Tottenham MP David Lammy addresses accountancy apprentices at CONEL.

Tottenham MP David Lammy inspired accountancy apprentices to achieve their dreams on a visit to the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

The former Minister of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills spoke to the group who are all part of the College’s Accounting Academy, run in partnership with Leadership Through Sport and Business (LTSB).

Speaking to the apprentices, Mr Lammy, who has represented the Tottenham constituency since 2000, shared his five keys to success – education, employment, aspiration, parenting and community.

On employment, the Labour MP said: “Employment is really, really important. And what I’ve learnt is that you have to do as much work experience as possible because it helps you work out what you really want to do, it usually brings in income and it creates a network - who you know and what you know, it says to future employers, ‘This is someone I might want to employ,’.”

During his visit, Mr Lammy told the group about his life growing up in Tottenham and took questions on subjects including crime, austerity and the welfare state.

The Accounting Academy provides pre-apprenticeship training and accountancy apprenticeships, along with the opportunity to gain new skills and undertake internships with top employers in the financial sector.

Pre-apprenticeships are short courses that act as a stepping stone to a full apprenticeship by preparing students for their chosen career.

Accountancy pre-apprentices Cheyann Coulson and Nabhan Moore were among those listening to Mr Lammy’s talk at the College’s Microsoft Showcase Classroom.

Cheyann, 17, said “I thought it was really good how he wants ethnic minorities to be understood and equal in the community.

“His passion and drive were very inspiring. Knowing where he has come from to where he is now was something to really aspire to.”

Nabhan, 21, added: “It was definitely inspiring. Probably more so because he’s from a background and environment I can relate to.

“He made it clear there were no excuses to get where you want to go.”  

David Lammy MP with accountancy apprentices at CONEL.

CONEL offers AAT accredited Accounting courses from Level 1 to 4 and a pre-apprenticeship at Level 2 leading to apprenticeships at Level 3 and Level 4.

LTSB has been running for more than six years and works with over 60 employers, including big names such as Santander, EY, Deloitte and Barclays.

Addressing the apprentices, Pete Ward, Head of Operations at LTSB, said: “A lot of the points David’s made are exactly the points we make on your behalf when speaking to employers.

 “The quality you bring is from your background, the quality of resilience, there are things you can bring from where you came from and take them to a new environment, which is of huge value to offer your employers, that’s the argument we make.”

Call 020 8442 3442 or click here to find out more about our Accountancy apprenticeships.

Back in July 2017, long before the Prime Minister decided to review the student finance landscape in the UK, the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee decided to open an inquiry into the economics of higher education, further education and vocational training.

From left to right: Arthi Mahinda, Damilare Olunndi and Igne Alisauskaite.

The Committee highlighted that whilst the number of young people participating in Higher Education has continued to increase, it’s now at almost 49%, there has been a 26% fall in adult skills and education between 2011/12 and 2015/16.

At the same time, there has been substantial growth in the number of apprenticeships, not least because of the Government’s 3million apprenticeship starts target – although since the Apprenticeship Levy introduction last year there has been a collapse in apprenticeship numbers.

The inquiry was established to investigate how post-school education is funded and whether it is focused sufficiently on the skills which the British economy requires.

As part of their inquiry, the Committee wanted to hear first-hand about the experiences of apprentices.

The Committee was especially keen to learn about apprentices’ experience of choosing an apprenticeship. In particular, the careers advice they received and why they chose to do an apprenticeship rather than go to university.

They also wanted to know their views on their apprenticeships to date. Did they have any regrets and what are their plans for the future?

AAT apprentices use their voices

As a result, three AAT apprentices – Arthi Mahinda from the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London working in partnership with Leadership Through Sport and Business, Damilare Olunndi and Igne Alisauskaite – joined apprentices from BAE Systems, Rolls Royce and Pret a Manger to give evidence to the Committee earlier this week.

Despite the varied nature of their courses, ranging from accounting to engine propulsion systems, the answers given by this diverse range of apprentices were often similar. For instance, with regard to their almost universal experience of poor careers information, advice and guidance at school and college.

There was also broad, although not universal, agreement that parents had often been less than supportive and that many were at least concerned and at most obstructive when first learning of their children’s desire to undertake an apprenticeship. These views were adequately summed up by AAT apprentice Arthi Mahinda, who now works for law firm Mayer Brown and said; “I’ve wanted to do an apprenticeship since I was 16 but my parents weren’t really convinced and at school the University route was very heavily pushed.”

Lack of effective careers advice

An Ofsted report published in 2013 found that three quarters of schools they visited were not delivering effective careers advice and from the comments made by apprentices this week, little seems to have improved over the past five years.

Similarly, apprentices views around parents echoed AAT research undertaken in 2013 and 2015 which found parents were largely unaware of the possibilities offered by apprenticeships, with only half believing that apprenticeships are able to offer the same opportunities as traditional academic routes to a career and almost a quarter (22%) of parents admitting they would actively discourage or fail to encourage  their children to undertake an apprenticeship.

Despite these issues, what shone through was the resilience of these apprentices, despite the lack of guidance or parental support they embarked upon an apprenticeship because they could see the potential benefits. As Arthi confirmed, “I started an apprenticeship anyway, stuck with it, finished my first year and my employer has kept me on. It’s been great.”

Likewise, Igne, a KPMG360° apprentice studying AAT qualifications said; “I decided to take the apprenticeship route because earning a salary, gaining invaluable skills and experience, as well as a widely recognised qualification, is something that outweighed going to university.”

Overcoming obstacles

Damilare, another AAT apprentice, placed at recruitment agency Hayes as part of a Leadership Through Sport programme, said; “I started doing a degree but quickly realised it wasn’t for me. However, I still wanted to be an accountant and I found out about an apprenticeship opportunity with Leadership Through Sport so started on the scheme and have never looked back.”

This suggests many apprentices are succeeding despite these barriers and despite the system. It is likely that many, many more would succeed if meaningful action was taken to raise awareness of the benefits of apprenticeships and vocational education in general, to tackle misconceptions amongst parents and teachers and to improve poor careers advice and guidance.

There was also much positivity about the likely outcomes of taking an apprenticeship. When asked about her future, Igne said; “I am excited to complete my Level 4 AAT qualification and know I will use the knowledge gained to grow professionally both within KPMG and beyond.”

The benefits to employers

Damilare was also full of confidence about the future. He said; “It’s been great, I have an employer that’s investing in me, I’m not just working in finance, I’m getting experience in all the different business units which will give me a broader understanding of the business. The AAT qualification is helping too because it means I am learning stuff that I can put into use at work on a regular basis.”

The Lords Committee members were clearly impressed with what they heard and we hope that will be accurately reflected in their final report later this year.

Baroness Harding, former Chief Executive of TalkTalk and a current Non-Executive Director at the Bank of England said she was “blown away” by how “confident, thoughtful and insightful” Arthi, Damilare and Igne had been, adding, “I wish all our Committee witnesses were this good!”

AAT apprentices, “extremely impressive”

Lord Turnbull who was Private Secretary to Mrs Thatcher before becoming the Permanent Secretary to various Government departments (including the Treasury) said that the AAT apprentices had been, “extremely impressive” and that he was “genuinely inspired by their contributions.”

Once again those taking AAT apprenticeships have proved their worth. Key problems with the apprenticeship system have been highlighted and senior policymakers now have the first-hand evidence they were seeking to inform their work.

AAT looks forward to the Economic Affairs Committee reflecting this in their report and for this in turn to result in some much-needed changes to apprenticeship policy.

Image from left to right: Arthi Mahinda, Damilare Olunndi and Igne Alisauskaite.

Phil Hall is AAT's Head of Public Affairs and Public Policy.

College is open as usual today Wednesday 28 February 2018. Please come to all your classes. Please keep checking the website for further updates.

Childcare students Melissa Smith, Charlotte Lawler, Ceyda Sahin, Ayse Yilmaz, Meryem Sarioglu, Aisha Shariff, Hannah Lister, Caitlin Leal, Vanessa Cassama Gomes Da Silva and Magdalena Labuz with Early Years lecturer Elaine Lee at this year’s Nursery World Show.

Childcare students had the chance to find out more about the latest resources in early years education at this year’s Nursery World Show.

The group from the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) visited the expo at the Business Design Centre in Islington in February.

Each year the event attracts more than 3,500 visitors and features over 100 stands for organisations in the childcare and early years sector along with expert-led masterclasses and seminars.

Hosted by education publication Nursery World, the show included an Early Years Resources & Learning Zone, Training & Consultancy Zone and, for the first time this year, The Early Years Careers Zone.

Hannah Lister, 18, who is studying for an Introduction to Early Years Certificate Level 2, said:  “We had the opportunity to meet other students from different parts of the country and discuss how our courses were going and what our next steps may be.

“Some of us went into The Early Years Careers Zone where we met staff from the London Early Years Foundation, and were able to talk to them about our career aspirations.”

More than 3,500 visitors visit over 100 stands at the Nursery Wold Show each year.

CONEL offers Childcare and Early Years courses from Levels 1 to 3 and a Level 4 Early Years Advanced Practitioner Certificate for those already working in the sector.

Elaine Lee, Lecturer in Early Years, said: “The students browsed the exhibition which was packed with a wide range of companies, organisations and charities all showing the products and services they offer.

“They really enjoyed the Early Years Resources & Learning Zone where the students were able to take part in informative activities and get hands on with new provision too.

“They also took part in a wide variety masterclasses and seminars, and came away overwhelmed by the information and ideas they gained for their future careers.” 

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here for more information on Childcare and Early Years courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

A group of French students got a taste of college life in England when they visited The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Each year since 2012, the College has welcomed students from The maison Familiale Rurale, meaning Rural Family House, in Jallais near Nantes in western France.

The party of around 25 students spent a morning at The School of Health, Care and Early Years at our Tottenham Centre, as part of a week-long trip to London.

The group who are all studying healthcare, childcare and customer service courses, took part in an energetic dance workout and then created colourful works of art to celebrate the friendship between the UK and France

French student Agathe Martineau,17 , said: ”I enjoyed teaching children in nearby primary school and I loved the dance.

French teacher Dominique said: “I loved the warm welcome in the College and I loved the activities”.

If you would like to check out our Health and social care courses Click here or follow the link below:

https://www.conel.ac.uk/courses/health-and-social-care.html

Neville Watson, from Godwin Lawson Foundation, with students Shannon Berry and Jason Guerra who were among the students sharing their views on knife crime.

Students from the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) have given their support to a new plan to reduce knife crime in Haringey.

Around 20 learners were invited to share their views as part of a wider consultation for a Knife Crime Action Plan commissioned by Haringey Council.

During the discussion students were asked about how they dealt with arguments, if they knew anyone who carried a knives, the risks of carrying knives and what could be done to discourage young people from doing so.

Student Krisztian Meresz, 20, said: “I feel it’s important that young people have a say on knife crime as we are the ones most affected by it. If it helps to save just one person’s life then it has to be a good thing.”

Another student, Gjinovefa Beqiraj, 17, added: “It’s been good to have the chance to get our views across as often no one takes much notice of us and often our voice gets lost.”

The study is being undertaken for Haringey Council by Godwin Lawson Foundation, which supports young people in Tottenham and Enfield to achieve their potential.

The charity was set up by Yvonne Lawson, the mother of a 17-year-old Godwin Lawson who grew up in Tottenham and was killed in a knife attack in 2010.

She said: “As someone who lost their son to knife crime and the importance of research and intervention. Up to now many of the strategies on knife crime were done by the men in suits. Getting young people involved makes it more meaningful.”

Figures show 2017 was the worst year for knife deaths among young people in England and Wales since 2002, with 46 people under the aged of 25 killed in London - 21 more than the previous year.

As of February this year, the number of people fatally wounded in London in 2018 had reached 15.

According to the Ben Kinsella Trust, a charity set up by the family of the Islington teenager Ben Kinsella who was stabbed to death in June 2008, 15% of young people know a friend who has carried a knife.

In October students from CONEL heard from an ex-offender who spoke candidly about the consequences of carrying a knife after he was jailed for life for stabbing a man to death.

Neville Watson, from Godwin Lawson Foundation, said: “The students were very much engaged and had some great ideas in terms of finding solutions to knife crime, and some were keen to know more about how they can help with prevention.”

Ken Hinds visited The College of Haringey Enfield and North East London last month  to inform Public Services students on their rights when it comes to Stop and Search.

Ken Hinds, (55), Chairs Haringey’s Independent Stop and Search Monitoring Group who regularly give talks to local young people about stop and search, knife crime and other topics which are negatively affecting the youth of today.  Mr Hinds informed his listeners about the negative experiences he has encountered, and advised on how to avoid them.

Brendan Berry, Curriculum manager for Sports and Public Services said: “Talks like this give our students both the theory and knowledge for their study, as well as the practical life skills in knowing their rights when out and about.”

The talk started with a test and attendees were scored on their knowledge of the Stop and Search rules and regulations. The session included videos, talks and interactive discussions, which informed them of the rules and regulations before they were re-tested with all of the students improving their score.

One of the Public Services HNC Level 4 students, Veli Sungur, said: “These talks show us our rights and open our minds to the reality of the real world. This will also help me with my coursework Unit 26.”

If you are interested in applying for or want information about one of the Public Services courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London please click here

Sarah Bello talks to Astrid von Volckamer from Whittington Health NHS Trust at the Apprenticeship Jobs Fair

Hundreds of people had the chance to find out more about career opportunities with top employers at an Apprenticeship Jobs Fair.

The event at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL)’s Tottenham Centre to mark National Apprenticeship Week featured a host of national and local business and organisations.

Apprenticeships are actual jobs where you are paid while you learn, usually spending four days a week in the workplace and one day studying.

The fair on 8 March covered a wide range of industries, including catering, hospitality, construction, childcare, health and social care, engineering, engineering and finance.

Among the employers were Brown Eagle, Task Restaurant Group, Denbre, Hanover Building Services, Berkeley Group, Eagle Nursery, Next Steps, Camden Lodge, The Army, HMRC, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Whittington Health NHS Trust.

Sarah Bello, 41, who attended the fair, said: “I’ve been looking at a career in health or childcare. Today has been really useful. I’ve been able to get more information about the types of work you can do, see what suits me and how I can venture into it.”

Gabriel Lashley and Mohammad Juel find out about construction apprenticeships from David Charles of Hanover Building Services.

National Apprenticeship Week ran from 5-9 March and is a Government initiative that celebrates the success of apprenticeships while encouraging people to choose an apprenticeship as a pathway to a great career.

The event also coincided with National Careers Week, which runs from 5-10 March, to promote the importance of good careers education in schools and colleges.

Stav Aristotle-Hill, Apprenticeship Programme Manager at Berkeley Group, said: “Events like these are really beneficial for us.

“They give us the opportunity to interact with prospective apprentices who may not have considered an apprenticeship and find out about the property industry and what jobs they can do in it.”

The College also hosted an event earlier in the day specifically for students from local schools at its Enfield Centre featuring companies including Siemens, Bombardier and Hitachi.

Call 020 8442 3055 and click here for more information on Engineering courses and apprenticeships at the College of College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL). Alternatively come to one of our Monday night Open Evenings from 4pm to 6pm.

Diandra Marshall-Bruce finds out more about engineering apprentiveship at the NTAR stand.

Around 330 secondary school and College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) students attended an Apprenticeships Day to mark this year’s National Apprenticeship Week.

The event at the College’s Enfield Centre showcased engineering apprenticeship opportunities and featured top employers from the rail industry including Siemens, Bombardier, Hitachi and Virgin Trains, as well as representatives from the National Training Academy for Rail (NTAR).

Apprenticeships are actual paid jobs that enable you to earn while you learn the technical skills needed for your career.

Students from Enfield secondary schools Bishops Stopford, Oasis Hadley, Kingsmead, Aylward Academy, Chace Community attended along with others from Joseph Clarke in Waltham Forest.

Groups of excited young people from 14 to 19 listened with interest as the employers described the many roles open to them in rail engineering and the excellent rates of pay.

Barry Connelly, Strategic Adviser for Engineering Development at CONEL, said “It has never been a better time for a young person to enter the rail engineering sector as an apprentice and days like today are our way of getting the message out there”

Hundreds of secondary school and CONEL students attended our Apprenticeships Day.

Following the talks and videos about the fantastic careers on offer, the students had the opportunity to view demonstrations of lathes and cutting equipment.

The base of a train carriage, known as a bogie, and pantograph, which connects the roof of a train to overhead lines, were on display along with a model railway.

Visitors were also able to take part in experiments to test the hardness of a wide range of materials, and wear virtual reality headsets to learn how to drive a train.

Engineering student Diandra Marshall-Bruce, 18, said: “The event is really interesting. I had no idea there were so many opportunities open to me. My favourite aspects of engineering are mechanical and electrical and I would love the opportunity to work with Siemens taking a train apart and putting it back together again.”

Jody McManus, 19, Musaab Samadi, 18, and Samer Adem, 20, who are all studying Engineering Level 3 at CONEL, were keen to find out more about degree apprenticeships as they want to continue studying mechanical engineering while still being paid.

Asif Khan, Head of School for Engineering, said: “It’s been a very enjoyable day and as well as providing access to such reputable companies for our own students, we were also able to make the events available to local school students.”

CONEL apprentices shared their experiences with prospective apprentices and their parents at the Apprenticeships Day.

More than 150 prospective apprentices and parents heard from top engineering companies about apprenticeship opportunities in rail engineering at an Apprenticeships Day.

The event, to mark this year’s National Apprenticeship Week from 5-9 March, was held at the College of Haringey, Enfield North East London (CONEL).

Representatives from companies including Siemens, Bombardier, Hitachi, Virgin and South Western Trains, along with the National Training Academy for Rail (NTAR), gave inspiring presentations at the event at the College’s Enfield Centre to promote apprenticeships training and careers in the industry.

The event provided information about the range of jobs available, job security and excellent rates of pay, plus the chance for visitors to meet employers and their register details with them.

“Four thousand apprentices are going to be needed every year by the rail industry into the foreseeable future. The rail industry values apprentices, who are resilient, work well in teams and are willing to learn,” said Nigel Eagers, Project Consultant at the National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR). 

The event also included stands featuring a bogie, the part of a train with wheels that the carriage is fixed to, and a pantograph, the device that connects the train to overhead lines, as well as the chance to see a model railway and learn to drive a train using virtual reality headsets.

Budding engineers and their families discovered more at our Apprenticeships Day.

National Apprenticeship Week is a Government initiative that celebrates the success of apprenticeships while encouraging people to choose an apprenticeship as a pathway to a great career.

Apprenticeships are actual jobs that enable you to earn while you learn, usually spending four days a week in the workplace and one day studying. Due to the work-based nature of apprenticeships, many, apprentices often have a huge head start in getting a job over university graduates in who often have limited work experience

Siemens apprentice Sophie Davis-Williams, 19, who demonstrated her skills at the event, said: “I’ve always wanted to be an engineer and chose to do an apprenticeship because my employer pays for all my fees so I won’t have any debt at the end, and I’m learning practical skills which will help further my career.”

Elliott Leftly, 18, who is studying ICT and Computing at CONEL, said: “I’ve heard a lot about apprenticeships compared to going to university and I wanted to find out more at this event.”

Creative and Media student Faris Akhtar, 19, added: “The event has been helpful in terms of me thinking about whether or not I want to find a higher apprenticeship or to go to university.”

Their parents were both pleased to see apprenticeships being seen as a real alternative to university and as a way into work.

Click here or call 020 8442 3055 for more information on apprenticeships with the College of Haringey. Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Diane Howells was inspired to train in health and social care fter the death of her husband.

When Diane Howells’ husband died of cancer she had no idea her loss would lead her to start a new career in social care.

The grandmother of seven moved from the Midlands to live with her daughter in north London following the death of her husband Stephen in May 2013 aged 56.

She had also been made redundant from her job at Tesco after 23 years with the retailer and was unsure where her life was heading until she applied for an apprenticeship.

In spring 2016 she started a health and social care apprenticeship at GlenPat Homes in Winchmore Hill with the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

GlenPat Homes provides a residential care home and a purpose-built block of flats along with care support for people with learning disabilities.

Mrs Howells, 60, said: “I had no background in health or social care, but had spent a lot of time caring for Stephen and raised my family and thought it was something I could do.

“I enjoyed going to college and all the training, and learnt so much. At first, I thought I am going to be the oldest one there, but it didn’t matter. There were people of all ages and backgrounds – young mums and some men wanting a career change.

“It opened my eyes, and showed me there are so many things I can do, and it’s given me so much more confidence. The training I had was excellent, and I still use my portfolio of coursework from college to refer to.”

Mrs Howells was taken as a support worker at GlenPat homes towards the end of her apprenticeship and promoted to a more senior role in her first year of full employment.

She happily admitted to never getting bored in her new career, which she enjoys and finds both challenging and rewarding every day.

Mrs Howells added: “I work with a lovely team and the job is so varied. It’s given me a new lease of life. I just wish I had done it when I was younger!

“Stephen would have said do what you want to do now, and it’s all worked out wonderfully. He would have been very proud.”

Mrs Howells was the first apprentice to be placed at GlenPat Homes by CONEL with the care provider now looking to train more staff with the College.

Theo Akem, Services Manager at GlenPat Homes, said: “Diane has a passion for working in care and has excelled in her job. She took to the role very quickly and is now leading her own team. She us one of the best staff I have here.”

Click here or call 020 8442 3442 for more information on the range of apprenticeships available with the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Supported Learning students Mohammed Cali and Keelam O’Connor do a workout in the gym ahead of their work placements at Tottenham Green Pools & Fitness.

Two students with learning disabilities will have the chance to pursue their career goals on work placement at a leisure centre in north London.

Mohammed Cali, 22, and Keelam O’Connor, 18, will be undertaking a one day a week placement at Tottenham Green Pools & Fitness from May to June.

The pair, who are both Supported Learning students at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London 9CONEL), were invited to an induction at the centre on Philip Lane on 15 March.

They met staff and were given a tour of the sports centre run by Fusion Lifestyle, including the gym, swimming pools, sports hall, squash courts and aerobic studios.

While on placement they get to work with gym instructors and lifeguards, test the temperature of the pool, set up gymnastics equipment, learn about health and safety and carry out reception and administrative duties.

Mohamed said: “I like to go to the gym and exercise and it was interesting being able to learn more about different sports. If it goes well it could be something I can do as a job in the future.”

Keelam added: “I enjoy sport, football mostly, and working at a sports centre is something I would like to do. I like all the activities that go on and I think it would be a fun place to work.”

CONEL offers a wide range of courses designed to give students with additional needs work and life skills and more independence, including English and maths.

Rianne Miller, Customer Relations Manager of Tottenham Green Pools & Fitness, said: “We’ve worked with CONEL in the past and excited to be continuing that brilliant relationship by welcoming these students to join us on work experience.

“We hope it will give them an insight into the sport and leisure industry and be a huge opportunity for them to learn skills in a real working environment, which is great for the community and us.”

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here for more information on Supported Learning courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London.

To mark British Science Week (9 – 18 March 2018) the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has launched a series of inspirational blogs by students.

British Science Week, run by the British Science Association is a 10-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths, featuring events and activities across the UK for people of all ages.

CONEL was named England’s number one college for student satisfaction in the FE Choices Learner Satisfaction Survey 2016/17 and has an overall pass-rate of 91.9%.

Students Eimante Balaisyte, 18, Fardeen Jisan, 16, Veselin Bakiev, 19, and Leshaye Inniss, 21, have shared their thoughts on studying at the college in their #MyCONEL blogs.

Eimante, who is studying an Applied Science 90 Credit Diploma Level 3, and hopes to study nutrition or food science at university.

She said: “What I love most about CONEL is that everyone is so friendly and the help they give in preparing me well for university.

“The teachers treat me like an adult, they help me with any questions and they really push me to achieve to my full potential.”

Fardeen enrolled on an Engineering 90 Credit Diploma Level 3 and his ambition is to become an aerospace engineer.

He said: “I’ve always been interested in engineering and the course sounded really good. I enjoy coming up with ideas and using computer design software.”

Veselin is planning to study a computer science degree at university when he finishes his IT Extended Diploma Level 3.

“A friend recommended the College as a great place to study. It’s challenging but in a good way and I am learning a lot and enjoying the group project work,” he said.

Leshaye, 18, is studying for her GCSE Mathematics and her main course is  Creative Digital Media Production First Extended Certificate Level 2.

She said: “I have more time to study than when I was at school. The extra revision sessions have definitely improved my maths skills.

Click below or in the links in the article above to read the students’ blogs and find out more about them and the courses they are studying at CONEL.

Science                        Engineering              ICT and Computing    Mathematics

Eimante Balaisyte       Fardeen Jisan           Veselin Bakiev            Leshaye Inniss

Four apprentices from the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) have been honoured with awards by the north London hospital where they are being trained.

Waseemah Beegun, Timothy Cocklin, Georgia Hughes, and Ifrah Hussein, were among the recipients in this year’s North Middlesex University Hospital Apprenticeship Awards.

Fourth and fifth from left, Ifrah Hussein and Georgia Hughes, back row far right, Timothy Cocklin, and front row second from right, Waseemah Beegun, with other apprentices receiving Apprenticeship Awards with, far left, Maria Kane, Chief Executive of North Middlesex University Hospital.

The hospital’s annual Apprenticeship Awards recognise the hard work, commitment and achievements of employees on its apprenticeship training programme.

Business administration apprentice Waseemah, 23, initially trained as a hairdresser with another college before deciding on a business administration apprenticeship with CONEL.

She began her apprenticeship at the hospital over a year ago at Level 2 and has now enrolled onto a Level 3 course and hopes to continue her career in the NHS.

Timothy Cocklin, 25, is studying a Level 5 human resources apprenticeship having begun his training with CONEL on a business administration apprenticeship. He went on to secure a permanent role at the hospital where he has continued to develop his career.

Georgia Hughes, 19, and Ifrah Hussein 21, both began clinical healthcare apprenticeships at North Middlesex in 2016, during which time they have been supporting ward staff and directly involved in caring for patients.

After completing their training they both decided to stay with the hospital and complete a business administration apprenticeship to further develop their knowledge and skills.

Both agreed they were drawn to an apprenticeship because they were keen to earn a wage while training and gaining actual work experience.

They are keen to follow in their manager’s footsteps and hope to build a career with the NHS.

Sambit Sen, Head of Apprenticeships at CONEL, said: “It was a delight to be a part of the Apprenticeships Awards ceremony at the hospital and see our apprentices get their awards from the chief executive. The thrilled looks on their faces was a treat to watch and I would like to pass on my congratulation to them all on their achievements.

“I am really pleased that the long-standing successful relationship we have had with North Middlesex Hospital has so far led to at least 40 apprentices having successfully completed their qualifications.”

This week Health and social care students at our Enfield centre were given a talk on British values by Anthony Robinson, CONEL's Quality and Learner Experience Manager. The students discussed ‘British values’ and what they thought they were, as well as taking part in interactive discussions on their favourite and least favourite parts of living in Britain.

One of the students Awla Semakula said “We discussed the pros and cons of living in Britain and it was good to see my peers' opinions and see things from others' perspectives.”

This enrichment session took place to teach students from all around the world about British values. This helps merge cultures, which is specifically useful in a college as diverse as CONEL.

Anthony Robinson said “We teach this to promote the British values within the college. These enrichment sessions allow students to explore their own cultural backgrounds whilst merging them with modern British values”

If you would like to check our more information on our Health and social care courses Click here or follow the link below:

https://www.conel.ac.uk/courses/health-and-social-care.html

CONEL is up for a higher education award based on reviews from its students.

The College of Haringey. Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has been shortlisted for a top higher education award.

CONEL is among 10 colleges in contention in the Further Education College category of the What Uni? Student Choice Awards (WUSCA) 2018.

The College offers higher national diplomas (HNDs) and certificates (HNCs), degrees in counselling and postgraduate and specialist teaching courses in Tottenham and Enfield.

Now in their fifth year, the WUSCAs offer prospective students unbiased views based on students’ reviews published on Whatuni.com as an alternative to traditional rankings.

Nominations for the awards are based on thousands of reviews from students studying courses at Level 5 (for example, HND or foundation degree) or above.

Lil Moray, 50, completed a Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) course at CONEL in March and now teaches at the College. 

She said: “The tutors on the CELTA course raised my self-esteem and enabled me access to employment, which contributed to my continued success and achievement.

“Accomplishment is not fate. It’s hard work, determination, learning and sacrifice, but most of all loving what you do.”

The Further Education College category is new for 2018 and CONEL is one of only two London colleges in the running for this prize.

The winners will be announced at the WUSCAs annual awards ceremony at The Brewery in Central London on Thursday 19 April, hosted by award-winning comedian Katherine Ryan.

Maralba Jani, Curriculum Manager for Teacher Education, which includes several higher education courses, said: “We take the quality of our provision very seriously and have passion for what we do. We want to continue the outstanding work and it’s immensely rewarding to have this recognised by our students.

“A huge thank you to all staff and mentors in the Teacher Education team for their hard work and dedication in supporting and inspiring the new generation of teachers.”  

Call 020 8442 30555 or click here for more information on higher education courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Two hammers made by engineering apprentices at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) have been given ministerial approval.

Anne Milton MP, Minister of State for Skills and Apprenticeships, praised the work of Harry Perkins, 20, and Aymane Elkholta, 19, at a reception at the Department for Education.

The multi-faceted hammers are made of aluminium and each have one removable head covering made of nylon and another head covering made of brass.

They can be unscrewed into four parts, which the apprentices machined on industry-standard lathes and cutting machines at the College’s Construction Centre in Enfield.

The Siemens apprentices who are studying a Performing Engineering Operations Diploma Level 2 qualification at the College made the hammers as part of a Turning Skills unit.

They interpreted a series of technical drawings and demonstrated their manual dexterity and practical skills in creating the tools.

Barry Connelly, Strategic Advisor for Engineering Development at CONEL, said: “Our Level 2 engineering apprentices manufacture a number of intricate products using a range of materials to a very high standard.

“These apprentices, and many others trained at CONEL, will go on to help fill the significant skills gap we currently have in the UK for qualified engineers.”

Find out more about Engineering courses and apprenticeships at our Open Day at Tottenham and Enfield on Saturday 12 May from 10am to 2pm, or browse the website for more information and how to apply.

Whitewebbs Eagles FC is hosting The FA and SSE Wildcats football programme at CONEL.

With the FIFA World Cup taking place this summer girls are being encouraged to get fit and active at youth football sessions in Enfield.

Whitewebbs Eagles FC are taking part in The FA and SSE Wildcats programme at the College of Haringey Enfield and North East London (CONEL) from 18 April.

The FA Charter Standard club will host the sessions for girls aged five to 11 at the College’s new 3G football pitch at its Enfield Centre every Wednesday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

SSE Wildcats is run in partnership with SSE, sponsor of the Women’s FA Cup, to inspire girls to participate in football and get them involved more in sport.

Recent research by The FA shows that only 41 per cent of girls aged 10 play football compared to 95 per cent of boys of the same age.

More than 200 centres in England took part in in 2017 with the scheme now extended to a further 900 centres and 26,000 participants across the country.

“We want to give as many girls as possible the chance to play the beautiful game,” said Julie Carter, chairman of Whitewebbs Eagles FC.

“The Wildcats football sessions will provide a safe environment where girls with or without any football experience can have fun engaging with sport, developing skills, learn new things and hopefully gain a lifelong love of sport.”

Whitewebbs Eagles are also holding a Girls Football Week from 23-29 April, which will include a visit by Arsenal Women and England Under 18s player Grace Neville, who used to play for the club, on 25 April.

The club moved to its new home at CONEL after the £770,000 3G football pitch was opened by former Tottenham Hotspur and England footballer Ledley King last November.

The pitch was made possible thanks to the support of Middlesex FA to secure a £540,000 grant from the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund.

The pitch is also home to the College’s Football Academy, run in partnership with Leyton Orient FC, which has competed in tournaments both in England and abroad.

If you are interested in SSE Wildcats or the Girls Football Week email whitewebbseagles@outlook.com or visit the website www.whitewebbseagles.co.uk.

The pitch and other sports facilities, including a sports hall, gym and physio sessions, are available to hire by calling 020 8442 3676 or at www.conel.ac.uk/sporthire.

CONEL is working with other Collab Group colleges to create Digital Engineering Academy.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) is among a group of top colleges behind a new Digital Engineering Academy.

The Academy will develop learners’ skills and career prospects in digital engineering to support critical infrastructure projects across the country.

Collab Group, which represents 37 colleges and college groups, including CONEL’s parent group Capital City College Group (CCCG), has secured funding through the Government’s Flexible Learning Fund for the Academy.

Andy Wilson, Chief Executive of CCCG, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of this exciting project in developing teaching and training materials to bring digital skills to a wide range of engineering related industries.”

Birmingham Metropolitan College is leading on the project with support from Capital City College Training (CCCT) - the apprenticeship arm of CCCG, Derby College, Middlesbrough College and Bridgwater & Taunton College.

Lead employer partner Vinci Construction will work with Collab Group colleges to upskill the next generation of digital engineers.

The project will respond to the skills and training needs of key industrial sectors, with the colleges creating interactive e-learning content with technology partner ePearl.

The Academy has already received endorsements from high profile companies, including Laing O’Rourke, East Midlands Rail, East Midlands LEP, West England LEP, Tarmac, One Awards, NSAR and NOCN, and Bam Nuttall.

Steve Bannister, Business Development Director at Collab Group, said: “Training the next generation of digital engineers will be crucial to ensure the success of key infrastructure projects across the UK, and we look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Mek Mehmet-Yesil has set up Health Screen UK to provide free health checks in the community.

A former nursing student at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has launched a project providing free health checks to disadvantaged communities.

Mek Mehmet-Yesil, 48, set up Health Screen UK with Erim Metto, CEO of the Turkish Cypriot Community Association where she has been the secretary since 2011.

Four other ex-students from CONEL – Ryannah Benjamin, Shanique Smith, Camilla Crockett and Maris Onuigbo  – helped establish the project, funded by the National Lottery and Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Health checks are carried out at the project’s premises in Green Lanes, Stoke Newington, and patients’ homes, community centres, schools and care homes.

The check includes a full medical assessment including measurement of height, weight, body mass index and blood pressure and a blood test. It also looks at cholesterol and hydration levels, posture, diet and fitness.

“While studying at CONEL I noticed that many people being diagnosed with life threating conditions were from less advantaged communities, so I teamed up with a group of friends in healthcare to form Health Screen UK,” said Mek.

“We wanted to support the screening of people within their communities so they would feel at ease, and successfully secured funding from the National Lottery and CQC last year and the rest is history.”

Left, Mek Mehmet-Yesil checks a patient's health, and right, second from front, with former CONEL students Shanique Smith, Camilla Crockett and Ryannah Benjamin, who helped set up the project.

The project comprises six trustees and eight clinicians and works closely with the NHS Choices, Health Diagnostics, Council of Turkish Cypriot Associations (UK) and Turkish Women’s Philanthropic Association.

Mek said: “Over the past 10 years or so there has been a growing number of patients at our local GP practices and hospitals. This has put an enormous amount of pressure on NHS staff and resources.

“Language barriers and pre-existing conditions along with an ageing demographic have all added to the burden, which is why I felt so passionately about providing this service.”

Mek studied an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Nursing at CONEL to update her skills with a view to studying a degree in nursing, but has put this on hold after becoming a grandmother.

She previously gained a BSc Physiology and Anatomy from Angela Ruskin University and is currently studying for a PhD in clinical psychology with the University of Liverpool.

Mek works as a volunteer in A&E at North Middlesex University Hospital having spent seven years as a volunteer paramedic with London Ambulance Service. She also volunteers for the Metropolitan Police, and was honoured by the force last year for two years’ service.

Mek is set to return to CONEL to talk about her business and share her experiences of working in the healthcare sector with the current cohort of students later this year.

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here for more information on Health and Social Care courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).