A festive winter greeting from Capital City College
CEO Angela Joyce reflects on a year of achievements, global partnerships, and student success as Capital City College closes for 2025 and looks ahead to 2026.
As this year draws to a close, I am impressed by all we have achieved this year.
We have had another year of strong performance. We have seen real progress across the group, with strong exam results, award-winning apprenticeships, and work experience and partnerships that are helping students from across London move forward.
As a college, we have done many extraordinary things across our campuses. Here are a few I want to share, which is by no means a comprehensive list. I encourage you to read our news stories to see more of the wonderful events and achievements that have taken place at CCC this year.
This year we also welcomed delegations of students and teachers from South Korea and Iceland, and some of our students travelled to South Korea and Hungary, proving that further education has global connections, and the world is ready for more international partnerships.
Students have excelled in maths competitions, have been recognised with Jack Petchey Awards, and our fashion students showed their creations at London Fashion Week and are launching a podcast where they interview industry experts. Our sports teams have shown major achievements.
The esports team won the British Esports Student Champs Nationals for the third year in a row, and our men’s basketball team won their fourth straight regional championship. A number of our student athletes won regional championship awards for netball and table tennis. These star teams and athletes will be joining their peers this spring to take part in the national competition. We wish them luck.
So this winter break, I encourage you all to share in the joy of the season and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Here’s to a warm end to 2025 and I’ll see you all in 2026.
Chris Morgan, Commercial Director at Capital City College
For Chris Morgan, a Commercial Director at Capital City College (CCC), businesses should do more than make money, they should help people succeed.
Writing for Business Age, Chris explains why investing in education creates real social value. Chris’s article reflects on how his life experiences taught him that real success means creating opportunities for others.
The article, ‘What gambling addiction taught me about building real value in business’, discusses the principles that shaped his approach to building companies with purpose, a move that brought him to working in further education. Chris’s article argues that true success comes from creating trust and working with communities, not just making a financial profit.
He said: “I’ve been working in FE for about two years now, and it’s around this time of year I ask myself, what does it look like to build something that actually helps someone? Where’s the social value in what I do?”
In the piece, Chris draws parallels between his personal challenges and the risks entrepreneurs face when chasing short-term gains.
His advice for corporate employers is to connect with colleges that emphasise learning and growth: “…what I learned as I sold my company and started working in further education (FE) is that here, your money really does matter, and it actually changes people’s lives for the better. And the best part: you can see it happen.”
For Chris, working in further education shows first-hand how corporate investment changes lives. His article shares examples of how business support benefits students and communities:
“Here’s the practical bit business leaders often overlook: when you work with an FE college, your money doesn’t disappear into dividends or shareholder payouts. It goes straight back into our sports kit for our men’s and women’s netball, football, basketball, track and field, and tennis teams.
When you hire our podcasting suite or green room, you’re helping keep the lights on. You’re helping us provide education in the latest makeup techniques for young people who want to kickstart a career in film. You’re funding bursaries, opportunities and work placements. The glue that gives these Londoners a chance.”
Lauren navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, a transition to online learning, maternity leave and exam failure in the course of her studies. She displayed both resilience and determination as she made her way through the course, emerging with a Distinction.
How long did your apprenticeship take?
Initially, I began my Commercial Procurement and Supply – Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in 2019. Then COVID happened and in 2020 I found out that I was expecting a baby. I took a break from learning and went on maternity leave for a year. When I returned, I had to start from scratch because of the two-year gap in my learning, but I jumped back onto the course in January 2022 and passed in December 2024.
I joined Facilities Management seven years ago as an event assistant and progressed into the commercial team within facilities management working on supplying soft service contracts such as cleaning and security for the council. I was given the opportunity to step into the role of Assistant Commercial Manager in 2019 just as I started the apprenticeship Commercial Procurement and Supply – Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
Why did you choose Apprenticeships+?
I chose the course with our Apprenticeship Levy team, which uses Apprenticeships+ as one of our approved training providers. I’d actually completed my first two apprenticeships with our internal apprenticeship department, but that no longer exists. We now have the Apprenticeship Levy, which offers council staff the opportunity to sign up for different apprenticeships. The good thing about these courses is that you know they will aid you within your role.
What did you like about your course?
I’m more of a kinaesthetic learner so I like to learn while I’m doing something. Doing an apprenticeship meant that I could learn while doing my day-to-day work. Being able to apply what I was learning to my work kept me motivated because I knew that it was actually helping me with my career and my progression.
You started the course in person but finished it online. How did you find that?
When I started the course in 2019, it was delivered face-to-face. I was used to in-person engagement, sharing experiences and seeing everyone. Transitioning to online learning was definitely a shock and I did find virtual sessions a bit difficult at times. For example, when I was doing it through my work computer, I could get sidetracked but it was just a case of getting adjusted to it. However, being a full time working mother with a busy life, there was a bonus to having online sessions as it meant that I didn’t have to travel for 45 minutes to an hour to get to the college.
What did you find most challenging about the course?
I’m not very academic and I get really nervous in exams and don’t perform well. I tend to do better working on case studies and written work. For my course, I had to take eight exams in total. Six of them were multiple choice and you really had to read the question well to work out which answer was the correct answer. The other two exams were closed book written exams so you really had to revise and try to retain the information.
I had failed quite a few of my exams and, at the start of 2024, my assessors and tutors told me that I was at risk of losing my place on the course. That was quite a shock and I realised I needed to take the exams more seriously if I wanted to finish the apprenticeship. I listened to my assessor’s comments and met with my tutor more regularly. We went over certain areas where my knowledge was lacking, and he provided me with some written materials and past examination questions that I worked on. I knuckled down, revised and did what I needed to do in order to pass. In the end I passed three exams in March and a further four in July, which was a good accomplishment.
How did you prepare for your end point assessment (EPA)?
I worked on my EPA project from July to December 2024. I met with my tutor every week, sometimes twice a week, and made sure that I stuck to all of the time scales that he gave me. I submitted my project in early December and undertook the end point presentation as well as the question and answer session later that month. I passed them both with Distinction and got a Distinction overall for my apprenticeship.
What was the highlight of your apprenticeship experience?
Getting a Distinction after cramming it all into the final year! Although the apprenticeship is a two-year course, if you get into the right mindset and work really hard, you can get it done within a year. I proved to myself that I was able to complete everything within that final year and came out with a Distinction – and I’m really proud of that.
How did your workplace support you during your apprenticeship?
My manager was great. She really wanted me to succeed and gain this qualification so that I could progress within my current role and access opportunities within the procurement field. She gave me the time I needed to focus on my apprenticeship and examinations and was very supportive.
How did the college support you during the apprenticeship?
They were good and very supportive. It was mainly my tutor that I was in constant contact with but then I did speak to other people from the wider college further down the line. When the tutors and my assessor told me that if I didn’t pass my exams, I wouldn’t be able to complete my apprenticeship, it was the harsh reality that I needed to make me realise that I needed to get on with it.
I also had to do my functional skills in English at the Tottenham centre and they were accommodating. They could see me progressing and I definitely did have the support that I needed.
How was your course applicable to your role?
I would say at least 90% of it is applicable because my team procures soft service contracts for our commercial portfolio of sites – it’s definitely very relevant to the work that I do. There are some parts of the course that I can’t directly use within my work, such as procuring goods and services overseas, because that’s not something we do. However, it’s definitely good to have the knowledge and experience of learning it because if I was to move into a different role in the private sector, that would definitely be applicable.
What’s next for you?
Although part of my role is procurement, I do enjoy the facilities management side of things so I’m looking at potentially doing a course in that area, or maybe even a Facilities Management apprenticeship. In the future, I might do the Procurement and Supply Level 5 course, which would be the next level up from the course that I’ve just completed.
What’s your advice for anyone starting or thinking of starting an apprenticeship?
I would say definitely do it! Make sure you listen to your tutor, stick to your time frames and don’t over exhaust yourself. One of the benefits of an apprenticeship is that you get to learn while you earn, and because you’re learning on the job you can apply new knowledge to your work and that makes it easier to retain. You’ll reap the benefits more by doing an apprenticeship, especially if it’s applicable to your role.
Apprenticeships+
Apprenticeships+ supports employers, employees, and jobseekers in pursuing apprenticeships. We provide clear guidance on funding options and processes to make apprenticeships accessible for everyone.
The CCC Cobras women’s netball team, London Regional Netball Champions
Four in a row! No, not the board game, but Capital City Cobras’ impressive winning streak on the netball court.
This month, the team were once again crowned London Regional Netball Champions, securing the title for the fourth consecutive year after another dominant display at Redbridge Sports Centre. The achievement further solidifies the Cobras’ reputation as one of the strongest college netball teams in the capital.
Competing against three other colleges from across London, the Cobras delivered a n outstanding performance, topping the group with a clean sweep of victories in all their matches, commanding a 14–1 win over Leyton Sixth Form, a decisive 21–0 victory against Uxbridge College and an 18–2 win over Newham College to secure the championship title.
The netball team’s success was matched by an equally impressive showing from Capital City College’s table tennis players, who excelled at the regional table tennis championships. Representing the King’s Cross campus, the athletes demonstrated exceptional skill, focus and consistency against tough opposition.
Three CCC table tennis champions
The CCC Cobras women’s netball team
CCC Cobras competing at table tennis
Student athlete Nam Hoang delivered a standout performance to claim the men’s regional college title, and in the women’s competition, Liana Shilani Tousi was crowned women’s regional champion. Further podium finishes followed, with Elijah Auguste earning a well-deserved silver medal and Noor Binnur securing bronze to add to the college’s growing medal collection.
Thanks to these outstanding achievements, the Cobras netball team, alongside table tennis stars Nam Hoang, Liana Shilani Tousi and Elijah Auguste, have all qualified for the Association of Colleges (AoC) National Championships, set to take place in Nottingham next April. They will be joined by the CCC basketball team, who will also represent the London region at this prestigious college sports competition.
Robert Murphy, Sports Development Manager at Capital City College, praised the students’ achievements and highlighted the consistency of performance across multiple sports. He said: “We are hugely proud of all our students for their outstanding performances at the Regional Championships, with excellent victories in netball and table tennis, following on from our team’s success in basketball. We are delighted to be crowned Regional Champions for the fourth year in a row and to once again have a strong presence at the National Championships.”
Netball player Korede Yusuf echoed that sense of pride while also looking ahead to the challenges to come. Reflecting on the team’s performance, she said: “Regionals went really well. We secured wins in all our games with strong score differences and fought all the way to the end. Even though we won, we know there’s more we can improve on as a team. Next step, nationals!”
With multiple teams and athletes heading to Nottingham riding a wave of success, confidence and momentum, CCC’s sporting heroes are well placed for another strong showing on the national stage next spring. Their achievements reflect not only their individual talent, but also the dedication, teamwork and support provided by the sports programmes at CCC.
If you’re interested in studying sport or pursuing a career in the sports industry, why not explore our Sport and Fitness courses and take your first step towards success both on and off the field?
SWAP event for Construction Skills Certification Scheme
Thanks to specialist employability programmes, Capital City College (CCC) has supported even more jobseekers into employment.
CCC’s Employability Department runs a range of Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes, also known as SWAPs. These short, targeted courses last between one and five weeks, and provide essential employability opportunities for those actively looking for work.
Aubrey Mpengula, Liaison Officer for Vocational Employability at CCC, organises the SWAPs by working closely with Job Centres and other welfare-to-work organisations. The SWAPs help those seeking employment to develop their skills and provide valuable support as they approach new opportunities.
Earlier this year, CCC partnered with Residential Living Recruitment (RLR) who were recruiting for new-build residential developments across London. The company supported the college in training a cohort of 20 Job Centre candidates in customer service based on the employer’s requirements. Other leading employers, including Taylor Wimpey, have also taken part in SWAPs to connect with skilled candidates. As part of the programme, RLR Co-founder Matt Halfpenny and Partner Francis Winn-Reed met with candidates to talk about the roles and offer their industry insight.
Following completion of the programme, 13 of the applicants attended online group interviews, followed by individual sessions at the college’s Tottenham campus. The applicants made the most of the opportunity, showing that they had carried out relevant research and prepared thoroughly for their interviews.
Learning about opportunities at a SWAP event with Taylor Wimpey
The SWAP and accompanying events were highly successful, with eight candidates progressing to second-round interviews and employment offers.
The Employability Department runs three SWAPs each month focusing on Security, Construction Skills Certification Scheme (SCSC) Green Card, and Warehouse and Forklift. Thanks to strong relationships across a range of industries, employers also contact the college when vacancies arise, enabling them to run custom programmes to support potential candidates. In December, the college also ran a pilot SWAP for a local bespoke shoemaker, one of only two remaining in the UK.
One former candidate who finished a SWAP, said: “To Residential Living Recruitment, thank you for the time you gave me personally. In speaking with you, I gained a real insight into your world: the complexities of residential living, the heart behind lettings, and everything it entails. It was eye-opening, inspiring, and deeply appreciated. And to Aubrey and Patsy thank you for collaborating with me, guiding me, and showing me the way. Your leadership and generosity made today possible.”
Looking to transition into employment but not sure where to start? To enhance existing skills or develop new ones, take a look at our Employability skills courses.
Springpod is a platform that provides virtual work experience with top employers, support in gaining employability skills and interview coaching. This year, Springpod launched Future Makers, which recognises and elevates young people who are already making their mark. The initiative originally intended to focus on 20 young people under the age of 20, but soon grew to become a nationwide celebration. Springpod’s 51 Future Makers of 2025 are young entrepreneurs, advocates, innovators and community changemakers. The Future Makers list showcases the energy and optimism present in the next generation while also reminding us that age does not have to be a barrier to impact.
CCC student Niamh was chosen as a result of her advocacy work for young people and also for her creativity, resilience and leadership. Niamh has represented young people and shared their perspectives, speaking at the House of Commons and at national conferences. She has actively used her voice to challenge barriers, influence decision-makers and shape inclusive pathways for future generations.
Niamh Sammon speaking at the House of Commons
Niamh is also an ambitious T Level Content Creation student who has inspired her peers to overcome obstacles and embrace opportunities. She has been generous in her support of others, offering advice on CVs, LinkedIn profiles, and careers.
We caught up with Niamh, who has just finished her first placement at Amazon, to find out more about her involvement with Springpod.
How did you get involved with Springpod?
I first got involved with Springpod when my college introduced it at a student-led event in January 2025. I had the chance to share my thoughts on my T Level course, my upcoming work placement, and how Springpod had already supported me. That experience helped me connect with people from Springpod, and we’ve stayed in touch ever since. They’ve invited me back to take part in a range of events, from speaking at conferences to presenting an award at the Springpod Shift Awards.
What sorts of activities have you been involved with?
I use my voice as a student to highlight the barriers young people often face when trying to connect with employers. I also get to network with different organisations and talk about the challenges they experience when engaging with young people. This lets me share insights on how they can improve and create better opportunities for students.
How is Springpod helping you in your career?
Springpod has really helped me build confidence and prepare for the workplace. Their virtual work experience programmes have allowed me to explore a variety of industries and understand which ones suit me best. Being able to do all of this from home has made it accessible and easy, so I never had a reason not to try something new!
You’ve just finished a placement at Amazon. What’s next for you?
My placement at Amazon was an incredible experience! It opened my eyes to how different departments work together in such a large organisation. Next, I’m aiming to secure an apprenticeship because I’m excited to step into the world of work and continue building real world skills as soon as possible.
Also listed as one of Springpod’s Future Makers was Isaac Kamidora, a former T Level student at CCC. Isaac is a youth speaker and advisor working to widen access to opportunities for young people. He has spoken in the Houses of Parliament twice, been named a BAFTA Young Presenter finalist and advised institutions like the Council of Europe.
You can learn more about Niamh’s experience of doing T Levels at CCC here.
If, like Niamh, you’re interested in doing an apprenticeship, why not take a look at what we offer with Apprenticeships+.
At CCC, all of our full-time students complete a work experience placement in their chosen subject area. The college benefits from strong connections with a variety of employers across London who provide placements to support students in developing their practical skills and knowledge outside the classroom.
Capital City College (CCC) students gained valuable insights into the future of design and technology during a packed lecture led by Bennetts Associates.
Students from across curriculum areas filled the college’s 120-seat lecture theatre at CCC’s King’s Cross campus for an inspiring session led by Thomas Russell, Associate at Bennetts Associates.
The event explored architecture, computer-aided design (CAD), building information modelling (BIM), and the future of AI in design, while showcasing some of the award-winning projects delivered by Bennetts Associates.
Thomas Russell said: “It was brilliant to see so many students attend the discussion and engage with ideas around architecture, technology, and design. These conversations are vital in preparing the next generation for an evolving world of design—where creativity meets innovation, and digital tools are transforming how we work. Events like this not only spark curiosity but also help students understand the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing design industry.”
The session highlighted the collaboration between the college, local businesses, the Knowledge Quarter and the local authority, working together to equip the next generation with the skills and mindset needed for a rapidly evolving industry.
CCC students studying Engineering, Art, Design and Fashion, and A Level found the talk engaging, with many staying behind to ask questions and explore career opportunities.
CCC students asking career questions
Carlo Liu, Group Head of Enterprise, Employability and Careers, added: “Huge thanks to Bennetts Associates for inspiring the next generation and showing what’s possible in the industry. It’s vital that we continue to inspire young talent and provide real opportunities to help them thrive. We’d love more employers to join us in shaping future skills and careers; your knowledge and experience can make a lasting impact.”
Interested in pursuing a career in arts or architecture? Have a look at our courses in architecture, engineering, and art and design.
Marc Whitley LAT, a Lecturer in Hospitality, Food and Beverage at Capital City College
Today, Marc Whitley LAT, a Lecturer in Hospitality, Food and Beverage at Capital City College’s culinary school, has been awarded Freedom of the City of London.
Dating back to the thirteenth century, this prestigious honour formally recognises a person’s ability to conduct their craft or trade in the city of London. While the rules around this honour have changed over the centuries, being awarded Freedom of the City of London remains a significant marker of status and respect for people belonging to certain industries and who are members of livery companies.
Marc has taught at Capital City College’s culinary school in Westminster for years, training generations of top chefs and hospitality professionals. He also runs the college’s fine dining restaurant, the Escoffier, named after Auguste Escoffier and renowned for its high standards of culinary excellence.
Marc was nominated by long-time friend Wendy Mead OBE, in recognition of his contributions to education. She said: “I have been very impressed by Marc’s dedication to the culinary education of young people, sending so many well-trained chefs and allied professionals into exciting careers. Marc is also well placed to join the Worshipful Company of Cooks, a well-respected Livery Company of the City of London, should he so choose.”
As a member of the PM Trust’s Trustee team, Marc’s vast hospitality experience spans continents and a wide variety of premium hotels and restaurants.
Ruston Toms, Chair of the PM Trust, added: “I’m proud of Marc’s achievement of becoming a Freeman of the City of London. His dedication to developing and inspiring the next generation of young hospitality professionals at Capital City College is amazing and something that I know he is hugely passionate about.”
Marc’s influence extends beyond education into the wider hospitality industry, where he is recognised as a leading ambassador for culinary arts.
Lisa Jenkins, Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, said: “He is a fantastic ambassador for the culinary arts and for the wider hospitality industry. He supports students at Capital City College in multiple ways, nurturing them and guiding them to ensure they are ready for their future careers. He is a valued supporter of The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts and the Adopt a School Trust and is the epitome of excellent restaurant service.”
Marc said: “This historic honour means a great deal to me, and I’m deeply grateful to all the colleagues, students and mentors who’ve been part of this journey. Education transforms lives, and I’m privileged to play a small part in that transformation.”
Perspectives on life and learning in further education report
A new study from Pearson is shining a spotlight on what life and learning look like in further education today, and how colleges are adapting to meet changing expectations.
The report, Perspectives on Life and Learning in Further Education, captures the voices of more than 2000 students and tutors across UK colleges. It explores the challenges and opportunities shaping college life, from cost-of-living pressures and mental health to digital learning, AI and employability skills.
Capital City College contributed to this report, which reveals both the optimism and the hurdles facing the sector. Further education colleges play a vital role in helping young people develop the skills, resilience, and opportunities they need to succeed and this report shows how that role is evolving.
Key findings
75% of students feel confident using technology to support their learning.
43% of tutors say they lack confidence using AI, and nearly six in ten want more training to help students use it responsibly.
65% of students feel ready to move on to their next stage of learning or work – but tutors are less certain.
In the foreword to the report, Angela Joyce, CEO of Capital City College Group, said:
“This report finds some of the biggest factors impacting student success relate to worries about finances and job prospects, which affect their mental health and ultimately their academic performance.
“Colleges may be the smallest part of England’s education system, but they have the largest reach across the population to drive social mobility. With college students almost three times more likely to be worried about money than school students, there is a clear challenge for colleges across the country to address the factors affecting students’ mental health.”
6 in 10 college tutors agree…
Nearly 6 in 10 college tutors agree
3 in 4 college students…
Angela Joyce foreword
Despite these challenges, the findings illustrate a sector full of innovation and optimism. Colleges across the UK are embracing digital tools, building closer partnerships with employers and helping students develop the transferable skills they need for life and work.
Angela also highlighted the recent move of the skills and apprenticeships portfolio to the Department for Work & Pensions, calling for a more joined-up approach to national skills policy to ensure colleges can provide what students and apprentices need most: support, investment, mentoring, guidance, expert tuition, and opportunities for personal growth.
Business Studies students at Capital City College (CCC)’s Enfield campus recently took part in an exciting business challenge set by Deloitte, the world’s largest professional services network and one of the Big Four accounting firms.
Held earlier this autumn, the Deloitte Business Challenge gave students the opportunity to step into the shoes of business consultants for a fictional local coffee shop, Roots & Brew, which was launching a new digital campaign entitled “The Root of Good Coffee.”
“It was inspiring to work with the students at Capital City College and see their creativity and enthusiasm first-hand,” said Samiel Tripathi, Manager at Deloitte. “The Deloitte Business Challenge gives students a real insight into consulting and marketing, while helping them develop practical skills they can carry forward in their careers.”
Throughout the day, students worked in teams alongside Deloitte staff members, analysing the business and developing creative strategies to support the campaign.
The challenge focused on three core themes:
Storytelling: crafting Instagram posts and blog content to share Roots & Brew’s coffee journey.
Local engagement: designing geo-targeted adverts with a QR-based digital punch card to reward loyal customers.
Collaboration: proposing partnerships with local businesses for joint promotions and community events.
Teams presented their strategies to the Deloitte panel, receiving expert feedback and insights into real-world consulting and marketing practices. Deloitte staff also shared their career journeys, discussed working life at Deloitte, and highlighted the company’s inclusive culture.
Saj Mawnwoollah, Curriculum Manager for Business Studies at Enfield, said: “I’m thrilled to share that this challenge was an outstanding success. Our students not only honed their communication and problem-solving abilities but also applied classroom theory to real-world Deloitte case studies. The event offered invaluable hands-on experience, and Deloitte’s positive feedback speaks volumes about our students’ professionalism. We eagerly anticipate even more impactful collaborations in the future.”
Tackling campaign challenges at the Deloitte Business Challenge event
The visiting team from Deloitte
CCC students working hard at the Deloitte Business Challenge event
Planning strategies at the Deloitte Business Challenge event
Business student Tahina Gratteau-Giacoia said: “Working with Deloitte was amazing – it really helped me understand how business theory applies in the real world.”
Business student Khadija Omar added: “I loved collaborating with my team and presenting our ideas to industry professionals. It made me more confident in my skills.”
Anthony Robinson, Enrichment Manager at Capital City College, said: “This event perfectly combines enrichment with industry experience, giving our students a unique opportunity to learn from leading professionals while building essential skills for their future careers.”
Craving a business challenge? Come join our business courses and see if you’ve got what it takes to tackle real business problems in the classroom.
Students at the Enfield Careers and Innovation Fair
Students and local residents learned about training pathways and roles in construction at Enfield’s Careers and Innovation Fair.
Earlier this month, Capital City College’s (CCC) Enfield campus welcomed students and local residents to its first Careers and Innovation Fair. The event brought together employers, training providers and community organisations to showcase opportunities in construction, green skills and wider employability routes. The event also enabled students on construction courses engage in discussions on the future of the sector.
The event started with a talk from Samuel Asiamah, founder of Altar Construction and Altar Create CIC. Samuel’s work focuses on workforce development, improvising inclusion and opening pathways for underrepresented groups in the building industry. Drawing on his extensive experience, Samuel spoke about the current skills gap, the importance of self awareness and vision, and how learners can take practical steps to prepare for long term success in a changing sector.
Philippa Cooke, Careers, Employability and Enterprise Manager, said “After Samuel’s talk, our Construction students began discussing the skills gap in the sector, particularly the gap between the abilities employers need and the skills that many workers currently hold. It was encouraging to see them connect the talk so directly to their own future pathways.”
Visitors at the Enfield Careers and Innovation Fair
Following Samuel’s talk, students and visitors explored the employer exhibition, where they had the chance to speak with organisations offering apprenticeships, entry level work, volunteering routes and progression opportunities. Exhibitors included a number of key organisations and industry leaders such as the Canal and River Trust, Net Zero, Wild London, McConnell, Tilbury Douglas, National Grid and Falcon Green. Also at the event were college stands relating to Apprenticeships+ and CCC’s Skills Academies such as the Enfield Construction Skills Academy.
While at the exhibition, current and prospective students were able to talk to employers and learn about the various routes into construction. For many current students, there was an opportunity to relate their studies to existing roles and find out more about the breadth of roles available. They were also able to discuss further training and explore career sustainability with those who have first-hand knowledge of the industry.
Sarah Czapp, Careers and Employability Adviser at CCC’s Enfield campus, said “This was a valuable opportunity for students to link their curriculum learning to careers. They were also able to find out some key labour market information such as rates of pay and skills gaps to help them make informed decisions as they navigate their future.”
The Jack Petchey Achievement Award is a nationally recognised scheme run by the Jack Petchey Foundation, which was set up by businessman and philanthropist Sir Jack Petchey CBE. The foundation works to inspire and motivate young people from across London and Essex and supports them in realising their full potential.
The Jack Petchey Achievement Award celebrates young people aged 16–25 who make a positive contribution to their college community and show exceptional commitment to their studies. Staff members nominate students for the award and the winners are then selected by the Student Union.
Harini was nominated by more than one member of staff for her positive attitude, consistent effort and for the way in which she supports others within the college – all of which contribute to the college community. The award also recognised her active participation in classes and her exceptional progress in her studies.
Babar Islam, Lecturer in Computing, said: “Harini consistently demonstrates excellent commitment to her studies through strong attendance, a respectful attitude, and active engagement in lessons. She completes her work on time, contributes positively in class, and sets a very good example for others. It is great to see her efforts recognised through this award.”
Harini said: “Receiving the Jack Petchey Achievement Award is truly special. It’s incredibly rewarding to know my peers and teachers recognised my potential and nominated me. This recognition has boosted my confidence and reminded me that consistency, kindness and positivity truly make a difference.
This award has further motivated me to push myself, particularly in my studies and personal development. It encourages me to keep improving, support others whenever possible and continue growing academically and personally.
When asked about what she likes about college life, Harini said: “What I enjoy most about life at CCC is the supportive environment. Everyone, from staff to students, encourages you to be your best self. Being part of such a positive community has helped me step out of my comfort zone, build new skills and believe in my abilities.”
Harini will be invited to attend the Jack Petchey Awards Ceremony at a later date, where she will be celebrated on stage alongside other award winners.
If you are looking to study in a supportive environment and have an interest in the digital world, take a look at our extensive range of Computing and IT Courses and apply now!
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