Capital City College Group

Practical tips for first-time voters

Posted on June 27, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Not sure how or where to vote? Here’s our essential guide to voting in the UK General Election 2024.

Voting in your first General Election is an exciting experience. But how do you know where to go or what to do? We’ve put together the most important information so you can prepare to cast your vote in the UK General Election 2024.

When is the UK General Election 2024?

The UK General Election 2024 will take place on 4 July.

Who can vote?

To vote in the UK General Election, you must be aged 18 or over, a British citizen (or a citizen of a qualifying Commonwealth country or the Republic of Ireland) and registered to vote. The deadline for registering to vote in the UK General Election 2024 was 18 June.

To find out whether you’re registered to vote, you can contact your local council to check if you’re on the electoral register. If you’ve missed the boat this time around, then follow our essential guide on how to register to vote to ensure you’re up and running for the next election!

Where do I vote?

Once you’ve registered to vote, you’ll receive a polling card. This will tell you where your polling station is. A polling station is the place where people go to vote, and it might be located within a school, community centre or another venue. There will be signs outside so that you can easily find where you need to go.

If you haven’t got a polling card, don’t worry. You don’t need a polling card to vote and you can find your polling station here.

Polling stations open at 7am and close at 10pm so you’ll have plenty of time to cast your vote. Every polling station should have wheelchair access and will have members of staff present to help you if needed.

What do I need to bring?

To vote in the UK General Election 2024, you must show a photo ID.

For young people voting for the first time, the most commonly used forms of voter ID are:

A UK passport
A UK or Northern Ireland photocard driving licence (full or provisional)
A PASS-accredited student card

You can still use your ID even if it’s expired, but it’s important that the photo on your ID actually looks like you. You can find out about other accepted forms of photo ID for elections here.

What do I do at the polling station?

When you arrive at the polling station you can show your polling card if you have it or tell the person at the desk (the poll clerk) your name. The poll clerk will find your name on a list and check your ID.

If you wear a face covering for any reason, you’ll be asked to remove it briefly so that the clerk can verify your identity using your ID. Female voters can ask for this to be done by a female member of staff in a private area. Face coverings only need to be removed to check voter ID and can be worn for the rest of the voting process.

How do I cast my vote?

Once the poll clerk has checked your ID, they’ll give you a ballot paper. This is a piece of paper with a list of all of the candidates who are standing for election in your area along with the name of the political party they represent. Some candidates won’t be standing with a political party and will be listed as independent.

There will be a box next to each candidate’s name. To cast your vote, put an X in the box to show who you are voting for. Take your time and don’t worry if your X is messy or goes slightly outside the lines. Your vote will be counted as long as it’s clear who you’re voting for.

If you make a mistake, you can ask the staff at the polling station for a replacement ballot paper.

Once you’ve completed your ballot paper, you put it in the ballot box – and that’s all there is to it!

Who can I vote for?

You can find out about the different candidates in your area here. Once you’ve put in your postcode and selected your address, you’ll get a list of candidates standing in your area. On each candidate’s page, you can learn more about them and their party as well as relevant links.

If a candidate is a current MP, you can find out more about how they’ve voted in parliament, and what they’re interested in and see recent speeches or quotes from their appearances in parliament on the TheyWorkForYou website. Because parliament is dissolved before a General Election, MPs are often listed as former MPs rather than current MPs on the site just before an election.

Who should I vote for?

This is completely up to you and it’s a very personal and private choice. The best thing you can do to help you choose is to find out about the people standing in your area and the parties they represent.

You can find out which party’s policies appeal to you most on the Vote for Policies website. Vote for Policies is a completely independent not-for-profit organisation and allows you to compare what the main parties say about different issues. You start by choosing the issues that matter to you and then compare key party policies on each issue. The site’s survey tool allows you to create a shortlist for each issue before choosing whose policies you like best. It’s a great way to get an impartial view of different parties and think about what matters most to you.

Can I tell people who I’ve voted for?

Yes, you can – but remember that political discussion is not allowed inside or immediately outside the polling station because of the risk of influencing others. If you want to chat about who you’ve voted for and why, wait until you’re further away from the polling station.

Who are the people outside the polling station?

You might be approached by someone conducting an exit poll. These people usually work for private companies providing information for news outlets and broadcasters. They ask voters who they voted for in order to predict election results, but you don’t have to answer their questions if you don’t want to.

You might also be approached by a teller. A teller is a volunteer who works for candidates or parties gathering information on who has voted. They’ll ask for the number on your polling card and use the information to check who has voted and to help remind people who haven’t voted to do so. Again, it’s completely up to you whether you talk to them and give them any information.

Can I take a selfie in the polling station?

You might be excited to be voting for the first time and want to record the event with a quick selfie but hold off until you’re outside the polling station.

In order to protect people’s privacy, the inside of most polling stations are photo-free zones. But you can hop outside and grab a selfie with the polling station sign to mark the special day!

What can I do if I can’t get to the polling station?

Sometimes things happen at the last minute that upset even the best-laid plans. If you can’t get to the polling station on 4 July due to a medical emergency or illness, work commitments, or an issue with your photo ID, you can request an emergency proxy vote. You can apply for an emergency proxy vote up to 6 days before election day.

To get your emergency proxy vote you need to:

Fill out an emergency proxy vote form
Ask an appropriate person to confirm your reason for requesting the emergency proxy vote (e.g. a health professional if you’re ill or a colleague/manager if you have to work)
Return your form to the elections team at your local council before the deadline (5pm on polling day)
Ask someone you trust who is also a registered voter to go and mark a ballot paper at your polling station on your behalf

So, there it is. Everything you need to know about how to vote in the upcoming UK General Election. If this has sparked your interest in all things political, then why not learn more about how to change the world around you by getting involved in politics?

If the UK General Election 2024 on 4 July is your first time going to the polls, enjoy it and congratulate yourself for showing up! By casting your vote, you’re helping to choose who gets to make important decisions about the key issues affecting people across the UK.

Find out more about how to vote here.

How to become a carpenter in the UK

Posted on June 26, 2024June 28, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Carve out your perfect career and explore carpentry. Discover what it takes to learn, work and thrive in this exciting, hands-on career.

The UK has a rich history of carpentry, with skilled craftspeople shaping wood into functional and beautiful objects for centuries. The role of a carpenter can cover anything from designing and constructing furniture to building frames for larger structures such as roads and bridges. If you’re drawn to working with your hands and using your skills to build something tangible, then a career in carpentry could be the perfect fit.

This comprehensive guide shares the key information you’ll need to become a qualified carpenter in the UK, including information on relevant carpentry courses.

What does it take to become a carpenter?

To become a carpenter, you’ll need a few key things in your skills toolbox:

Manual dexterity and stamina: Carpentry is a hands-on profession that requires good hand-eye coordination, precision, and physical stamina to work long hours
Problem-solving skills: You’ll encounter challenges as you work, so you’ll need to be able to think critically, analyse situations and find creative solutions so that projects meet client specifications and deadlines
Attention to detail: A keen eye for detail is crucial for ensuring accuracy in measurements, cutting, and overall project quality. Even minor inconsistencies can affect your final product both in terms of functionality and aesthetics
Mathematical ability: You’ll need good maths skills to calculate measurements, angles, and quantities. You’ll also be required to interpret plans and blueprints and translate them into their real-world form
Teamwork and communication: Some carpentry work can be done solo, but many projects require collaboration. Effective communication with colleagues, clients, and architects is essential to successful project completion
Safety awareness: Working in a construction environment requires a strong commitment to safety practices. You’ll need to be familiar with health and safety regulations and know how to operate various tools safely

What does a Carpenter do?

So, what is a carpenter and what do they actually do? Well, the day-to-day tasks of a carpenter can be incredibly varied depending on the type of work you undertake. Depending on the site and the project, a carpenter might be responsible for:

Going through technical plans and instructions with site managers and clients
Cutting and shaping materials for doors, frames, floorboards and other internal elements
Constructing and fitting structures such as floor joists, roof timbers, partition walls, staircases and door frames
Fitting the interiors of public buildings, offices, shops, bars and restaurants
Building supports to hold the concrete in place as it dries (shuttering)
Putting up frames for larger external structures such as buildings, bridges and roads
Constructing stage sets for TV, film and theatre productions
Restoring historical buildings
Assembling free-standing or fitted furniture
Installing kitchens, cupboards and shelving

What GCSEs do you need for carpentry?

Most carpenters enter the trade by taking a college course or embarking upon an apprenticeship.

College course requirements

The GCSE requirements for different college courses depend on the course level.

Level 2 courses generally require 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D)
Level 3 courses generally require 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent
T Level courses generally require 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths

Some courses, like our Carpentry and Joinery Level 1 Diploma don’t require any previous qualifications. You’ll simply have an initial assessment and an interview to check whether the course is suitable for you.

If you’re looking for a more general introduction to construction, courses like our Construction Skills Level 1 Certificate cover a range of skills such as painting, tiling, carpentry, brickwork and electrical. These Level 1 courses can be a great stepping stone into the world of carpentry or construction.

Apprenticeship requirements

There are a number of reasons to do an apprenticeship and they offer flexibility, valuable qualifications and the opportunity to learn while you earn. To start an apprenticeship such as our Carpentry and Joinery Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, you’ll need:

Level 1 English and Maths (equivalent to GCSE grade 3-1 (D-G). Don’t be put off if you don’t have these yet as you can complete them while doing your apprenticeship
To attempt the tests for Level 2 English and Maths (equivalent to GCSE grades 9-4 (A*-C) before taking the end-point assessment
To complete an interview and assessment in English and Maths to check that the apprenticeship is suitable for you

Employers may have their own entry requirements, which you’ll need to meet in order to work with them.

Do I need qualifications to be a carpenter?

Most employers look for a combination of experience and training, so it might be tricky to enter the industry with no qualifications at all. Doing a training course can help you learn more about the industry before you dive into the world of work, and carpentry apprenticeship can help you acquire both knowledge and experience while earning a salary.

Once you’ve completed training and have gained qualifications, you’ll need one more thing. To train and work on a construction site, you’ll usually need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. CSCS is an organisation that provides skills certification for the UK construction industry. CSCS cards prove that people working on a construction site have the correct training and qualifications to do the required job, which helps maintain safety and improve standards.

Having a CSCS card isn’t a legal requirement, but most principal contractors and major house builders will stipulate that workers must hold a valid CSCS card and you may not be allowed on site without one.

How much are carpentry courses?

For school leavers aged 16-18, most courses offered by Capital City College Group (CCCG) are free. What’s more, as part of our commitment to widening participation for adult learners, students aged 19 and over can also benefit from a wide range of free short courses up to Level 2 (subject to UK residency requirements).

If you look at other training providers then fees can vary. Some offer basic introductory courses for around £500, with more intensive Level 1 courses rising to between £1000 and £1500. Level 2 courses can cost anything from £1000 to £4000 depending on the provider.

How much does a carpenter earn?

Newly qualified carpenters can expect to start on a junior carpenter salary of around £17,000 to £20,000. Carpenters with experience can earn between £20,000 and £30,000. Senior carpenters or master carpenters can command higher salaries which can range from £30,000 to £45,000.

How long does it take to qualify as a carpenter?

This depends entirely on which route you take and what type of training you choose to do – but a good guideline is around two years to gain Level 2 qualifications. Our Carpentry and Joinery Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship runs for a total of two years, and our Carpentry and Joinery – Level 1 Diploma and Carpentry – Level 2 Diploma or Site Carpentry – Level 2 Diploma take a year each.

How to find carpentry courses?

CCCG’s extensive offering of construction and carpentry courses includes the following course options:

Many of these courses are available as part of CCCG’s Enfield Construction Skills Academy, which gives students access to training and paid work experience, skills development and mentoring. The Enfield Construction Skills Academy also provides pre-construction and CSCS training as well as carpentry apprenticeships to support students as they progress into relevant careers in construction. You can find out more about our colleges and courses by attending an Open Day.

Career progression

Once you’ve qualified as a carpenter and gained experience in your field, you can become a site supervisor, or team leader or progress to a project manager role.

The construction industry continues to grow and thrive in the UK, and there is also the option to move into different areas such as providing estimates for construction, contract management or working in heritage restoration.

Many carpenters use their skills and experience to start their own businesses and enjoy the freedom of being their own boss, working alone or taking on other employees and apprentices. For experienced carpentry professionals looking to pass on their expertise, there is also the option of teaching at a further education college or training apprentices.

Next steps

A career in carpentry offers a rewarding blend of physical activity, creative problem-solving, and technical skills. You’ll have the opportunity to work on diverse projects, whether you’re crafting bespoke furniture or constructing the framework for an entire building.

The UK construction industry continues to thrive, presenting a need for skilled professionals. If you have an interest in combining physical skill with technical knowledge, then why not take a look at our Construction and Plumbing courses and apply today!

Graduation ceremony for Higher Education students at Westminster Kingsway College

Posted on June 26, 2024June 28, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Students from the BA (Hons) in Business Strategy and Enterprise Management and BA (Hons) in Culinary Arts and Business Management courses celebrated their graduation yesterday. The degrees, partnered and validated by Middlesex University, mark a significant achievement for the graduates.

The ceremony, held at Middlesex University’s Hendon Campus, was filled with inspiring speeches, joyful celebrations, and heartfelt moments. Families, friends, and lecturers gathered to witness the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The atmosphere was electric with pride as each student walked across the stage to receive their well-deserved diploma.

Alayna Moghal, graduating with a First Class BA (Hons) Business Strategy & Enterprise Management commented:

“I just wanted to share how incredible my graduation day was! It was immensely rewarding to see all the hard work of the past few years finally pay off. The support and guidance from our lecturers have been invaluable, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a nurturing environment. The Graduation Ceremony was truly special, filled with joy, celebration, and a sense of accomplishment. I’m excited about what the future holds and wanted to thank you for being a part of this journey”

Carl Boyd, Assistant Principal at Westminster Kingsway College said: “I am incredibly proud of our student’s achievements. To be such a small part of the learners’ journey has been humbling. From sitting in mock interviews to sampling their tasting menus, I have been taken aback by the incredibly high standard of work. Their hard work, dedication, and resilience have culminated in this remarkable milestone. They have shown unwavering commitment and have truly inspired us all with their success. I am honoured to have been a part of their journey and look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will make in their respective fields.”

The ceremony was opened with an inspiring address highlighting the remarkable journey the students had undertaken and praising their resilience and determination.

David Bell, HE Programme Leader said: “I’m very proud of what our students have accomplished and today marked the formal recognition of this achievement by our partner Middlesex University. It was a wonderful and celebratory day shared with fellow students from the wider Middlesex community together with friends and family. All our graduating students have, over the past three years, much to be proud of and I know for a fact that many have overcome considerable personal challenges along the way to achieving their BA”.

The event concluded with a speech from a Higher Education student who spoke passionately about the challenges and triumphs faced by the graduates. He spoke about how all of the graduates had grown and how their journey had taught them to push beyond their limits and strive for excellence in everything they do.

The graduation ceremony was also a time to recognise the support systems that played a crucial role in the student’s success. Faculty members, family, and friends were acknowledged for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout the students’ academic journey.

The graduates, now equipped with prestigious degrees are ready to embark on their professional journeys. They leave Westminster Kingsway College not just as graduates, but as ambassadors of excellence and innovation.

Congratulations to all the students celebrating their graduation!

Apply for Access to Higher Education courses and Higher Education courses!

WestKing’s School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality win Silver in Pearson National Teaching Awards 2024

Posted on June 24, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Staff take centre stage as WestKing’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts Team wins Silver for FE Team of the Year.

The team behind Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality have been awarded Silver in the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2024 for FE Team of the Year.

Following the announcement of shortlisted candidates in March, the Silver winners were announced on 19 June, to coincide with Thank a Teacher Day.

The accolade of FE Team of the Year recognises the Hospitality and Culinary Arts Team as a driving force behind the school’s reputation for excellence. Each team member brings a wealth of expertise, experience and industry connections, which directly contributes to comprehensive and enriching programmes for students.

The award also highlights the impact of the team’s dedication to their work, enabling the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality to offer an exceptional array of opportunities such as:

Guest lectures by renowned chefs
Industry placements
Interesting culinary events
Participation in competitions such as the International Salon Culinaire
Networking events

This exposure adds immense value to students’ learning experience, equipping them with essential practical skills and industry insights.

The Pearson Awards said: “The exceptional teamwork exhibited by this team is characterised by collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to student success. Despite the diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise among team members, they work seamlessly together towards a common goal of providing the best possible education for their students.”

The team and their guests will be able to celebrate their success in July at a special Silver Winners Afternoon Tea hosted by Pearson National Teaching Awards. They will also remain in the running as finalists for the Gold Award, which will be announced at the Pearson National Teaching Award Ceremony in November.

Paul Jervis, Head of Hospitality and Culinary Arts at WestKing, said: “Winning the Silver Standard in the FE Team of the Year awards is a testament to our unwavering dedication, exceptional teamwork, and relentless pursuit of excellence. This recognition reflects the hard work and passion of each team member, and we are honoured to be acknowledged among the best in the field. Together, we will continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what we can achieve.”

Congratulations to everyone at the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality on winning Silver at the 2024 Pearson National Teaching Awards!

To begin your learning journey with our award-winning team, explore the courses on offer at WestKing’s School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality.

WestKing Senior Lecturer Marc Whitley becomes UK Vice President of Disciples of Escoffier

Posted on June 21, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Senior Lecturer at WestKing’s School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality takes on an exciting new position at the prestigious culinary institution, Disciples of Escoffier.

Marc Whitley, a Senior Lecturer in Hospitality at Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality has been voted in as the UK Vice President of Disciples of Escoffier, the UK arm of the Disciples Escoffier International. The world-renowned culinary organisation brings together chefs, professionals from the kitchen and the dining room, quality producers and gourmets.

After an online ballot to members, Marc was announced as the organisation’s newest UK Vice President. In his new role, he will organise fundraising events, attend meetings in the UK and abroad and work to increase the organisation’s membership through active campaigning.

Marc, who has been an active member of Disciples of Escoffier since 2019, also holds the role of College Liaison Officer, which sees him act as a spokesperson for the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality on matters relating to student opportunities and networking. He encourages and oversees visits to the college from Disciples of Escoffier members, delivers informative student talks and connects with industry representatives to build strong partnerships which provide student employment opportunities.

Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality has a long-standing connection with the Escoffier name. Auguste Escoffier was one of the key members involved in the school’s inception and his teachings are used as the foundation for a number of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Courses. Students also benefit from the Disciples of Escoffier’s fundraising activities, with monies raised being used to subsidise the cost of essential uniforms and fees.

Marc Whitley said: “As Senior Lecturer in Front of House Escoffier, it is only right that I am a member and help promote the Disciples of Escoffier and his teachings to the students. After all, this is a legacy started by Escoffier that we are proud to promote. Thousands of our alumni have been taught Escoffier’s basic principles of cooking and service skills. Every year in October during his birthday week, The Escoffier Room restaurant dedicates a week to Escoffier recipes, which is always sold out.”

Congratulations to Senior Lecturer Marc Whitley on your new role!

Apply now for Hospitality and Culinary Arts courses!

01Founders welcomes LCCI Chief Executive to its WestKing centre

Posted on June 18, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

LCCI Chief Executive Karim Fatehi MBE visits 01Founders to learn about the coding school’s collaborative approach and extensive services and find out how it delivers a skilled workforce to meet the needs of the UK tech sector.

The London Chamber of Commerce’s (LCCI) Chief Executive, Karim Fatehi MBE, visited 01Founders at their campus within Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) Regent’s Park Centre during London Tech Week, which ran from 10 June to 14 June.

01Founders is a unique coding school which offers free access to coding courses with an emphasis on collaboration and creativity, opening the doors for the next generation of diverse talent to a wealth of tech career opportunities. Joining Karim Fatehi from LCCI were Stuart Pick, Senior Partnerships Manager, and Cathy Scott, Stakeholder Engagement Manager.

During the visit, which took place on 14 June, 01Founders students showcased the skills and projects in development through the coding school’s unique peer-to-peer pedagogy. They talked about their reasons for choosing 01Founders, highlighted its unique approach to learning, and discussed the depth and breadth of services on offer – all aimed at preparing students for roles within London’s vibrant tech community.

Matt Harvey, Director of Business Development and Partnerships at 01Founders, said: “The students found the visit incredibly inspiring, knowing that the skills they are developing through 01Founders’ unique peer-to-peer pedagogy are preparing them for roles in the tech sector.”

Also in attendance were members from 01Founders’ network of employers and partners, who talked about the challenges they faced in securing a talented workforce in London. They shared their experiences of delivering apprenticeships, internships and training programmes with the support of 01Founders and Capital City College Group (CCCG), and detailed the subsequent positive impacts on business growth and stability. Employers and partners at the event also expressed their appreciation for LCCI’s active engagement with the London business community.

Karim Fatehi MBE and senior team members at 01Founders and CCCG also took the opportunity to share ideas about procuring investment in UK tech from global entities. The event concluded with a unique networking opportunity, where around 25 01Founders students were able to network with a range of employers and LCCI representatives.

Jackie Chapman, CEO of 01Founders and CCCG Group Principal, said, “We were delighted to welcome Karim Fatehi MBE to 01Founders as part of London Tech Week. We launched our Project Work Paid Internships in Easter and valued the opportunity to share this offer with the wide range of employers who are part of The London Chamber of Commerce.”

Karim Fatehi MBE, Chief Executive of LCCI, said: “It was particularly rewarding to hear the positive feedback from both the students and the employers. The students’ enthusiasm for their chosen fields and the employers’ recognition of the valuable skills being developed were truly inspiring.”

If you’re interested in becoming part of London’s skilled tech workforce, take a look at what 01Founders have to offer and explore their apprenticeships, internships and AI courses.

How to become a Barber in the UK

Posted on June 18, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

Discover your route into Barbering. From training courses to career progression, open the door to this creative career.

Barbering in the UK has come a long way since the days of highly polished razors and hot towels. While the beautiful tradition of Barbering still holds strong, there is also a range of modern styles and techniques to embrace.

If you’re creative, enjoy working with people and have a passion for helping others find their unique personal style, then perhaps you should consider training in this dynamic industry by undertaking a Barbering course.

What does a Barber do?

Being a Barber involves washing, cutting, styling hair and trimming and shaping moustaches or beards.

There are also other important elements to this profession:

Barbers are responsible for providing consultations for their clients and discussing styling preferences
They may also be required to apply colours, tints and hair extensions and need to understand the application of different hair products for finishing different styles and looks
There are a range of administrative duties involved, and Barbers may also be responsible for making appointments, taking payments and ordering relevant stock

What skills does a Barber need?

To succeed as a Barber, you’ll need:

Strong customer service skills
The ability to listen carefully to clients and build a rapport with them
A detail-oriented approach to your work
Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
Organisational and time-management skills
Clear communication skills
The ability to work independently
Physical stamina – you’ll be on your feet all day
The ability to perform basic administrative tasks using technology

You won’t be expected to have mastered all of these skills as a trainee Barber. You’ll develop your abilities as you train and gain experience, often learning on the job from those around you.

What qualifications do Barbers need?

Most reputable employers will require you to have a Level 2 qualification in Barbering. This qualification equips you with the essential skills needed to operate as a Barber.

Capital City College Groups (CCCG) offers both a full-time Barbering Level 2 Diploma and a part-time Barbering Level 2 Diploma at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL). To enrol on these Barbering courses, you’ll need four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English language and Maths (or an equivalent Level 1 qualification).

The college also runs a free short course – Level 2 Certificate in Barbering with no entry requirements other than relevant residency documentation. All of our Barbering courses are held at CONEL’s Tottenham Centre, which is home to beauty treatment rooms and a hair salon where students can learn their craft and practise their skills.

How much is a Barbering course?

The costs associated with Barber qualifications depend on which pathway you choose.

Many Further Education (FE) colleges like CCCG offer free level 2 Barbering courses for students aged 16-18 with the right to remain in the UK for the duration of their study. Students aged 19 and over are also eligible to study for free if they meet residency requirements
Where a FE college doesn’t provide free Level 2 courses, fees can range from £900 to £1500
A Barbering apprenticeship is free to undertake, and you’ll also be able to earn while you study
A number of private hairdressing schools offer training courses. These prepare students to work in a salon within a number of weeks. Fees vary from one school to another and range from £1000 to £4000 depending on the provider

Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll also have to pay for professional equipment to help you carry out your work.

How much is a Barbering kit?

Every craftsperson needs good tools and being a Barber is no exception. To work as a Barber, you’ll need a set of professional equipment including:

Hair Clippers
Scissors
Combs
Razors
Trimmer
Neck Strip
Barber Cape

The amount you spend on your kit depends on the quality and brand of equipment that you choose to buy. A basic kit can cost between £200 to £300, but as you develop your skills and specialise in certain techniques and styles, you may decide to upgrade certain items or invest in additional items.

How much does a Barber earn?

The starting salary for a Barber is around £19,500, with more experienced professionals earning up to £30,000. Senior Barbers or managers can command salaries of over £30,000. This is usually based on working around 37 to 40 hours per week on a rota, with some work taking place in the evenings and at weekends.

An apprentice Barber will be able to earn while they are completing their course. Apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage as well as allocated time for training or study, holiday pay and other employee rights. The rate of pay for an apprentice depends on their age and their year of study.

How long does it take to become a Barber?

While some people may prefer to qualify as a Barber quickly, others may favour a slower, steadier approach to learning. The time taken to qualify as a Barber depends entirely on your chosen route.

Level 2 courses

Level 2 courses can vary in length. At CCCG, we offer:

Apprenticeships

Barbering apprenticeships usually take between 1 and 2 years to complete and offer the advantage of being able to earn a salary while you learn.

Private training courses

Some private training providers offer courses that can be as short as 9 weeks – but these courses can be expensive.

How to find Barbering courses?

With lots of different ways to enter the profession, it can be hard to know where to start looking for courses.

College courses

If you’re interested in doing a Level 2 Diploma with an FE college, then The National Careers Service offers a great tool for finding courses.

At CCCG, we offer two great Level 2 Diploma courses, both at CONEL’s Tottenham Centre.

Barbering – Level 2 Diploma – This is a one-year full-time course for learners aged 16-18 and adults
Barbering – Level 2 Diploma – This is a 21-week part-time course that takes place in the daytime and is most suitable for adult learners

These courses cover all the essential skills to start your career, including:

Carrying out salon reception duties
Delivering client consultations
Shampooing and conditioning the hair and scalp
Cutting and styling short hair
Cutting facial hair
Displaying and promoting products and services to clients in a salon
Following health and safety practices in the salon

Students are assessed via a portfolio of evidence, which is collected through written assessments, presentations, witness statements and observations.

We also offer a Barbering – Level 2 Certificate. During this course, students develop their knowledge and understanding of the practical skills needed to cut men’s hair. They are also trained in how to provide effective client consultations and guided in the development of essential health and safety knowledge.

This short course is completely free and forms part of CCCG’s commitment to widening learner participation.

Apprenticeships

You can find a Barbering apprenticeship using the dedicated government website. There are many reasons to do an apprenticeship and they offer a combination of hands-on workplace learning and college study.

Private training courses

Many hairdressing and Barbering schools offer private courses, usually featuring small groups of students and lots of opportunities for practical experience.

Career progression

There are plenty of opportunities for progression once you’ve qualified as a Barber. You could:

Complete further training courses related to Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
Become a Senior Barber or Salon Manager
Start your own business and open your own Barbershop
Gain further qualifications and train or assess student Barbers
Work freelance as either a mobile Barber or rent a space within a Barbershop
Use your professional skills in the film, TV or theatre industry

Next Steps

The world of Barbering offers a dynamic and creative career for those with a passion for providing great customer service, good attention to detail and a knack for styling others. It’s a job where no two days are the same and you’ll benefit from the opportunity to meet and interact with a diverse range of people.

If you think you’re cut out for a career as a Barber, then take a look at our wide range of Barbering and Hairdressing Courses and apply now!

CCCG hosts three more events alongside the Ukrainian Educational Hub

Posted on June 18, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

CCCG continues its partnership with the Ukrainian Educational Hub by hosting events supporting job seekers, entrepreneurs and a wide range of professionals.

Capital City College Group (CCCG) has continued its successful collaboration with the Ukrainian Educational Hub by hosting three further events supporting job seekers and business owners.

The events, which were all held at Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) Regent’s Park Centre in April and May, were organised by Ukrainian Educational Hub coordinators with the support of CCCG team members.

Getting Employed in the UK – 19 April

On 19 April, the Getting Employed in the UK event helped around 90 attendees learn about CCCG’s range of free education opportunities designed to support those seeking employment.

During the event, Mohammed Abid, an ESOL Lecturer, showcased some of CCCG’s ESOL and Functional Skills courses to prospective students and Dean Brown, Head of Employer and Partner Engagement, gave a short presentation on Apprenticeships.

The Ukrainian Educational Hub also presented key information and essential resources on areas such as methods for finding relevant jobs, writing CVs and preparing for interviews. The event concluded with a short networking session which provided attendees with the opportunity to further their personal and professional networks.

Starting a Business and Managing Taxes in the UK – 10 May

This event provided 110 current and potential entrepreneurs with vital information about managing taxes in the UK.

During the event, which took place on 10 May, Amanda Dickens, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Visionnaires presented the Start Your Own Business course, which has been developed and is delivered by entrepreneurs. Visionnaires is a social enterprise providing support for start-ups through its groundbreaking specialised programmes.

Speakers from the Ukrainian Educational Hub then shared key information relating to starting a business in the UK, shared insights into managing taxes and highlighted important differences between the UK and Ukrainian tax systems. At the end of the event, attendees were able to network with their fellow entrepreneurs.

Marketing Forum – 31 May

During this highly informative event on 31 May, around 130 attendees gathered to learn more about the use of AI in business, how to expand digital skills and gain a deeper understanding of marketing strategies.

The event began with a presentation by Delicha Changa, Employability and Outreach Officer, who outlined the wide range of free courses and opportunities offered by CCCG’s Digital Skills Hub.

This was followed by talks by representatives from the Ukrainian Educational Hub sharing information on how to integrate AI into marketing and highlighting relevant trends in technology. They also covered a range of marketing strategies and explored ways to improve creativity in digital marketing. After these informative and highly practical sessions, guests were able to network and share their knowledge and insights.

The three events enabled attendees to share their experiences and learn about important opportunities for education and employment while forming useful professional and personal connections. Thanks to the hard work of coordinators from the Ukrainian Educational Hub and various CCCG staff members, these events were successful in bringing together members of the Ukrainian community in a supportive and productive environment.

Congratulations to CCCG and The Ukrainian Education Hub on continuing to support the Ukrainian community with these useful and insightful events!

If you’re interested in finding out more about our courses showcased at these events, take a look at our Digital Skills Hub, ESOL and Functional Skills courses and Apprenticeships.

CANDI students host Business End of Year Awards Ceremony

Posted on June 14, 2024June 27, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

CANDI’s students, staff and business partners gather to celebrate commitment and achievement at a special awards event.

Students, staff and business partners working with City and Islington College (CANDI) took part in the CANDI Business End of Year Awards Ceremony. The event took place on 9 May at CANDI’s Centre for Business, Arts and Technology (CBAT).

The awards event was organised by Business Level 3 National Diploma students as part of their course. Planning and hosting the event contributed to part of their curriculum and allowed them to gain hands-on experience in event management.

Over 350 students attended the event, coming from a range of Business and Professional Services Courses including marketing, business and vocational studies. They were joined by a number of staff members from CANDI’s Business Department, the Head of School and the Assistant Principal.

During the event, a wide range of awards were presented to recognise the hard work and accomplishments of students and staff. The student accolades covered several individual awards as well as class awards and medals. Nominees for all student awards were selected by CANDI’s business lecturers.

Awards were also presented to CANDI Business Lecturers to highlight their dedication to supporting their students.

Outstanding Support for Students and Class of the Year Awards – Gulay Lawrence and Jennisha Chin
Outstanding Long Service Award (20+ years) – Anna Farrell
Going the Extra Mile Award – Keisha Ward and Reuben Cape
Commitment, Dedication and Hard Work Award – Rahela Begum

The event also recognised seven of CANDI’s business partners for their continued commitment to education with awards announced for Better Gym, Alan Day Group, Arsenal in the Community, Open Creates, Levitt Bernstein, Barratt Homes, and University of Westminster.

Attendees also celebrated the graduation of CANDI’s Business students who are completing their studies this year. After the awards ceremony, staff and students had the opportunity to network with guests attending on behalf of the college’s business partners.

Business lecturer Jennisha Chin said: “The event was a good experience that demonstrated the student’s learner journey as well as the hard work and commitment our curriculum offers.”

Morwenna Nsubuga, a Level 2 Business student, said: “It was good to see everyone celebrating and cheering everyone, especially when I got my award”. Jowani Paczkowski, also a Level 2 Business student, said: “It was good to see everyone get recognised for things they have achieved.”

Congratulations to all of CANDI’s students, staff and business partners for their awards!

If you’re interested in developing your business skills, take a look at our extensive range of Business and Professional Services Courses.

CCCG’s Job Fair showcases the college group’s many employment opportunities

Posted on June 13, 2024June 13, 2024 by Hannah Fenton

WestKing hosts first CCCG Job Fair, attracting candidates from across the city.

Westminster Kingsway College’s (WestKing) hosted the first Capital City College Group (CCCG) job fair at its Victoria Centre on 21 May.

Following a presentation on CCCG’s generous compensation and benefits package, attendees were able to find out about a wide range of current vacancies spanning all areas of the college’s activities.

During the event, potential candidates were able to talk with hiring managers and a range of staff members to gain insight into life at CCCG as well as advice on how to boost their application. Visitors to the event were also able to get a professional headshot.

If you’re interested in working with CCCG, take a look at our current vacancies. As London’s largest college group, we believe in offering a wide range of development opportunities as well as exceptional support to all our colleagues alongside a competitive package of benefits.

When is the UK General Election 2024?

Who can vote?

Where do I vote?

What do I need to bring?

What do I do at the polling station?

How do I cast my vote?

Who can I vote for?

Who should I vote for?

Can I tell people who I’ve voted for?

Who are the people outside the polling station?

Can I take a selfie in the polling station?

What can I do if I can’t get to the polling station?

Find out more about how to vote here.

What does it take to become a carpenter?

What does a Carpenter do?

What GCSEs do you need for carpentry?

College course requirements

Apprenticeship requirements

Do I need qualifications to be a carpenter?

How much are carpentry courses?

How much does a carpenter earn?

How long does it take to qualify as a carpenter?

How to find carpentry courses?

Career progression

Next steps

The UK construction industry continues to thrive, presenting a need for skilled professionals. If you have an interest in combining physical skill with technical knowledge, then why not take a look at our Construction and Plumbing courses and apply today!

Apply for Access to Higher Education courses and Higher Education courses!

To begin your learning journey with our award-winning team, explore the courses on offer at WestKing’s School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality.

Apply now for Hospitality and Culinary Arts courses!

If you’re interested in becoming part of London’s skilled tech workforce, take a look at what 01Founders have to offer and explore their apprenticeships, internships and AI courses.

What does a Barber do?

What skills does a Barber need?

What qualifications do Barbers need?

How much is a Barbering course?

How much is a Barbering kit?

How much does a Barber earn?

How long does it take to become a Barber?

Level 2 courses

Apprenticeships

Private training courses

How to find Barbering courses?

College courses

Apprenticeships

Private training courses

Career progression

Next Steps

If you think you’re cut out for a career as a Barber, then take a look at our wide range of Barbering and Hairdressing Courses and apply now!

Getting Employed in the UK – 19 April

Starting a Business and Managing Taxes in the UK – 10 May

Marketing Forum – 31 May

If you’re interested in finding out more about our courses showcased at these events, take a look at our Digital Skills Hub, ESOL and Functional Skills courses and Apprenticeships.

If you’re interested in developing your business skills, take a look at our extensive range of Business and Professional Services Courses.

WestKing hosts first CCCG Job Fair, attracting candidates from across the city.

Explore our current vacancies today!