April 2024 - Capital City College Group

CCCG Students return from successful and memorable Turing Scheme trip to South Korea

Posted on April 30, 2024April 30, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

After an exciting and adventure-filled three weeks in South Korea, a group of CCCG students have returned to the UK.

A group of 28 students from Capital City College Group (CCCG) have returned home after spending three exciting weeks in South Korea as part of the Turing Scheme. The scheme has allowed CCCG to build connections and form an ongoing partnership with two Korean colleges, and this trip marked the third year of a successful college exchange.

During the trip, students were hosted by two colleges, Keimyung College University (KMCU) and Kyungbuk College (KBC) in Gyeongbuk. Students made close and long-lasting connections with their fellow students from both the UK and South Korea and were able to significantly improve their Korean language skills. They also participated in a study programme and completed a Green Growth project which involved researching, planning and delivering detailed presentations to highlight examples of good practice.

Students also had the opportunity to learn about Korean history and culture through a range of activities including ceramic art, a traditional tea ceremony, a beauty experience and traditional Korean games.

While at Kyungbuk College, the students took part in a 5K charity run, demonstrating determination as they completed the route at an admirable pace. The college donated rice to a local social welfare centre in recognition of their athletic efforts. In addition to taking on new challenges and experiencing college life, the students were also encouraged to relax during a short visit to an idyllic mountain-top forest.

The final leg of the trip took place in Seoul, where students visited City Hall and explored the Smart Seoul Exhibition Hall. The unique exhibition space showcases examples of Green Growth, and smart manufacturing and gives insight into the innovative and cutting-edge technologies used every day by the city’s citizens.

While in the capital, students continued their cultural learning experience with a trip to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. After receiving complimentary tickets through the Korean Tourism Organisation, London, they also had the chance to attend the long-running international hit musical, Nanta, in Seoul’s iconic Myeongdong area.

Over the last three years, CCCG’s Turing Scheme initiatives have provided students with truly unique opportunities. These experiences not only enhance educational outcomes and career prospects but also encourage the development of essential skills such as creativity, teamwork and intercultural communication.

CCCG students taking part in turing scheme in South Korea

Aakifah Ansari, who is studying Applied Art and Design – Level 3 Extended Diploma (UAL) at Westminster Kingsway College (WestKing) said: “I have experienced so much on this trip – things I would never have ever imagined with people I had only just met. And now these people are my friends for life. […] This wouldn’t have been possible without CCCG and the universities that worked so hard on our program. I will be forever grateful for this opportunity and I wish I could do it all again.”

Molly Langley, an A Level student studying English Literature, Media Studies and Criminology at City and Islington College (CANDI) said: “There was not one day where I didn’t wake up and wasn’t completely excited for the schedule. It was the best feeling to experience Korea with everyone, feeling so welcome and included. This was the most unforgettable experience of my life and I will forever remember it.”

Karen Mukoko, A Level student studying Physics, Art and Design and Geography at CANDI said: “I’m really grateful for the opportunity that I’ve had to experience a new culture, go to places that I’d never imagined I’d be able to go to and meet new people.”

Aishenur Shenwari, an A Level student studying Maths, Psychology and Biology at WestKing said: “This trip has taught me so much and genuinely changed me forever in ways that I am still uncovering. Thank you for everything Philippa, Kirsty, Matt and CCCG. Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to pay it forward as a buddy for the Korean students visiting London this summer. Here’s to hoping they experience the same growth and enlightenment that have enriched my own life.”

We are proud to work in partnership with host colleges Keimyung College University and Kyungbuk College and look forward to welcoming 40 Korean students from the colleges to London this summer.

Discover our wide range of courses and apply now!

WestKing’s School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality receives Educational Partnership Award from Craft Guild of Chefs

Posted on April 26, 2024April 26, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

WestKing has been recognised in The Craft Guild of Chefs Honours and Awards with an award for educational partnerships.

Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality has received further recognition for its efforts in promoting the hospitality industry, this time from the Craft Guild of Chefs.

The Craft Guild of Chefs is the UK’s leading Chefs’ Association. Members come from all areas of the food service and hospitality sectors, representing a broad spectrum of positions from students to management personnel.

Representatives from WestKing attended an awards lunch following the Craft Guild of Chefs AGM on 21 April at The Hilton Waldorf Hotel. The college was awarded the Educational Partnership Award in recognition of the support it gives to the Craft Guild of Chefs in promoting the hospitality industry. The college maintains a strong relationship with the Craft Guild of Chefs and regularly hosts events and meetings for the organisation.

The award is one of 13 awards presented every year by the Craft Guild of Chefs, with this year’s Educational Partnership Award being awarded to both Westminster Kingsway College and the University of West London.

Paul Jervis, Head of Hospitality and Culinary Arts at WestKing, said: “Westminster Kingsway College is incredibly proud of our longstanding partnership with the Craft Guild of Chefs. We’re delighted that they have recognised our team’s sustained efforts in advancing and innovating all aspects of the industry.”

Capital City College Group’s (CCCG) School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts is a centre for excellence which celebrates strong industry links and a number of successful partnerships.

Congratulations to the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality at WestKing for this award!

We offer a broad range of Hospitality and Culinary Arts Courses and Apprenticeships as well as our Hospitality Hub, part of the Mayor of London’s Skills Academies.

CCCG Esports team refine their Valorant skills and compete at Insomnia the Gaming Festival

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

The CONEL Cyphers had the chance to gain more competitive experience at a large gaming event at Birmingham’s NEC.

A team of five competitive gamers from Capital City College Group’s (CCCG) Valorant Esports team, also known as the CONEL Cyphers, attended a gaming festival over the Easter weekend. The festival was the latest hosted by Insomnia the Gaming Festival (also known as iSeries 72 or i72) and took place from 28 March to 1 April.

The four-day event, which was held at the NEC in Birmingham, is one of the largest local area network (LAN) events in the country, with thousands of gaming enthusiasts travelling to attend the festival and participate in Esports tournaments.

The non-stop gaming experience gave participants the opportunity to play the latest video games as well as retro classics. Gamers gathered to attend panel discussions, meet industry players and compete in a range of tournaments. There was also the opportunity to take in live performances, and cosplay competitions, and explore the latest gaming gear in the festival marketplace.

The CONEL Cyphers team was made up of five players: Daniel Ra, Cyrus Sullivan, Ermir Frashn, Waeel Mansoor and Tony Bamvuama. Three of the team’s members, Daniel, Cyrus, and Ermir, are students on the Esports Level 3 Diploma, a course which covers multiple areas across the Esports industry. Waeel is currently studying Level 3 Engineering and Tony is a student on the Games Animation and VFX Skills course.

The team participated in the i72 Valorant tournament and demonstrated their skills in a series of exciting matches on 28 March. They took on semi-professional players from the best teams in the UK and showcased their abilities with impressive performance. After winning three matches, they narrowly missed out on the playoffs – but the experience has helped them prepare for the upcoming National Championships, where they will defend their title.

Ermir Frashn, an Esports Level 3 Diploma student, said: “i72 was a unique and thrilling experience. We got to play against many great teams and compete at a higher standard than we usually do. For me, i72 is unforgettable and the memories I made there I will treasure.”

Finlay Stewart, Lecturer in Computing, said: “The learners did an amazing job at iSeries. Competing against the best teams in the country is no easy task. They not only impressed me but many of the other teams and fans at the event. It was a good experience which we can now use going into the National Finals in July”.

If you’re interested in the world of gaming, take a look at our Computing and IT Courses or join the CCCG Esports Academy alongside your studies.

Green Skills Academy hosts Employment and Training Fair

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Green Skills Academy event brings together employers and students, enabling access to job vacancies, learning opportunities and supporting Green careers.

Capital City College Group’s (CCCG) Green Skills Academy hosted an Employment and Training Fair, allowing students to connect with employers and explore exciting Green Career opportunities.

The Employment and Training Fair took place at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London’s (CONEL) Tottenham Centre on 17 April and was organised by Mishary Alfahad, Head of the Green Skills Academy. The Green Skills Academy is one of CCCG’s Mayor of London’s Skills Academies, which works to support Londoners as they enter Green Careers and address skills shortages in the construction sector.

Around 80 learners from across the college group attended the event, with many learners coming from the Green Skills Academy and Construction courses. With over 20 employers in attendance, students were able to connect with employers, access essential information about current vacancies and apply for jobs on the day.

Before the Employment and Training Fair opened to students and the general public, the Green Skills Academy hosted a breakfast networking session for employers followed by a tour of CONEL’s Green Labs. During the event, students were able to attend expert panel talks, network with employers, explore training opportunities and receive support on training and employment matters.

Our Green Skills Academy prepares students for potential employment in Green Careers. With courses spanning areas such as Green Skills and Sustainability, Solar Energy and Domestic Retrofit, we offer pathways to a broad spectrum of Green Career opportunities.

Work experience placement leads to permanent role for CANDI ESOL student

Posted on April 23, 2024April 23, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

A CANDI ESOL student has been offered a permanent role at the Maldron Hotel in Finsbury Park following a successful work experience placement.

Oleh Shemeret, a Level 1 Certificate in ESOL Skills for Life student at City and Islington College (CANDI), recently completed a four-week work placement at the Maldron Hotel in Finsbury Park. The successful placement, which took place in March and April, has led to a permanent part-time role.

The ongoing collaboration between CANDI and Maldron Hotel allows students to access unique learning experiences. The hotel’s work experience programme provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the hospitality industry.

During the work experience placement, Oleh worked in reception, the restaurant and bar areas and gained valuable experience of working life within a four-star hotel. He was responsible for showing guests to their tables, taking food and drink orders and liaising with kitchen staff. He also served food, assisted with stock management and performed housekeeping duties in the restaurant and bar area.

Oleh was supported by the hotel’s reception and restaurant staff, who treated him like a member of the team and supported him with kindness and courtesy. Oleh said: “[The] place was very organised, staff were very polite, policy and procedures were in place. Everyone was working professionally, in harmony. The staff were very friendly, and the atmosphere was very warm and pleasant.”

The work experience placement enabled Oleh to improve his confidence while helping him to learn about customer service, teamwork and collaboration, and the importance of workplace organisation. Oleh has been very positive about his experience at the Maldron Hotel. He said: “[There were] very kind and helpful people around me and I felt confident. I tried to learn many things to improve my skills and add on new ones willingly. The vibe was great, and I enjoyed working every minute of it.”

The team at the Maldron Hotel were equally impressed by Oleh’s positive attitude and willingness to work. He was also commended for his seamless adaptation to the workplace, listening skills, timekeeping, and positive impact on the team.

Carlean Sam-Orhin, a Human Resource Graduate working at Maldron Hotel, said: “Throughout Oleh’s work experience, he consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to his tasks. His contributions not only met but exceeded our expectations, and he showed a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in the Food and Beverage department.”

As a result of the work placement, Oleh has been offered a permanent paid part-time role at the Maldron Hotel working as a waiter and bartender in between his studies. Oleh is looking forward to starting his new role and continuing his studies at CANDI.

Congratulations on completing your placement and your new role Oleh!

We offer ESOL courses for students of all levels. Full-time students benefit from carefully organised work experience placements, which give them insight into their chosen fields and help prepare them for the world of work.

CANDI teachers visit Performing Arts school in Hungary to forge new partnership

Posted on April 22, 2024April 22, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Performing Arts teachers from CANDI visited a Hungarian Performing Arts school to deliver workshops and create new international connections.

A group of teachers from City and Islington College (CANDI) took a four-day trip during the Easter break to explore a new opportunity for creative and educational exchange with a school in Hungary.

The four performing arts teachers on the trip were Despina Mavrou, Shan Gordon, Tim Chaundy and Blanka Molnar. They are all based at CANDI’s Centre for Business, Arts and Technology, Camden Road (CBAT) and currently deliver the college’s UAL Performing and Production Arts qualifications (Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4).

From 7 to 11 April, the teachers spent time at Nemes Nagy Ágnes Művészeti Szakgimnázium (NNA Performing Arts School) which specialises in drama and dance. The school is the former training ground for CANDI teacher Blanka Molnar and offers performing arts training to both secondary school students and adult learners.

The trip’s main purpose was to form working partnerships with the staff and students at the school and assess how future exchange trips between the two schools might work. The teachers hope that CANDI students will have the opportunity to visit Nemes Nagy Ágnes Művészeti Szakgimnázium next academic year and work with their Hungarian counterparts on a project as part of a continuous exchange programme.

The programme will allow students and teachers to develop their artistic and professional skills, further equipping them for the international aspects of the Performing Arts industry. The partnership between the two schools will also give students the opportunity to study and learn within a different cultural context.

During the visit, the teachers stayed in the Hungarian capital, Budapest, and commuted to the school each day. They observed classes and worked together to deliver workshops on acting, voice work and dance. In the evenings, they attended various productions including a contemporary dance theatre production and a musical. The trip enabled staff to develop their teaching practice and consider ways to innovate course design and sequencing.

Tim Chaundy, Curriculum Leader of Performing Arts and Music, said: “This was a truly amazing and inspiring trip that has sown the seeds of a long-term international partnership between City and Islington College and Nemes Nagy Ágnes Művészeti Szakgimnázium. This partnership will ensure regular opportunities each academic year for the Hungarian and British staff and students to exchange ideas, work in different ways and contexts, form a community and collaborate to create work. It will develop our young people’s understanding of the Performing Arts and open their minds to different perspectives and work that goes beyond mental and physical borders.”

Take the next step towards this exciting education pathway and apply for Performing Arts and Music and Music Production Courses!

WestKing maintains Gold Accreditation for Hospitality and Culinary Arts courses by People 1st International

Posted on April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Westminster Kingsway College receives renewed recognition for its Hospitality and Culinary Arts courses and is named a Centre for Excellence in four key areas.

Westminster Kingsway College (WestKing) has once again been awarded a Gold Accreditation for its exceptional school of Hospitality and Culinary Arts. Situated within the college’s Victoria Centre, the School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts comprises specialist facilities such as professional kitchens, a patisserie and a chocolate kitchen. It is also home to the highly regarded restaurant The Vincent Rooms, which consists of The Escoffier Room and The Brasserie.

The award comes from People 1st International, an industry-led skills expert with over 50 years of experience in skills development and technical vocational education and training. The organisation is a trusted partner to employers, industry bodies, skills organisations, donor funders, NGOs, investment banks and governments.

WestKing’s Gold Accreditation is the highest level of recognition awarded by People 1st International. It highlights the college’s progressive and sustainable commitment to matching student skills to employer needs. The award also recognises the college’s proactive approach to staff professional development and its effective and productive collaboration with various industry partners.

People 1st International also sponsors the AA College Restaurant of the Year competition which builds on the AA College Rosette Scheme and recognises college restaurants for producing quality food and high levels of service. WestKing’s restaurant The Escoffier Room, part of The Vincent Rooms, was also recently re-awarded the AA Highly Commended College Rosette.

Following a recommendation from Andy Doyle, Partnership Manager at P1st, WestKing’s School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts will continue to be recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Food & Beverage Service, Patisserie & Confectionery, Fish & Shellfish and Butchery & Game. These additional accolades recognise the college’s clear pathways for development in each area and its links to specific industry partners

Miranda Quantrill, Curriculum Manager for Hospitality and Culinary Arts, said: “We are, of course, delighted with the accreditation which reflects our commitment to excellence in culinary education and hospitality. We are extremely proud of our excellent lecturers and dedicated students who consistently impress us with their passion and innovative approaches. This all reflects greatly from our wealth of historical knowledge and expertise established over many years, with the support of stakeholders and alumni.”

If you’re considering an exciting career in the hospitality industry, take a look at our wide range of Hospitality and Culinary Arts Courses and Apprenticeships.

CANDI Supported Internship students visit The Houses of Parliament

Posted on April 17, 2024April 17, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Students from City and Islington College visit Portcullis House and meet Members of Parliament as part of National Supported Internship Day.

A group of students from City and Islington College (CANDI) visited The Houses of Parliament as part of National Supported Internships Day on 25 March. Supported Internships provide SEND students with a structured work-centred programme combining a substantial work placement and college study.

The 6 students who took part in the visit to The Houses of Parliament are currently completing supported internships at London’s Moorfields Eye Hospital. The world-renowned hospital is one of the largest centres of ophthalmic teaching and research in the world and has been operating for over 200 years.

After arriving at The Houses of Parliament, the students were welcomed by Claire Cookson, Chief Executive of DFN Project SEARCH, the organisation that created National Supported Internships Day. In her talk to students, Claire emphasised the importance of partnerships between educators and employers and highlighted the positive impact this collaboration has on young people with learning difficulties. Supported internships can vastly improve employment outcomes for SEND students – enabling them to develop essential skills and grow in confidence. Research has shown that 70% of students who complete supported internships progress to full-time employment.

During the event, Claire said: “We are thrilled to be able to come together again this year and launch a whole range of celebration and campaigning activities. […] if you choose to take part, know that you are building a fairer and more equitable future for young adults with a learning disability or autism spectrum condition.”

In the afternoon, students were welcomed into Portcullis House where they wrote and sent letters to their Members of Parliament. They also had the opportunity to meet both the Speaker of the House, Lynsay Hoyle MP, and Chair of Disability APPG, Lisa Cameron MP.

Eamon Mahdar, who is currently completing a supported internship, said: “I really enjoyed the Houses of Parliament visit, as I got to meet new people from other internships. It was really inspiring hearing about the Speaker. It was a great opportunity to be there.”

Kam Kalirai, Head of Foundation Learning at CANDI, said: “I’m so proud of our students and grateful for the opportunities they’ve had. It was a day filled with inspiration, learning, and meaningful connection.”

Here at Capital City College Group (CCCG), we are committed to supporting SEND students and currently deliver a supported internship programme in conjunction with Moorfields Eye Hospital. We also have a wide range of Foundation and Supported Learning courses aimed at helping our students develop essential skills and further their knowledge in their area of interest, grow in confidence and prepare them for the workplace.

Take a look at our Foundation and Supported Learning courses available and apply now!

CCCG Restaurant The Escoffier Room maintains top rating by AA Hotel Services

Posted on April 16, 2024April 17, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

The Escoffier Room at WestKing’s Victoria Centre has maintained its Highly Commended rating, the highest rating for restaurants in the AA College Rosette category.

Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) restaurant, The Escoffier Room, has once again been awarded a Highly Commended AA College Rosette, the highest accolade available for restaurants in this category.

AA Hotel Services have been rewarding establishments for their range of services and facilities since 1912. Industry inspectors assess restaurants with detailed feedback on their dining experience, covering service, hospitality, the venue and the food served.

The AA College Rosette is awarded to restaurants within educational establishments, and the Highly Commended award signals that The Escoffier Room:

Uses quality ingredients and serves food with care, understanding and skills
Achieves standards that stand out in the local area
Gives guests a dining experience imbued with confidence, a sense of anticipation and attention to details
Has an excellent grasp of commercial sense and competes well with other restaurants
Provides students with an effective learning environment that is appropriate to the target markets
Has a clear brand with excellent industry links that benefit students
Demonstrates highly polished service, with clear support from lecturers and peer-to-peer learning

The Escoffier Room was inspected on 11 March, with the AA inspector noting that guests received a warm welcome, enjoyed positive interactions with the team and experienced prompt and well-paced service. There was a range of positive feedback complimenting each of the well-executed five courses, including Seafood Chowder, Pork Loin Steak and Coffee Cremeaux tart.

The inspector’s report contained many areas of positive feedback and suggestions for development. The AA inspector’s report said: “Both the food and the place continue to offer a “wow” factor, especially for first-timers. My guest was very impressed and will be returning in the future.”

Our Victoria Centre is home to the award-winning School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts. Students benefit from the expertise of an award-winning teaching team and the school’s extensive links with the international hospitality industry. Our specialist facilities provide industry-standard equipment to prepare students for working in professional kitchens including a patisserie, chocolate kitchen and The Vincent Rooms Restaurant and Brasserie.

Apply for a Hospitality and Culinary Arts course and take the next step towards an exciting career in the world of hospitality!

CCCG joins Ukrainian Educational Hub to host informative event for entrepreneurs

Posted on April 12, 2024April 12, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

CCCG invites guest speakers and members of the Ukrainian community to attend a special event providing support for new businesses and advice on UK tax management.

Capital City College Group (CCCG) collaborated with the Ukrainian Educational Hub to provide valuable information for entrepreneurs at an event held at Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) Regent’s Park Centre on 15 March.

The network of Ukrainian Educational Hubs is dedicated to supporting lifelong learning for Ukrainian children and adults, with the aim of helping them navigate pathways to successful careers. The event, which focused on sharing knowledge and expertise on starting a business in Great Britain and tax management, attracted over 100 attendees from the Ukrainian community.

Jackie Chapman, Executive Director, Growth and Partnerships at Capital City College Training (CCCT), opened the event by giving a short introduction and welcoming everyone on behalf of CCCG. The first guest speaker was Martin Thompson, a British ambassador for Ukrainian Educational Hubs in Great Britain and an experienced entrepreneur. Martin shared his valuable expertise on how to start and manage a business in the UK. The second guest speaker was David Clare, the North London Area Lead and Barnet Facilitator for the Federation of Small Businesses, who delivered a useful and informative presentation on managing taxes in the UK

Finally, Olena Melnyk, Admin Team Leader at CCCT, shared information about CCCG’s wide range of highly relevant free courses such as Start Your Own Business, Computerised Accounting for Business – Level 1 Award and offerings from CCCG’s Digital Skills Hub.

After the presentations, attendees had time to learn more about the extensive range of free education initiatives offered by CCCG. The event concluded with a highly productive networking session, where guests had the opportunity to meet with other entrepreneurs and broaden their professional network.

Jackie Chapman said: “We were delighted to host the event for the Ukrainian Educational Hub. It was great to see so many attendees seeking to learn how to set up a new business. We hope that the college can help further, providing courses that meet the needs of the Ukrainian community.”

Matt Herman, Head of Multiply at CCCG, said: “Proud to attend a wonderful event, promoting opportunities and sharing information for the Ukrainian community at Capital City College Group.” Multiply is a government-funded programme providing free numeracy courses to help adults improve their maths skills.