My College
Middlesbrough College Student and Parent Newsletter
Winter 2021
1
Hello & welcome …to our December 2021 newsletter!
We are excited to share with you all of our latest news, events and photos from this term including our latest campus developments! After a difficult 18 months, our students and staff have worked incredibly hard this term and we are very proud of their achievements.
We want to wish you a magical Christmas break, make sure you take time to unwind and spend quality time with loved ones. Merry Christmas from everyone at The Middlesbrough College Group and Happy New Year! We look forward to seeing you in 2022.
We are accepting applications for September 2022! Whatever your career ambitions, we will support you and help you to achieve it. Make sure you get your application in early to secure your place with us! Apply online today - mbro.ac.uk
2
Our £20m campus investments in 2021/22 It’s such an exciting time for career starters and climbers on Teesside!
Here at Middlesbrough College we’re investing in our industryleading campus – bringing a new Campus Heart, Digital Centre, Construction Skills Workshop and University Centre to students.
Big screen and juice bars coming soon!
MC Digital Centre
Our Digital Centre is due for completion soon, the new centre will host industry-leading programming suites, cyber labs, video editing suites, a games design suite and a full TV and film studio.
Campus Heart
University Centre
Our new University Centre Middlesbrough is now open! Head to page 6 to find out more.
Our brand new Construction Skills Centre is currently being built with the help of our own students! Budding brickies are helping to build pieces of the new centre under the watchful eye of professionals at Surgo Construction, giving them the skills and experience they need to succeed in the industry. We are thrilled that Surgo has given us the opportunity to give our students a unique chance, not only to build their skills, but also build part of their own College. Once complete the Centre will be used by tutors to teach students about tools, techniques and materials. Practical skills such as bricklaying, joinery, paving, roofing and plumbing are all delivered by tutors with extensive industry backgrounds.
Construction Skills Workshop
3
T Level news T Levels success Middlesbrough College is delivering cuttingedge T Level awards. These brand new 2-year qualifications have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that they meet the needs of industry and prepare students for the workplace. T Levels provide students with the skills, knowledge and experience that they need to open the door to highly skilled employment, higher-level study or an apprenticeship. Students spend 80% of their time in the classroom and 20% of their time in the workplace, putting the skills they have learnt into action. Every T Level student participates in an industry placement that lasts 45 days, helping them to gain valuable experience in the workplace and allowing employers to meet the new talent in their industry.
Can you support a student with a valuable industry work placement? Email placements@mbro.ac.uk to find out how you can support the talent of tomorrow.
Cameron Hawkes, a T Level Digital student has been working at Tascomp, an Industrial Automation Software & Systems company based in Billingham. Cameron has impressed his employer and has been offered a higher apprenticeship with the company.
Cameron 4
“My T Level has definitely opened doors for me and helped to kick-start my career.” Cameron Hawkes T Level – Digital Production Design & Development
A Level news
Results day 2021 We were delighted to celebrate our student’s achievements on A Level results day in August 2021. It was fantastic to be back to in person celebrations once again. We achieved a 99% overall A Level pass rate, record high grades! 83% of our vocational students achieved triple distinction grades- more than ever before! This is a real testament to our student’s hard work throughout these difficult few years and this continuing record of success is why we are among the top further education colleges in the country for A Level and vocational study.
Erikka
“The teachers here have been so supportive – if I’ve ever needed anything, they’ve always been there for me to ask.” “I can’t wait to start University and follow my dream. It’s going to be great meeting other people who love the subject as much as I do.” Erikka Parker – A Levels Erikka is now studying Engineering at York University.
5
Higher Education news A practical alternative to University, achieve your career ambitions with Middlesbrough College’s job-focused University courses.
New University Centre! Courses on offer: • Business Management • Computing • Construction and Civil Engineering • Education, Childcare, Youth and Community • Engineering • Games Design • Health, Wellbeing and Social Care • Hospitality and Culinary Arts • Media Makeup, Prosthetics and Hair • Music, Video & Audiovisual Technology • The Social and Public Sector • Sport and Fitness • Travel, Tourism and Aviation
Our brand new University Centre is open! The £3.1m expansion has created the ideal place to work and socialise with new cutting edge, state of the art, modern facilities including bespoke University level study areas, classrooms and tutorial zones.
New for September 2022! Style your way to a career in the hair, makeup, prosthetics and costume department for the performance industry with our BRAND NEW degree courses! • Fd Specialist Hair and Makeup Artistry for Creative Industries - Level 5
6
• BA (Hons) Specialist Hair and Makeup Artistry for Creative Industries (Top-up) - Level 6
Taking celebrations higher Huge congratulations to our students who graduated at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Tuesday 9th & Wednesday 10th November 2021. The last eighteen months have been challenging for everyone and we are so
proud of our students for their achievements during these difficult times. We were thrilled that we could celebrate face to face this year with our students and their families and that we could rightfully honour those students who should have
Benjamat
graduated with us last year – it was definitely worth the wait! We want to wish our graduates every success for the future. Many congratulations and best wishes!
Connor
“My time studying at Middlesbrough College has been amazing- I would 100% recommend studying here, it has changed my life! My tutors have been excellent and have supported me whenever I have needed help.”
“The College is well-organised and the courses have developed my skills for employment. I have learnt a lot on this course and I am putting the valuable skills I have learnt from my qualification into my role at work every day.”
Benjamat Race BA (Hons) Airport & Airline Passenger Management
Connor Gibson Higher National Certificate in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)
7
Access to Higher Education news If you have always wanted to go to University but thought that your goal was out of reach, think again. An Access to Higher Education Diploma is your stepping-stone to a degree if you don’t have the entry requirements. Studied part-time across one year, the course is perfect for you if you want to go further with your studies and to progress to University! We offer a range of different qualifications, so no matter what your future career ambitions are, we can help to get you there.
Our 1 year Level 3 Access to HE Diplomas are the perfect choice for adult learners, plus your course is FREE if you go on to complete a degree!
Julian Nwosu is now studying for a nursing degree at University.
8
Sophie Gilmour is now studying Dental Surgery at Liverpool University.
Hayley Little is now working as a Graduate Process Engineer at SABIC Corporate.
Kamran Falaki is now studying Computer Science at University.
Aiman
Iraqi refugee achieves his University dream, thanks to Middlesbrough College Aiman Aziz is one step closer to fulfilling his life-long goal of working in the health sector after completing an Access to Higher Education Diploma at Middlesbrough College. Despite having an aptitude for science and having already studied for his exams in Iraq, Aiman’s education records were destroyed during the conflict. However, Aiman was determined to study. Aiman said, “I came to the UK speaking very little English and I wanted to study. I knew that I wanted to build my life here and give back to everyone who had been so kind to me. It was then that I decided I wanted to work for the NHS.” After achieving GCSE’s in
English and maths in London, Aiman made the move up north to enrol onto the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Science at Middlesbrough College. He said: “I moved to Middlesbrough after connecting with members of the Iraqi community on Facebook. A friend recommended Middlesbrough College to me and I knew as soon as I came to visit the College that it was the place for me.
“My advice to anyone who wants to return to education or needs to because of situations that are out of their control is to go for it and ask for helpnothing is impossible!”
Our Access to Higher Education courses: Aviation and Tourism Built Environment Business Studies
“Middlesbrough College has been my friend. At a time when I was still processing some of the trauma I had been through in my past, the College gave me all the support I could need.
Computing
“I was delighted to achieve an overall distinction grade in my Access diploma and be accepted at the University of Sunderland to study for a degree in Pharmacy. As a child I knew I wanted to work in the medical field and I’m over the moon that this dream is finally becoming a reality.
Media & Film Production (Creative & Digital Industries)
Engineering
Games Development (Creative & Digital Industries) Health
Humanities & Social Sciences Law & Criminology
Music
Policing
Science
Sport Studies
9
Adult part-time news Free Digital Skills Courses for Adults Earlier this year the Government announced an exciting new programme of Digital Skills qualifications free to anyone over the age of 19. So if you have no skills or only basic digital skills*, our Essential Digital Skills programme is the perfect choice to help you enhance your digital knowledge! The courses are designed to help you thrive in an increasingly digital world, improving your confidence online and understanding of the latest technology!
Modules include: 1. Using devices and handling information 2. Creating and editing documents and digital media 3. Communicating 4. Transactions 5. Being safe and responsible online * Your skill level must be below Level 1 to access this programme.
Courses are 3 hours a week for 3 months with morning, afternoon and evening classes available.
Call course information on 01642 333333
Find out more about Essential Digital Skills at our Fresh Start Guidance Event Tuesday 18th January 11:00am – 2:00pm
Sherin 10
“I love studying at Middlesbrough College. I’ve loved meeting new people and making lots of new friends. The whole class is very supportive and everyone helps each other with their learning. The highlight of the course for me is going out to placement- it’s fantastic to be able to put all of the skills I’m learning in the classroom at College into the real work environment.” Sherin Thomas Early Years Practitioner - Level 2
Adult courses starting in the New Year! Take on 2022 with a part-time course from Middlesbrough College. We have a range of courses starting in January that will help you into employment.
Scan me to find your perfect course!
Online Distance Learning courses If you want to up skill in your own time and on your own terms, a FREE* online learning course with Middlesbrough College could be the answer! Our courses are designed to be studied in the comfort of your own home and are delivered through the internet with support from specialist staff. It’s an ideal way to learn flexibly! Find out more and apply online.
Abel “I chose this course at Middlesbrough College due to the ease of access and the flexibility it provided. I really enjoyed the whole process and it has greatly aided my own personal development.” Abel Neish Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health
11
Latest news from Northern Skills Group Apprenticeship Awards 2021 We were delighted to hold our annual Apprenticeship Awards at Rockcliffe Hall in October where we joined many of our apprentices and employers for a truly inspirational evening!
12
Apprenticeship vacancies available now • Business Apprentice Administrator • Medicine Counter Assistant Apprentice • Apprentice Dental Nurse • Accounts Apprentice • Trainee Maintenance and Installation Technician • Teaching Assistant • Learning and Development Administration Apprentice • Apprentice Welding/Fabricator • Finance Administration Apprentice • Digital Marketing Assistant • ICT Technician Apprentice • General Welder (Arc Process) Apprentice
• Hospitality Team Member Apprentice • Sales Administrator • Crane and Lifting Department Apprentice Office Administrator • Apprentice Chef • HR Administrator • Apprentice Hairdresser • Property Maintenance Apprentice • Software Developer • Carpentry and Joinery Apprentice • Science Manufacturing Process Operative
Visit northernskills.co.uk for our full list of apprenticeships and to apply
“I’ve picked up so much while working here, as well as gaining my qualification I have learnt how to organise and manage multiple tasks, communicate effectively and work as part of a busy team. Learning while being in the workplace has really boosted my confidence.” Hannah Cooke Level 4 Professional Accounting (AAT) apprentice working at Svitzer
Hannah
13
Latest news from TTE TTE is the UK’s leading provider of technical training to the oil & gas, process, manufacturing and engineering sectors. The technical training provider specialises in the design, build, operation and management of new training centres around the World; consultancy services; technical study programmes and bespoke & scheduled accredited courses. Part of Middlesbrough College Group, TTE also delivers expert apprenticeship training across a range of specialised engineering disciplines such as: • Mechanical • Electrical
• Instrumentation • Process
• Wind energy
• Laboratory programmes
TTE Open Events Interested in studying with the North East’s leading technical training provider for the engineering industry? Now is the time to start thinking about your future, so we’re delighted to invite you to come along to our TTE Open Event.
14
“TTE had – and still has – a great reputation thanks to its impressive facilities and expert tutors. I knew if I was going to study engineering and have a successful career, I had to learn from the best – people who’ve been in the field for years and can share their specialist knowledge.” Daniel Thompson Former TTE apprentice
Thursday 13th January 4:00pm - 6:00pm Tuesday 8th February 4:00pm - 6:00pm Wednesday 23rd March 4:00pm - 6:00pm Thursday 12th May 4:00pm - 6:00pm Tuesday 7th June 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Daniel
Teesworks Skills Academy Partner TTE, part of the Middlesbrough College Group are partnering with Teesworks Skills Academy to provide people of the Tees Valley area with the necessary training to become a part of Teesworks world-class workforce. Teesworks is a multi-sector environment and is home to diverse, sustainable and low-carbon activity in the North East. Partnering with investors, employment hubs, jobseekers, apprentices, training providers and more, Teesworks are doing their part to develop the surrounding community and we could not wait to get involved. The exciting Teesworks development, formerly known as the South Tees Development Corporation site, is the UK’s largest industrial zone which aims to create thousands of high-quality jobs centred around advanced manufacturing, innovation and clean growth. It is our aim to provide the right skills that align with the needs of business of Teesworks.
TTE is delivering a range of industry-focused programmes including: • 18th Edition
• Abrasive Wheels
• Confined Spaces
• Mechanical for Non Mechanical • NEBOSH Level 3 and Level 6 • PAT Testing
New for January 2022 Health & Safety Skills Boot Camps! Our two new boot camps are perfect for those working in Construction Supervisory Management and Construction Plant Handling. Find out more online.
“I completed the Medium Risk Confined Spaces course through my employer and Teesworks Skills Academy. The training at Middlesbrough College Group was great, and has prepared me for working in the ducts at the Teesworks site.” Anthony Bradshaw Former TTE apprentice
Anthony
15
College life Thank you to everyone who took part in our events this term to help raise money for a whole range of different charities. We have had lots of fun filled with cake, line dancing, cowboy dress ups and of course the custard bath!
Cause Hampers
We put together lots of Christmas cause hampers for families in the Middlesbrough area filled with fabulous toys and delicious food.
#Hello Yellow - World Mental Health Day Jeans for Genes Wear it Pink
In October, you all put on your best pink outfits and raised an amazing £75.26 for the charity Breast Cancer Now.
We turned the college into the wild west with our western themed Jeans for Genes Day. Amongst all of the denim and the line dancing we raised money to help support individuals and families affected by genetic disorders.
For World Mental Health Day, you voted between John Chance and Gary Cumiskey as to who had to get in a custard bath and in the process raised funds for YoungMinds, the UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people’s mental health.
The Middlesbrough College annual pantomime is back, oh yes it is! Last year theatres across the globe were closed to the Coronavirus pandemic, which meant that the nation’s favourite festive theatrical activities were put on hold. However, this year the Middlesbrough College pantomime was back on stage and was bigger and funnier than ever!
16
Performing Arts and Production Arts students at Middlesbrough College dazzled audiences with their performance of Dick Whittington with more laughter than ever before. The show was full of all the pantomime classics and the whole company worked really hardwell done to all!
MC Extra
Expanded offer from January 2022
We are keen to provide you with the opportunity to develop your talents and interests, to discover new hobbies, try new things, develop new skills and meet new people.
For students wanting a little extra something to sit alongside their studies, we offer MC Extra Enrichment. MC Extra is an enrichment programme, which provides our students with additional and alternative activities, with everything from horse riding, to sewing! Delivered by the MC Extra and Student Union team, we listen to our student body to host requested extra-curricular across college and within the Teesside community to make life at Middlesbrough College even more enjoyable! Existing students can find out more on the MyMbro app.
Why not try one of our enrichment activities? We offer over 90 different sessions for students to choose from so there really is something for everyone!
Students see careers take off at Teesside Airport Ten Middlesbrough College students have seen their careers begin to take off after securing roles with teams working across almost every part of Teesside International Airport.
The young people have all been studying Airport and Airline Management at
the college. This has given them the skills they need to take up posts in security, check-in, passenger and information services, the new Goosepool Bar and, soon, the new duty free store created as part of the airport’s multi-million pound transformation. The jobs are just another way Teesside Airport and its partners are supporting local people into employment, as well as working with
learning providers such as Middlesbrough College to take advantage of the vital expertise and knowledge they are giving to their students.
17
We were proud to launch MC Click this year! MC Click is a free student loan device scheme that is currently available all 16-19 year old students on a Level 2 or Level 3 study programme and all first year Higher Education students on a Level 4 programme. We are delighted that from September 2022, all school leavers, Access to HE and HE students will benefit from the MC Click scheme! Find out more about MC Click on our website!
“It’s a brilliant scheme and I’m so appreciative that I have a device for my College work. It’s useful and very easy to use.”
18
We support our students Middlesbrough College is an inclusive College for everyone and we offer additional learning support to students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties.
We offer a range of support services and have a team of experienced and trained staff who work closely with you to ensure that you are provided with an individual support package.
Young carers thrive at Middlesbrough College! We received national recognition for the support we give to students who are young carers. The Carers Trust and The Children’s Society singled out the College for the way it helps young carers who have to juggle studying and looking after a loved one. In recognition, we were awarded a prestigious Young Carers in School Award. Danica Wheater who studied Level 3 Health and Social Care said: “It’s hard to balance being a carer with studying and going to work. But, the tutors at Middlesbrough College were really supportive, giving me extra time to complete assignments and being there to chat when I was finding it tough.”
Danica
“I received brilliant support from Middlesbrough College. My tutors were like second parent figures to me and I knew I could talk to them about anything.
Josh We are proud to have the Bullying Intervention Group (BIG) Award which recognises excellent anti-bullying practice.
“I was offered additional learning support throughout my time at College and I know the support is always available should I choose to take it. Middlesbrough College have helped me to see that a learning condition doesn’t stop you from achieving and that it’s okay to ask for help. I would 100% recommend coming to study at Middlesbrough College, thanks to their support I am now in a job that I love and I’m excited about my future career opportunities.” Josh Carr Level 3 Mechanical Engineering
19
Come Eventsand see us School Leaver Open Events
Take your ambition higher at our Open Events! At our events, you’ll be able to meet our friendly team, take a tour of our facilities, meet your tutors face to face and find out about our range of courses. You’ll also have the chance to speak with our careers and student services team who will be able to tell you all about our support packages available for students.
Sat 29th January 11:00am - 2:00pm
Wed 18th May 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Wed 16th March 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Thu 7th July 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Thu 28th April 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Get that apprenticeship event - Thursday 5th May 4:30pm - 7:30pm Come along to our apprenticeship open event to meet our specialist team, chat with local employers and find out what you can do to stand out from the crowd and secure your dream apprenticeship. We will also have a range of vacancies available, which you can apply for on the day.
20
Higher Education Open Events
At our Higher Education Open Events, you’ll be able to find out more about the University courses on offer here at Middlesbrough College and discover how you can achieve your career ambitions.
Thu 10th March 11:00am - 2:00pm
Wed 13th July 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Tue 10th May 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Access to Higher Education Information Events
Come along to one of our Access to Higher Education information events to find out more about our courses, meet tutors and explore our campus!
Sat 29th January 11:00am - 2:00pm
Sat 2nd April 10:00am - 12:00pm
Fresh Start Guidance Event Tuesday 18th January 11:00am - 2:00pm We understand that things don’t always work out at college or in an apprenticeship. We are offering a range of full-time vocational courses and preapprenticeships to help you get back into education and have a fresh start. Come along to our guidance event to find out about our courses starting in January, and how we can help you back into education or employment.