THE MAGAZINE FOR EMPLOYERS FROM STAFFORDSHIRE'S LEADING TRAINING PROVIDER
ISSUE 4 | FEBRUARY 2020
CELEBRATING THE SUCCESS OF OUR APPRENTICES
EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHTS
LATEST NEWS FROM THE WORLD OF FURTHER EDUCATION AND APPRENTICESHIPS 2 | LEADING EDGE LEADING EDGE | 3
LEADING EDGE BUILD YOUR BUSINESS WITH STAFFORDSHIRE’S LEADING COLLEGE
A very warm welcome to the latest edition of Leading Edge magazine, designed to bring you the latest news, views and updates from Staffordshire’s most successful further education provider.
2019 was an incredible year for Newcastle and once again placing NSCG as the leading college Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG). In November, provider in the region. we became the first further education college in England to be graded OUTSTANDING in However, we do not stand still and as such every category of the recently reformed Ofsted 2020 promises to be another exciting year Education Inspection Framework, in addition, for the Group. We look forward to our we were ranked in second place nationally in the stakeholder partnerships going from strength NICDEX league tables, which measure student to strength, seeing our plans for large-scale and employer satisfaction and progression. capital development coming to fruition and of course, continuing to provide first class training Alongside this, we continued to maintain and education to support the many regional excellent outcomes for our work-based learners employers we work closely with. and employer partners, with achievement rates tracking at 11% ahead of the national average, We look forward to working with you in 2020.
CONTENTS CONTACT
Welcome to Our World 4 Call us on: Newcastle Office Stafford Office Meet the Management Team 5 01782 254287 01785 275660 Recruiting an Apprentice 6
Guest Editor Spotlight 8 Email us at: [email protected] OFSTED Outstanding 10
Celebrating Success 11 Or visit our website: www.nscg.ac.uk Case Studies 12-21 Briggs Equipment University Hospital North Midlands Aimee Nicole St. Wulstan's Catholic Primary School STAY SOCIAL
News and Events 22 Keep up to date with everything at NSCG on our social media channels Celebration Awards 24
Hire our Facilities 26
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NSCG WELCOME TO OUR WORLD
The Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) formed in November 2016, following the merger between Newcastle-under-Lyme College and Stafford College.
Today, the Group is a national force to be reckoned We will visit your work place and help you to analyse with, Staffordshire’s largest and most successful further your training and staff development needs and will education provider and one of the most successful provide bespoke solutions and recommendations colleges in the country. Our campuses provide a friendly based on your specific objectives, challenges and future welcome, with first class facilities and a dedicated staff ambitions. We’ll help you navigate through the maze of team who put student success at the heart of everything government initiatives, funding options and legislation, NSCG that they do. giving clear and impartial advice at every stage of the process. We are proud of our award winning work-based learning team who work collaboratively with both large and small When you choose NSCG, you can be confident you have MEET THE TEAM employers to support employee development, business selected a trusted training partner who will help you growth and prosperity. deliver measurable results. Our Work-Based Learning team have a wealth of industry experience and are committed to providing first-class support, advice and communication from the first moment we engage with a business.
Supported by a 58-strong team of Assessors, our management team work collaboratively with over 900 regional employers to support 2,200 apprentices in a wide variety of industries and sectors across the West Midlands, South Cheshire and Shropshire.
Over 10,000 learners We work with over 900 on full-time, part-time and local, regional, national and apprenticeship programmes multi-national companies
16-18 Learners HE Learners Adult Learners* Apprentices Employer Satisfaction CARL RIDING JANE TUNNICLIFF STEPHEN FINNEY Assistant Principal Strategic Group Head of Employer Work Based Learning 5,000 500 2,300 2,200 92% Employer Partnerships Engagement and Training Team Manager
Over £77m invested Financial Health OUTSTANDING in to estates and in every area of the recently reformed OUTSTANDING Ofsted Education Inspection Framework facilities since 2010 PIPPA WEAVELL CALOGERO ALAIMO NICHOLA WARBURTON Work Based Learning Work Based Learning Work Based Learning Team Manager Team Manager Team Manager
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NSCG THE APPRENTICESHIP LEVY RECRUITING AN APPRENTICE If you’re an employer with a pay bill of more than £3M a year, you will pay the apprenticeship levy. You will report and pay your levy to HMRC through the PAYE process. Less than As the region’s leading education and training provider, our Work Based Learning team works 2% of UK employers pay the levy. We collaboratively with employers throughout the region to foster long-term relationships and support can help you to maximise your levy both learner development and business growth and prosperity. fund to meet strategic and business objectives and achieve employee and organisational ambitions. Our high quality, flexible service provides expert advice, guidance and support on all aspects of work-based learning including: apprenticeships, traineeships, bespoke training and professional development. Over recent years, there WHAT ABOUT NON-LEVY have been major changes to the apprenticeship landscape, driven by government reforms and the introduction PAYING EMPLOYERS? of the Apprenticeship Levy. At NSCG we have a dedicated Apprenticeship Hub team who are on hand to support regional employers with the recruitment of apprentices in a variety of roles and sectors. Employers with a pay bill of less than £3M a year do not pay the apprenticeship levy. From April 2019, the Government will pay at least 95% of the apprenticeship training and assessment costs. Employers simply WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP LEVELS need to make a 5% cash contribution APPRENTICESHIP? There are various levels of apprenticeship available. (co-investment) to the cost. An apprenticeship is a genuine job with an accompanying knowledge, Name Level Equivalent Educational Level behaviours and skills development programme. It is a way for individuals Intermediate 2 5 GCSE passes to earn while they learn, gaining valuable skills and knowledge in Advanced 3 2 A Level passes a specific job role. The apprentice THE APPRENTICESHIP gains this through a wide mix of learning in the workplace, formal off- Higher 4 & 5 Foundation degree & equivalent the-job training and the opportunity HUB TEAM to practise new skills in a real work Degree 6 & 7 Bachelor’s or master’s degree & above environment. Apprenticeships benefit employers and individuals, and by boosting the skills of the Whether you are a levy paying or non-levy workforce they help to improve WHO ARE THEY FOR? paying employer, our friendly team will be on economic prosperity. Individuals over the age of 16, hand to help you navigate the process and spending at least 50% of their support you in recruiting new apprentices or HOW DO THEY WORK? working hours in England over the developing your existing workforce. duration of their apprenticeship and Apprentices must spend at least not in full-time education, can apply Speak to a member of our Apprenticeship Hub team 20% of their time on off-the-job for an apprenticeship. Employers today to find out more, we have teams available at both training. However, they may need can offer apprenticeships to new Newcastle and Stafford Colleges. more than this if, for example, they entrants or use them to grow talent Just contact the team nearest to your business: need training in English and maths. among current employees. Our team work with employers GARETH HUGHES JACK PETTITT The Apprenticeship Hub to agree how the off-the-job BENEFITS OF HIRING AN The Apprenticeship Hub element of the training will be Manager Co-ordinator delivered. It may include regular APPRENTICE day release, block release and 85% of employers said Newcastle Office: special training days or workshops. apprenticeships helped them 01782 254287 It must be directly relevant to develop skills relevant to their the apprenticeship framework or organisation, while said 78% Stafford Office: standard and can be delivered at apprenticeships improved the apprentice’s normal place of productivity*. Other benefits that 01785 275660 work, as long as it is not part of their apprenticeships contribute towards normal working duties. It can cover include: Email: practical training such as shadowing, mentoring, industry visits and • Increasing employee satisfaction [email protected] attending competitions. On-the-job • Reducing staff turnover training helps an apprentice develop Website: HAYLEY JOYNSON NATALIE BRADLEY the specific skills for the workplace, • Reducing recruitment costs www.nscg.ac.uk The Apprenticeship Hub The Apprenticeship Hub where they are usually supported by *source: Apprenticeship Recruitment Specialist Administrator a mentor. Evaluation 2017: Employers
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CARL RIDING GUEST EDITOR SPOTLIGHT
NSCG Assistant Principal, Carl Riding is at the helm of the Work-Based Learning team, with responsibility for apprenticeships and other employer-based programmes. Appointed in April 2015, Carl has a wealth of experience in the Further Education sector, having previously worked as a senior manager in a number of other colleges. In this latest edition of Leading Edge, Carl joins us to talk Brexit, apprenticeship reforms and the future.
It is nearly three years since the Government launched It is fair to say, we’ve been through an unprecedented the Apprenticeship Levy with the aim to increase period of change, challenge and transformation within vocational work-based training and to fill skills gaps. the apprenticeship world since 2017. As far back as 2015, the Government also set a target to have 3 million new apprentices by 2020. It was therefore especially pleasing that as recently as October 2019, Ofsted (the independent body Following the 2019 general election and subsequent responsible for overseeing the quality of education Conservative party majority, the United Kingdom and training) awarded NSCG the highest possible will begin the process of leaving the European Union outstanding grades in all inspection categories, in 2020. Whether you’re a remainer or leaver, the including for its apprenticeship delivery. This consensus seems to be Brexit is likely to have a vindicates our approach to supporting and knock-on effect on labour movement between the working closely with local employers responding EU and UK. to their challenges and opportunities around skills, productivity and recruitment.
NSCG has always taken the view that developing people is a long-term investment and we share that vision with the employers we support locally. Apprenticeships are a partnership and our employers value apprentices for the benefits they bring to their business - enthusiasm, energy, new ideas, improved productivity and growth. Those benefits are developed and enhanced by the highest quality training and support provided by NSCG’s committed staff and the result is local apprentices and businesses we can all be proud of.
The ‘Migration Observatory’ believe Brexit will see the introduction of a points-based system, increases in short-term visas and minimum salary thresholds for EU nationals wishing to work in the UK post- Brexit. Investment in UK-based skills development will continue to be one of the highest priorities of the Government as the country navigates the next decade.
Coupled with the introduction of the levy, other significant changes have been implemented since If you are one of our current partner employers 2017. Apprenticeship ‘standards’ with independent reading this, thank you for your continued support end-point assessments used to test knowledge and commitment. If you are new to NSCG, consider skills and behaviour development of apprentices are the feedback our apprentices, employers and Ofsted replacing the former apprenticeship ‘frameworks’. have provided about their experience with NSCG Those changes have required training providers and and don’t hesitate to get in touch. Could be the best employers to invest substantially to develop their thing your business does this year! apprenticeship offer with designated on and off-the-job training.
Against this national backdrop of change, NSCG was formed in November 2016 following the merger of the CARL RIDING former Newcastle-under-Lyme and Stafford Colleges. Assistant Principal Strategic Employer Partnerships
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NSCG CELEBRATING SUCCESS
We love to celebrate the achievements of our students and staff. Here are some of the highlights from the last year.
STAFFORD COLLEGE STUDENTS SCOOP HAT TRICK OF CARPENTRY AWARDS Talented carpentry students from Stafford College won multiple regional and national awards at the 2019 Carpenters Craft Competition and were presented awards at a glittering ceremony held at Carpenters Hall in London. Level OFSTED 2 Diploma in Woodwork student, Eóghan Marriot swooped first place in the Under 20s category winning £500 prize money alongside fellow In 2019, 77 NSCG apprentices attended Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) is officially an ‘Outstanding’ college after a graduation ceremony organised by student, James Winter who came becoming the first further education provider in England to achieve the top grades in every the Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent second, receiving £240. In the Over area of Ofsted’s recently reformed Education Inspection Framework (EIF). Local Enterprise Partnership. 20s category, Level 3 Diploma in Site Carpentry student, Jordan Dimmack was awarded third prize, GE APPRENTICES FIRST winning £200. All nine areas inspected during the visit were rated As part of their visit, a team of Ofsted inspectors NEWCASTLE COLLEGE TO COMPLETE HIGHER ‘Outstanding’, including the quality of apprenticeships, spent time with, and spoke to, a variety of NSCG’s APPRENTICE WINS NASS APPRENTICESHIP IN education, personal development and adult learning stakeholders, including partner employers who are an APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR ENGINEERING programmes. Ofsted were impressed by all areas of the integral part of the College’s offering to adult learners Newcastle College student Zak During our autumn term, College’s provision and acknowledged NSCG’s ‘positive, and apprentices. Heeland, was named NASS Engineering & Construction Trades stimulating and safe learning environment’, ‘highly Apprentice of the Year. Zak was Apprenticeship Manager, Calogero motivated staff’, and ‘learners’ exemplary behaviour and Alongside this, 160 employers kindly took the time to nominated for the inaugural award Alaimo had the great pleasure of attitudes to learning’. respond to Ofsted's electronic satisfaction survey. by employer Brown McFarlane for visiting GE Power in Stafford to We are extremely proud of the survey results, as every his hard work and dedication. present Higher Apprentices Samuel The report also highlights the way in which NSCG respondent stated that the College is meeting their Mabbutt and Gareth Matthews prepares learners for progression, noting that ‘all employer needs and that they receive high quality with their Higher Apprenticeship learners make very good sustained progress from their service. In the debrief following the inspection, Ofsted in Engineering Manufacture starting points’ and that ‘learners feel that all staff care commented on the excellent response rate to the survey certificates. We wish them all the about their futures and provide them with the support and the overwhelmingly positive nature of the feedback. best in their future career. and motivation to succeed’. Coupled with being ranked in joint second position NSCG are proud to have forged strong working nationally in the NICDEX league tables which measure relationships with a wide range of employers across student and employer satisfaction and student Staffordshire and the Ofsted report praised the progression and an achievement rate of 11% above the HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE ‘exceptional links with local employers and regional national average, NSCG is the region’s leading provider APPRENTICE WINS HIGHLY business groups’ and the ‘high-quality work experience of apprenticeships. COMMENDED AT ASIAN and work related activities that help learners to develop APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS the skills employers value’. It stated that employers and Learners are guaranteed a warm welcome on our Health and Social Care apprentice trainers are dedicated to working in partnership to set modern campuses, where they can develop their skill Andres Dacayanan won Highly challenging, distinction-level assignments and in turn set in a caring, positive and nurturing environment. Commended in the Health, Medical learners can take part in high-quality work experience With first class facilities and a dedicated staff team who After learning he was one of 5 and Social Care category at the and work related activities, maximising their full put student success at the heart of everything they do, apprentices nationally who’d reached Asian Apprenticeship Awards. potential for future progression. NSCG truly is the place to study in Staffordshire. the finals, Zak was interviewed by Andres was nominated by his the President of NASS,Michael Horan employer Manor Hyde Lea Nursing and subsequently announced as Homes. Well done Andres! Apprentice of the Year at the NASS Annual Steel Industry Dinner 2019.
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BRIGGS EQUIPMENT ENGINEERING BRIGHTER FUTURES
Based in Cannock, Briggs They currently employ 39 recruitment for us, it gives us a Equipment UK Limited apprentices across the UK in solid replacement when staff retire a variety of roles including and it gives the apprentice a long is a successful company workshop-based, field-based and term career. Through the four year specialising in the materials environmental placement roles. programme apprentices get to learn handling sector, who supply The company has been working the business inside and out and and maintain a wide variety closely with NSCG for 10+ years and truly embrace the Briggs ethos.” of other equipment including apprenticeships form an important part of their business. Continued Dan: “NSCG assist with warehouse equipment and the recruitment process and help container handlers. Briggs recognise that there is a us with advertising apprenticeship clear shortage of people joining the vacancies. In 2008, I was an sector. Their 4 year professional apprentice myself and I have forged apprenticeship scheme combines a successful career with Briggs off and on the job training with spanning a number of roles. There college block release, leading to are so many opportunities within Level 2 and Level 3 Construction & the company and it is great to see Plant Maintenance qualifications, many former apprentices climb the and is designed to create Engineers career ladder, some of whom are of the future. now in senior management and regional director roles.” Alongside the workplace and college learning, Briggs apprentices “We have no reservations about
enjoy a fantastic supporting hiring apprentices from NSCG. My apprenticeship allows me to get paid
enrichment programme, which The bespoke programme gives “ while doing something I enjoy. I have includes residential outward bound the apprentices a wide skill set experiences, annual Apprentice ranging from customer service developed technical skills and improved “ of the Year Awards and a work skills through to comprehensive my customer service skills with support placement in one of Briggs’ engineering skills. By the end of the from Briggs and my assessor. European manufacturing 4-year apprenticeship, they become partner locations. well rounded, commercially aware members of the Briggs community” Dainion Budd, 20, Briggs Apprentice Dan Latham, Technical Trainer at Briggs said: “The apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic method of
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CASE STUDY SHAPING THE WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE
Every year, the University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM) NHS Trust care for over two million patients who go to them for emergency treatment, planned operations and medical care.
As one of Staffordshire’s largest employers, with over 12,000 staff employed at the Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital, Stafford the Trust knows that investing in, supporting and developing staff has a direct impact on the quality of care that they deliver. Their People Strategy plays a critical role in developing their organisational culture and helps them to attract, recruit, develop, retain, support and reward their staff teams to meet future goals and aspirations.
The Trust’s workforce development team has worked closely with NSCG for a number of years to develop and deliver apprenticeship programmes across a diverse range of areas including healthcare, nursing associates, engineering, business support and HR functions, to name just a few.
Here we talk to UHNM Apprenticeship Co-ordinator, James Harvey and current apprentice Shumona Islam, both of whom are passionate advocates of the apprenticeship route. LEADING EDGE | 17
CASE STUDY
I act as an apprenticeship ambassador and get to UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS interact with many departments within the Trust, including the Care Coach team, to positively promote apprenticeships and change the perceptions of OF NORTH MIDLANDS our existing workforce, some of whom believe apprenticeships are open to young people only – anyone can be an apprentice and promoting this is an important part of my job. JAMES HARVEY really does give new staff in particular a foot in the door and gives existing employees the chance to climb the Apprenticeship Co-ordinator at University career ladder internally. Employees are motivated and Q. What would you say to someone considering Hospitals of North Midlands become more fulfilled within their roles. The added an apprenticeship? benefit of an apprenticeship is that employees can earn Q. What are the benefits to the UHNM of whilst working towards a professional and recognised If a staff member within the Trust was unsure as to offering apprenticeships? qualification which looks great on their CV. whether an apprenticeship would work for them, then I would say they have nothing to lose. Colleagues will There are so many employer benefits in relation to embark on a qualification alongside their day job and Q. How has the apprenticeship levy impacted apprenticeships. As well as developing strong links they will be really well supported. For people considering with the Colleges and our local community, we can how you employ apprentices within UHNM? careers within the NHS, the apprenticeship route recruit new and fresh talent in to the Trust, potentially Since 2017, there has been a major impact on the provides a brilliant opportunity to get a foot in the door, developing our own stars of the future. Another benefit organisation with the introduction of the levy. There and develop key skills to make them an employable is that we can develop and upskill our existing staff, has been a big growth in the types of apprenticeship member of the team, whilst earning a wage and gaining giving them lots of scope to develop their skills and to we offer and the number of apprentices working for qualifications. The possibilities are endless within the carve out a bright future with the Trust. the UHNM. We have seen a real positive shift in terms Trust and there are so many avenues to explore. of the perception of apprenticeships and we envisage Q. How has your apprenticeship programme apprentices will continue to form an important part of developed over time? our people strategy moving forward. We take great SHUMONA ISLAM Q. How has an apprenticeship helped you pride in seeing every apprentice develop, progress Since the introduction of the apprenticeship levy, Work Experience Co-ordinator for University develop your skill set? there are now so many opportunities for both us as and contribute towards delivering our 2025 Vision and Values. Hospitals of North Midlands My confidence has had a real boost and I feel an employer and for our workforce. The perception comfortable going out to promote careers within UHNM. of apprenticeships is beginning to change, and we Q. Why did you choose your apprenticeship? I particularly enjoy networking with internal and external are now able to recruit and upskill staff from Level Q. What do apprenticeships mean to colleagues and the apprenticeship has opened up lots 2 right through to Master’s level degrees. As a large you personally? I originally studied for a Level 3 in Health Social Care at of opportunities for me. I have been fully supported by organisation, we are able to offer a broad range of the Sixth Form College. I was then at a crossroads as to my Assessor from NSCG and I have benefited from one- Apprenticeships are very close to my heart as I began apprenticeships to staff of all ages, across a variety of what to do next – either go to university or get a job, to-ones at the hospital or on study days at the College. my own NHS career as an apprentice at the UHNM business functions, not just the typical healthcare and and I then saw this Business apprenticeship advertised. I hope to continue my learning and progressing my in 2010, on a Level 2 Business Apprenticeship. On nursing disciplines. career within the Trust. completion of this qualification, my role became permanent and I was lucky enough to progress within Q. What is a typical day for you? Q. What are the benefits for individuals on the the organisation, completing further qualifications My working day is really balanced between going out Q. Would you recommend an apprenticeship? apprenticeship programme? to clinical areas and day-to-day office work. I process including Team Leading and Information and Guidance. I would strongly recommend an apprenticeship. applications for work experience candidates and It is fantastic to see apprentices grow in confidence from Having gone through an apprenticeship myself means On-the-job training is perfect for so many roles and an promote a variety of NHS careers. I enjoy being involved day one and to watch them flourish until the end of their I am well placed to support and advise the 300+ apprenticeship will set you up for future career success. apprenticeship with us. We like to take them out of their apprentices currently employed across the Royal Stoke in careers talks with students, attending networking comfort zone to develop their skill set, which in the long and County Hospital sites. events and liaising with internal departments to discuss term is so important. Being involved in the programme placement requirements.
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20YEARS Positively Promoting Apprenticeships NEW STANDARDS FROM AXIA Axia Solutions, part of NSCG, deliver 11 new apprenticeship standards for business in 2020:
Science Manufacturing Process Operative Level 2 Supply Chain/Warehouse Operative Level 2 Facilities Management Supervisor Level 3 Lean Manufacturing Operative Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner Level 3 Facilities Services Operative Level 2 Business Administration Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Level 3 Supply Chain Operative Level 2 AIMEE NICOLE Digital Marketing Level 3 A CUT ABOVE Management Level 5 We offer Non-levy paying employer Salon owner Amie Boardman Apprentice Emily chose this Apprenticeships hairdressing salon Amie wanted to employ an apprentice apprenticeship to develop new Maths, English and ICT Nicole currently employs one who could join the team, get a skills and experience in a salon apprentice who has been taste of the hairdressing industry environment and to continue with Fully funded Distance/ employed to grow within and grow and develop with the her passion for hairdressing after Blended Learning the business and take on the business, which is located in the previously working in retail. Said owner’s style and dedication heart of Alsager. With the support Emily: “I enjoy every day of coming to create a welcoming and of the NSCG Apprenticeship Team, to work. I particularly love getting professional environment in which to welcome valued Amie recruited Emily Barrow, aged the salon ready and sitting down clients. 21 from a number of student CVs. with clients for consultations on Amie benefited from the interview colour, cutting and hair styling for support offered by the College to special occasions. I have gained lots Contact us for a ensure the most suitable person was of new skills from my apprenticeship chosen for the role. including customer service, colouring free consultation and my confidence has had a real Amie said: “Emily is a brilliant hair boost from working in the salon. t: 01782 572777 stylist and I enjoy working with her I enjoy the work balance of one e: [email protected] to progress and achieve her full day at college and 4 days in the potential. I would really recommend salon where I have the freedom to w: www.axia-solutions.co.uk taking on an apprentice through the complete tasks and develop my programme at NSCG, as you receive skills further. My advice would be to /AxiaSolutions Apprenticeships Partnerships full support both through the go for it!” @AxiaTraining Consultancy recruitment process and also for the full duration of the apprenticeship. Training An assessor visits Emily in the salon every four weeks to see how she is getting on, which is really useful for us both.”
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ST WULSTAN'S INSPIRING FUTURE GENERATIONS
St Wulstan’s Catholic Primary Headteacher Jo Kirkham said: Early Years apprentice Marie Markou, School employ four early “We have had the pleasure of aged 21 said: “I chose the early years years apprentices and are working with eight apprentices, apprenticeship as I enjoy coursework currently looking for a sports who have progressed into full time and I felt that this would really help apprentice to join their team. education or who have continued me to succeed in my apprenticeship. Over recent years, with the studying in some aspect at the I have always wanted to work with support of NSCG, the school College. We are so pleased with children and this apprenticeship have wholeheartedly embraced the support that we receive from is a dream come true as the work apprenticeships, which give NSCG. When we initially enquired is so varied and the children are them the opportunity to grow about apprenticeships, we chose lovely – I also get to develop their own talent and develop the College based on its excellent important hand-on experience. staff who share the school's reputation. Having met with the Earning a wage and learning at the vision and ethos. team to discuss our requirements, same time is ultimately the best and confirm that apprenticeships part of an apprenticeship. I enjoy were a good option for us, the working at the school during the College team selected a number day, completing my college work of candidates for us to interview. in the evenings and I then have We then met with the candidates weekends free to spend time with and chose the best possible friends and family, so this work-life apprentice based on their rapport balance is perfect. The support I with the children. The four current have received from my assessor has apprentices are strong team players really helped and she visits at least and we feel confident leaving them once a month, which allows me to with small groups of children. Every iron out any queries with my work. child is treated with respect and we My goal is to study for a degree in are proud that the apprentices fit early years and I look forward to in so well with our team. We would achieving this with the support of highly recommend NSCG to other St Wulstan’s and NSCG.” organisations as we have received a fantastic level of support to ensure that the apprenticeship programme meets both the school and student objectives.”
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Capula, welcome to the many employers a leading system integration who have joined us since 2019 specialist for control, automation including: £23MILLION SKILLS AND and operational IT systems, INNOVATION CENTRE currently employs 3 apprentices • Gnosall Surgery through NSCG and donated the • Holmcroft surgery Full planning approval has now been car to the College’s Motor Vehicle • Mark Redler Solicitors received from Stafford Borough department in order to support • Queenscroft Academy Council for NSCG's brand new £23M students and apprentices learning Skills and Innovation Hub. and understanding of Hybrid and • Stafford Manor High School The news comes following the electric vehicle technology. • A.P. Webb successful application by the Group to Stafford Borough Council for • Moog Aircraft Group permission to demolish mothballed • M. B. Motors buildings on the Earl Street and • Orange Plant Broad Street corner of the existing • Clee Hill Plant Hire NSCG campus, to make way for the new scheme which has a targeted • Workplatform Ltd completion date of 2022. • Carnell Ltd • St Joseph’s Catholic Academy NEWS & EVENTS The ambitious plans will see the • Summerbank Primary Academy building of a 7,500 sq foot, 3 storey Skills and Innovation Hub equipped • David Lewis Ltd with leading edge equipment and • AMS Sports A round up of the news stories and events we've been involved with over the year. state-of-the-art skills, construction, • Doddlespool Care Home engineering and motor vehicle • Senior Aerospace Bird Bellows facilities, along with a 4 court sports NSCG NOMINATED FOR NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP hall, gym and 300-seat auditorium. • West Midlands Police HAT TRICK OF NATIONAL WEEK • M Lamb Construction AWARDS Annually, we visit dozens of local The annual Tes FE Awards recognise schools to promote the benefits of the 'cream of the crop' in Further apprenticeships to thousands of Education and training and in young people in the region. Staff NSCG already owns four Hybrid January 2020, we were delighted visit a number of high schools vehicles to support learning to learn NSCG had been shortlisted during National Apprenticeship including a Tesla Model X and BMW as a finalist for the much-coveted Week and pupils can talk about their i8. Motor Vehicle learners will now title of ‘FE College of the Year’, post-16 options and take part in learn how the electric vehicle is with Principal and Chief Executive, interactive demonstrations. built and how the engine powers Karen Dobson OBE shortlisted in the performance. Engineering students category ‘FE Leader of the Year’. were also tasked with designing and creating brand-new purpose Tes, formerly known as the Times PIZZA & PROSECCO built panels for the car using the Educational Supplement, is a The College’s biggest annual charity College’s 3D laser printer. leading worldwide teaching fundraising event is hosted by the publication, which launched in the Work-Based learning team, and takes WE NEED YOU! UK over 100 years ago. The annual place in February each year. The NATIONAL AWARD How could a work placement Tes FE Awards celebrate and reward venue for the 2019 event was NSCG’s SHORTLIST FOR student benefit your business? the dedication and expertise of the Performing Arts Centre where an APPRENTICESHIP people and teams across the UK auction helped to raise an astonishing PROMOTIONS • Extra pair of hands to enhance who make a significant contribution £3,745 in support of Young Minds, customer experiences to improving the skill levels of young whose mission is to support the In December 2019, NSCG were • Fresh ideas and new thinking people and adult learners mental health of young people. shortlisted as a national finalist in the FE Week & AELP Apprenticeship • Great relationship building In a triple celebration, the Tes FE Editor, Stephen Exley said: The 2020 event, themed around Awards 2020, for the work the with your local college College’s Foundation Studies team “Excellent practice exists right ‘Pizza & Prosecco’ was very College does to positively promote • Help define career aspirations for are recognised in the ‘Contribution across the Further Education sector, Last year we took to the road on generously supported by our apprenticeships. The winner of young people to the Local Community’ category, and those shortlisted for the Tes a classic American school bus but employer community who had this award will be announced on • Potentially training your for the fantastic work they do to FE Awards are the cream of the in an effort to keep it fresh, new an ambitious £5K fundraising Tuesday, 3 March 2020 during a gala future workforce support students with learning crop. Our judges were extremely and exciting plans are afoot for target for the Donna Louise, a dinner at the Annual Apprenticeship difficulties or disabilities into impressed with the calibre of 2020…….check out our social media Staffordshire-based hospice who Conference 2020, which is hosted in Contact the Work Placements Team sustainable employment through a entries. To be shortlisted is an platforms to see what we got up to support children and families with partnership with the Department for to find out more. Email us at Supported Internship programme. extraordinary achievement.” this year. life-limiting conditions. Education at the ICC in Birmingham. [email protected]
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NEWCASTLE EMPLOYER AWARDS Sponsored by The University of Wolverhampton
McDonalds Best New Employer
Smylers Pre-School Best Small Employer
The Belong Village Best Large Employer
EMS Industries Ltd Employer of the Year
NSCG STAFFORD EMPLOYER AWARDS Sponsored by CELEBRATION The University of Wolverhampton Littleton Arms Best New Employer
AWARDS Electrical Ash Best Small Employer
Every year we host a star-studded awards evening in June to celebrate STILL the success of our students, apprentices and key employer partners. Last year Best Large Employer the awards took place on Tuesday 18 June at The County Showground in Stafford New Directions Support and Thursday 20 June at The Newcastle College Performing Arts Centre. Over 80 Employer of the Year different awards were made for outstanding contributions and success.
NEWCASTLE AWARDS STAFFORD AWARDS
Timothy Eccleston Lee Woodward Employed by Davlyn House Care Home, Employed by Justoves Ltd, Intermediate Apprentice Award Intermediate Apprentice Award Sponsored by EMS Industries Ltd Sponsored by Stafford and Rural Homes
Fern Richardson Daniel Young Employed by ASA Steel Structures Ltd, Employed by Key Diesels Advanced Apprentice Award Intermediate Apprentice Award Sponsored by EMS Industries Ltd Sponsored by Stafford and Rural Homes
Gareth Matthews George Thomas Employed by GE Power Ltd, Employed by Bostik, Higher Apprentice Award Advanced Apprentice Award Sponsored by KMF Metal Group Sponsored by Stafford Burgesses
Mark Wright Nikki Edge Employed by Hays Recruitment, Employed by Midlands Partnership Higher Apprentice Award Foundation Trust (NHS), Sponsored by EMS Industries Higher Apprentice Award
WWW.NSCG.AC.UK E: [email protected] 26 | LEADING EDGE
WWW.GRADBACH.CO.UK
NSCG HIRE OUR FACILITIES
Since 2010 we have invested £77 million into our estates and facilities and our campuses have a friendly, welcoming feel. We have a range of modern meeting spaces at both the Newcastle College campus and the Stafford College campus offering an extensive range of high quality facilities for hire.
MEETING AND CONFERENCE ROOMS LEGO® EDUCATION INNOVATION STUDIOS Whether you need to schedule a training session, impress We have LEGO® Education Innovation Studios at both clients with a state-of-the-art presentation or hold confidential campuses available for corporate hire and/or team building interviews, our meeting and conference rooms offer flexible activities. The studios are packed full of science, literacy, facilities to meet your specific needs all year round. computing, design technology, engineering and maths related resources, including robotics, allowing us to work with corporate clients across the region to develop team skills, ignite team spirit and build collaboration at every interaction. A unique way to build your team. THE MILL AT EXCLUSIVE OFFER GRADBACH
The Mill at Gradbach is part of the NSCG business For up to portfolio. Beautifully refurbished and set within 10 delegates* the picturesque Peak District, the venue offers well £250 appointed accommodation and conference facilities, free WiFi and is the perfect retreat for day meetings, ALL INCLUSIVE DAY RATE residential training and team-building events with a THE RIVERBANK RESTAURANT difference. Price Includes; Our award winning Riverbank Restaurant at Stafford College • We also offer activity packages that can be fully tailored to All day use of the venue and outstanding is the perfect place to hold a corporate lunch. Seating outdoor space 40 people, the restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday and your business objectives and budget, contact us today to Thursday and dinner on Tuesday evening. discuss your requirements. • Pastries and refreshments on arrival • Hot and cold drinks throughout the day
Engineers from Siemens enjoying a session “Amazing staff who couldn’t do enough to help us, • Light lunch in our LEGO Education Innovation Centre as we effectively took over not just the venue but • Equipment use (including Smartboard) the local area. We were a unique event and they • were just as much a part of the success as the team Free on-site parking hosting it. Somewhere I will definitely recommend • Unlimited Wifi staying if you want to get away.” BOOK NOW Additional delegates can be accommodated at Keith William Evans, £25 per delegate. Activities such as archery or team For more information on hiring our facilities 30th Signal Regiment, The British Army complete the enquiry form online at: building challenges can be organised onsite for an additional fee. Please enquire when booking. www.nscg.ac.uk/facilitieshire For more information You can also call us on: *Rate available for day meetings throughout 2020 and are subject to please call 01260 227000 availability. Please quote Leading Edge when booking. 01782 254254 (Newcastle College) or 01785 223800 (Stafford College). or email [email protected] www.gradbach.co.uk
WWW.NSCG.AC.UK CONTACT US: CALL: 01782 254287 (Newcastle Office) 01785 275660 (Stafford Office)
EMAIL: [email protected] VISIT: www.nscg.ac.uk