Winter
BUILDING FUTURES, ACHIEVING AMBITIONS
edition 2019
The termly newsletter of Richmond upon Thames College
More inside Annual Freshers’ Fair for RuTC students page 2
—————————— Supporting Colleges Week 2019 page 3
—————————— Students and staff recognsied at annual Jack Petchey Award Ceremony page 4
—————————— Michael Sargent Bursary Award for Access to Higher Education Alumnus page 5
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Sport student wins bronze, silver and gold at Europeans Acrobatics Championship page 7
Proud RuTC alumni start university We are proud of our students who finished their course in Summer 2019. 66% of eligible students are continuing their education at university. Rufus Irvine, former VicePresident of RuTC’s Students’ Union, achieved grades AAA* in his A Levels in English Language, Politics and Sociology and now studies English Language & Linguistics at the University of Kent on an Academic Excellence Scholarship. He commented, “I would attribute much of my success to the incredible staff who pushed me to my fullest and offered unconditional support.” Bethannie York achieved grades AAB in her A Levels in English Language & Literature, History and Photography and is now studying English & History at Royal Holloway University. She was the recipient of a 2019 Diana Award for her social action in local charities. Ian Canlas, who previously won a Best Learner Award, achieved a distinction in his Art & Design Level 3 course and now studies Architecture at the University of Kent with a £2000 scholarship. Sharna Davison achieved the outstanding grades D*D*D* in Sport & Exercise Science Level 3. She continues her studies at St Mary’s University on a Sports Coaching Science course.
Message from our College Leadership Team Richmond upon Thames College (RuTC) 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. We are incredibly proud of the successes and achievements of our students and in this edition of our termly Celebrate newsletter, you can read about the wonderful and inspiring stories from the past few months.
www.rutc.ac.uk
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Celebrate
Professional industry insight for plumbing students
Annual Freshers’ Fair for RuTC students
In September and October, three construction companies visited our Plumbing students to show them possible career paths and offer advice. Vaughan Wiles, Technical Training Specialist at Resideo, talked to Plumbing Level 2 students. Resideo specialises in central heating controls and is part of the Honeywell company. Students participated in a one day training course and were tested on their understanding at the end of the day on a Central Heating System Training Board. Austin Sharp, RuTC alumnus and founder of the Richmond based plumbing company WeFix, shared his story with students about his stages from studying at RuTC through to gaining work experience and finally starting his own business. Austin said, “Richmond upon Thames College gave me the practical work experience as well as knowledge of the industry and regulations. Standing in front of the students now and looking at their faces I feel hopeful that each and every one of them will gain the knowledge and confidence to be successful in their own ways.” WeFix support RuTC by offering work experience placements and will be sponsoring the college’s “Plumber of the Year” Award at the end of the academic year. The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) visited our students. Jerry Whiteley, Technical Manager at CIPHE, spoke about the work and career progression opportunities in the plumbing industry, new government legislations and regulations and the building engineering industry. In February 2019, RuTC became a CIPHE approved training centre.
In September, new and returning students were welcomed into the new academic year at the annual Freshers’ Fair. Students met many different organisations, participated in activities and signed up for enrichment programmes. RuTC’s Students’ Union informed students about their work, how to get involved and gave information on how to sign up for the NUS Totum card. Other RuTC stands included Welfare & Support, Careers Advice and the Student Ambassador Scheme. Exhibiting organisations included our partner charity Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, Metro Bank which spoiled our students with freebies, NCS The Challenge signed people up for their activities and the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation gave out anti drink spiking devices. Students enjoyed free food and participated in glow in the dark table tennis.
‘Cut Loose’ Art and Design Exhibition In October, Art & Design Level 3 Foundation Diploma students exhibited the work they produced earlier in the term. The exhibition took place under the theme ‘Cut Loose’, offering students the chance to move away from traditional ways of working and gain confidence in trying something new. Students explored and took risks with media and ideas resulting in exciting and original work. They are now working towards university applications.
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply
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Early Years students exhibit educational learning approaches
A Level students visit Parliament
In October, Early Years Foundation Degree students displayed different educational learning approaches used by early years professionals. Students on the course are also working in a range of settings that include pre-schools, day nurseries and primary schools. The exhibition supported their knowledge and understanding of different historical perspectives and how these learning approaches have had an impact on the practice within their settings. Students highlighted pioneers including Froebel, the Scandinavian Approach and Margaret McMillan.
Politics, Public Services and History A Level students visited Parliament in October. They enjoyed visiting both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, enhancing their knowledge on the function of both Houses as well as the history of Parliament. They participated in workshops and had a question and answer session with a member of the House of Lords. With this year’s General Election, this trip has enhanced their understanding of the current political landscape, benefitting their studies and personal understanding.
Supporting Colleges Week 2019 Following on from the success of last year’s ‘Love Our Colleges’ campaign, we participated in the Association of Colleges’ (AoC) national Colleges Week from 14 to 18 October and highlighted the amazing work colleges do and why long-term term investment is crucial for the future. Our college works with local businesses and helps to educate and train many young people and adult learners each year. Despite this, RuTC and other colleges in the country have had to deal with an average of 30% cut to its funding over the last decade. Leading up to Colleges Week, RuTC hosted an Open Event on Saturday 12 October to show prospective students the amazing things that the college can offer them. In addition, the college is proud to work closely with the AoC in various other area. RuTC student and Students’ Union vice president, Hasti Rezvan, has been selected as a ‘This Girl Can’ ambassador by AoC Sport. In this role, she will be planning activities to engage female students in a variety of sports. David Hughes, Chief Executive of the AoC, said, “The £400m funding boost announced in the spending
review and the Secretary of State’s speech at the Conservative Party conference showed that the Government is committed to investing in further education and skills. However there are many funding and policy challenges to grapple with to ensure colleges can thrive in the long term. Now more than ever we need highly skilled, well-educated workforces to deliver for our economy and country.” If you would like to find out more about our college, visit one of our Open Events (more information on page 8).
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply
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Students and staff recognised at annual Jack Petchey Award Ceremony In November, eight of our students and one teacher were awarded a Jack Petchey Foundation Award at the annual ceremony at Richmond Theatre. The Jack Petchey Foundation recognises outstanding young people throughout London and Essex. Awards were presented by Cllr James Chard, Deputy Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, and Cllr Margaret Thompson, Mayor of Kingston upon Thames. Winners, who were nominated by their peers, received a £250 grant to benefit their school. Sharna Davison, who finished her Level 3 Sport & Exercise Science course this summer, won the award for her commitment to the women’s college football team, demonstrating determination, optimism and respect. Arany Yogeswaran, who progressed from Level 1 to Level 2 Professional Cookery, was recognised for her catering achievements as well as excellent team work and impact she has in college. Six Supported Learning students received recognition, including Lini Thomas, who showed outstanding work ethic
and became a role model for others. David Gould progressed greatly during his work experience at Fulwell bus garage. Geri Mulvaney set high standards for the class by working hard and trying new things when her disability may restrict her. Joseph McSweeney supported RuTC as student guide and has secured a Supported Internship at Hilton Hotel. Libby Benjamin won an award for her self-improvement and dealing with large environments. Valeriya Krushovska was shy when she came to us but quickly became a popular member of her group. Sport teacher Sam Nicoll was awarded the Leader Award. Through his support and enthusiasm he is a role model for his students and inspires them both on and off the pitch.
Charity and Beaujolais events at Merits Restaurant
Annual Winter Music Concert raises £200 for MIND
The annual charity lunch for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices took place at our training restaurant in November. The kitchen and service was run by Level 2 Catering students. 40 guests enjoyed the lunch and raised £240. Another annual catering event, the Beaujolais dinner, was hosted a week later. Beaujolais is a French wine and the end of November is when the wine is released. Level 3 Catering students prepared traditional French dishes that were served alongside the wine.
In November, our Music students performed at the annual Winter Music Concert in aid of MIND. The concert was organised by 2nd year Music Performance & Production Level 3 students, who performed together with 1st year students. Songs included original pieces as well as cover songs, ranging from Joy Division to Martin Garrix. The concert raised £200 for MIND mental health charity. The charity appealed to students as they wanted to highlight the importance of mental health.
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply
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Students’ Union hosts talk by Microsoft
Michael Sargent Bursary Award for Access to Higher Education alumnus Abdikhaliq Ahmed, former RuTC Access to Humanities and Social Sciences student, was selected as runner up in the Outstanding Academic Achievement category of the prestigious Michael Sargent Bursary Award, run by the Open College Network (OCN). Abdikhaliq finished his course at RuTC in June 2019 and progressed to Queen Mary University where he is now studying a degree in International Politics. He was nominated by his teacher and the Head of Sixth Form and Higher Education due to his outstanding achievements. His nomination highlights that he adapted immediately to the very intensive and demanding programme and throughout his course he grew academically and balanced the rigours of study and outside commitments. He is a fully committed, dedicated student of Politics with genuine ambitions to work within this field in the future. Abdikhaliq says, “My time at RuTC was amazing. The Access to HE Humanities and Social Sciences course was perfect for me because it allowed me to study subjects I had always been interested in with the ultimate goal of going to university. Even though I knew I had the ability to succeed, I needed a route back into education. Because of this course I’m at university and one step closer to achieving my dreams. The teachers were great, I looked forward to seeing them every day. This award has shown me that I have actually achieved something great and it will give me even more confidence to succeed at university and in life.”
In November, Business students attended a talk by Ali Rezvan, industry professional from Microsoft. Last year RuTC was awarded status as a Microsoft Showcase College, joining a global network of institutions using technology to improve learning. Hasti Rezvan, RuTC Students’ Union Vice-President and organiser of the talk, said, “We had many requests from Business students to get advice from industry professionals, especially Microsoft. Students were engaged and learnt a lot from valuable industry insight and Ali’s life experiences.”
Artwork by Jack Blanks
Art & Design students display their work in Shoreditch Over the summer, four of our students had their work selected for the prestigious Origins Creative Arts Festival held at The Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane in Shoreditch. Every year, the University of the Arts London (UAL) selects the most exciting work from students across the country who have completed their UAL courses. Art & Design Level 2 students Jack Blanks and Emily Gachette as well as Art & Design Level 3 students Daniel Velosa and Faith Pedroso had their work included in the exhibition. Toby Rye, Art & Design teacher at RuTC, said, “We started the project by going on a research visit to Greenwich and the National Maritime Museum. The whole group made an exciting range of work for their final project in response to the theme of ‘Journeys’ and did Richmond upon Thames College proud.”
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply
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Skills London 2019 For the third year in a row, we hosted an interactive stand in November at Skills London to meet our future students. With more than 33,000 visitors from London and the home counties, 15-24 year olds and their families discovered career opportunities again at this year’s Skills London. The ExCeL Centre was filled with engaging and inspirational activities and demonstrations and helped young people to bridge the gap between their passion and their career. Exhibitors included colleges, universities, and employers from the business, construction, creative, health care, hospitality, public services and STEM industry. We exhibited over two days, giving students and their families the opportunity to get to know the college and its courses. Visitors learnt about the development of our new college campus due for completion Spring 2020. Activities from every subject area offered visitors an insight into college life: the Plumbing team gave demonstrations and challenges; Catering and Sports teachers combined their areas and invited visitors to make their own smoothies by using a bike; the IT department displayed robots and visitors experienced live forensics with Science experts; Art professionals brought animal skulls along and sketched them; people could do a Psychopath game hosted by our A Level department; Early Years and Health and Social Care teachers showed best practice and Business students explained their business ideas and did market research. Overall, the event was a great success and we look forward to seeing many faces again at next year’s enrolment!
Media students work with Sky experts Earlier this term, Creative Media Production & Technology students visited the Sky Academy Studios in Brentford and produced their own videos using Sky’s professional equipment. Students worked closely together with Sky experts and the latest cutting-edge technology, producing video trailers, varying from horror to crime and comedy, by carrying out a range of roles including director, camera operator and editor and were involved in every step of the way from initial script writing to the actual video shoot and post-production editing.
‘Jobs that Care’ working for the NHS Health & Social Care, Early Years and Catering students attended a workshop organised by the NHS in November. The event highlighted the different professions within the NHS and how these have a positive impact on people’s everyday lives. South West London Health and Care Partnership collaborated with Enact Solutions to deliver live, drama-based performances as part of their ‘Jobs that Care’ programme. The performance enabled students to develop a greater awareness of the future career opportunities within one of England’s largest employers. Students were motivated and saw how their course can lead to specific career paths.
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply
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Student wins bronze, silver and gold at European Acrobatics Championship Andrew Morris-Hunt, Sport Level 3 student, won bronze, silver and gold for his acrobatic routines at the 2019 European Acrobatics Championship which took place from 30 October to 3 November in Israel. Andrew is part of Great Britain’s acrobatic gymnastics team. Unlike traditional gymnastics, which involves various apparatuses, acrobatic gymnasts train in partnerships, using each other to hold their balance and complete dynamic moves. Andrew and his Junior Men’s Group won silver for balance, bronze for their all-around performance and claimed gold for their dynamic routine. In addition to studying Sports at RuTC, for the past ten years Andrew has trained more than 20 hours every week at Spelthorne Gymnastics. This was not his first time participating in the European Acrobatics
Championship and he has also already competed internationally. Andrew’s Sport teacher at RuTC, Sam Nicoll, said, “Andrew is a sport enthusiast, regularly participating in additional training sessions so he excels in his chosen sport and consistently makes positive and critical contributions in class. He is a dedicated team player which was evident at the European Acrobatics Championship.”
World Mental Health Day at RuTC
Hosting the ECITB Employer Forum
We highlighted the importance of mental health by supporting the worldwide Mental Health Day 2019 with various activities in October. In tutorials, students explored a NHS quiz by answering five simple but effective questions, giving them top tips to help increase their mental wellbeing. Student Services did random acts of kindness – 40 acts which take 40 seconds. This number refers to statistics which suggest that one person dies from suicide every 40 seconds and this year’s Mental Health Day theme is suicide prevention. During Mental Health Awareness Week in May, we already reaffirmed our commitment to staff and students by signing up to a new national mental health and wellbeing charter created by the Association of Colleges.
Every term, we host a forum together with the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) for the empolyers of our engineering and construction apprentices. In December, employers were invited again to our college for the ECITB Employer Forum, including KBR, Jacobs, Worley, SAS International and Skanska. Richmond upon Thames College has a long standing relationship with these organisations, offering their apprentices professional training outside of their workplace. During the forum, delegates from the organisations met with our Employer Engagement and Engineering and Construction teams and discussed the progress of their apprentices.
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply
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Winner of Annual Christmas Card Competition Each year, we choose an e-card designed by one of our students to send out to all staff, students and external stakeholders to wish everyone Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year. This year’s winning animation was produced by Aspen Chaluisan, one of our talented second year Level 3 Extended Diploma Creative Media Production & Technology students. Have a relaxing break and we will see you again in 2020!
Spring Term 2020 Dates First day of term: Wednesday 8 January 2020 Half term: 17 February to 21 February 2020 Final day of term: Friday 3 April 2020
Open Events 2020 These events will take place in our new college building, Richmond upon Thames College, Langhorn Drive (off A316), TW2 7SJ. • • • • •
Tuesday 10 March 2020, 5.00pm - 8.00pm Saturday 21 March 2020, 10.00am - 2.00pm Wednesday 25 March 2020, 5.00pm - 8.00pm Wednesday 22 April 2020, 5.00pm - 8.00pm Tuesday 23 June 2020, 5.00pm - 8.00pm
Our new college building opens Spring 2020 In 2018, we commenced Phase 1 of the new college campus, The Richmond Building, which is due for completion in Spring 2020. This exciting and innovative new learning environment will be located within the grounds of the current college site adjacent to the A316 in Twickenham and a short walk from Twickenham Station.
Key features of our new campus • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Dedicated sixth form centre Gym, Sports Centre and Sports Labs Sports pitches for rugby and football Theatre with seating for 160 people Live performance stage Dance studio TV, robotics and photography studios 3D prototyping lab Ceramics and glass workshops Art gallery Training restaurant with industry standard kitchens Business incubation spaces and a business lounge STEM Centre
Our Vision
The new campus will help establish RuTC as a college for careers with an outstanding reputation for services to students and employers. It will bring together education, enterprise and the local community to deliver innovative curricular that utilises the latest technologies. It has never been a more exciting time to study at Richmond upon Thames College. Come along to one of our Open Events in the new building.
Know someone who wants to join RuTC? Apply now at www.rutc.ac.uk/apply