CCCG celebrates the vital role of employers in education

Students from across Capital City College Group (CCCG) shared how work placements have been pivotal to their learning at an event to celebrate the importance of employers in education.

Anthony Lowther, Yakshika Gajendran, Riham Noufal, Samira Mekana and Tyrese Campbell, spoke at the event at Westminster Kingsway College’s King’s Cross Centre on 5 June.

WestKing is part of CCCG along with City and Islington College and the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London, and apprenticeship and training provider Capital City College Training.

The event was a chance for CCCG and students to say thank you to the many employer partners that work with the colleges to provide apprenticeships, internships, work placements, employability workshops, industry visits, mentoring sessions and other activities.

Among those in attendance were representatives from companies and organisations including ISG, The Ritz London, Wates Group, HSBC, Ardmore, Mediorite and Haringey Council.

Engineering student Anthony, 16, told of the “invaluable” work experience he received while on placement with construction firm Galliford Try at a development on Charing Cross Road.

He said: “The responsibilities entrusted to me during my work experience provided me with more independence. From managing tasks to problem solving and being hands on, all these experiences helped me grasp the fundamentals of the industry, providing me with a solid foundation of what to expect in the future.”

Yakshika, 19, undertook a placement working with children at King’s College Hospital as part of her Health and Social Care diploma, which she said had helped her professionally and personally.

She said: “The hands-on experience I gained through interacting with children, supporting patients and assisting with administrative tasks has equipped me with practical skills essential in the healthcare field. The experience has also boosted my confidence, which will be invaluable as I pursue my studies and a career in nursing.”

Applied Science students Samira and Riham, both 18, shared their experience while on work placements with Walkers Pharmacy and Elgon Chemists respectively, which included dispensing medication and interacting with patients.

Samira said: “What made this experience exceptional was the constant guidance and mentorship provided by my employer.

“They took the time to listen to my aspirations, understand my interests and provide valuable advice along the way. They patiently answered my questions and provided valuable insights and encouraged me to explore the field of pharmacy further.”

Riham said: “This experience has solidified my passion for healthcare and inspire me to pursue a university course in biomedical science. I am excited to continue my educational journey and contribute to advancements in the field of medicine.” 

Tyrese, 23, undertook work experience with film production company and digital agency Mediorite while completing his Creative Media Production diploma. The placement gave him an insider’s perspective on the industry including pre-production, location scouting and working on set.

He said: “My work experience taught me the value of networking and building relationships in the industry. I had the chance to interact with professionals from directors and cinematographers to editors and visual effects artists. These connections have opened doors for future collaborations and mentorship opportunities, paving the way for my growth as a filmmaker.”

The event also included a talk on T Levels by Karen Kelly, Strategic Associate at the Strategic Development Network, a further education, skills and apprenticeships consultancy.

Christina Byrne, Regional Social Value Manager, and Anita Ribeiro, Social Value Manager, from construction firm Wates Group, spoke about the importance of employers working with education to provide opportunities for students and produce better skilled employees.

Addressing the employers present, Jasbir Sondhi, Vice Principal at WestKing, said: “Our aim at CCCG is to transform lives, but we cannot do that alone.  We want to bridge the gap between education and employment, by working closely with employers like you, to provide our students with a level playing field.

“One of the highlights of the academic year is hearing about the wonderful opportunities our learners have had, and that’s because of all of you who make it possible. I think I speak on behalf of all our colleges when I say thank you so much for everything you’ve done for our learners this academic year. You really do make a difference. Together, we can empower the next generation and shape a better tomorrow.”

Find out more about course and apprenticeships with CCCG and apply here.

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