas Holidays
Friday 16 December 2022 – Monday 2 January 2023
Open Event
Wednesday 11 January 2023
Second Semester
Monday 23 January - Friday 26 May 2023
Study Week
Monday 13 February – Friday 17 February 2023
Open Event
Wednesday 8 March 2023
Open Event
Thursday 23 March 2023
Easter Holidays
Monday 3 April – Friday 15 April 2023
Bank Holiday
Monday 1 May 2023
Study Week
Monday 29 May – Friday 2 June 2023
Open Event
Thursday 29 June 2023
Last Day of Term
Friday 1 July 2022
A Level Results Day
Thursday 18 August 2022
GCSE Results Day
Thursday 25 August 2022
Autumn Term
Monday 5 September – Friday 16 December 2022
Open Event
Saturday 8 October 2022
Autumn Half Term
Monday 24 October – Friday 28 October 2022
Open Event
Thursday 17 November 2022
Christmas Holidays
Monday 19 December 2022 – Monday 2 January 2023
Spring Term
Tuesday 3 January – Friday 31 March 2023
Spring Half Term
Monday 13 February – Friday 17 February 2023
Open Event
Thursday 16 March 2023
Easter Holidays
Monday 3 April – Friday 15 April 2023
Summer Term
Monday 17 April – Friday 30 June 2023
Bank Holiday
Monday 1 May 2023
Summer Half Term
Monday 29 May – Friday 2 June 2023
