Peterborough and Stamford, Thriving Together



INSPIRE EDUCATION GROUP CHAMPIONS SOCIAL JUSTICE AT PETERBOROUGH CITIZENS ASSEMBLY
Inspire Education Group (IEG) was proud to be involved in the Peterborough Citizens Accountability Assembly at Queen Katharine Academy. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for our staff to connect with local decision-makers and influencers to discuss key issues affecting our city, including local campaigns and the upcoming General Election.
The Assembly offered a thought-provoking space to gain a deeper understanding of how Peterborough Citizens is shaping the city’s social justice agenda. IEG’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator, Charlotte Akester, even took to the stage as a speaker, introducing the impactful “It’s Not Banter” campaign.
CENTRE FOR GREEN TECHNOLOGY REACHES ANOTHER MILESTONE AS FIRST OPERATION TO ENCLOSE BUILDING COMPLETE
The Centre for Green Technology (CGT) project at Peterborough College reached another milestone. Clegg Construction have completed the installation of the SFS (building inner cladding system) onto the building. This is the first operation of enclosing the building ready for its fit out.
The next month ahead is exciting, as we expect to see glazing, steelwork, roof and brickwork progressing before internal fit outs gather momentum. This state-ofthe-art facility is poised to become a hub for green technology education and skills development, preparing future generations for careers in sustainability.
The construction of the CGT is a true testament to collaborative funding efforts. The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) played a vital role, allocating £2.471 million through the Transforming Cities Fund.
Charlotte further highlighted IEG’s commitment to tackling social issues by outlining the Group’s initiatives, such as the implementation of an Anti-Racism Training programme and a thorough review of policies and procedures to address covert racism, bullying, and harassment. IEG remains dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment within its schools and across the wider community.
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This commitment was further strengthened by a £400,000 contribution from the Local Growth Fund. Additionally, Peterborough City Council provided a crucial £1.9 million package through the Towns Fund.
The Centre will welcome students to an innovative curriculum developed by Peterborough College in collaboration with employers. The programme focuses on modern and emerging construction methods, alternative heat sources, and electric vehicle technology, ensuring graduates possess the necessary skills to thrive in high-growth industries.

INSPIRE EDUCATION GROUP INVESTS IN STAFF TO MEET INDUSTRY DEMAND FOR GREEN SKILLS
Taking a forward-thinking approach to shaping the next generation of trade professionals, Inspire Education Group (IEG) has made significant investments in the continuous professional development of staff to ensure Construction, Engineering and Motor Vehicle Lecturers are well-versed with the green skills demanded by the modern work place.
Recently, Plumbing staff participated in a session led by heating equipment supplier, Warmflow, that focused on the installation, maintenance and fault finding of Air Source Heat Pumps. Meanwhile, Stamford College’s Motor Vehicle staff engaged with the IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, who discussed engine mechanical lubrication and cooling systems, vehicle lighting and advanced driver assistance.
STAMFORD COLLEGE STUDENTS RECOGNISED IN ILFORD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
Katie McLair, Level 3 Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication – Photography and Video student of Stamford College, has been crowned the ILFORD Photo International Student Photographer of the Year 2023/24, for her work titled ‘Wildflower Barn’. Fellow student, Katie Hammond, also advanced to the final round of judging, with her submission, ‘Companionship’.
Katie McLair’s winning entry portrays her grandfather and his partner, seated at their family farm. “I initially found the brief of ‘Home’ challenging, but I soon grasped an understanding of how I wanted to present this. To me, home is where your family is. I have fond memories of spending time at the farm when I was little, and it makes me feel safe”, she shared. Meanwhile, ‘Companionship’ depicts Midge, Katie Hammond’s family pet.
At the Peterborough campus, Engineering staff enjoyed a site visit to Howden: A Chart Industries Company, who offered valuable first-hand updates on engineering practices. IEG remains committed to investing in staff development, ensuring that learners receive the expertise and qualifications highly valued by local and national industry employers. IEG extends its gratitude to its devoted staff and industry partners for their unwavering dedication to student success.

“I love animals, so she was the perfect subject! I’ve learnt a lot about lighting techniques during my time at College, so I used a lighting set-up at home to pick out the texture of her fur, and the sparkle in her eyes”.
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