Connected Summer News 2025
Cover: HRH Prince William visits.
Top left: Students travel to Lisbon, Portugal.
Phil Sayles, Principal of Bournemouth and Poole College
Phil Sayles, Principal of Bournemouth and Poole College
As we start the new year at Bournemouth and Poole College, we are proud to share the latest edition of our news magazine, Connected, which tells the stories of just a fraction of the amazing activities our college, colleagues and students completed in 2024-25.
Throughout this edition, you will see how we work to connect education in college with the worlds of work and community.
You will read about the progress of our capital investment projects, adding up to date, practical learning environments across the college. This included the official opening events of our Advanced Engineering Centre, and Health and Care Academy; both attended by dozens of stakeholders, partners and clients, with our students at the centre of activity.
Finally, you’ll see we reflect on the honour of a Royal Visit from HRH the Prince of Wales, who saw and heard of our Job Ready and Sunseeker Academy programmes. These courses propel hundreds of people into skilled jobs every year. We were delighted students were able to explain their journeys to Prince William, and that His Royal Highness delighted some of our younger students with a brief walkabout. We hope you enjoy reading Connected and are inspired to work, support or study with us.
HRH Prince William Visits to Celebrate Back-to-Work Learning Initiative
HRH Prince William, The Prince of Wales, visited the Sunseeker Skills Academy at Bournemouth and Poole College to celebrate a transformative back-to-work learning initiative. The programme gives people the training needed to gain skilled jobs, helping them and local businesses.
During his visit, Prince William met with participants of the initiative, including Dan, who successfully navigated significant personal challenges, including homelessness, to secure training at Bournemouth and Poole College and a permanent job with Sunseeker International Ltd.
Prince William also met Rob Cox, from the Bournemouth charity Faithworks, through which Dan began his journey to employment. Dan had then joined one of the college’s Job Ready courses, which give initial support for people returning to work, and Prince William heard from college staff leading and teaching on the life-changing training programmes.
Prince William then met staff and learners from the Sunseeker Skills Academy, the last stage in Dan’s journey back to stable employment, a joint venture by the college and boat builder, which is adding at least 80 new people a year to Sunseeker’s workforce.
As Prince William concluded his visit, he took the time to meet with students who had
gathered to catch a glimpse of him. He warmly engaged with them, shaking hands, posing for photographs and sharing moments of conversation.
A particularly touching moment occurred, when he embraced a student studying on a Foundation course.
“We were really proud to have Prince William visit Bournemouth and Poole College,” said Principal and CEO, Phil Sayles, “he saw some of the amazing work that our staff do, and we were delighted that he took some time at the end of his visit to say hello to some our students who were absolutely ecstatic.”
The Sunseeker Skills Academy at Bournemouth and Poole College plays a crucial role in providing a direct pathway into skilled employment within the local marine manufacturing sector. Through its semi-skilled boatbuilding apprenticeship programme, the Academy supplies Sunseeker with approximately 80 new employees each year.
HRH Prince William’s visit highlights Bournemouth and Poole College’s dedication to providing high-quality training that directly aligns with local industry needs. By equipping individuals with practical skills and creating direct employment pathways, the college continues to play a key role in addressing both unemployment and skills shortages in the region.
College Wins Esteemed National Apprenticeship Award
Bournemouth and Poole College was named the winner of the ‘Best New Apprenticeship Programme’ at the National Apprenticeship and Training Awards.
The recognition came for our Level 2 Semi-Skilled Boat Builder Apprenticeship, delivered in partnership with Sunseeker International Ltd. Selected from over 600 nominations, this achievement highlights our dedication to apprenticeship excellence and industry collaboration.
The award-winning programme, delivered through the Sunseeker Skills Academy at the Poole campus, plays a crucial role in developing the marine sector’s future workforce. Each year, it adds around 100 new employees to Sunseeker’s workforce, equipping learners with hands-on experience and industry-leading skills in boatbuilding.
The award followed a visit from HRH Prince William, who toured the academy and met apprentices, witnessing first-hand how the programme transforms lives by offering valuable career opportunities within the marine industry.
Antony Carr, Executive Director of Higher Education and Skills, celebrated the win:
“This award is a testament to the dedication of our team and our strong partnership with Sunseeker International. Together, we are shaping the next generation of skilled professionals for the marine industry.”
With a strong commitment to delivering high-quality apprenticeships, Bournemouth and Poole College continues to support industry growth and provide learners with outstanding career opportunities.
Bournemouth and Poole College Rated
‘Good’ by Ofsted
Over 400 members of staff celebrated the college’s recent ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted in style, forming the word ‘Good’ for a photo opportunity at the start of staff development and celebration day at the end of the academic year.
The college achieved ‘Good’ ratings across all evaluated categories, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, education programmes for young people, adult learning programmes, apprenticeships and provision for learners with high needs.
The report praised the college’s dedication to preparing students for successful careers, stating that “many students widen their experiences through high-quality work experiences or work placements”, giving them “an insight into the world of work through activities, visits and guest speakers”. Apprentices benefit from early exposure to key industry concepts and access to high-quality resources and facilities that reflect real-world industry settings. This enables them to “make valuable contributions to their employers from an early stage.”
Strong partnerships with local employers and organisations were also highlighted as a key factor in the college’s success. Ofsted recognised the institution’s collaboration with local universities, BCP and Dorset councils, Dorset Chamber of Commerce and major employers. Inspectors noted that leaders “use these relationships well to identify skills needs in the region and design courses to meet most of these needs.”
The inspection covered the college’s two main campuses at Bournemouth and Poole, as well as the specialist Fulcrum site dedicated to boatbuilding and carpentry.
Support for Armed Forces Community Strengthened by Covenant Signing
Our long-standing support for the UK’s Armed Forces was confirmed as we officially signed the Armed Forces Covenant at a special ceremony held at our Poole Campus.
The event marked a significant milestone in the college’s commitment to serving personnel, veterans and military families. The Covenant represents a public pledge to ensure fair treatment and greater support for those who are serving or have served in the Armed Forces, and for their families.
The ceremony was attended by Lieutenant Colonel Ant Sharman and Ali Leaverland, Vice Principal at the College and a proud member of the Armed Forces community. Guests also included Millie Earl, Leader of the Council - who recently opened the College’s new Advanced Engineering Centre in May - and Mr. Dougie Scarfe, Deputy Lieutenant of Dorset.
By signing the Covenant, Bournemouth and Poole College joins a national network of organisations working to remove barriers for members of the Armed Forces community and improve their access to services, education, and employment.
“This is a proud moment for Bournemouth and Poole College and a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to recognising the contributions and needs of serving personnel, veterans, and military families,” said Phil Sayles, Principal and Chief Executive.
“It is a commitment that acknowledges the support needed due to past service and, given today’s global landscape, recognises the importance of supporting current and future service members. It is also a vital step in our mission to widen access and enhance inclusivity.”
Among the 16 formal pledges outlined in the Covenant, the College has committed to:
• Collaborating with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) and Forces Families Jobs (FFJ) to provide employment opportunities for veterans and military spouses.
• Supporting staff members who volunteer as military cadet leaders.
• Encouraging more colleagues to become volunteer leaders within cadet organisations.
College Awarded £1.6million in Government Funding to Enhance Campus Facilities A Commitment to Wellbeing, Equality and Inclusion with AoC Charters
In March, we were delighted to have been awarded £1.6million in government funding to improve facilities across our three campuses. The funding comes as part of the National Further Education College Condition Allocation and aims to upgrade and future-proof college buildings across the country.
The investment, provided through the Department for Education (DfE) capital grant, is part of a wider £302million boost for FE colleges and designated institutions throughout the UK. The aim is to ensure that learning environments are safe, modern and fit for purpose in the future.
Phil Sayles, Principal and CEO, said: “Through securing significant government funding over the past three years, our college has greatly enhanced the facilities that our students learn in. This further commitment from the government will help us further and is gratefully received.”
We are proud to be one of the colleges benefitting from this initiative and we’re looking forward to continuing to build on our commitment to educational excellence and community impact.
We formally signed the Association of College’s (AoC) Mental Health Charter and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Charter this year, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all.
In a ceremony attended by senior staff and students, Jayne Courtney, Head of Organisational Development, opened the event by emphasising the importance of mental health and the College’s unwavering dedication to student wellbeing. “Mental health is just as vital as physical health,” Jayne stated, highlighting the need for ongoing visibility of support services and the importance of encouraging help-seeking behaviours.
Following this, the college leadership formally signed the Mental Health and EDI charters, led by Phil Sayles, marking our institutional commitment to prioritising wellbeing, equity and respect in everything we do.
As we move forward, these commitments serve not only as promises, but as actions, driving our mission to ensure that every individual at Bournemouth and Poole College feels supported, valued and empowered to thrive.
Health and Care Academy Launched to Train Future Healthcare Workforce T-Level Health Students Undertake Work Placements
In June, we were hugely proud to launch our brand-new Health and Care Academy, signifying a major milestone in the delivery of healthcare education in the region.
The £1.1million facility has been designed to closely simulate real-world clinical and care environments, offering an immersive and high-specification training setting for students, comprising:
• A fully equipped four-bed hospital ward simulation suite
• A care suite fitted with a kitchen and bedroom
• Three refurbished classrooms.
The design and delivery of the Academy was informed by closely collaboration between our curriculum team and key local stakeholders, including the NHS, Partners in Care, local care and nursing home providers and educational partners, ensuring that the facility is closely aligned with current and emerging industry requirements.
The launch was marked by a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony led by esteemed adventurer and adaptive rower, Alex Lewis, who pushed through extraordinary barriers following a rare infection which led to quadruple amputation and facial disfigurement.
In March, our first cohort of T Level Health students undertook their initial three-week Health and Care placement.
16 students undertook placements within the NHS at University Hospitals Dorset and Dorset Healthcare, gaining invaluable hands-on experiences in theatres, elderly care, oncology and dermatology.
19 further students undertook placements at twelve local nursing homes and gained fantastic experience supporting the care of elderly residents.
After months of anticipation, students are now stepping into real-world roles, contributing to resident and patient care and learning directly from experienced, dedicated healthcare professionals after skills development in our simulated facilities.
Student Success at Dorchester NHS Apprenticeship Awards
Two of outstanding students excelled at the Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Apprenticeship Awards in February!
Peter Spurr was honoured as ‘Apprentice of the Year’ for his dedication and achievements in the FdSc Nursing Associate Higher Level Apprenticeship programme.
Katie Ballard received the ‘Excellence in Functional Skills’ Award alongside completing her Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship Qualification.
Transforming Healthcare Education with Immerse Training
We are hugely proud to partner with Immerse Training who have brought advanced clinical skills to our Health and Care curriculum.
Students are taught by staff from Immerse Training in our simulation facilities in an innovative collaboration that ensures that students are not only qualified but truly career-ready.
With Immerse Training, we’re shaping the future of healthcare, one simulation at a time.
Launch of Cutting-Edge Advanced Engineering Centre
Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, led a ribboncutting ceremony on our state-of-the-art Advanced Engineering Centre in May, marking an exciting milestone in our journey to deliver career-ready skills to local people.
The £1.5 million centre represents significant investment into the future of Engineering education in the region, providing cutting-edge facilities for the delivery of Engineering and Manufacturing qualifications. Equipped with industry-standard technology – including a range of 3D printers, 3D scanners, CNC and Milling machines –the centre is designed to reflect real-world engineering environments and equip students with the skills needed for a successful career in the sector.
Cllr. Earl delivered the closing address in a series of presentations attended by industry professionals, business leaders, and educators. In her speech, she highlighted the critical importance of engineering to the region’s economy and the role of education in inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Guests also heard from David Ford, Chair of the Board at Bournemouth and Poole College, and James Hills, Director of Learning for Engineering and Professional and Public Industries. Both highlighted the college’s forward-looking Vision 2026–2030, which outlines multi-million-pound investments in new facilities and a curriculum shaped by the needs of local and national industry.
The College Enters into Exciting Partnership with Yamaha IMechE Design ChallengeWessex Regional Final
The Marine Engineering team proudly hosted representatives from the Training and Development team of Yamaha Motor Europe, marking the beginning of a promising new partnership aimed at enhancing marine education and strengthening the industry workforce.
As part of this collaboration, Yamaha generously donated a fully sectioned 100hp outboard engine – an invaluable tool that will enhance hands-on learning for our students who regularly work with these engines.
A heartfelt thank you to the team at Yamaha Motor Europe for their continued support and commitment to marine education.
The Institution of Mechnical Engineers (IMechE) Design Challenge 2025, Wessex Regional Final, brought together 55 talented student engineers from Bournemouth and Poole College, Bournemouth University and the University of Southampton at the impressive BattleLab facility.
This year, students were tasked with designing an autonomous vehicle inspired by Port-to-Terminal EV charging solutions, enabling electric vehicles to recharge efficiently without driver intervention. The competition tested their ability to design, build and present solutions that reflect real-world industry challenges.
Our students delivered exceptional performances, securing top positions and advancing to the national competition:
• Concept Level: 1st and 2nd Place
• Foundation Level: 1st and 3rd Place
• Advanced Level: 2nd and 3rd Place
Huge congratulations to all students, staff and judges involved! Your hard work and innovation were truly inspiring.
Bournemouth Campus Redevelopment Project Update
The structure of our brand-new four-storey college building at our Bournemouth Campus is now complete, marking an exciting milestone in the transformative project. Once complete, the development will provide state-of-the-art learning environments for courses in media, digital, business and travel, alongside specialist facilities for community use, including a restaurant, hair and beauty salons, and a fully-equipped gym. Kier, our construction partners, have now entered into the internal fit-out phase of the programme, focussing on mechanical and electrical installations, partitioning and interior finishes.
We are proud to confirm that the build remains firmly on track for completion by 2026. Each stage brings us one step closer to welcoming learners, staff and our wider community into a transformative and dynamic space designed to support modern and innovative education.
Bournemouth Campus Redevelopment Project
Students Thrive in Kier Open Doors Initiative BCP Councillor Mike Cox Visits New Build
In April, we had the privilege of participating in Kier’s ‘Open Doors’ initiative, which provided exclusive access to the active construction site of the Bournemouth Campus Redevelopment Project.
Our construction students gained valuable insights into the industry, receiving an overview of the project’s progress and an in-depth look at various careers opportunities in the sector. A guided tour of the site offered a first-hand perspective of the complexities of the build.
College staff also had the opportunity to explore the site, touring the new building and witnessing the remarkable work being carried out on the iconic Clock Tower.
A huge thank you to Kier for this inspiring and educational experience!
We were delighted to welcome BCP Councillor Mike Cox to our Bournemouth campus in May, where he enjoyed a guided tour of the Bournemouth Campus Redevelopment Project, taking in the new build facility and the heritage restoration of our Grade II listed clock tower.
A huge thank you to our construction partners, Kier, for sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm around the site.
Investing in the Future
‘Studio One’ Proudly Launched by Poole MP, Neil Duncan-Jordan
In February, we proudly marked the grand opening of our cutting-edge recording studio, designed to enhance the learning experience for degree-level music students.
The opening welcomed distinguished guests, including Neil Duncan-Jordan, MP for Poole, who officially inaugurated the new facility alongside his bandmates by recording a track.
‘Studio One’ has been completely rebuilt and now features an impressive line-up of professional grade equipment, including:
• Audient ASP8024 Heritage Edition – A 24-channel largeformat mixing console, handcrafted in Hampshire, UK.
• Antelope Audio Orion 32+ Gen 4 – A state-of-the-art audio interface converter.
• Mac Studio M2 Max (64GB RAM) – Running industryleading software such as Pro Tools and Cubase.
• High-End Monitoring System – Including Genelec 8040, Adam Audio A77H, and an Avantone Mixcube for mono.
• Advanced Outboard Gear – A range of compressors, reverbs, and other professional audio processing tools.
The studio also boasts a dedicated vocal booth within the control room and a 40-square-meter live room complete with a separate drum booth.
Investing in the Future
New Stop-Motion Studio Empowers Aspiring Animators
We are hugely excited to be delivering a bespoke stopmotion animation studio, designed to give our FdA Digital Animation Design and Production students the full experience of a professional workflow, with everything that’s required for modelling and capturing stop-motion work. Stop-motion animation is a unique filmmaking technique in which objects are physically manipulated in small increments and photographed, creating the illusion of movement, much like shorts such as Wallace and Gromit.
The room is part workshop and part stop-motion studio, with students having access to a variety of tools and materials to build their own stop motion puppets and sets. This includes an airbrush booth, a large 3D filament printer and facilities for baking polymer clay, mould making and running foam latex.
There are a total of 8 studio spaces in the main area, with industry-standard lighting equipment, Canon mirrorless cameras and a PC laptop running Dragonframe, the professional stop-motion software used by companies such as Aardman.
Apprentice Success at Dorset Apprenticeship Awards
The remarkable achievements of our apprentices were highlighted at the Dorset Apprenticeship Awards 2025. The annual event, hosted by Dorset Chamber and the Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network (DSTPN), celebrates students across the region for their dedication, talent and commitment to excellence.
As the largest apprenticeship provider in the region, we were hugely proud that several of our apprentices reached the finals.
Morgan Simpson, a Hospitality apprentice at Nusara Thai Fire Kitchen, was awarded Dorset Intermediate Apprentice of the Year. Morgan’s passion for his craft, combined with his consistent academic performance and exceptional customer service - highlighted in multiple TripAdvisor reviews - earned him this distinguished accolade.
In addition to Morgan’s win, several other students were recognised as finalists in their respective categories:
• Jake Thomas, employed by Heatric: Intermediate Apprentice of the Year - Finalist
• Bethany Barber, employed by Ferndown Plus: Supported Internship Award - Finalist
• Isabelle Kearnan, employed by Motion Control Products: Advanced Level Apprenticeship Award - Finalist
• Cassidy Maidment, employed by Charter Tech: Higher Level Apprenticeship Award - Finalist
These outstanding individuals have demonstrated professional aptitude, resilience and a strong commitment to their industries. Their success highlights the vital role that apprenticeships play in shaping future careers.
Graduates of Prestigious Specialised Chefs
Apprenticeship Honoured at
Ceremony
Fifteen exceptional students from our renowned Specialised Chefs Apprenticeship, delivered in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), celebrated completion of their studies with a distinguished graduation ceremony in March.
Since its inception in 1989, the prestigious three-year programme has nurtured aspiring chefs, providing them with unparalleled mentorship from some of the UK’s most esteemed culinary establishments.
The graduation was attended by chefs and representatives from some of the most prestigious establishments in the UK, including The Langham, The Arts Club and Claridge’s Hotel. Their presence underscored the programme’s strong industry connections and the high regard in which these graduates are held.
A testament to the success of this programme, graduates continue to make a significant impact within the industry, with many securing roles as executive chefs and esteemed members of RACA. Alumni of the programme have gone on to build illustrious careers across the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand and Europe, reinforcing the global reach and influence of this exceptional programme.
Student Success
Major Apprenticeship Partnership with Hall & Woodhouse Students Thrive During Speed Interviews
We are delighted to have formed an exciting new partnership with Hall & Woodhouse, that will pave the way for a bespoke apprenticeship programme in Hospitality and Catering.
The programme launched with the first cohort in February, in a 12-month Level 3 Production Chef Apprenticeship specifically designed for Hall & Woodhouse employees, with a second group planned for September.
Combining professional training with hands-on experience, this unique opportunity focusses on the creation of menus from Hall & Woodhouse, prepared with their ingredients and high standards.
This innovative programme was first developed in partnership with the Chichester College Group and has already seen tremendous success. Through collaboration and building upon this foundation, the programme is now set to expand across the South.
The exciting partnership reflects our shared dedication to addressing the local skills gap and adapting qualifications to meet evolving business needs. By combining expertise from both industry and education, we are empowering our students and local people to grow confidently in their careers and the vibrant hospitality sector.
Hall & Woodhouse and the college joined forces in May, to organise an event for their tenants to explore our bespoke apprenticeship offer and engage in ‘speed’ interview sessions with students in the college boardroom.
Students met with pub managers who sounded them out for a career as a chef. Many had already studied their first year at the college, with some also undertaking chef courses.
In all, the 24 learners were invited interview, with a view to gaining either part or full-time work with Hall & Woodhouse business partners, and the opportunity to build their future careers.
Nationwide Building Society Empower Staff with Teacher Training
Nationwide staff received a bespoke training programme at the college, working in partnership to bridge the skills gap. The Level 3 Award in Education was delivered at Nationwide’s offices in Bournemouth, by Helen Fairhall (Senior Team Leader, Teacher Training). She said: “This was an excellent course with excellent candidates who were very highly motivated.”
Students reported feeling extremely confident in applying their new skills, highlighting preparation, planning and engaging learners as key takeaways.
Overall, the course received an excellent rating (5 out of 5) from all respondents; with additional comments praising the tutor and the informative, welcoming environment.
Silver Crane Employees Complete Warehouse Management Course
Employees at the Silver Crane Company celebrated a milestone in their professional development after successfully completing their Warehouse Management course through Bournemouth and Poole College.
The course, undertaken by Silver Crane members, provided essential training in inventory control, logistics and operational efficiency. Through this initiative, employees enhanced their expertise in managing warehouse operations, ensuring the company continues to uphold its reputation for quality and excellence.
Rob Goodman said: “We are incredibly proud of our staff for their dedication and hard work in completing this course. At Silver Crane, we believe in giving our employees opportunities to grow, not just for the benefit of the business but for their own personal and professional development. This achievement is a testament to their commitment and our ongoing investment in training.”
News Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP) Launched to Drive Sustainable Construction
We are proud to have reinforced our commitment to sustainability by launching a new Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP – Dorset). The panel, which held its inaugural meeting on 15th July, brings together local industry leaders and experts to shape the future of green construction across the region.
upcoming Green Energy Centre, set to open in September 2025, which will serve as a dedicated hub for green technology training and innovation.
GSAP is part of a national initiative Founded by Mike Blakley and Luke Moss From Exeter College with national chairing from the Rt Hon Robert Halfon and aimed at driving forward sustainable practices in the building, housing and construction sectors. The Dorset panel included 17 members, representing a diverse mix of employers, architects, electrical firms, and SMEs. All members work within these key sectors and bring practical insight and leadership to the table. We are delighted and honoured to have been given the responsibility of pulling this together.
The event featured key updates from Julie O’Carroll, Director of Business Development, who outlined the panel’s mission, strategic goals, and the importance of industry collaboration in building a green talent pipeline.
This was followed by a lively Q&A session with GSAP Dorset Chair, Joe Paine, Managing Director of Suttles Projects. Guests also enjoyed an exclusive tour of the college’s
The launch of the GSAP follows closely on the heels of the college’s signing of the Clean Energy Charter, part of the BCP Coastal Energy Partnership. The charter reflects a shared commitment among local leaders and sustainability experts to reduce carbon emissions, promote clean energy jobs, and position the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area as a hub for green investment and innovation.
T-Level Digital Foundation Students Take on Real-World Design Brief with Worksity
Seventeen T Level Digital Foundation students recently took part in a dynamic, six-day employer-led project with Amin Pasandideh from Worksity, tackling real-world challenges in Graphic and Web Design. The high-impact brief, delivered in line with Department for Education (DfE) guidance for Foundation T Levels, gave students an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom learning to real business needs.
Working in teams, students designed and refined branding and web solutions using industry tools such as Photopea, Canva, and Photoshop. They were challenged to interpret live briefs, meet deadlines using time-management tools like Toggl, and pitch their ideas professionally.
The winning team, selected for their creativity, attention to detail, and strong pitch, received a £250 prize (£50 per student), recognising their standout work.
Throughout the project, students developed a range of technical, practical, and professional skills including:
• Design principles such as layout, typography, and colour
• HTML/CSS basics and understanding of file formats
• Audience-focused design thinking
• Effective collaboration, communication, and responsiveness to feedback
Amin Pasandideh praised the students’ approach:
“The students developed strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities. They were fast learners, open to feedback, and eager to improve. It gave me deeper insight into our users, students, which will help improve our platform.”
This project exemplifies the college’s commitment to employer engagement and preparing students for future placements and careers in the digital sector.
Silver Award Win: Best Place to Work!
Starting the year with a bang, Bournemouth and Poole College was presented with the ‘silver’ award for the category of ‘Best Place to Work’ at the Bournemouth Business Awards. The citation stated: “this organisation is truly more than just a workplace, but a real community where everyone can thrive professionally and personally.”
Michelle Foston (Head of People Services) and Debbie Smith (Chief People Officer) were both greatly privileged to collect the accolade, with Debbie commenting: “It was lovely to hear from so many of the award winners that they either have had apprentices who have trained with us in the past or are currently working with us to train apprentices. Several told us that they themselves had started their careers, and ultimately their businesses, by attending our college as students or apprentices! It was a truly lovely afternoon, to accept the award on behalf of all of our staff.”
Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge Raises Money for Dorset Mind
In May, a team of 18 colleagues took on the ‘Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge’, raising vital funds for Dorset Mind.
The 59km challenge, featuring over 1700m of elevation, led the team through the Purbeck Hills before a final descent into Weymouth. First across the line was Michelle Linz, coming in at just under 8.5 hours, with others following over the course of the following hours.
The team raised over £8,580 for Dorset Mind, helping to fund mental health support throughout the county.
Exploring Lisbon: A Life-Changing Experience for Students through the Turing Scheme
Earlier this year, a group of our students had the incredible opportunity to travel to Lisbon, Portugal, as part of the Turing scheme; a UK government programme that supports international work and study placements.
Over the course of a fortnight, a selection of our Travel & Tourism and Art & Design students experienced transformational growth, building confidence, resilience, independence and lasting friendships. Beyond sightseeing, the trip was designed to give students meaningful real-world experience. Each student was placed in a local work experience setting, gaining insight into different industries and practising workplace skills such as communication, teamwork and adaptability. This was complemented by Portuguese language lessons and budget management, activities that encouraged responsibility and cooperation. We are immensely proud of all of our students, whose curiosity and courage made the trip a resounding success.
Sell-Out Success for Apprenticeships Unlocked
Our annual Apprenticeships Unlocked event was a resounding success, attracting a record crowd to the Pavilion Theatre a week before National Apprenticeships Week. With tickets selling out a week in advance, the event highlighted the growing enthusiasm for workplace training and career development within the region.
The event provided prospective students with the opportunity to directly engage with top local businesses from a diverse range of industries, including Sunseeker, RNLI, LUSH and Curtiss-Wright. College staff were also on hand to offer expert guidance on how apprenticeships serve as a powerful springboard for career progression.
First Careers Lead Event at Bournemouth and Poole College
Guiding Futures
Careers Lead College Event
Our relationships with our schools and local authorities are invaluable to empowering the next generation of learners and so it was fantastic to welcome so many local careers professionals to our college in January, for our first Careers Lead Event.
Careers Leads play a vital role in shaping the future of young people, by overseeing and developing careers education programmes within their schools. They provide students with the information, advice and guidance they need to make confident and informed choices about their next steps. During the event, our guests had the opportunity to hear about college and curriculum updates, tour our fantastic facilities and gain insights into the latest developments in education and careers.
Gold Sponsors of Careers and Apprenticeship Show
The Careers and Apprenticeship Show (CAS) gives our local young people the opportunity to learn about careers, apprenticeships, training and job routes. We are at the very heart of this and were thereby proud to welcome thousands of young people to our centrepiece display. Our interactive exhibits showcased hands-on experiences across several curriculum areas, allowing students to engage with industry-relevant technology:
• Digital and Computing: A robot arm, 360-degree cameras, and a banana keyboard, all demonstrated by our talented T Level Digital Support Services students.
• Health and Care: Blood pressure monitors, thermometers and a responsive medical manikin, bringing healthcare training to life.
• Engineering: A VR soldering arm offering an immersive technical experience.
• Esports and Media: A student-created video designed to inspire and inform peers.
Success at College’s First ‘Taster Week’
Prospective students were given an insight into life at the college as part of our first ‘Taster Week’; a 3-day event that allowed attendees to ‘try-out’ the course area of interest to them.
Whilst prospective students engaged in practical sessions designed to show what studying at the college is really like, parents were invited to discuss any queries with college staff, as representatives from Student Experience, Apprenticeships, T Levels, Careers and Guidance, Applications and Work Experience were on-hand throughout the afternoon.
The event was a great success, sparking excitement and confidence and among future learners and their families.
