CELEBRATE The termly magazine of Richmond upon Thames College
BEST LEARNER PRIZE 2015
>PEDRO RECOGNISED AT HOUSE OF LORDS CEREMONY PAGE 5
Issue 3 (14/15)
ROYAL
APPRENTICE >CARPENTRY STUDENT MAKS KAMINSKI PAGE 3
+ EEL PIE TREAT PAGE 7
+ ECITB AWARDS PAGE 2
+ NEWSWIRE PAGE 11
FESTIVAL FUN WITH KISS FM! PAGE 6
Welcome to Richmond upon Thames College Richmond upon Thames College is a vibrant, diverse and friendly community with outstanding students and staff. We have a wide range of subjects and courses at different levels, a strong support team plus a range of facilities and enrichment activities that allow our students to fulfill their potential and achieve their ambitions. I am incredibly proud of the successes and achievements of our students and in this latest edition of Celebrate magazine, you can read about the wonderful and inspiring stories from the past few months and also hear from former students of the college who have gone on to achieve great success in their careers. I hope you enjoy this publication. Robin Ghurbhurun Chief Executive and Principal
ECITB Awards Ceremony
Ben reaches for the Sky
In June, the college held its annual Awards Ceremony to reward apprenticeship students studying on the ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board) programme.
Personal Progress student Ben Parsons enjoyed a weeklong work experience placement at Sky during the summer term. The eighteen-year-old spent time with the media giant’s marketing team, attending key design meetings and offering a young person’s perspective on upcoming advertising campaigns.
Thirty-two students received their certification having passed the course with outstanding results, with seven other awards sponsored by various industry partners also presented. Nathan Dunne won the Personal Achievement Award, sponsored by Mustang Engineering, whilst Mark Pescodd was awarded Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Jacobs. The Project Award, sponsored this year by Saipem, was won by Joshua Torne whilst Robert Kliskey took home the Design and Draughting Award, sponsored by AMEC Foster Wheeler. Ben Windess claimed the Project Control Apprentice Award, Kane Walsh the Best Practical Award and George Childs the Richmond upon Thames College Award, sponsored by KBR.
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“It was an amazing experience being part of such a well known organisation,” said Ben. “The creative team were brilliant and the whole company treated me like a valued member of staff and welcomed my opinions. I’d love to come back here in a few years and work for Sky full time.”
Royal Apprentice
Cover Story
Maks Kaminski came to Richmond upon Thames College from Teddington School to study Level 1 Carpentry. At the end of his first year and with the help of the college, he successfully applied for an apprenticeship with Historic Royal Palaces and is now part of the Maintenance and Facilities Team at London’s famous Hampton Court Palace. We caught up with Maks to find out how his apprenticeship was going and what life was like working at one of the country’s top tourist attractions. “I took the Carpentry course at the college after attending a taster session with my school and really enjoying it,” Maks explains. “My first year at Richmond was brilliant and taught me the basics of carpentry and joinery whilst giving me the confidence and knowledge to pursue the trade as a career. The teachers on my course were great and their guidance and connections in the industry became invaluable.” At the end of his Level 1 course, Maks, along with seven other Richmond upon Thames College carpentry students, were interviewed by Historic Royal Palaces for an apprenticeship position at Hampton Court. “We trusted Richmond upon Thames College to provide us with good candidates and Maks really stood out as somebody who was capable and willing to work hard,” explains Mathew Coulter (pictured below, left), Team
Leader of the Maintenance and Facilities Team at the Palace. “He gave an excellent interview and presentation and displayed all the qualities we were looking for in an apprentice.” Since joining the team at Hampton Court Palace, Maks has been under the tutelage of Mathew as well as the Palace’s Master Carpenter, Cliff Hounslow. “It’s scary how much these guys know and I’m very fortunate to be learning new skills from them in such an amazing setting,” Maks says. “I’ve been working on door hangings where the wood is over 200 years old so I have to make sure I’m paying attention and working to the highest standards.” As part of his apprenticeship, Maks will be returning to the college once a week over the next two years to complete his Levels 2 and 3 in Carpentry. “Everyday I wake up happy to go to work and still can’t believe I’ve got such a great job!” Maks says. “Choosing Richmond upon Thames College was the best decision I could have made and being part of the team here at Hampton Court is proof of that.”
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Summer Exhibition
In June, the college showcased the work of its creative arts and media students with a stunning end of year exhibition. The showcase, attended by the families and friends of the students, exhibited the work of the college’s talented Art, Media, Design and Photography students and also included live music performances, a fashion show and a drama performance. The exhibition was open to the general public between 18-23 June.
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Best Learner Prize Richmond upon Thames College student Pedro Gouveia has been recognised as the College’s ‘Best Learner’ at an annual award ceremony celebrating the achievements of learners across South London. The ceremony, hosted by Lord Tope, took place at the House of Lords in May and was organised by the Committee of South London Principals (COSLP) which represents colleges in the boroughs of Croydon, Kingston, Bromley, Richmond, Sutton and Merton. Pedro, who is now 19, joined the college in September 2011 from Clarendon School, enrolling on a Life Skills course before progressing to a Level 2 Creative IT course. He now studies a BTEC Level 3 in IT. He was nominated for the Best Learner award by his teacher at the college, Ella Jukic, who was full of praise for his efforts. “Pedro has been an outstanding student and fully deserves recognition for the hard work he has put in to his studies, she said. “He is an active participant in the classroom, always stays on top of his coursework and has a great sense of humour. The whole IT department is overjoyed with his development both academically and personally.”
Pedro (front, centre) with his family as well as Richmond upon Thames College CEO and Principal Robin Ghurbhurun (back, right) and IT teacher Ella Jukic (back, centre)
Odyssey of the Mind debut In May, IB students Diana Adamczyk, Janeria De Lorenzi, Anne Han and Aneta Pavliukevic represented the United Kingdom at the World Finals of the Odyssey of the Mind competition – held at Michigan State University, USA. The competition provided the opportunity for competitors to think divergently, problem solve and develop their critical thinking skills and was part of the students’ C.A.S (Creativity, Action and Service) requirements. The team tackled a variety of problem solving tasks over the two-day event, taking on competitors from Poland, Canada, China and the USA. They were the first United Kingdom team to appear at the event for fourteen years. “It was a brilliant experience and we all really enjoyed being involved in the competition,” said Diana. “The whole process of applying involved a lot of planning and research which was really fun as was the fundraising around college when we sold cakes. We wanted to do the college and the UK proud and it’s an experience we’ll never forget.”
Into the Spotlight BTEC second year students in Music, Dance and Drama took part in a spectacular graduation show at Hampton Hill Playhouse in June, showcasing their incredible talents after two years studying at the college. The celebratory evening, titled Into the Spotlight, was played out to a packed audience of friends and family at the Hampton based theatre and featured top live performances from student bands Midlife Crisis and Note for Note, a drama piece called Vapour written by students Zachary Trevitt and Luke McCabe and an energetic dance piece featuring a mix of genres including high energy musical theatre and a dynamic urban piece. “These students have attained a very high standard in performing and we are very proud of their achievements throughout their time with us,” said John O’Shea, Vice Principal at Richmond upon Thames College.
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Summer Festival with KISS FM The college hosted a fun-packed summer festival in July to welcome potential future students and to showcase the college as the number one choice for further education in London. Over 450 school leavers attended the event where they were treated to subject taster sessions, have-a-go activities, inflatable games, dodgems, volleyball and ping pong. The guests also attended a delicious free barbeque where they could chat with new friends and listen to live music from some of the college’s top young bands as well as music sets from KISS FM DJs. One lucky school student, Noaf Alamri (pictured, below), was celebrating after winning the Festival’s MacBook Pro prize draw. “I’m really pleased to have been the lucky winner and am now very excited to join the college to study a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport,” he said. Liz Greener, School Liaison & Events Officer at the College was delighted with the day. “It was fantastic to see our future students get a taste of the college and enjoying themselves after their exams,” she said. “The festival had a wonderful vibe to it and the students really embraced the games and interactive activities. We can’t wait to welcome them back in the autumn as full time students.”
MacBook Pro prize draw winner Noaf Alamri
Earthquakes in London In May, second year BTEC Performing Arts students explored the issue of environmental degradation with their performance of Earthquakes in London, a stage play written by Mike Bartlett and first performed at The Royal National Theatre in 2010. The students had to source their own costumes, block out their own scenes and investigate their own characters. Student Zachary Trevitt, whose character was a conflicted Cambridge scientist working for a corrupt government, explored his character in depth in order to prepare himself effectively: “I read about my character’s backstory, how old he was, where he was brought up, the relationships he’s had in his life, what he wants and what’s stopping him from getting it. It really helped me to understand him.” Performing Arts lecturer Justin Pierre was proud of his students’ efforts. “Earthquakes in London has been a unique learning experience for the students and has encouraged them to develop lifelong skills, ranging from an enhanced verbal expression of their ideas, vocal projection and articulation of words, persuasive speech and listening and observational skills,” he said.
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Liam serves up an Eel Pie treat In June, Level 3 Art & Design student Liam Harbison had three pieces of work displayed at an exhibition celebrating the musical history of Twickenham’s historic Eel Pie Island. Liam was chosen to provide the work after the college’s art department were approached by the exhibition’s curator, Michele Whitby, who asked them to recommend a student to provide pieces for the display. “I was happy to get involved as I’m passionate about music and being a local lad I’ve played gigs at the Cabbage Patch and the Eel Pie Island Club,” Liam explains. “I knew a bit about the history of the island so chose to create three pieces that captured the music from different eras.” Liam’s designs were inspired by the blues era, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd and represented a timeline of musical styles that encapsulated the feel and sounds of the island before its closure. “It’s nice to be involved in something that’s so historically important to the local community,” said Liam. “Hopefully the exhibition has meant that more people have learned about the amazing musicians who have played on the island.”
Back 2 Back dance show In June, first year BTEC level 3 Dance students performed their end of year show Back 2 Back. The superb hour-long performance showcased a variety of dance styles including contemporary, tap, cabaret and ballet. Seventeen year-old dance student Bobbie Cadden performed in the show. “It’s a real thrill performing in front of an audience as it brings out the best in me as a dancer,” she said. “I loved seeing people clapping and cheering along and was proud to be part of so many fantastic routines.”
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Many former students of Richmond upon Thames College go on to achieve outstanding success in their chosen careers and we’re proud to say that they were Made in Richmond. Our Alumni Association celebrates the success of past students and recently caught up with three more graduates who are excelling in their chosen profession.
Jo Crowley studied A levels in Biology, English Language and Theatre Studies at Richmond upon Thames College between 1993-1995. She went on to study a BA in Stage Management and Technical Theatre at Rose Bruford College, followed by a PGCE at Brunel University. A primary school teacher for eight years, Jo’s lifelong love of judo eventually became a career when, in 2003, she founded Ealing Judo Club. Over the past twelve years she’s successfully coached judo full time to youngsters and adults of all ages, training 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medal winner Nekoda Davis and Richmond upon Thames College’s very-own judo champion, Dan Vary. She’s recently completed the University of Bath’s Foundation Degree in Sports Performance for Judo and also the BJA’s Fast Track Coaching Programme. She’s now studying for her Masters in Advanced Sports Coaching and her UKCC Level 4 at Sheffield Hallam University. “In terms of education, Richmond upon Thames College was the most enjoyable time of my life and I absolutely loved it!” Jo explains. “Compared to school it was a different world as we were treated like adults plus there was no school uniform which was great! I got on very well with my teachers and enjoyed all my subjects, but I especially loved the social activities such as the college youth club which I made some great friends through it.
Jo
Crowley A levels [1993 - 1995]
“Being a full time judo coach is a demanding but rewarding job and I’m very proud of all the members of my club. We’ve had medal winners across all age and weight categories including Nekoda who is now setting her sites on competing at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. “I always tell my students to ‘be the best they can be’ and like to think that Richmond upon Thames College helped nurture that mindset in me. We were always encouraged to work hard, overcome our fears and never quit, attributes that make you a champion in all walks of life.”
Jo Crowley (left) with Ealing Judo Club’s Nekoda Davis (right)
www.ealingjudoclub.com
Nina Manandhar studied A levels in Art & Design, English, Politics and GSCE Photography at Richmond upon Thames College between 1997-1999. She went on to study a Foundation Degree and BA Hons in Fine Art at Chelsea College of Arts before embarking on a career as a photographer, artist and modern day pop-ethnographer. She co-founded youth-led magazine The Cut and the ISYS Archive website and has had her work exhibited at Tate Modern, Exposure Gallery and the Institute of Contemporary Art. Her commercial clients include Dr Martens, Adidas, JD Sports and Nike. She’s released two highly acclaimed photo-books; ‘Money on My Oyster’ in 2013 and ‘What We Wore – A People’s History of British Style’ in 2014. She is also an associate lecturer at the London College of Fashion. “I came to Richmond upon Thames College with my three best friends as it had an excellent reputation for art and design,” Nina explains. “I particularly enjoyed the photo-book projects in art and design as my teacher was really in tune with contemporary art practice and photography and continually encouraged us all to think creatively and outside of the box. From an early age I was exploring how art, politics and society were linked together and really began to explore ideology and art in depth during my second year. It was the perfect start for what I do today. “My Photography GCSE was also the first time I’d used an SLR camera and taught me the essential basics of being a photographer such as aperture and shutter speed. I remember one of my old college teachers telling me early on that I had a good eye but I needed to improve technically with the camera. I spent that Christmas with family in Nepal trying out some of the equipment I borrowed from the college and improving as much as I could! It’s something I’ll never forget as it helped make me the photographer I am today.” www.ninamanandhar.com
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Nina
Manandhar A levels [1997 - 1999]
Mark Perry BTEC Music [2003 - 2005]
Image courtesy of Chelsea Bloxsome
A former member of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, Mark Perry studied a BTEC in Music at Richmond upon Thames College between 2003-2005 and went on to study a BMus Hons in Jazz at Trinity College of Music. In 2009, he won the prestigious Yamaha Classic FM Jazzwise Scholarship award for jazz trumpet. He’s performed with acts such as Rudimental and upcoming artist BB Diamond and has appeared in music videos with Jessie J, Robin Thicke and Conor Maynard. He’s also regularly appeared in the backing band on The X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. His 2013 debut jazz album, ‘Road Ahead’ was described by The Guardian as ‘an intelligent and very musical set’ and saw him perform with some of the jazz world’s top artists including Ola Onabule and Gareth Lockrane. Exclusively endorsed by Geneva Trumpets, Mark has also recently started his own music agency, Silver Stage Entertainment. “I had a great two years at Richmond upon Thames College and it was undoubtedly the place to be to study music,” Mark explains. “I was fortunate enough to be there at a time when the music department had a couple of great college bands, including a brilliant jazz band that I became a member of. The teachers on my course were absolutely fantastic and made learning a pleasure. We all shared a love of music and spent a lot of time practising, rehearsing and generally having an incredible amount of fun. “Another great thing about the course was that it taught me about the technical side of performing including setting up the PA for gigs and also the business side of being a musician, something I still find useful and remember to this day. The facilities were amazing to me too as I’d never had access to a recording studio before and learned a lot about recording software and setting up microphones. “As a musician, I’ve been very fortunate to have travelled to some great venues across the world and perform alongside some incredibly talented artists. It’s crazy to think that only ten or so years ago I was happily practising with friends at Richmond upon Thames College and now I have a career doing a job that I love. Being at the college really was one of the best times of my life and I owe a lot to the music teachers for their passion and support which was vital at that stage of my career.” www.markperrymusic.com
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BFI Academy success BTEC Level 3 Media student Rikesh Tailor was celebrating last term after winning a place on the prestigious BFI Academy scheme. The talented eighteen-year old won the place after submitting examples of his work and writing about why he’d like to join the famous academy. He then went on to create an award winning documentary that secured him a BAFTA mentorship with famous cinematographer, Taina Galis. “It’s been an unbelievable few months that have seen my knowledge and experience of the industry really grow,” Rikesh said. “Being part of the BFI Academy has enhanced my CV and I’ve loved creating work with people of a similar age who all share the same passion for film making.” “Having the opportunity to work one-to-one with Taina is also incredible. She’s a huge name in the industry and a real inspiration.” Rikesh now plans to study a BSc in Film Production Technology at Birmingham City University.
EastEnders role for Justin Richmond upon Thames College Performing Arts Lecturer Justin Pierre appeared in EastEnders during the summer, playing the role of DC Jim Glover. Justin’s character appeared in two episodes of the famous soap, during which he investigated the suspicious actions of Richard Blackwood’s character, Vincent Hubbard. “EastEnders was a great show to be a part of and hopefully my character might return in the future,” Justin said. “As both an actor and a teacher, it’s nice that I can use my personal experiences of the industry to help prepare students for auditions and show them that roles can be earned if you work hard enough.” Justin’s numerous other roles during a 20 year acting career have included Prince Ivar in Saban’s The Mystic Knights of Tir Na Nog, Mike in World Productions series Attachments (BBC), Dave Summers in the series Burnside (ITV) and Guillermo del Toro’s Hellboy II: The Goldon Army. He graduated from Rose Bruford College before also turning his hand to teaching in 2005.
Project SEARCH Supported Learning students Julie Meyring, Eloise Hall, Arjun Kotedia, Justin Man, Virginia Clark and Lawrence Smith took part in Project SEARCH at Kingston Hospital. The project brings together education, training and work skills in a real life work environment, enabling young people with learning difficulties and disabilities to try out different work roles, supported by their tutor and employment advisor. The college teamed up with Kingston Hospital and Remploy to deliver the full time programme. Whilst at the hospital, the five students enjoyed work placements in Audiology and Oral (Administration and Reception, Housekeeping (Cleaning, Customer Care), Nursery (Childcare), HR (Administration), Postroom (Facilities), Canteen (Hospitality and Catering) and Estate Management (Facilities/Skilled Trades). Upon completing the course, three students have now successfully gained employment in the local area.
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NewsWire Historical Berlin trip
Art visit to Cornwall Fine Art and Graphic Design students enjoyed a three-day field trip to Cornwall during the summer term. Based in Falmouth, the talented students made daily excursions to work with local artists and photographers and also visited Falmouth University and Tate St Ives.
A level and IB students studying History and Politics spent three busy days in Berlin visiting many of the city’s popular tourist attractions including the Brandenburg Gate, the Stasi Museum, Alexandraplatz and Checkpoint Charlie. As well as unwinding with a shopping trip and ten-pin bowling, the educational trip also included a visit to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, now open to the public as a museum and a memorial.
IT Recognition Awards Origins II exhibition
In July, Art and Design students Mohammed Naeem Kabir (pictured) and Rianna Reid had their work exhibited at the UAL Awarding Body Origins II exhibition at the Chelsea College of Arts. Mohammed’s t-shirt design and Rianna’s 3D model were selected ahead of hundreds of entries to be displayed at the prestigious event.
IT students were rewarded for their hard work in the summer term with a Student Recognition Awards event. Fifteen certificates and awards were handed out to students across all levels of IT by special guest Mark Lillyman, founder of TechDivision and a key apprenticeship employer at the college. A free buffet was also provided to students as a thank you for their efforts between April and June.
Brighton rocks! In June, Photography students visited Brighton to hone their snapping skills capturing the city’s popular landmarks including its pebbled beaches, historic promenade and legendary seagulls! The students also captured the attractions at the famous Brighton Pier.
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Celebrate Issue 3 ( 14/15)
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