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Level 2 Plumbing student, Kelvin Paloci and Plumbing Tutor, Carl Ferguson.
Level 2 Plumbing student, Kelvin Paloci, made it through to the final round of a ' highly impressive' selection of predominantly level 3 plumbing competitors.
Plumbing is an essential trade which specialises in installation and maintenance of systems used for hot and cold water, heating, gas, solar and sanitation and the annual skills competition is designed to promote standards and skills across the plumbing industry, developing competence into excellence. The competition sees talented young plumbers test their expertise on a series of challenging practical tests in a bid to be named the SkillPLUMB UK champion.
The SkillPLUMB competition has been relaunched for 2022, attracting hundreds of level 2 and 3 plumbing students selected by their training providers, to showcase their plumbing skills. This was the case for Kelvin Paloci, who was selected by his plumbing tutor who advanced to the qualifier round at Harrow College, after completing the ' Passive Stage' (a small piece to be completed under the supervision of a plumbing tutor to observe the process).
Kelvin was tested on his technical ability to: read drawings, interpret instructions, communication skills, work safely, measure, prepare work area, setting out for installation of pipes and components, install pipes and components using industry practices and test completed work for leaks.
Kelvin successfully completed the final round in 5th place and received a certificate for his amazing achievement.
Kelvin Paloci, said; 'I have really enjoyed the extra support here at the College and I would like to thank my lecturers in believing in me and,
supporting my training and development. This experience has been one of a kind and plan to progress onto Level 3 Plumbing and return next year and win that first prize' .
Waltham Forest College was announced in 2021 as a WorldSkills UK's Centre of Excellence, providing high level technical skills and qualifications across a range of subject areas.
Hassan Rizvi, Deputy Principal for Waltham Forest College, said: 'Delivering state of the art technical skills is at the heart of Waltham Forest College's curriculum that ensures all our students are ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow including ever evolving green skills. As a college, we are so proud of Kelvin's phenomenal achievement. Not only is he an extremely talented plumber with an incredible skill level in his field; he is also incredibly motivated to use this experience gained from this competition to drive up standards in his own technical knowledge'
To apply for a course and for more information, visit the next open event on June 8th 2022. Register HERE or walk in on the day.
A return to education can definitely be daunting, but it can also mark the next step in your career journey, creating aspirational dreams and bringing them into reality. No matter what your reasons are for returning to education later in life, a second chance is possible; and Waltham Forest College is here to help you see it through.
Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational further education college located in the heart of Waltham Forest offering courses for both young people and adults. The College is considered one of London's most successful colleges and has been graded ' Good' by Ofsted, voted London's #1 College for ' Learner Satisfaction' by students two years in a row, and announced as a WorldSkills UK's Centre of Excellence.
Paving the way for your success, the College offers support in the form of financial aid such as bursaries, childcare assistance, and free breakfast for all students so that everyone can achieve their very best. Priding itself on being an inclusive college and an anchor institution within the community, Waltham Forest College is committed to ensuring no student is disadvantaged and that the curriculum is accessible and meets the requirements of the learners' needs.
One person who utilised all that the College had to offer is Mercy Johnson, who studied Pre-Access to Nursing at Waltham Forest College earning a distinction, before moving on to higher levels of study, Access to Nursing and Midwifery.
Growing up in Africa, Mercy was unable to fulfil her dream of becoming a nurse, and personal circumstances meant that she had been unable to even begin her journey into becoming a qualified nurse. After moving to the UK and establishing her family, it was Waltham Forest College that allowed her to pursue her passion in healthcare and watch with pride as she flourished.
'I was supported by many staff across different departments. I was able to access financial support for childcare and travel which really helped as, without it, I may not have been able to continue my studies. I will also never forget the one-to-one support that was provided to me when I was submitting my UCAS application.'
After completing her work at the College, Mercy was able to transfer her skills to a new kind of classroom, working on her degree in Adult Nursing at Middlesex University and exceeding even her own expectations by graduating with a 1st Class Honours.
'I am really proud of my journey and words cannot describe how I feel. Whenever I see my result I am always smiling at my achievement and I have become a proud role model for my children'
Now working part-time as a nurse at North Middlesex University Hospital, with plans to specialise further or even to study a Master's degree, Mercy has a very simple message for anyone feeling stuck or unable to make a start on their own career path.
'I would recommend Waltham Forest College as the destination to start your aspirational goal as the College offered me the support, confidence and foundation to progress to higher education and although the journey was hard work, it has certainly paid off for me'
A true testament to the fact that a little support and kindness goes a long way, Mercy's journey is utterly unique and yet also something that thousands can relate to. If you're looking to forge a new path for yourself but you're in need of a little assistance to get over the finish line, Waltham Forest College is ready and waiting to meet you.
The College will be hosting its next open event for those who are interested in starting a course on Wednesday 18th May 2022, 4pm ' 7pm. You can register online via the College website or walk in on the day.
On the path to improving yourself, the opportunity to become an adult learner is something that should be explored. Whether you're looking to make a fresh start in your career, wanting to find new challenges in your work life or you're simply looking for a second chance with your education, becoming an adult learner could make all the difference; and Waltham Forest College is here to help.
Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational further education college located in the heart of Waltham Forest offering courses for both young people and adults. The College is considered one of London's most successful colleges and has been graded ' Good' by Ofsted, voted London's #1 College for ' Learner Satisfaction' by students two years in a row, and announced as a WorldSkills UK's Centre of Excellence.
Knowing that many would face difficulties in their day-to-day lives by returning to education, Waltham Forest College offer support in the form of financial aid such as bursaries, childcare assistance, and free breakfast for all students.
The College prides itself on being an inclusive college and is committed to ensuring no student is disadvantaged and that the curriculum is accessible and meets the requirements of the learners' needs.
All these benefits aim to break down the barriers that might be stopping you from pursuing something that could not only bring you great joy but also improve your life chances and increase your employability.
One such person who took the plunge is Marta Erdoss, who studied Early Years Childcare at the College and who has since gained four qualifications and is on the road to studying further at university.
Marta commented: 'In 2018 March, I attended an open day event at the College. I didn't know what to expect. The only thing I knew, was that I wanted to strive for more. Without any support and, in an already 'tricky' and difficult personal situation, I decided to give it a go ' the best decision I have made.
'I was keen to prove to myself that I can achieve anything I want to. After a straightforward application process, I started my course at Waltham Forest College.
'My first impression about the amazing building, the size and the structure of the college and the diversity just struck me. The tutors offered a great deal of support which boosted my confidence; the absolute thrilling and positive experiences I've had whilst studying made me more curious about what I could achieve next. It was the first time in my life that I've enjoyed learning.
'I was happy but worried about how I will juggle and rearrange my whole life -my work, my arrangements personally, and the rest. Somehow, I managed it.
'I knew I was in the right place to build my future.'
Whether you're ready to dive head-first into the world of adult learning or looking for an easier introduction before you decide to take the plunge, Waltham Forest College is ready to welcome you as you take your next steps.
Waltham Forest College has received official accreditation for its adoption of the real Living Wage.
The real Living Wage is higher than the government's minimum, or National Living Wage, and is an independently calculated hourly rate of pay that is based on the actual cost of living. It is calculated each year and is announced by the Living Wage Foundation as part of Living Wage Week. It is currently £9.90 in the UK, with a higher rate of £11.05 for London, reflecting the higher costs of living in the capital.
Waltham Forest College joins a growing movement of employers who together want to ensure workers earn a wage that meets the cost of living. The formal process of accreditation meant that Waltham Forest College is now able broaden our impact by going beyond the commitment to its workforce and extend the positive impact throughout its supply chains. We hope the Living Wage accreditation will inspire similar action from other employers in the sector, to recognise the important leadership and influencing role they too could have in growing the Living Wage movement.
Director of Human Resources, Jade Blackburn, said: 'Against a backdrop of the rising cost of living it feels as though there has never been a more important time to ensure our staff are paid a real Living Wage and I'm delighted that Waltham Forest College is now officially accredited as a Living Wage Foundation employer. This is a real demonstration of our commitment to the College being an employer of choice in our sector and in the local community.'
Over 9000 organisations, including Waltham Forest College, voluntarily choose to pay the real Living Wage because we believe that all staff should be paid a fair wage. You can find other organisations who pay the Living Wage here: https://www.livingwage.org.uk/living-wage-map
Now a member of the London Anchor Institutions' Network; the city's first-ever initiative of this kind and scale.
Waltham Forest College is proud to have pledged to work alongside some of London's biggest organisations on a mission to help the capital city recover from the coronavirus crisis, using our influence as a major institution to ensure local people and places are at the heart of planning for long-term resilience.
As a member of the London Anchor Institutions' Network, we are working to use our significant presence in the capital to deliver holistic strategies to recruit, procure local goods and services, and run our estates, in ways that have an immediate impact on people and places where we are based.
A year ago, we signed a Charter pledging support to London's recovery, and to develop a set of targets, prioritising the creation of good jobs, ensuring young people have access to much-needed guidance and opportunities, and reducing the environmental impact of our estates.
In December, we attended a virtual Summit that brought together the city's Anchor Institutions, London's leadership, and inspiring speakers, who shared their experiences of working on projects in diverse cities such as New York and Chicago. Since the Summit, the Network has welcomed new members, and we're continuing to engage with a range of public and private sector organisations who ' like us - are interested in making their own institutional commitments that will create impact for London.
Members of the Network have announced a commitment to spend £1.3bn on contracts with small businesses in the capital over the next five years, ensuring that a range of contracts are targeted at small, micro, and diverse businesses.
Janet Gardner, Principal and CEO of Waltham Forest College said: 'We are proud to be part of the growing momentum to support our capital's sustainable recovery and develop London as a fairer, more equal, and more resilient city than it was before the pandemic.
'We can make greater positive change collectively than by working alone.'
Over the coming year, we will announce further commitments in line with the objectives of the programme.
To find out more visit: www.anchors.london
Ingenious students from Waltham Forest College headed to CU London to participate in a STEM Day seminar to tackle the world's most pressing issues around soaring energy prices, online security, and using robotics for rescue missions.
The worlds of energy and transport are changing fast and creating new opportunities for oil, gas and renewable energy management.
CU London, part of the Coventry University Group, hosted a STEM Day, aimed at encouraging the next generation to be part of the solution and create their future in Renewable Energy Management, Cyber Security, and Robotic Engineering.
Lecturer, Saga Das Meng led the session delved into the exciting area of oil, gas, and energy management, exploring where the world sources most of its energy, the fuel of the future, and ultimately how we can all play our part to save the planet.
Learners from Waltham Forest College attended to participate in seminar-led discussions with expert academics on ways to tackle environmental issues and save the planet. Students stepped up to the challenge to brainstorm solutions for the current environmental issues and IT students in attendance drew from the knowledge of industry experts as they looked at contemporary computing developments and cyber security as a global emerging profession.
IT student, Mohammed Echchatt, commented saying:
'STEM Day was a really fun and interesting session that allowed me to gain insight into not just the future trends in the industry, but also the discipline requiring the skills and interests of young people to become the cyber security experts of tomorrow. An all-around great experience with the opportunity to experience part of university life.'
Head of Learner Services and Careers at Waltham Forest College, Ali Yusuf said:
'It is important our students get to explore their future careers by engaging in these activities, such as STEM Day. This leads to students further developing their insights into careers and even start thinking about what the jobs of the future will look like.'
Waltham Forest College has worked in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, London Borough of Waltham Forest and employers on the Rail Network to develop this specialist five-week course as part of the College's Sector Based Work Academy Programme offer.
The course supports local unemployed residents within Waltham Forest and surrounding areas into skilled employment. Learners completing the course achieve a railway engineering qualification, health and safety training, and undergo medical tests to ensure they are certified to work on a live rail track.
The College has a fully installed rail track on-site, providing opportunities to gain valuable experience before progressing onto a live track. The programme has been designed in partnership with Railway employers to ensure training is fit for purpose and meets the demands of a growing skills gap within the industry.
Janet Gardner, Principal & CEO, Waltham Forest College said; 'This is a great example of collaboration between Waltham Forest College, Waltham Forest Council and Jobcentre Plus, helping to address skills shortages in key industries and supporting local people into higher-skilled, and higher paid employment. The programme has been hugely successful in supporting unemployed Waltham Forest residents into work; 90% of learners have progressed to permanent employment within the Rail Industry. We are now seeking to extend the programme further to meet employer demand in the UK's Rail, Transport and Infrastructure sectors.'
Cllr Simon Miller, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Housing Development; said; 'All signals point to the rail industry facing the next big skills shortage, partly due to an ageing workforce which hasn't diversified in step with other industries. Waltham Forest College is using their excellent facilities and expertise to help get ahead of the issue with this unique course. As a local authority, we know our local labour market inside out, which makes us best-placed to help supply good candidates for the course ' which also fulfils our key priority to connect residents with high-quality jobs.'
Waltham Forest College has been announced as a partner as part of the Mayor of London's new £44m Academies Programme. The partnership will further enhance the College's delivery of the Mayor's priorities for Londoners.
The overarching programme is aimed at supporting Londoners to access a range of new jobs and opportunities across the region, focusing on priority sectors including creative, digital, green, health and hospitality.
The College is collaborating with partners in PAN London area and aiding the economic recovery through the following hubs:
Local London Green and Digital Mayoral Academy (LLGDMA)
The LLGDMA will focus specifically on digital and green skills, which are vital for London to reach its net-zero targets. Waltham Forest College will collaborate with 11 other FE providers and 9 London Boroughs ' helping to develop a responsive skills plan, create events and further build strategic networks.
This new academy will expand on the Mayor's Construction Academy model. The LLGDMA will complement the existing MCA hubs, ensuring skills needs are met as the need for green and digital technologies continue to grow.
The objectives of the Academy include:
- Reduce barriers to learning and employment unlocking work experience, traineeships, apprenticeships and jobs
- Retrain and upskill current industry experts for transition into new jobs as the Green and Digital sector develops
- Ensure that London's industries access the skilled workforce needed to decarbonise and innovate through digital technology
- Improve recruitment and engagement across our local communities especially among the under-represented groups
- Upskill college staff
Covering an area of over 2.6 million residents, the programme aims to support the creation of over 60,000 new jobs in London by 2030.
Creative Academy Hub
The Creative academy hub is led by the London borough of Waltham Forest. The College is a key partner in delivering the objectives of the creative hub. The initiative includes £250k for the establishment of the Creative Industries Hub over 2 years to support Waltham Forest creative sector jobs and skills training.
First announced in March 2021, the programme provides funding for leading training providers to establish hubs allowing jobseekers to reskill and support disadvantaged Londoners into free adult learning.
It forms part of GLA's drive to help Londoners access jobs and skills opportunities, also including a Skills Roadmap and a new marketing campaign to raise awareness of London's skills offer.
Hospitality Academy Hub
Waltham Forest College is also a partner in the Hospitality Academy Hub led by Capital City College Group (CCCG). Hospitality is one of London's most important industries employing 568,000 people and contributing £17 billion to the capital's economy a year. The Hospitality Academy Hub will support those looking for careers as chefs or in front of house, housekeeping and security roles.
Janet Gardner, Principal and CEO of Waltham Forest College, said:
'We are delighted to be part of three Mayoral academies. This opens yet another opportunity for Waltham Forest College to work in partnership with stakeholders, maximising impact, to help drive London's economic recovery and support businesses to thrive. The Mayor's Academies Programme will support Londoners hardest hit by the pandemic into good work in sectors key to London's recovery and long-term economic growth, including hospitality, creative, digital, green, health and social care, and we are excited to be part of the academies programme".
Director of the Local London sub-regional partnership, Sarah Murray, says:
'The Green and Digital Sector Skills Academy is great news for our sub-region. It will be a key component in preparing our future workforce ' both young people coming into the workforce for the first time, and existing employees that need to up-skill. We applaud the partnership of FE colleges which is a testament to the collaborative way in which our colleges work together.
'The development of the digital sector and emergence of the green sector and green economy provide a unique opportunity for our economy to grow and prosper. Partnership working between employers, the sub-regional partnership of local authorities and education and training providers is key to leading that growth for our residents and businesses, and we look forward to working with the sector academy to make that happen' .
Second chance proves successful for college students in November 2021 GCSE resits
Waltham Forest College has announced its latest GCSE resit exam results in English and maths, achieving high pass rates due to the provision of tailored support, strong student commitment and resilience.
Students in England who achieve a grade 3 in maths or English are required to retake these qualifications until they obtain at least a grade 4 in both subjects. Students who joined the College in September 2021 with a GCSE grade 3 in English and maths worked towards exam resits held in November. The College offered a resit opportunity to enhance its students' future aspirations and career progression.
As part of this process, the College offered tailored workshops in English and maths to respond to students' academic development needs. As a result, through collaborative teamwork and effective strategies, 64% of students for English and 62% for maths achieved grade 4 or above.
Head of Curriculum, Ambica Sanger said:
'We are extremely proud of our students' achievement and are delighted to see that the support workshops have proven to be pivotal in achieving these positive outcomes. During these challenging times, these positive outcomes will help empower our students, boost their confidence and extend their career prospects in line with our Skills Recovery Plan.'
As well as school leavers, adult learners were also given the opportunity to improve their career prospects through resitting their GCSE exams.
Awatef, an adult student at the College, said:
'I'd recommend the College for those who want to develop their career prospects or access opportunities for job progression. I am now on track to completing my Teacher Training course which will enable me to pursue a career in teaching biology.'
The College is now taking applications from students looking to enrol on full-time and part-time courses. Those interested in joining the College are invited to apply online or to register for the College's Open Event taking place on Saturday 29th January 2022.
