Public Services students Alberto Zamfir and Michelle Gallagher with Warrant Officer Class 2 Darren Pugh from The London Regiment at the Pan London Youth and Public Services Day.

Students discovered more about working in the Armed Forces and emergency services at a careers day they helped run at Alexandra Palace.

Around 20 Public Services students from the College of Haringey, Enfield and North London (CONEL) provided support at this year’s Pan London Youth and Public Services Day.

More than 2,000 school pupils in Years Seven to 13 from across the capital were invited to the event run by Haringey Police Community Boxing Club, which acts as the precursor to the Haringey Box Cup.

Students helped promote the event and provided assistance in setting up stands, acted as stewards and provided catering on the day.

They also had the chance to visit many of the stands hosted by organisations including the Army, Royal Navy, Air Cadets, Royal Military Police, The Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, London’s Air Ambulance, Saracens, Thames Water, VR Education Holdings, Swinley Bike Hub and the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation.

Public Services student Toni Martin, 17, said: “My grandad used to be a firefighter and his dad before him, and I want to follow them. I like the different aspects of the job – you might attend a fire or rescue people from a car crash and help save their lives.”

Another student, Abdullah Hamid, 21, said: “I want to go on to university to study law or criminology because I want to become a police inspector. It’s been good to talk to some of the officers from the Met today about a police career.”

Students spent the past few months working with Haringey Police Community Boxing Club, The Metropolitan Police and the management of Alexandra Palace to organise the event.

Britto Matthew, 19, who is studying an HNC in Public Services, said: “It’s a huge event and been hard work, but it’s been worth it when you see all the kids getting inspired about careers in public services.”

Top Left, Joshua Butler and Jack Sousa Da Silva in police riot gear. Top Right, David Farimita aand Tanya-Maria Ivanova provide catering at the event. Bottom Left, Toni Martin talks to Watch Manager Marlon Clarke from London Fire Brigade. Bottom Right, Ellice Almeida tries out mountain biking with Swinley Bike Hub.

Public Services students at CONEL have been involved in helping run the event for the past three years with their contribution forming part of their course assessment.

Event Organiser Shawn Goodchild said: “We couldn’t put this on without the help of people volunteering their time, and the students from CONEL were no exception.

“They were professional and disciplined and a joy to work with and epitomised what is good about London youth and were a credit to their college. I cannot praise them enough.”

Click here of call 020 8442 3055 or click this link to find out more about our Public Services courses.

We’re offering FREE Public Services courses up to Level 2. Click here to find out more.

Students and apprentices celebrate with Principal Andy Forbes at this year's Graduation Ceremony.

Students and apprentices celebrated at this year’s Graduation Ceremony at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

The ceremony was hosted by Principal Andy Forbes with certificates being presented by Sarah Ebanja, Chair of the CONEL Local Advisory Board.

The evening saw close to 100 learners graduate from the College who successfully completed their vocational courses and apprenticeships in 2017-18.

They were awarded for Access to Higher Education Diplomas, Higher National Certificate and Higher National Diplomas, Professional Diplomas, Teacher Education courses up to postgraduate level and Advanced Apprenticeships.

Mayor of Haringey Councillor Gina Adamou was the guest of honour at the end-of-year celebration at the College’s Tottenham Centre on 26 June.

Accountancy apprentice Arthi Mahinda, 20, said: “University wasn’t the right pathway for me. I liked the fact that on an apprenticeship you get to work and learn at the same time.

“I’ve learnt a lot during my apprenticeship and from the people I’ve been working with.

“It’s not just given me accountancy skills but the chance to gain experience in networking and public speaking across the business, which has been good for my CV and career.”

Access to Nursing student Neal Scheurer, 42, said: “The course was brilliant. I cannot praise the tutors enough for their encouragement and support, they were brilliant.

“They were very thorough and it has given me a good grounding for university, which I feel will give me an advantage over A-level students taking a degree.”

Top: Plumbing tutor Paul Oatham collects his Pearson Education Award from Sarah Ebanja, Chair of the CONEL Local Advisory Board. Bottom left: Music Production student Camarie Houston performs James’ Bay’s Let It Go. Bottom right: Former CONEL student Bhaveet Shah gives an inspiring talk at the ceremony.

The ceremony included a presentation to Plumbing tutor Paul Oatham who has won a Silver Award in the FE Lecturer of the Year category of the Pearson Education Awards.

He was joined by his wife Jill, daughter Louise and parents William and Valerie, and some of his students who along with the College nominated him for the award.

Addressing the graduates as he accepted the award, Paul said: “This all came about because of this wonderful group of students. It is very humbling to be up here on your evening.

“Your success is our success, your down days are our worst days. Do look back but go forward – that’s the direction you are going in now.”

Bhaveet Shah, who studied an IT Extended Diploma Level, achieved a first class honours degree and is now completing for a PhD in Software Engineering at Brunel University, gave an inspiring talk at the ceremony.

He said: “All of you who are graduating today, don’t stop now. There is no limit to your potential. If you have an ambition or idea in your head, make it happen and fulfil it.”

The evening also included performances of James’ Bay’s Let It Go and Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata by Level 3 Music Production students Camarie Houston and Vasili Achillea.

CONEL offers a wide range of higher education courses, access courses, teaching qualifications, apprenticeships and vocational courses in Tottenham and Enfield.

Principal Andy Forbes said: “Graduation is a day I always look forward to as Principal.

“Seeing the joy on the faces of our students and apprentices as they graduate is a warm reminder of what education is about and the difference it can make to people’s lives.

“I’d like to congratulate all of you on your fantastic achievements.”

Call 0208 8442 3055 or click here for more information on Higher Education courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Plumbing tutor Paul Oatham collects his Silver Award in the Further Education Lecturer of the Year category of the Pearson Teaching Awards from Sarah Ebjana, Chair of the CONEL Local Advisory Board.

A ‘fantastic and very dedicated’ tutor at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London has won a Silver Award in the prestigious Pearson Teaching Awards.

Paul Oatham, who has been teaching Plumbing at the College since October 2016, scooped the award in the Further Education Lecturer of the Year category.

The Pearson Teaching Awards recognise the outstanding work of exceptional teachers, teaching assistants, headteachers and further education lecturers across the UK. 

Sarah Ebjana, Chair of the CONEL Local Advisory Board, presented Paul with his trophy at the College’s annual Graduation Ceremony at its Tottenham Centre on 26 June.

He was joined by his wife Jill, daughter Louise and parents William and Valerie, and some of his students who along with the College nominated him for the award.

Addressing the graduates as he accepted the award, Paul said: “This all came about because of this wonderful group of students. It is very humbling to be up here on your evening.

“Your success is our success, your down days are our worst days. Do look back but go forward – that’s the direction you are going in now.”

At the time he was described as a ‘wonderful and inspirational’ teacher who inspires his students with his passion and commitment to his subject and education.

Paul will now go on to join fellow Silver Award winners, Scottish Education Award winners and Professional Teaching Awards Cymru, at the 20th UK Ceremony of the Pearson Teaching Awards, to find out if is a winner of one of just 12 Gold Plato Awards.

aul Oatham with his family and some of the students who nominated him with the College for the Pearson Education Award alongside Principal Andy Forbes and Sarah Ebjana, Chair of the CONEL Local Advisory Board.

Principal Andy Forbes said: “The Pearson Teaching Awards are one of the most prestigious in education, and I am absolutely thrilled Paul has received a Silver Award.

“Paul is a fantastic and very dedicated tutor. He has had a huge impact on both his students and colleagues who speak incredibly highly of him.

“He has been rightly recognised for his hard work and exceptional teaching and fully deserves this accolade, and I congratulate him on this superb achievement.”

Pearson is one of the world's leading education companies providing educational products, resources, assessment and services at all levels of learning.

Rod Bristow, President of Pearson UK, said: "Huge congratulations to all those receiving a silver trophy.  They should feel extremely proud of their achievements and join an inspirational group of Teaching Award winners from the past two decades. 

“It’s an honour for Pearson to support these awards each year. It’s so vital to recognise and celebrate those in the teaching profession, for their commitment to education and for the impact they have on young people's lives.”

The Graduation Ceremony saw nearly 100 learners receive certificates after successfully completing their vocational courses and apprenticeships in 2017-18.

Certificates were presented for Access to Higher Education Diplomas, Higher National Certificate and Higher National Diplomas, Professional Diplomas, Teacher Education courses up to postgraduate level and Advanced Apprenticeships.

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

Mayor of Haringey Councillor Gina Adamou presents a cheque for £1,000 to the ESOL students to donate to their chosen charity Enfield Vision.

A charity in Enfield for blind and visually impaired people is to receive £1,000 as students showed their support to three good causes.

Enfield Vision was chosen to receive the cash after a winning presentation by students at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

They were taking part in the First Give programme, which encourages young people to give their time and talent to help improve their community.

Two other student presentations made cases for Haringey Migrant Support Centre and disabled children’s charity Bayis Sheli in Stamford Hill for the cash.

A panel of judges decided on the charity to receive the donation after watching the presentations by English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students.

Student Rozerin Arslan, 16, said: “It’s great that the £1,000 will be going to our charity. People were so kind and gave money, which will really help them.

“It feels really good to have done something very positive to help people that are not as fortunate as myself.”

During each of the presentations the students spoke about the work of their chosen charities though audience participation, videos, music and role-play, and explained how they would spend the £1,000.

They also revealed how they had already raised money through donations and fundraising events, such as cake sales and sports matches.

The judges comprised Mayor of Haringey Councillor Gina Adamou, Amy Clark, Programme Manager for First Give, Peter Coe, Head of School for ESOL, and Jan Dunster, Head of Learner Support.

Addressing the students, Mr Coe said: “Thank you to all of you for what has obviously been a lot of hard work. All of the judges were very impressed and it was such a difficult decision to make.

Cllr Adamou added: “Your charities have already benefited from the money and awareness you have raised, but they will still need support tomorrow and the next day, so please keep helping them.”

Enfield Vision hosts drop-in sessions at Park Avenue Resource Centre, Bush Hill Park, on the first Monday and third Thursday of each month.

It provides free weekly Braille lessons and IT training at Community House in Edmonton, bowls matches with Enfield Visually Impaired Bowls Club as well as arranging trips to the theatre and other places of interest.

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

We’re offering ESOL courses for FREE. Click here to find out more.

Fatou Sarr Ndao receives her Reading Ahead certificate from outgoing Principal Andy Forbes.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has achieved a gold award in this year’s Reading Ahead challenge.

More than 200 students from across the College took part in the national reading scheme run by the Reading Agency.

Gold, silver and bronze awards are presented by the Reading Agency to organisations with at least 150, 100 or 50 participants respectively.

Most of those taking part have been studying English and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses.

Reading Ahead takes place every year in libraries, colleges and workplaces across the country and aims to improve reading skills and encourage people to read more.

Participants choose six books and review them in a diary. Anyone can take part, although it is particularly aimed towards people who want to improve their literacy skills.

Outgoing Principal Andy Forbes, presented every student who took part with a certificate from the Reading Agency.

The students were also entered into a local prize draw to win book tokens worth £20 and a national draw to have their name featured in a new book by crime writer Ann Cleeves.

CONEL received a gold award having received a silver award for the previous three years.

Mr Forbes became Principal of City and Islington College, part of CONEL’s parent group Capital City College Group, earlier this month.

CONEL has been awarded tge Mayor’s Construction Academy Quality Mark.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has been recognised by the Mayor of London for its high quality construction training.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan launched the Mayor’s Construction Academy (MCA) scheme to close the gap between the demand for houses and need for skilled workers in the industry in the capital.

CONEL has received the MCA Quality Mark for its training, which will also enable it to bid for funding for construction facilities and equipment and to develop relationships with employers.

The College had to demonstrate its high quality training and its strong links with employers, including apprenticeships and work experience opportunities, to gain the accreditation.

CONEL is now looking to secure funding to become one of six MCA hubs in London.

In a letter to CONEL’s parent organisation Capital City College Group (CCCG), the Mayor said: “I am delighted to confirm that your organisation has been successful in its application to be awarded the Quality Mark.

“This is a significant achievement that recognises the high standard and industry relevance of the construction skills training that you offer to learners.”

CONEL offers courses and apprenticeships in Bricklaying. Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical Installations and Construction Skills at its centres in Tottenham and Enfield from Level 1 to Level 3 as well as Level 4 Construction Management.

Principal Kurt Hintz said: “The MCA Quality Mark shows the College’s commitment to the construction industry and this scheme, and we’re now putting in a bid to be one of six MCA hubs around London.

“We have delivered a large amount of excellent construction training in London for a very long time and have maintained that standard to support the construction industry.

“We are very proud to be recognised by the Mayor in achieving the Construction Academy Quality Mark. It’s been a great year for us at CONEL including one of our plumbing teachers, Paul Oatham, recently receiving a Pearson FE teacher of the year award.

“This demonstrates just how skilled and dedicated our construction teachers are.”

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

We’re offering FREE Construction courses up to Level 2. Click here to find out more.

Students Tai-Jaun Akberali and Pauleen Lijertwood try out the visual effects on an iPhone during a workshop run by the BBC Academy.

Aspiring film-makers at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) created their own movies when they took part in a three-day workshop.

Two groups of students scripted, shot and edited their short films with the London Film School as part of a project run by the BBC Academy.

The first film called Yin Meets Yang tells the story of a previously kind and friendly girl who comes through a vortex from a bad universe and causes trouble among her peers.

The second called Trapped follows a bored and angry student who questions his behaviour when he comes to the rescue of a woman trapped in a lift.

The students used iPhones mounted in special rigs to enable them to use telephoto and wide-angle lenses and external microphones to make their films using the FiLMiC Pro app.

The finished films were shown on the final day of the workshop to families and friends of the students at a screening at the College’s Tottenham Centre.

Music student Lisa Farrell-Tonge, 19, who took part in the workshop, said: “I’m really pleased with how the film has turned out. It’s been a brilliant experience learning about different camera techniques and the effects you can use.

“I had fun coming up with a story about two different personalities. I was quite proud of myself that I turned around a script in one night.

“It’s been great getting ideas from others in the group, and advice from professionals on how you can add more interest and tell a story through film.”

Another student, Tai-Jaun Akberali, 18, added: “I really enjoyed the workshop. We came up with a good story and I worked on the script.

“I also learnt a lot about the technical settings to make your film look good, and that you can do anything you want and you’re only limited by your own creativity.”

Socrate Kiabala and Sheikh Akhtar practise some film shots during the workshop.

Freelance writer-director Nic Shearer and London Film School graduates Sedi Ghadiri, Vincenzo Marranghino and Fred Vanstrydonck led the sessions.

Nic, who has worked as a second unit director on films including 24 Hour Party People and Possession, said: “I thought the students did very well across the three days to produce the films they did.

 “It was encouraging to see them really take ownership of their films and they should be proud of what they achieved in the limited space of time they had.

The way they expressed themselves was great. They were very enthusiastic and really demonstrated not just a lot of confidence and creativity, but also originality. There was definitely some talent there.”

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

We’re offering FREE Creative and Media courses up to Level 2. Click here to find out more.

Creative andd Media students Sonia Woods, Adulai Balde, Tai-Jaun Akberali andPauleen Lijertwood with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn MP at the Bernie Grant Exhibition at the Marcus Garvey Library.

Students at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) interviewed Jeremy Corbyn at the launch of an exhibition about former Tottenham MP Bernie Grant.

The Labour Party leader opened the Bernie Grant Exhibition at the Marcus Garvey Library on 27 July., to celebrate the life and work of Mr Grant who died in 2000.

The exhibition was organised by the Friends of Marcus Garvey Library in collaboration with the College, Mr Grant’s widow Sharon Grant, Sharon Foster from Alicia Dean Artworks, Tottenham artist Caroline Rault and documentary film-maker Professor Kurt Barling.

Creative and Media students created a wall of images and facts about Mr Grant’s life and political career and made a documentary for the exhibition.

At the launch, they asked Mr Corbyn several questions including on what inspired him to become a politician and why it is important to encourage creativity in young people.

Student Tai-Jaun Akberali, 18, said: “We did a lot of research about Bernie Grant and found out all about his life and his support for people in the Tottenham area. He was such a key figure in the community and I feel very proud to be part of this project.”

On interviewing Jeremy Corbyn, student Adulai Balde, 24, added: “It was an incredible experience, and not something you get to do every day. He related well to us, which not many politicians do and was very passionate in his views on social issues.”

Creative and Media students with Jeremy Corbyn MP and some of the artwork they created for the exhibition.

The exhibition was paid for through a crowd funding campaign with support from Haringey Council and is expected to grow with the support of CONEL students over the coming years.

Mr Corbyn, a close friend of Mr Grant, said: “Bernie certainly was an inspiration to so many young people in the way that he conducted himself and the way that he campaigned for an understanding of our cultural background, our cultural values and our history.”

Mr Grant attended CONEL, then Tottenham Technical College from 1965-67, and later studied a degree in mining engineering at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.

Born in British Guiana, he became one of Britain’s first black MPs when he was elected in June 1987, having previously served as the Leader of Haringey Council.

Mr Grant led the development of many community facilities, including Marcus Garvey Library and Tottenham Green Leisure Centre, now Tottenham Green Pools and Fitness.

Jasmin Taylor, Chair, Friends of Marcus Garvey Library, said:” Bernie Grant was a much-loved, inspirational and outspoken figure, who lived locally, spoke for, and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the people of Tottenham.

“Improving the life chances of young people in the borough was an issue always close to Bernie’s heart, which is why the Friends were especially pleased to be able to collaborate with students at the college he attended as a young man.”

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

Jack Dewhurst secured a job after completing an apprenticeship after his A-levels.

A newly qualified apprentice has told why he chose an apprenticeship over going to university after finishing his A-levels.

Jack Dewhurst, 20, secured a job as a Digital Marketing Executive at Capital City College Group (CCCG) after completing an apprenticeship in digital marketing this summer.

Despite offers from several universities, he opted for an apprenticeship at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) with Westminster Kingsway College, both part of CCCG.

“For me, the main benefit of an apprenticeship is getting the qualifications while gaining the experience,” said Jack.

“You’re always going to need that piece of paper to say what you can do, but the practical experience you get on an apprenticeship on a professional level and confidence level is something else.

“You’re earning money as well, which has let me go on holidays and to festivals, which maybe people at university can’t afford, and at the end of it I didn’t have any debt.”

During his apprenticeship Jack gained skills in other aspects of marketing and the opportunity to study a Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing at Level 5.

“I’ve learnt how to work with people in a professional environment, run different marketing campaigns and manage time and expectations by adapting and prioritising my work,” he said.

“No two days have been the same. I’m constantly doing something different and I really enjoy that. It’s really motivational and I’m always learning, which at my age is important.

 “You’re also working with people who have been in the game for 10-plus years and doing the job day in day out, rather than lecturers who just know the theory.

“By the time my friends get out of university I’ll have had two and a half years’ work experience, an apprenticeship and a Level 5 qualification.

“I’m not taking anything away from university. It’s right for a lot of people and a lot of professions – I couldn’t do an apprenticeship and become a doctor, but for what I wanted to do this was the right route for me.”

Jack has no regrets over choosing an apprenticeship over university and has the following advice for school-leavers considering the next step in their education.

“Think about what you want to do as a career and think about who you are and how you learn, and for some people university will be the right option. For me apprenticeships give you that edge when it comes to experience employers are going to be looking for.

 “With a degree you’ve proved you can pass the test, with an apprenticeship you’ve proved you can do the job.”

Capital City College Training (CCCT) is the training arm of CCCG and offers one of the largest range of apprenticeships in London, training more than 3,000 apprentices each year.

Call 020 8442 3442 or click here for more information on apprenticeships with CCCT.

Alisa Jastrub and Veselin Bakiev both gained places at university after studying an Extended Diploma Level 3.

Students have hailed vocational courses as being more relevant than A-levels in getting them into university.

With A-level results out this week, the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) will be opening for enrolment from Wednesday 15 April.

The College offers a wide range of vocational courses to give students the skills for a specific career or to further their study at a higher level.

Extended Level 3 qualifications in these courses are the equivalent of up to three A-levels and accepted as an alternative by many universities.

Alisa Jastrub. 19, is set to study a BSc (Hons) Psychology at the University of Westminster after completing a Health and Social Care Diploma Extended Level 3.

Alisa, 19, said: “I left sixth form after a year because I felt the course at CONEL was more relevant to what I wanted to do. At college you also have more independence and you’re treated you more like an adult. At sixth form it still feels like you’re in school.

“The whole experience was good for me. The teachers were supportive. They helped me whenever they could and answered my questions, and prepared me well for university.”

Veselin Bakiev, 20, is heading to university to study a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science at Goldsmiths University of London after completing an IT Diploma Extended Level 3.

He said: “My teacher said the course would be the best choice for me to get into university because I did not have any A-levels because I am from Bulgaria.

“The course was great and I learnt a lot about software and programming that I can take to university. I’m really excited to be going to university and meeting new people and learning more about computers.”

Vocational courses are different to A-levels with students choosing various modules to broaden their skills and knowledge with assessment usually undertaken through exams, coursework and work placements.

At the end of the second year of their Level 3 qualification they will have completed more than 100 hours in placement, which combined with their studies better prepares them for their chosen career or higher education.

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

Click here for details on how to enrol at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Miranda Blanks progressed to an HNC in Public Services at CONEL after completing a Level 3 in the same subject.

Students progressing to higher education at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) are heading to university.

The College offers a range of Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) courses at both its Tottenham and Enfield Centres.

HNCs and HNDs are a great stepping stone to university and can be topped up with one or two years’ extra study to a full bachelor’s degree.

These courses are £5,787 a year compared to £9,250 a year by many universities, making this route to a degree much more affordable.

Cyrene Gray, 19, is set to study a BA (Hons) in Popular Music at Middlesex University after completing an HNC in Music Production at CONEL this year.

She stayed at the College after studying for a Music Technology Diploma at Level 3, which is the equivalent of three A-levels and accepted by many universities.

Cyrene said: “I wasn’t sure I was quite ready for university yet, and wanted to make sure I would be comfortable with the work at that level without committing myself to a degree for three years.

“I wanted to come back because I enjoyed my time at CONEL and I’d made a lot of friends. The teachers were also really supportive and helped me a lot because I have dyslexia.”

 “When they gave us a piece of work they explained it well and made it easy to understand.”

Cyrene has always had a passion for creating music and hopes to be a recording artiste or producer when she finished university.

“I love performing and writing my own music. It give me a chance to tell my story and express myself and come up with different interpretations of songs,” she said.

“The Level 3 was very practical and the Level 4 taught me more about running a music business, which will give me a good start on my university course.”

Miranda Blanks, 22, decided to stay at CONEL to study an HNC in Public Services after completing a Level 3 Diploma in the subject.

“I did not want to go to university as I wanted to continue studying Public Services,” she said.

“I like the way they teach at college. It’s much more practical and interactive and you get hands on experience and work placements – I find that a much better way of learning.

“The tutors always for above and beyond, and I ‘ve got so much out of being here. The experience I’ve had at CONEL has been amazing and is enough to make anyone come back.”

Miranda hopes to continue onto her HND next year and then go on to university and study a degree to enable her to fulfil her dream of becoming a paramedic.

Higher Education course fees can be paid in easily manageable instalments or with a student loan, which you do not have to pay back until you earn more than £25,000 a year.

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

Click here for details on how to enrol at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Players from CONEL’s Football Academy celebrate winning the Association of Colleges’ English Colleges Football Association (EFCA) Men’s Category 2C league title.

Football and Basketball Academies at College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) are celebrating becoming league champions.

The Football Academy team, run in partnership with Leyton Orient FC, won the Association of Colleges’ English Colleges Football Association (EFCA) Men’s Category 2C league title.

The side comfortably secured victory, finishing nine points clear of their nearest rivals – Lewisham Southwark College and Barnet and Southgate College.

The team has now been promoted to compete in EFCA Category 1 games next season.

Top scorer Suaibo Balde 17, who scored 25 goals, said: “It means everything to win a league title. We had a great cohesion, and I was proud to score many goals to help the team win.

“The coach has really helped me in training and made suggestions on how we can improve. It really made a big difference to our game and we got the results.”

Teammate Muhammed Asam, 17, added: “We have worked really hard and it has shown on the pitch. It was great to win the league in my first year at the College.”

CONEL’s second team were runners up in the Men’s Category 3B division.

CONEL's Basketball Academy, known as the Warriors, won the Community Basketball League Under 20s Men’s Division and the Under 18s Eastern Conference.

The College’s Basketball Academy team, known as the Warriors, won the Community Basketball League Under 20s Men’s Division and the Under 18s Eastern Conference.

They beat Wandsworth Wolves 48-35 and Barnet Bulldogs 49-30 in the play-off finals respectively to take the title.

TJ Burnett, 18, captained the teams in both matches and was named Most Valued Player in the under 20s game after scoring 15 points.

He said: “It feels great to have won. We played well during the season and only lost one game, and have shown what CONEL is all about.

“We worked hard as a team and had a good spirit and supported each other on and off the court, and had a real competitive desire to win.”

Teammate Jack Davis, 18, added: “The coaching at CONEL is the best I’ve had. It has given me more experience and understanding of the game, and shown me if you’re willing to keep trying you’re never going to be turned away.”

CONEL’s B team were also runners up in the Under 18s Community Basketball League Western Conference.

The College also finished fourth in the Association of Colleges Basketball London Men’s League following last year’s East Men’s League title win, and third in the Academy Basketball League.

The teams and the top and most improved players were recognised at an awards ceremony at CONEL’s Enfield Centre led by coaches Josemar Santos and Jay Williams.

Jonathan Silman, Head of Sport, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the progression of our Sports Academies this year. To win one title is great, but to win two is excellent.

“I am very proud that for the first time next year we will have both football and basketball represented at the highest level in college sport, which shows just how established they are at CONEL.”

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here for more information on Sports Academies and Sport and Fitness courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Football and Basketball Academy Award Winners 2017-18

FOOTBALL

BASKETBALL

Matthew Agnimel is part of CONEL's Athletics Academy.

 A promising young athlete has told how his hero Usain Bolt inspired him to follow his dream of representing Team GB in the Olympics.

Matthew Agnimel, 17, is on track and field events with his focus the 100m, 200m and 400m as well as the long jump and triple jump.

He has been a member of the Athletics Academy at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) run in partnership with community sports organisation Reach and Teach.

Matthew had the chance to meet the eight-time gold medallist and record-breaking sprinter when he competed in the 2014 Mini London Marathon.

“I was overwhelmed to meet him. I asked him what he did to get to be the best, and he said ‘I never think limits,’ which has stuck with me.

“He really touches people when he speaks and is on whole different level. It was a day I can never forget.”

Matthew Agnimel training at Lea Valley Athletics Centre.

Matthew trains three times a week with the Athletics Academy at Lea Valley Athletics Centre in Edmonton and with Havering Athletic Club.

In May he achieved personal bests when he came first in the triple jump with a distance of 13.57m and third in the 100m and long jump with a time of 11.37 and distance of 5.79m respectively in the UK Youth Development League Division South 1B.

Matthew also came third in the 400m in the Southern Athletics League Division 2E in April.

On training at CONEL, Matthew added: “The coach has really pushed me and focused me on what I need to do and what I have to gain. When I am do something wrong he will keep telling me until I get it right.

“It’s very competitive. Even when you’re winning you’re trying to keep hold of it and be your best. There’s a lot of good people coming through in this sport, which shows the work you have to put in.

“When I look at my results from last year to this year they have really improved. I feel much stronger and fitter now. I just need to make sure I maintain it.”

Athletics Academy coach and former Team GB athlete John Herbert said: “Over the past year Matthew has learnt his basic skills in terms of how to run better in terms of his movement.

“He has also worked on his strength and conditioning, and as a result his fitness has gone up. He has made a lot of progress in that time and pound for pound for anybody his age he has the right statistics.

“If he works and trains hard, I do not see any reason why he cannot go far in athletics.”

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here to find out more about the Athletics Academy at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

We’re offering FREE courses in Sport and Fitness. Click here to find out more.

Supported Learning students Kimahl Muir and Claire Bonney put up bunting at Cafe 311.

Creative students with special educational needs have brightened up a community café in Edmonton.

Supported Learning students at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) have the Café 311 in Community House on Fore Street.

They spent the past few months making various decorations to reflect the café’s theme of the four seasons.

The group created colourful bunting of autumnal prints and leaves along with mobiles of butterflies and pinecones, which they attached to the ceiling.

The students also produced a spring scene on a large piece of fabric featuring a woodland of trees, flowers and animals, which they stapled to a wooden frame to create a screen.

The screen will be used to cordon off areas of the café for anyone wanting to have a more private meeting.

Supported Learning student Danuta Allan, 49, said: “I have enjoyed making all the decorations and bunting for the café.

“We have worked really hard on it. It’s helped me learn about art and come up with some ideas, and see what else you can do.

“I feel quite proud that it is now up and people can see what we have done.”

Another student, Sherelle Croasdale, 26, added: “It looks very bright and colourful and I’m really excited to see it in the café.

“I like art and making cards, so I really enjoyed this project. It shows you can do different things if you put your mind to it.”

Left, Danica Allan and Kimahl Muir create a screen. Centre and right, Guler Soyturk and Sherelle Croasdale, make some bunting.

Café 311 is run by The Camden Society, which provides employment, training and supported living and day services for people with learning disabilities across London and Oxfordshire.

The café offers work placement opportunities to people with learning disabilities, including six Supported Learning students from CONEL.

Olivean Godfrey, Project Worker at The Camden Society who helps run the café, said: “The decorations are absolutely lovely and added even more colour to an already very colourful room.  I’m sure it is something our customers will enjoy.

“The students have clearly put in a lot of creativity and work into them, and it’s good to see them involved in supporting their community.”

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

Martin Herda and Nadine Henry celebrate their GCSE results.

Students celebrated another excellent set of GCSE results for English and maths at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

The College saw 58.1% of adult learners, those aged 19 or over, achieve high grades of 9 to 4 (previously A* to C) in English and 62.9% in maths.

CONEL saw an overall pass rate of 95.2% for adults in English and 95.7% for maths.

Among this year’s top performers was Delayne Symister, 16, who achieved a grade 7 in English and maths while on the College’s Key Stage 4 programme for young people who may have had difficulty at school or been displaced through personal circumstances.

She said: “I struggled at school but I’m much better now. I felt confident during the exam but I felt really nervous because it had been such a long time.

“I couldn’t look at my results at first, but now I am very pleased and relieved.”

Other high achievers included Hasan Al Alloush, 44, Nadia Naamani-Rabah, 39 and Shaghayegh Abbasnejad, 19, who all achieved a grade 8 in maths, Sonia Moussa, 47, who attained a grade 7 in maths and Emma Tilley who gained a grade 7 in English.

Martin Herda, 33, who attained a grade 5 in maths, said: “I came here from Slovakia 10 years ago to get a job and met my wife who is a teacher who told me about her job.

“I started a Foundation degree and needed GCSE maths to progress my dream of becoming a teacher, so I’m very happy to have passed my exam.”

Ellice Almeida, 17, gained a grade 6 in English and a grade 4 in maths while also studying a Level 2 Diploma in Public Services at CONEL.

“I feel very excited and a bit numb. I didn’t do as well last year but now I am very happy with my results,” she said.

“My experience of teaching at college was much better than at school. The teachers had more faith in me, and that made me want to work hard and do well for them.”

Top left Delayne Symister who gained a grade 7 in English and maths. Top right, Ellice Ameira finds out her results with Sheila Rai, Head of Scool for English and Maths. Bottom. Jody Carlos De Freitas and Jody McManus celebrate their results.

Nadine Henry, 37, attained a grade 4 in maths and is set to continue studying accountancy at CONEL this September.

 “I am very happy with my result because I did not expect to pass,” she said.

“My teacher was like a father figure. If I had any difficulties I could knock on his door and call and he would help me. He was superb.”

Jody McManus, 19, is set to start an engineering apprenticeship with Siemens at CONEL after achieving a grade 5 in maths.

He said: “At school I had little help and I felt I was being left behind. My experience was much better at CONEL. We had a consistent teacher who actually cared about his class.”

According to the latest survey by QDP Services, the UK's largest independent feedback services provider to education and training sector, 92% of English and maths students at CONEL say the teaching on their course was good.

Principal Kurt Hintz said: “We are very pleased our students have produced a brilliant set of GCSE English and maths results this year. This is an incredible achievement given a third of our learners have English as an additional language.

“We have worked exceptionally hard over the last year on the skills that these learners need to gain in order to master the English language. This has proved extremely successful with significant improvements in the number of learners gaining high grades in English.

“I would like to thank the teaching staff for the excellent tuition and support, and of course congratulate our learners on their results and wish them every success for the future.”

Pamela Miller completed a Hairdressing course despite suffering with multiple sclerosis.

A woman with multiple sclerosis who was told by doctors she might never be able to use her right hand again has successfully completed a hairdressing course.

Pamela Miller, 55, was diagnosed with the condition that causes problems with mobility, balance and vision in 1998, and was later considered unemployable by Job Centre Plus.

This summer she passed a Level 2 Certificate in Cutting Hair at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) and now hopes to start her own hairdressing business.

She said: “I’ve never been a quitter and really enjoyed the course. The teacher inspired me and others in the class by making it fun to learn. It’s given me so much more confidence.”

Pamela noticed early signs of MS in early 1995, including a problem with her eye and a tingling sensation in her spine, but was she not diagnosed until three years later.

During this time and in the years that followed she regularly attended hospital for tests after having relapses of these symptoms and increasing problems with her mobility.

Pamela said: “In 2005 I had a relapse and my hand had ended up in a claw-like state. Because I could barely hold a pen, the doctor told me that I needed to try using my left hand because I would never be able to use my right hand again.”

Despite being placed on steroids her condition worsened and she suffered a severe relapse about a year later that badly affected her legs.

“My whole right side had gone numb and then I was having problems with my left side where I had never had problems before.” She said.

“The doctors said, you will never be able to do this, you will never be able to do that, but I suppose that just pushed me to prove them wrong,”

Pamela persistently turned down a wheelchair but now needs a walking frame and an electronic devise that stimulates her muscles to enable to help her get around.

She puts her determination down to her mother who carried on with her life despite suffering and later passing away from pancreatic cancer.

Pamela works on a client's hair at our Enfield Centre,

MS affects around 100,000 people in the UK and is most commonly diagnosed in people in their 20s or 30s, with women more likely to be affected than men.

Tutor Elaine Patterson said: “Pamela has been an inspiration to those around her. She is always trying to help everybody and is a fantastic role model.

“She would come in, put her walking frame to one side and that’s where her MS stayed until the end of the class. Sometimes I’d forget she has MS because she’d behave as if nothing was up and carry on without complaint.

“She thought she wouldn’t be able to do it, but she has a natural ability and a real determination about her. What she has achieved and the progress she has made has made is phenomenal.”

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

We’re offering FREE Creative and Media courses up to Level 2. Click here to find out more.

Former ESOL student Enrico Tawiah has landed a job with UK Power Networks after attaining a first class Master's degree in Engineering.

A student who barely spoke English eight years ago is set to start work with a major energy supplier after achieving a first class Master’s degree in Engineering.

Italian-born Enrico Tawiah, 24, is set to start work as an Operational Field Engineer on a graduate scheme with UK Power Networks this September.

He admits that he would not have gained his MEng if he had not previously studied an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

“I studied some English in school in Italy, but when I came here I realised that it wasn’t enough and found it very hard to communicate. I had a limited vocabulary and wouldn’t understand simple things, and would interpret things wrong,” said Enrico.

“I was improving slowly but I needed something more structured, so I did an ESOL course to get to a level where I could communicate to everyone.”

Born in Palermo, Sicily, to Ghanaian parents, Enrico grew up in Pordenone in northern Italy before moving to England with his family in September 2010 after he left school at 16.

After studying at CONEL he went on to gain a triple distinction on an Engineering Extended Diploma Level 3 and attain grades A and C in GCSE maths and English.

Enrico then completed an integrated MEng, which combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single course, at Brunel University London.

He said: “The teaching at CONEL was really good and improved my confidence. I also made a lot of friends here and talking to them in English really helped me.

“The further I went in my education, the more I knew I had to improve my English as the vocabulary became more technical.

“I always push for the best and aimed for a first class degree and I got it. Improving my English at CONEL helped me to achieve this and get a job, and I feel very excited about my future.”

While studying for his Master’s degree his third year project, a device to power medical implants using wireless technology, was selected for the Brunel Engineers Showcase.

A group project in his final year to develop a robotic lawnmower won a TWI Award for excellence in innovation in engineering.

ESOL teacher Oya Karabetca said: “Enrico was so motivated and had the right attitude from the very beginning. He was so inquisitive and wanted to learn beyond what we were teaching and he kept going.

“Enrico is an inspiration and a fantastic example to other students. I feel very lucky to have had the privilege of teaching such a wonderful student. I am so proud of him.”

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

Roger Keys, Course Team Leader for Engineering, and Barry Connelly, Strategic Adviser for Engineering at CONEL, receive the NTAR Training Provider of the Year award from Dan Walker, Head of Apprenticeship Delivery at NTAR.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has been recognised for its ‘quality delivery’ of rail engineering apprenticeships by the UK’s training body for the industry.

The College’s Advanced Engineering Centre in Enfield scooped the Training Provider of the Year award at the National Training Academy for Rail (NTAR) Apprentice Awards.

CONEL apprentice Chris Redshaw, 17, also won the Apprentice of the Year award at the award ceremony in Northampton last month.

Chris, who is undertaking his apprenticeship with global transport technology giant Bombardier, was praised by his teachers for his commitment and work ethic, which has earned him the attention of several industry bodies.

He said: “It’s amazing to have won the award and it’s such an honour to get this kind of recognition from the industry.”

NTAR Apprentice of the Year Chris Redshaw.

The Advanced Engineering Centre has seen incredible growth since it was set up in 2016 and now provides training for more than 150 apprentices through its partnerships with companies including Bombardier, Siemens, Eurostar, Alstom, Hitachi and Virgin.

CONEL was nominated for the Training Provider of the Year by the National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR).

NSAR said: “The rail industry has a skills shortage. It needs to attract new talent and improve the diversity of its workforce.

“Through its investment and actions, both with the industry and with the local community, CONEL has attracted potential apprentices and apprentice places from employers within the rail industry.

“This has been complemented by quality delivery - quality approved by NSAR - and strong links with rail employers. The net result is that rail engineering apprentice numbers at CONEL have grown to over 150 in just two years.

“This is a really impressive achievement for the industry and illustrates clearly what can happen when a FE college works hard with both the local community and employers.”

This commendation of CONEL’s training provision was echoed by John Howes, Head of Training and Competency at Bombardier.

He said: “CONEL has made a significant commitment to support the rail industry with an ongoing programme of investment in equipment and teaching staff to provide a first class facility to support the significant growth and development of the rail industry in London and the South.”

Barry Connelly, Strategic Adviser for Engineering at CONEL, was delighted to receive the award on behalf of the College.

“Rail projects planned for the next few years will demand more and more skilled railway engineers,” he said.

“Our facility is well positioned to provide these skilled engineers and I am confident that we will continue to deliver for the rail industry.

“I am proud of the great links we have built with industry over the last two years, and we plan to continue to develop these relationships to deliver an even better service.”

Call 020 8442 3442 or click here for more information on apprenticeships in Rail Track Engineering at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Staff and students at CONEL – north London’s leading college – are celebrating the formation of the college’s first women’s football academy team.

Set up and run in partnership with League 1 professional football club Charlton Athletic and an integral part of CONEL’s existing Football Academy at the College’s Enfield campus, the women’s team has started training and will soon be competing against teams from other London colleges in the AOC London Women’s League.

Head of Sport at CONEL Jonathan Silman said: “We’re delighted to have our first women’s football team, with the support of Charlton Athletic. It’s building on the success of our men’s football Academy programme and is something we have been working towards for a number of years.

“The football facilities at Enfield are excellent, with indoor and outdoor pitches and a fantastic outdoor 3G all-weather pitch, as well as a fitness suite and physio facilities. But the players can learn here too. CONEL runs courses from Accounting, Business and ICT, to Construction and Engineering, as well as English, Maths, Hairdressing, Beauty, and Travel and Tourism – and it’s this environment for players to learn and train in, that makes the Academy so helpful for young players.”

“Academy members receive 6 hours of professional football coaching per week, Wednesday afternoon matches, full physio injury support, strength and conditioning programmes and an opportunity to join the Colleges Sponsored Athlete programme with a host of benefits.”

Team Coach Josemar Santos holds the internationally recognised UEFA B Licence. He coaches his teams to play possession-based football to prepare them for the demands of the modern game, and is the ideal coach for the new women’s team. He said: “We’re really really proud to be the first women’s team at CONEL. We’re really excited and the girls are excited as well to be part of this journey.

Mine Ozkoylu studies Hair & Beauty at CONEL and trains for the team each day. “I’ve been playing football since I was in primary school. The team is good for me because you can make friendships and learn to play as part of a team. I would like to be a beautician and a footballer when I leave CONEL.”

Leoarta is another team member, who also studies Hair & Beauty at CONEL. She said: “Being selected to join the Academy makes us feel great because we’re the first female team for the college, and it’s a big responsibility for us to make the college feel proud.”

We have signed-up to support Colleges Week, which runs from 15 to 19 October.  It’s part of the #LoveOurColleges campaign and will see colleges across the country showcasing the brilliant stuff they do, day in and day out.

The Week is also calling for more funding for Further Education. Why?

Every year 2.2 million people of all ages get some form of educating and training from a Further Education College. Colleges make a phenomenal difference to the lives of thousands of people of all ages every year.

But funding for Further Education is in crisis. Over the last decade, colleges have had an average 30% funding cut which is making it a lot harder for people who really need it, to get the education that they deserve.

So, as well as celebrating the achievements of our staff and students, we are calling for four things:

1. For the Government to increase 16-19 funding by 5% a year for five years and extend the pupil premium to cover post-16 students;
2. For the Department for Education to provide exceptional funding, ring-fenced for teacher pay;
3. Fully funding a National Retraining Scheme to support level 3 to 5 skills;
4. Introducing a lifetime learning entitlement to fund skills training for all adults who have not previously achieved a level 3 qualification.

Education is an investment, not a cost. And it must never be a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. Support Colleges Week on Twitter and Facebook with #CollegesWeek and #LoveourColleges