Making Waves (Autumn 2024) by West Thames College

Dear reader,

The start of the academic year has been a very busy one, with a lot of exciting news and achievements in the College, some of which we have the opportunity to share with you in this edition of Making Waves.

Our year got off to a great start back in August as we celebrated the success of our students in their GCSEs, T Levels and Technical/Vocational qualifications, many of whom secured high grades and deservedly so. We are very proud of them all. This theme of success continued as we went on to celebrate the achievement of one of our IT apprentices, Aaron Barnett, employed by Dnata, who was awarded ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the National Institute of Courier Awards. I’d like to congratulate Aaron on his success at being recognised at a national level, and I look forward to seeing him progress in his career in the Digital/Logistics sector.

In September, we were delighted that the College was awarded the Matrix Standard following our successful Matrix inspection. This award recognised the outstanding quality of our Information, Advice, and Guidance provision and it was a real team effort. Congratulations to all!

In October, we launched our Logistics Skills + Careers Hub, marking a significant milestone in advancing the priority sector of Logistics in West London. We had the pleasure of being joined by Seema Malhotra, MP for Feltham and Heston

WELCOME TO WEST THAMES COLLEGE.

TRACY AUST, CEO & PRINCIPAL, WELCOMES YOU TO OUR MAKING WAVES – AUTUMN EDITION!

and Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office) and Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Education) Equalities; Heathrow Airport’s Chief of Staff Nigel Milton; Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Cabinet Member for Education, Children, Skills and Employment; the Logistics Employer Board members alongside a range of other stakeholders as well as students from both the Isleworth campus and the Skills + Logistics Centre. I would like to personally thank everyone for attending and supporting this event.

We’ve also been catching up with former students including an ex Project SEARCH graduate, Ian Friel. Ian’s journey from our supported internship programme with GSK to his current supervisory role, working at PWC in Canary Wharf, is an incredible one and all credit to Ian. What a fantastic ambassador he is.

Our ESOL students have also been busy this term, helping out in the community. They have been making a positive contribution to local conservation efforts, while building their employability skills and their practical skills, in local green spaces in Hounslow.

As ever, we have packed plenty into this edition of Making Waves, and we really hope you enjoy reading it.

WEST THAMES COLLEGE STUDENTS EXCEL IN A SUMMER OF SUCCESS

West Thames College is extremely proud of the exceptional achievements of our GCSE, BTEC and T Level students following the release of results.

Several students reached the highest level of success by achieving top honours in their GCSE, T Level, and BTEC qualifications. This recognition represents a major academic achievement for those who sat their exams.

Among them was Arzoo, a GCSE Maths student who proudly attained a Grade 5 in her results.

Reflecting on her success, she shared: “There were times when I doubted myself, but I kept reminding myself that perseverance is key. My advice to future students is to stay focused, believe in yourself, and push through challenges. If I can do it, so can you!”

CEO & Principal Tracy Aust commented: “I am incredibly proud of each and every one of our students. Their hard work and commitment have really paid off and they thoroughly deserve

to celebrate their success. They have bright futures ahead and I look forward to hearing of their continued achievements as they embark on the next exciting step of their journeys.”

The results from our BTEC and T Level programmes have seen our students excel at the highest levels, and as we reflect on our students’ outstanding achievements, West Thames College will continue to offer unparalleled opportunities for academic and vocational advancement to achieve even greater results in the academic years to come.

For more information about our English and Maths courses

AARON BARNETT TAKES TOP HONOUR NATIONAL COURIER AWARDS

In a showcase of exceptional talent emerging from the UK’s logistics sector, West Thames College’s ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award winner Aaron Barnett, was honoured at the Institute of Couriers’ National Courier Awards 2024, where he gained national apprentice recognition for next generation in logistics.

A promising apprentice in IT solutions at Dnata Logistics, Aaron was commended for his remarkable contribution to the field, and his recognition as the ‘best of the best’ logistics apprentice reflects his commitment to excellence.

Dnata Logistics, has a longstanding reputation as a global air and travel services provider, supporting over 30 countries worldwide. Aaron’s achievement, therefore, exemplifies the company’s dedication to fostering talent that can contribute to the dynamic and essential logistics sector.

Aaron’s award not only highlights his own potential but also shines a light on the invaluable education provided by institutions like West Thames College, which continue to nurture talent for the evolving logistics landscape.

The National Courier Awards once again highlighted the importance of investing in young talent, and Aaron’s success story offers inspiration for the next generation of logistics professionals.

To find out more about logistics please visit our Logistics page on our website.

Image credit: Institute of Couriers

WEST THAMES COLLEGE ACHIEVES MATRIX STANDARD ACCREDITATION

West Thames College is proud to announce that it has been awarded the matrix standard, in recognition of the outstanding quality of its Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) services. This accolade underscores the College’s ongoing commitment to supporting students not only in their academic pursuits but also in their personal development and career aspirations.

Director of Student Experience, Samantha Louisy, commented: “This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team. It reinforces our mission to support students in reaching their full potential and achieving their career goals.”

The matrix Standard is an internationally recognised quality benchmark for organisations offering information and guidance services. By achieving this accreditation, West Thames College has demonstrated excellence in leadership, service provision, and continuous improvement, ensuring that students receive the highest level of support.

Roger Chapman, Head of the matrix Service for The Growth Company, congratulated the College on its achievement, noting: “This is a fantastic accomplishment for West Thames College. Their leadership and focus on continuous improvement reflect their commitment to delivering the best possible support to students.”

West Thames College remains committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and empowering learning environment for all its students.

THE ASSESSMENT HIGHLIGHTED SEVERAL KEY STRENGTHS AT THE COLLEGE: :

• Inclusivity and Diversity: The College’s commitment to celebrating cultural diversity and supporting students with additional educational needs was praised, with the annual Culture Day recognised as a particularly successful initiative.

• Student-Centred Support: The welcoming and supportive environment at West Thames College was evident, with students frequently describing the College as “comfortable” and “inclusive”.

• Employability Focus: The College’s strong engagement with employers and focus on employability skills ensures that students are well-prepared for the workforce.

For more information, visit our Support & Guidance page.

THE LOGISTICS SKILLS + CAREERS HUB

OFFICIAL LAUNCH AT WEST THAMES COLLEGE’S SKILLS + LOGISTICS CENTRE

On 17 October 2024, the Logistics Skills + Careers Hub officially opened at West Thames College’s Skills + Logistics Centre in Feltham, marking a significant milestone in advancing the logistics industry in the region. Aimed at bridging skills gaps and fostering innovation, the hub serves as a collaborative effort between logistics employers and the College.

The event brought together key figures in logistics, including representatives from major West London operators and industry leaders. We had the pleasure to be joined by Seema Malhotra, MP for Feltham and Heston and Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office) and Parliamentary UnderSecretary (Department of Education) Equalities; Heathrow Airport’s Chief of Staff Nigel Milton; Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Cabinet Member for Education, Children, Skills and Employment; the Logistics Employer Board members alongside a range of other stakeholders as well as students from the Isleworth Campus and the Skills + Logistics Centre.

CEO & Principal of West Thames College, Tracy Aust, welcomed attendees to the event saying: “Today marks a significant milestone for West Thames College as we launch the Logistics

Skills + Careers Hub, an initiative that will play a pivotal role in addressing the skills gaps within the logistics sector. Through this hub, we aim to equip our students not only with the technical knowledge, behaviours and skills necessary to meet the demands of employers but also those key employability skills and this is particularly important in a region where logistics is a key driver of the local economy. Our geographical proximity to Heathrow places us in a logistics hotspot, and we are committed to ensuring that our students have access to high-paid, high-skilled jobs in this vital industry.”

“This hub is not only about training students but also about fostering collaboration between education, business, and the wider community. By working closely with logistics employers, we can help them recruit to those hard-to-fill vacancies while

simultaneously supporting local economic productivity and growth as well as impacting positively on social mobility. The Logistics Skills + Careers Hub will showcase the numerous career opportunities available in logistics, demonstrating to young people why this sector is such a promising option for their future.”

Highlights of the launch included a vehicle showcase featuring the latest in electric and gas-powered transport technology, and a recruitment fair aimed at connecting employers with local talent.

MP for Feltham and Heston Seema Malhotra added: “This Logistics Skills + Careers Hub isn’t just a local success story; it’s part of a global narrative. The sector plays a crucial role in the movement of goods, the fulfilment of businesses, and the overall growth of world trade. Through this hub, we are enabling local people, both young and old, to be part of this global story, whether they are seeking new opportunities to retrain or just embarking on their careers. The hub is essential for connecting our local economy with international markets, and I’m incredibly proud of how West Thames College and its partners are leading the way in making this a reality.”

Attendees participated in a masterclass Exploring the Future Vision for Logistics 2030, where industry leaders shared insights and discussed strategies for sustainable growth. The masterclass forms part of an ongoing dialogue to shape the future of logistics, with input from employers, educators, and policymakers alike.

Chief of Staff at Heathrow Airport, Nigel Milton who is also their Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer said in his masterclass: “Heathrow is not only the world’s bestconnected passenger airport, but it also plays a vital role as the UK’s most valuable port, with £200 billion worth of goods passing through each year. The logistics industry is essential to our country’s economy, and it is incredibly exciting to see the launch of the Logistics Skills + Careers Hub, which will help bridge the gap between education and industry. The hub will guide young people, as well as older workers, toward the many opportunities that exist within logistics and support recruitment efforts in a rapidly growing sector.”

“We look forward to seeing how the Hub will inspire future talent and contribute to the broader success of both local and national logistics.”

One of our local employers who attended the launch was Dawson’s Group, Colin Burrows, General Manager for Dawson Group Truck and Trailer, who said: “Events like today for young people are vital in this industry. Having the companies here today can demonstrate company requirements and provide guidance to students that are looking to work in logistics. It also shows the variation within the industry, and all the employers here play a part, big or small, when things are ordered online to when it is delivered. Hopefully today’s event will open a lot of doors. The students have been very engaged and keen – which is really nice to see.”

The new Hub will support the development of skills in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management, crucial to the economic future of West London. The Logistics Skills + Careers Hub aims to provide young people and adults looking to train or upskill within the logistics sector with opportunities, focusing on addressing the skills gap and aligning training with employer demands. In addition, the Hub will host career events and recruitment drives, increasing accessibility and awareness of the sector within the local community.

This is a really exciting journey that we are on and as the Logistics Skills + Careers Hub continues to grow, it promises to be a key driver of innovation and skills development in this crucial priority sector, ensuring that West London remains at the forefront of the logistics Economy. At the heart of this lies successful collaboration and today’s launch was a fantastic example of real collaboration in practice.

For further information about the Logistics Skills + Careers Hub, please visit

“We look forward to seeing how the Hub will inspire future talent and contribute to the broader success of both local and national logistics.”

IAN’S JOURNEY: A CATCH-UP WITH A PROJECT SEARCH GRADUATE

In 2012, Ian joined Project SEARCH, a young man uncertain of his future, grappling with self-doubt and no prior experience in paid employment. Fast forward to today, Ian’s transformation is nothing short of remarkable. From his humble beginnings doing work experience in a bike shop - to his current role as a supervisor at Price Waterhouse Coopers in Canary Wharf, Ian’s journey embodies resilience, growth, and the power of perseverance.

Reflecting on his time with Project SEARCH, Ian recalls his initial apprehension: “Without the support from Project SEARCH, I probably wouldn’t have made it as far as I have. The tutor and job coach played a pivotal role in giving me the confidence to face each day’s challenges.”

Through his work placements, Ian gained crucial life skills. His initial role in the bike shop helped him develop his customer service skills, but it was his time in GlaxoSmithKline’s (GSK) meeting rooms’ reception that truly shaped his professional trajectory. Here, Ian embraced the challenge of stepping into a more formal role, overcoming his reservations about wearing

smart attire and excelling in a customer-facing position. His success did not come without obstacles. Ian faced significant health challenges during his internship and struggled with independent living. However, with strong pastoral support, he recovered and thrived, eventually securing a permanent position at GSK.

Transitioning from Project SEARCH to full-time employment was not without its difficulties. Ian admits, “Taking that first step into the world of work is never easy, but if you take it one step at a time and lean on your support network—whether friends or family—it becomes smoother.”

Now, as a supervisor at a global firm, Ian offers valuable advice to current Project SEARCH students: “Ask lots of questions and always take on new responsibilities and challenges. This is what allows you to grow. And when that voice inside your head says, ‘I can’t do it,’ don’t listen. The world’s yours for the taking.”

disabilities in gaining meaningful employment. It provides immersive workplace experiences through internships, paired with comprehensive training and coaching. The goal is to help participants build critical employability skills, increase their independence, and secure competitive employment. With over 75% of graduates securing jobs, Project SEARCH is a proven pathway for success in the working world.

Ian’s journey illustrates how, with the right support and determination, it’s possible to rise above challenges and achieve long-term success. His story serves as an inspiration for all students embarking on their own career paths through Project SEARCH and West Thames College.

For further information about Project SEARCH Programme

ESOL VIPS TAKE LEARNING OUTDOORS WITH GREEN GYM INITIATIVE

In June 2024 West Thames College launched a partnership with the Lampton Group when Level 1 Preemployment ESOL students ventured out on the first Place-making Project in Jersey Gardens - Green Gym, also known as ViPs – Volunteers in Parks.

This academic year we have resumed our engagement with the Lampton Group, and our collaboration is branching out across other student groups and levels, as well as to other areas in the borough, such as Hounslow Heath Nature Reserve.

In ESOL Adult, two large groups of pre-entry students with lecturers Hayat and Olcay, have now had a chance to contribute to and benefit from the initiative, which allows our students to gain real-world experience and boost their personal growth.

Green Gym involves a social action project, which synergises themes of sustainability, wellbeing, employability, and active citizenship. The main objective of the project is to enhance biodiversity as well as make local parklands more accessible by restoring and transforming public green spaces, to enable more local residents to unwind outdoors.

The partnership allows our students to make a positive impact by contributing to the local conservation work as well as public wellness. At the same time, they are able to further their own knowledge of their surroundings, reinforcing their grasp of shared values, honing their soft skills, applying their growing communication skills in a real-life context, and broadening their understanding of working in the green industry, one of the priority sectors in London’s economy.

confidence, acquire new vocabulary related to nature, and learn practical skills using horticultural equipment.

This outreach activity also strengthens our students’ sense of belonging and deepens their engagement with the local community, thus contributing to social cohesion. Furthermore, students acquire hands-on technical know-how by being trained to use horticultural equipment and various land maintenance techniques.

Lastly, students learn to appreciate how immersing themselves in nature can benefit their wellbeing. They enjoyed the tranquil beauty of Jersey Gardens, nestled in the heart of Isleworth. This miniature park, one of the Isleworth outdoor treasures, offers a rejuvenating outdoor experience with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere. The students also embarked on an invigorating journey through the expansive splendour of Hounslow Heath, and explored its diverse habitat where the vibrant hues of autumn set in. The Heath is a part of the Green Belt and a Site of Nature Conservation Importance - one of London’s largest statutory nature reserves, and the last remnant of the vast heath that once covered this area.

Reflecting on the experience, ESOL lecturer Olcay noted the unique opportunity the project provided for students to gain

She shared: “I took my ESOL pre-entry students on an outdoor adventure with Hounslow’s Green Gym, where we helped save a rare plant. Green Gym promotes well-being through light exercise and environmental conservation, making it a great fit for my students.”

“We focused on protecting a rare plant, “heater,” which was under threat from invasive weeds. The students learned how to identify it and carefully worked around it while removing the weeds. Though challenging, they used gardening tools and gained new English words related to nature, like “trowel” and “ecosystem.”

“For many, it was their first-time gardening, and it boosted their confidence. The experience also gave them the chance to practice English by talking with volunteers and each other in a relaxed, real-world setting.”

This collaboration with the Lampton Group is more than a conservation effort, it is a platform for growth, fostering a stronger sense of belonging among students while equipping them with skills relevant to a greener, more sustainable London.

AT THE FOREFRONT OF SKILLS DEVELOPMENT - LSIF UPDATE

At West Thames College, we are proud to be at the heart of the conversation surrounding skills development and education in West London. The release of the West London Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Progress Report marks an important milestone in aligning the needs of local employers with the skills provided by educational institutions. This process directly benefits the local economy and workforce.

The report outlines the significant strides made since the plan’s introduction in January 2023. These efforts have paved the way for a robust collaboration between employers, educational providers, and local authorities, focusing on critical industries such as creative roles, health and social care, hospitality, and logistics.

Notably, West Thames College has played a key role in these initiatives, working closely with the West London Business (WLB) and other partners to ensure the plan’s success.

Reflecting on this progress, Tracy Aust, CEO & Principal, of West Thames College and Chair of the West London FE Principals Group, emphasised the importance of strengthening relationships between Further Education (FE) institutions and local employers:

“The LSIP process has been welcomed by the FE sector in West London as an opportunity to reinvigorate relationships with local employers in priority sectors. The subsequent Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) has also presented a great opportunity for FE to invest in realigning provision with local business needs.

We’ve worked hard to build relationships with businesses, engaging with many new employer voices to develop and

shape advisory boards in the priority sectors of logistics, health and social care, and food and drink manufacturing.

These FE/employer advisory boards work to address the unique skills challenges in the sector and ensure curriculum development is relevant for today’s and the future’s workforce. Creating physical skills hubs for Retail and Logistics further supports residents to find and keep good local jobs in two of our sub-region’s most important sectors.

The excellent partnership working in West London has put us in a great position to continue to deliver on LSIP priorities, and we look forward to leading the way on skills.”

Tracy’s words reflect the core values of West Thames College— dedication to fostering meaningful partnerships and driving educational innovation that directly serves our community. The creation of new skills hubs and advisory boards, coupled with the LSIP’s focus on aligning education with business needs, has already resulted in tangible benefits for West London residents. These efforts demonstrate how local education can serve as a powerful tool for both economic recovery and social mobility.

WEST THAMES COLLEGE PARTNERS WITH ST MARY’S UNIVERSITY TO SUPPORT PERFORMING ARTS STUDENTS

West Thames College is proud to announce a dynamic partnership with St Mary’s University Twickenham, designed to enhance the educational experience for students pursuing a career in the performing arts.

The initiative will see St Mary’s University offering tailored support, including preUCAS advice and masterclasses, for West Thames College students, aiming to help them seamlessly transition from BTEC courses to university-level study.

This year, 16 talented students from the College have been selected to participate in this initiative, receiving the distinguished title of ‘associate artists’ within the School of Liberal and Creative Arts at St Mary’s University.

This collaboration will provide Performing Arts students at West Thames College with expert guidance, audition preparation, and a comprehensive introduction to higher education opportunities.

West Thames College will also host touring performances from St Mary’s, expanding its engagement with the wider arts community.

Veronica Sarno, Lecturer in Performing Arts at West Thames College, shared what she felt is special about the partnership: “I think it’s great because the aim after level three is to go to university, and having someone who can guide and nourish them through that process— preparing them for university and providing a safe space—is invaluable. St Mary’s is very much like us in how they look after students, ensuring each person is supported in achieving their goals.”

She added that students can look forward to gaining valuable work experience through the partnership, such as shadowing stage managers and observing rehearsals in a professional university setting. She also mentioned that the students would have the opportunity to see their work come to life, which could inspire them to become part of future productions they admire.

“What excites me the most is seeing both sides—how we prepare students and how they transition to higher education. It’s beautiful to witness the whole process. I’m also excited because the people at St Mary’s really love what they do, and we share that passion. They understand the importance of classical work and text,

“People at St Mary’s really love what they do, and we share that passion.”

which is something that’s being lost, but they are nurturing that with their students.”

Mark Griffin, Subject Lead for Partnerships at St Mary’s University, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “I was really impressed by the focus and creativity of the students I met. It was a brilliant first session. The students were so engaged, and they were really keen to invest in the work.” He looks forward to the upcoming sessions at St Mary’s Theatre, where students will experience a university drama setting firsthand.

This partnership exemplifies West Thames College’s commitment to offering students high-quality educational experiences and preparing them for success in higher education and creative industries.

For more information about our Performing Arts courses

BRITISH AIRWAYS INSPIRES ASPIRING AVIATION PROFESSIONALS AT WEST THAMES COLLEGE

In October, West Thames College had the pleasure of welcoming JR Graham, Emerging Talent Partner at British Airways, to engage with our Aviation Operations students. The event, held at our Isleworth campus, provided students with invaluable insights into the opportunities available within the aviation industry, focusing on how they could embark on a career with one of the world’s leading airlines.

JR Graham’s visit aimed to attract young talent to British Airways by offering information on apprenticeships, graduate roles, and ambassador programmes. “My role is to basically bring British Airways to you,” he told the students. “I’ve been told that many of you are interested in careers in aviation, which is fantastic.”

The visit offered our students the chance to explore a range of career pathways. When asked about apprenticeships at British Airways, Graham’s passion for developing young talent was evident. “I’ve worked with young people for quite a long time now,” he said. “I’m really passionate about upskilling and developing you guys into being the best versions of yourselves.”

West Thames College’s Aviation Operations Level 3 course prepares students for a dynamic career in aviation, equipping

them with vital skills in airport operations, passenger handling, and aviation security.

This visit from JR Graham allowed students to connect their classroom knowledge with real-world opportunities. The course, designed with industry professionals, ensures our students are well-prepared with the skills they need to join reputable organisations like British Airways.

As part of our ongoing commitment to enriching our students’ experience, West Thames College regularly hosts industry experts across a range of disciplines. These valuable interactions provide students with practical insights and realworld connections, helping to bridge the gap between their studies and future careers.

For further information about our Aviation courses

INTRODUCING OUR NEW STUDENT GOVERNOR

We are delighted to announce the appointment of our new student governor and Level 3 Media student, Haaniya Abdul Hakkeem, who brings both enthusiasm and a passion for student representation to the role.

Haaniya is a dedicated and driven individual, actively involved in various college activities and initiatives, giving her a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our college community.

With her enthusiasm for personal and professional growth, she is excited to bring the voices of her fellow students to the forefront.

“I am passionate about making a positive impact within my college community. As student governor, I’m committed to ensuring that student concerns and ideas are heard at the decision-making level,” she shared.

Her proactive approach, combined with her curiosity and collaborative nature, will make her a powerful advocate for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.

Beyond her role as governor, she has a keen interest in the Film & TV industry, bringing with her fundamental skills in DaVinci Resolve, DSLR camera operation, and digital sound recording. Her passion for directing, editing, and set design reflects the creativity and initiative she brings to every challenge.

The role of a student governor is vital in ensuring that the student body is well-represented at the highest levels of decision-making. By voicing student concerns, promoting initiatives, and shaping policies, the student governor plays a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience for all.

We look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly make in this important role.

COLLEGE NOMINATED FOR THE ROYAL PALACES SUPERBLOOM CHALLENGE

West Thames College’s Supported Learning department is thrilled to announce its nomination for the prestigious Royal Palaces Superbloom challenge. This remarkable initiative offers students with diverse physical and learning disabilities an opportunity to transform the College’s garden into a sensory and educational haven.

Hannah Coller, Lead Student Support Assistant in Supported Learning at the College, attended a training course at the Tower of London in October, where she received the project’s guidelines. Now serving as the project’s coordinator, Hannah is spearheading the transformation of the onsite garden into three unique sections: a sensory garden, a wildlife wood walk, and an allotment.

In a call for support, Hannah shared, “We are reaching out to local gardening centres, companies, and shops for donations to complete this project. If successful, we could be invited to participate again next year.”

The garden aims to create a safe, sensory space where students can thrive and develop essential skills for the future. This challenge is not only a creative endeavour but also an inspiring demonstration of inclusivity in education. For further information or to contribute to this meaningful project, please contact Hannah Coller at Hannah.Coller@west-thames.ac.uk.