Players sign-up to our Football Academy run in partnership with Leyton Orient.

New players from the Football Academy at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North London (CONEL) have signed ‘contracts’ with Leyton Orient Football Club.

The College has run the Academy in partnership with the League Two side since 2013, and has elite and second teams, which play in the Association of Colleges Football League.

Players from all teams were given the football star treatment as they put pen to paper and posed in front of the a press conference backdrop at the club’s Matchroom Stadium.

Countersigning the ‘contacts’ were former professional footballer Miguel De Sousa, now Head of Youth Recruitment at Leyton Orient, and Jonathan Silman, CONEL’s Head of School for Sport.

More players sign-up to our Football Academy.

The ‘contracts’ outlined what the players get by joining the Football Academy, which includes coaching from ex-footballers Mark Bentley and Darren Baker from Leyton Orient Academy.

They also get access to our Sports Centre, including gym and fitness suite, technical analysis of games and performance, tailored fitness programmes, physio and medical support, and also a free training kit, which was handed out at the event.

“I love everything about football, from planning tactics to playing games, and the emotion win or lose,” said Academy player Joshua Da-Ibanga, 18.

“The partnership [with Leyton Orient] is an good opportunity for us to show our skills to Leyton Orient, and maybe go as far as to play for them professionally.

“The coaching is very good and professional and at a high intensity. It will definitely improve my game, 100% for sure.”

Teammate Kacper Dus, 16, added: “The coaching at the Academy is nothing like I’ve experienced before.

“I’ve learnt a lot since I joined, about cardiovascular fitness and new drills and skills and improvements to my game, which will help me become a better player.”

Players collected their new training kit at the Leyton Orient's Matchroom Stadium.

The players also heard more about a football tournament in Spain next year where they will have the chance to play alongside other European youth teams.

Tobe eligible to be considered for the Academy, players must be enrolled on a full-time programme of study at the College’s Enfield Centre and be aged 16 to 18 on 31 August of their enrolling year.

Click here to find out more about our Football Academy.

Sarah Hill talks to a pupil at the Enfield High Achievers’ Evening.

Aspiring engineers from The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) attended the Enfield High Achievers’ Evening to encourage a new generation to take up an apprenticeship.

The four apprentices, who are employed by the engineering giant Siemens and being trained at the College, were among those present at this year’s event at Highlands School in Enfield.

The event, run by Enfield Council, celebrates the achievements of pupils from schools across the London borough and featured around 20 education providers including CONEL.

Apprentices Callum Walsh, 27, Sarah Hill, 18, James Wright 16, and Aine Harnett-Lennon, 18, spoke to pupils and parents and shared with them the benefits of an apprenticeship.

On her apprenticeship, Sarah said: “It’s great being part of such a successful company Siemens. I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship so far and learning new skills.

“My teachers have been brilliant and the facilities at CONEL are amazing. I’ve learnt so much already, and would recommend it to anyone.”

Advantages to apprenticeships include being in paid employment while you train alongside industry professional in a real work environment and having the option to continue your studies to degree level and beyond,

Sarah Hill, Callum Walsh, James Wright and Aine Harnett-Lennon at the Enfield High Achievers’ Evening.

The apprenticeship partnership between Siemens and CONEL was launched in October this year, with the apprentices all enjoying the scheme and making great progress in their development.

The College is providing training for 17 of the company’s apprentices at its Enfield Centre, where they have access to fully-equipped workshops featuring the latest in engineering tools and equipment.

Siemens Apprentice Krishan Tailor, 19, said: “I love solving problems and learn more by doing something, which is why I chose to do an apprenticeship. I realise how lucky I am to get the opportunity of an apprenticeship with Siemens.

“Our tutors don’t just explain what the equipment or tool is for, but make sure you are using it correctly and about hazards, which is all good knowledge you can bring back to the workplace.”

Callum Walsh talks to a pupil at the Enfield High Achievers’ Evening.

Siemens is one of the UK’s leading employers with a 14,000-strong workforce in the UK. The company manufactures products, including industrial gas turbines, traffic lights, superconducting magnets for MRI scanners, high efficiency motor drives and train radios.

For more on apprenticeships and courses at CONEL visit www.conel.ac.uk, or to apply for Siemens apprenticeships visit www.siemens.co.uk/careers.

Principal Andy Forbes cuts the ribbon to launch our risual Academy.

A new IT academy at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) will address a shortage in digital skills by equipping students and apprentices with hi-tech expertise to succeed in the industry.

The risual Academy, a partnership between the College and market leading IT services and consultancy firm risual, comprises a new cutting edge Microsoft Showcase Classroom, an Apprenticeship scheme and workshops by industry experts throughout the year.

Britain’s IT workforce is expected to grow by 39% by 2030 while 82% of cybersecurity companies globally feel there is a large shortage of employees in this area.

Richard Zaltzman, Director- Public Sector Small, Mid Market solutions and Partners at Microsoft, addresses guests (top left), Tina Jones, Director of Educations at risual. and Jackie Chapman, Director of Employability and Employer Engagement, take part in a Q&A session (top right). CONEL apprentices take part in a workshop on Sway (bottom left) and Jenn Culbert, Training Provider Manager at risual, leads an employer workshop on Apprenticeships (bottom right).

The Academy was officially launched at a short ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Showcase Classroom conducted by Principal Andy Forbes on 9 November.

Mr Forbes said: ““We all know the UK is facing a shortage of digital skills, and here at CONEL we're working directly in partnership with industry and employers to fill the gap.

“This marvellous new Academy, and the apprenticeship opportunities associated with it, will help to put Tottenham on the map as the place to go for top quality digital learning."

The event was attended by risual Director Alun Rogers; Richard Zaltzman, Public Sector Director - Small and Mid-Market Solutions and Partners at Microsoft, and Councillor Elin Weston, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Haringey Council.

Also at the launch were representatives from other colleges and schools, London businesses, apprenticeship partners and College staff and students.

CONEL currently has 19 staff qualified as Microsoft Certified Educators (MCEs) and is in the process of upskilling the rest to increase digital skills across its provision.

Tina Jones, Director of Education at risual, said: “What is exciting is that CONEL has invested time in its teaching staff to use this technology more effectively and into teaching and learning across the College to ensure students from all sectors benefit from this, not just IT learners.”

Principal Andy Forbes (centre) at the risual Academy launch with (left to right) Kurt Hintz, Vice Principal - Curriculum and Learner Experience; Robin Hindley, Curriculum Director for Service and Creative Industries; Councillor Elin Weston, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Haringey Council; Jackie Chapman, Director of Employability and Employer Engagement; Stewart Cross, Vice Principal - Finance and Resources; Jacqueline Grant, Director of Finance and Contract Compliance; Richard Zaltzman, Director- Public Sector Small, Mid Market solutions and Partners at Microsoft; Alun Rogers, Owner and Director at risual and Tina Jones, Director of Education at risual.

The event also offered the chance for the employers to take part in a business workshop to discuss the recruitment of apprentices and also guide them through the forthcoming Apprenticeship Levy.

A group of the first risual apprentices, who began their employment ahead of the Academy’s official launch, also took part in a workshop on Sway, a Microsoft application which enables you to create interactive reports, presentations, stories and other content.

Call 020 8442 3055 or click this link for more on It courses and apprenticeships at CONEL.

Here’s what our Apprentices say

“I’m enjoying my apprenticeship and really excited about the new kit in the Microsoft Classroom. In my job I’m always looking to progress and try to learn something new every day. The Academy will really help with that, and achieving my potential.”
Cari Philadelphia, 25, IT Level 3 Apprentice employed at Enfield Council

“The new technology available for the Academy is brilliant and it will be interesting to see how we can best utilise it.  The training at CONEL is good and I’ve learnt a lot during my apprenticeship at King’s College. The Academy will really benefit anyone who wants a future in IT.”
George Cornell, 17, IT Level 3 Apprentice employed at King’s College London

Here’s what employers and careers advisors say

“Over the past 14 months we’ve taken on 20 apprentices across the council. We’re looking at how we can increase opportunities for apprenticeships and enhancing digital skills within the workforce and how we can support residents and businesses in the community, which is something this Academy can assist with greatly.”
Ambrose Quashie, Employment and Skills Policy Officer, Haringey Council

“The new Academy is very exciting. It is great for young people in Tottenham to have this opportunity on their doorstep, and help them to gain the skills they need in such a growth industry. We’ve seen an increase in the number of them showing an interest in an apprenticeship pathway, and we’ll be making sure they know that this Academy is available to them.”
Jenny Kirk, Careers Consultant at Northumberland Park Community School

Shamsuddin Miah is studying a Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating.

Plumbing is one of the world’s oldest professions dating back to Roman times.

It was even considered a great choice of career by Albert Einstein, who declared in November 1954: “If I would be a young man again and had to decide how to make my living, I would not try to become a scientist or scholar or teacher. I would rather choose to be a plumber or a peddler in the hope to find that modest degree of independence still available under present circumstances.”

With more than 230,000 jobs expected to be created in construction by 2020, a growth of 2.5% each year – 3.5% in Greater London – there has never been a better time to get into the industry.

Shamsuddin Miah, 36, had hoped to become a teacher, but a congenital heart condition since birth saw him turn his attention to construction, and more specifically plumbing, following advice from a tutor at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

He is now studying a Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating, having completed Level 1 last year and before that a Level 1 Diploma in Basic Construction, which covered various industry skills, including bricklaying, painting and woodwork.

“When I was doing the bricklaying I was in agony, and my tutor asked me if I’d thought about plumbing, as they thought I’d be good at it and it would be less demanding strength-wise,” he said

"A lightbulb moment happened. I thought, okay I’ll do that, and I’ve not looked back.”

An Islamic preacher by profession – he graduated with a Degree in Islamic Theology in 2006 – Shamsuddin conceded that this alone was not enough to pay the bills.

On a plumbing career, he added: “People will always need the houses, so there will always be need for the trades and a need for plumbers, to help put everything together. Having this under my belt is another skill which I can use to help my community.”

Joseph Gunn decided to follow in his brother's footsteps and become a plumber.

Being a mature student, Shamsuddin admitted he initially felt like “the grandad of the group”, but has since taken a number of his fellow students under his wing and regularly organises revision sessions.

One of those whom he has influenced is Joseph Gunn, 21, who decided to follow in his brother James’s footsteps.

“When I left school I went to work for a wholesaler. It was a bit of a dead-end job while I tried to work out what I wanted to do,” said Joseph, who also previously studied Plumbing and Heating at Level 1 at CONEL.

“I spoke to my brother, who has been a plumber since leaving school, and he said come and work for me for the weekend, so I did and I enjoyed it.”

Joseph recently secured a job in the trade and his employer has been so impressed with his progress they have allowed him to study for the Level 2 Diploma, with his tutors confident he will complete the course with merits, if not distinctions.

“I feel a lot less stressed and much more positive and happier in myself,” said Joseph. “I am much more confident now than when I was at school. The College has got a proper workshop and fittings tools – it’s all there. There’s also extra practical in the week, so there’s enough time to get the work done,” he said.

“Our tutor has been brilliant. His relates his life skills and shares his experience with us, which is really good, and is helping me to get to where I need to be to become a fully qualified plumber.”

Click here for more information on construction courses and apprenticeships at CONEL call 020 8442 3055 or visit www.conel.ac.uk.

Prince's Trust students Tung Le, Jordan Williamson, Aisha Pittie, Andrea Baki and Rushelle Angus at Play Space - Burghley Road Under 5s Community Centre in Wood Green.

Big-hearted students have given a children’s playgroup a new lease of life.

The group from The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) spent a week working at Play Space - Burghley Road Under 5s Community Centre in Wood Green.

They are all enrolled on a 12-week Prince’s Trust programme to help young people develop the skills, confidence, practical experience and motivation needed to get them job ready.

Part of the programme requires students to take part in a community project, and after searching the internet they decided to support the centre. They initially held a stall selling Fairtrade chocolate and organic tea hampers to raise money to buy equipment and tools before setting to work.

They painted the building, doors and gates, renovated benches and plant troughs and removed weeds from the play area at the voluntary-run centre, which had been in need of restoration for some time.

Main photo - Jordan Williamson, Rushelle Angus and Aisha Pittie lend a hand. Right - Rushelle Angus gets painting.

The Prince’s Trust programme also includes a residential activity week, two weeks' work experience, help with job hunting and CV writing, ways to improve the job and education opportunities and the chance to gain a nationally recognised qualification.

Rushelle Angus, 23,, who is taking part in the programme, said:  “I am proud of the work we have done here. The people that run the centre said it looked beautiful. That made me feel really good. It’s helped me learn new skills, which will help me in the future.”

Tung Le, 17, added: “It has been really inspiring. My teachers have helped me and I feel I have grown as a person over the course of the programme. It’s really improved my self-esteem and confidence and my leaderships skills, and doing this project has given me a real sense of achievement.”

Jordan Williamson paints some railings.

Play Space - Burghley Road Under 5s Community Centre is a charity and has been serving children and families in North London since 1992. Many of the volunteers who run the centre are parents whose children use it, with the charity reliant on donations to keep going.

Centre Manager and Trustee Nisha Morgan said: ““When I saw what the students had done I couldn’t believe how much it had changed. Now we have a very special place for the children to go out and play, which is a much brighter, safer and cleaner environment for them to enjoy.

“The students have put so much hard work and effort into it. We cannot express how thankful we are for what they have done. It is really appreciated.”

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here for more information on our Prince’s Trust programme.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has been put forward for two awards based on its own students’ experience.

The College has been shortlisted in the Quality Teaching and Practical Learning categories in the LOOP Awards, the first ever student-led awards for excellence in Further Education.

This announcement comes as CONEL was named the best in London for employer satisfaction and second for student satisfaction in the FE Choices Survey 2015/16,

LOOP is a student ratings and review website developed in partnership with colleges and sixth forms from across the UK to help them to in making improvements their provision

Colleges were shortlisted for awards based on comments by their students on the site, with the winners to be decided by a student judging panel.

CONEL has so far received more than 150 comments on LOOP.

The award winners will be announced at a ceremony held at Lewisham Southwark College’s Southwark campus on 24 November

Kurt Hintz, Vice Principal for Curriculum and Learner Experience, said: “We are extremely proud to have been shortlisted for these two LOOP awards for teaching quality and practical learning.

“The fact that the nominations are based on our own students’ experience at CONEL makes this even more satisfying, and shows that they’re getting the education they deserve and expect from the College.”

The LOOP Awards were established to celebrate institutions that are raising standards in education through high quality student feedback.

Since the launch of LOOP in 2014, over 10,000 students have already given their views and helped drive forward more than 500 educational improvements.

Take the chance to review CONEL at www.loop.uk.com.

IT apprentices with Mark Yorke, Managing Director of Tablet Academy, in the new Microsoft Showcase Classroom at the launch of the risual Academy.  

A partnership between The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) and IT firm risual is providing apprentices with the tech skills to succeed in the digital world.

Jonathan Hood, Joseph Taylor and Fahim Ahmed are all apprentices on a Level 3 Apprenticeship scheme at King’s College London where they work in IT support, having gained their initial skills on Level 2 computing courses at CONEL.

They are also among the first apprentices of the College’s new risual Academy, which was officially launched in November. Alongside offering apprentices with risual and its partners, the Academy also boasts a new cutting edge Microsoft Showcase classroom equipped with the latest computer technology, and will also offer skills and employability workshops throughout the year.

With Britain’s IT workforce expected to grow by 39% by 2030, Apprenticeships are a great way to gain paid work experience and learn the skills needed to get ahead in this fast-moving and exciting industry.

Jonathan, 18, said: “I’ve always wanted to study IT at the highest level but couldn’t clearly identify where I need to start or what to study. I must say, studying IT at CONEL helped me acquire a range of IT skills and build my confidence.

“The tutors are very helpful; providing me with all necessary resources and tools and going the extra miles to ensure I get the best possible result. I would certainly recommend studying at CONEL. It is a platform for anyone looking to study at the highest level.”

CONEL is in the process of training all its teaching staff to become qualified as Microsoft Certified Educators (MCEs) to increase digital skills across all its

Joseph, 18, said: “I have always had an interest in the ICT industry, especially within the networking aspects of IT. Enrolling at CONEL on the Level 2 Systems Support course has provided me with many chances and options within the ICT pathway.

“This was one of the reasons why I choose this course as it provided me with challenges that intrigued me, and I have now progressed to Level 3 Apprenticeship course.”

Fahim, 17, added: “I believe Apprenticeships provide more paths to your end goal, as you can go from apprentice to permanent role, or go onto university with the Level 3 qualification. That is one of the reasons why I chose to go with this brilliant Apprenticeship.

“To be working at King’s College, a prestigious and historical university for my first ever job is just great.”

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here to find out more about ICT and Computing at CONEL.

IT apprentices with Laila Hassanzadeh, Head of School - Computing, Creative and Media.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has been named a runner-up in the Quality Teaching category of the LOOP Awards.

The awards are the first ever student-led awards for excellence in Further Education and were presented at a ceremony held at  Lewisham Southwark College on 24 November.

This recognition follows CONEL also being named the best in London for employer satisfaction and second for student satisfaction in the FE Choices Survey 2015/16.

Shortlisted colleges were chosen based on students own ratings and reviews on the LOOP website, with the winners decided by a student judging panel.

The website was developed in partnership with colleges and sixth forms from across the UK to help them in making improvements their provision.

The College has so far received more than 150 comments on LOOP.

Kurt Hintz, Vice Principal for Curriculum and Learner Experience, said: “We are very pleased to have been named a runner-up in the LOOP Awards. Knowing this recognition is based on our students’ own experience shows we are doing a lot of things right already at CONEL.

“As a College we always look to provide the best possible experience to our students, both in terms of their education and enrichment activities, to ensure they are fully prepared for work or university. This is a clear recognition of this commitment.”

The LOOP Awards were established to celebrate institutions that are raising standards in education through high quality student feedback.

Since the launch of LOOP in 2014, over 10,000 students have given their views and helped drive forward more than 500 educational improvements.

Take the chance to review CONEL at www.loop.uk.com.

Our Excellence Awards 2016 winners.

The very best in vocational and academic achievement at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) was celebrated at this year's Excellence Awards.

More than 60 apprentices and students received awards this year, with many attending a presentation evening at the College’s Tottenham Centre hosted by Principal Andy Forbes.

Deputy Mayor of Enfield, Cllr Christine Hamilton was among the guests at the awards ceremony along with sponsors, business partners and family and friends of the winners.

Chair of Governors Keith Brown presented the awards to winners from across the College’s curriculum areas, including Business and Accounting, Construction, Engineering, Science, Travel and Tourism, Sport, Creative Media, GCSE English and Maths, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Supported Learning and Teacher Education.

Ahead of handing out the awards, Mr Brown said: “All of our apprenticeship and student winners should all be immensely proud of themselves. Your backgrounds and personal stories are hugely varied – indeed, they illustrate the amazing diversity of our College and the communities it serves.”

The biggest awards of the night were the Exceptional Performance Excellence Awards, which were presented to Turgay Uludag and Sacdiya Farah.

Turgay, 18, made huge progress over the past four years from the College’s Key Stage 4 programme to gaining Distinctions on a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services.

ESOL student Sacdiya, 18, passed all her exams despite being unable to write her name in English when she first enrolled at CONEL after arriving in the UK from Somalia. She has since started part-time work while continuing her studies at the College.

She said: “I am very happy to get this award from the College. My teachers have been good and helped me so well to learn English. Now I understand a lot more now.”

The evening also saw the presentation of a Higher Education Excellence Award to Samuel Crick, who completed his HNC in Music Production with Distinction and has been an active supporter of College events where he has DJ’d at evening and weekends.

Samuel, 31, said: “This is a million miles from where I come from – I never win anything! I always strive to be the best I can be and it’s a huge honour that has been recognised. It shows it’s all been worth it.”

The ceremony further recognised the support given to the College by Student Ambassadors Panagiotis Plekis and Papiya Sulthana.

SoundSkool students Mia Ellis, stage name Mia Hope (top left) and Maeve Kane, stage name Shivon (right), and CONEL Music Technology students Hope Seale, stage name Angel Johnson, and Arismendy Mora Suarez (bottom left) perform at the Excellence Awards ceremony.

Staff Excellence Awards were given to Curriculum Manager Brendan Berry, Vocational Employability tutor Malgorzata Klimko, Examinations Officer Robin Cook and the Learner Recruitment and Reception Team.

Long Service Awards were presented to Ines Angelini, Joan Bardouille, Kerry Holloway-Biddle and Susie Carroll, who between them have completed more than 80 years’ service at the College.

There were also Employer Excellence Awards for business and other partners of the College, which went to Attend, Quadron Idverde, Conneely Group and Great Ormond Street Hospital.

“We really appreciate getting the award,” said Mark Hoey, Construction Director at Conneely. “We’ve always had a good relationship with the College, and there is clearly a lot of talent coming through CONEL.”

Terry Burns, Contract Manager at Quadron Idverde, said: “It’s great to receive an award and be invited to such a fantastic ceremony. We feel very privileged to have been part of the celebration.”

The ceremony included performances from students on the College’s Music Technology courses, and SoundSkool, a not for profit music organisation, which teamed up with the CONEL earlier this year.

Closing the evening, Mr Forbes said: “You are all marvellous ambassadors for the College and I hope many of you will return to mentor the next generation here at CONEL.I would like to wish you all every success as you go forward in your education and careers.“

Kurt Hintz, Vice Principal for Curriculum and Learner Experience, with iPad winner Annet Nantale.

A former student has told of her delight at winning an IPad in a prize draw after taking part in a survey for The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Annet Nantale achieved a B in GCSE Maths at the College last summer and is now studying a Masters in Engineering at Middlesex University.

She won the draw out of more than 500 students who took part in a destination survey for CONEL. The survey is undertaken each year to gather information on what students and apprentices do after they leave the College.

Annet, 39, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I saw the email saying I’d won. I thought, you’re joking me. I was so excited.

“It was a really lovely feeling and came at just the right time for my course at university. It’s the best Christmas gift I have ever had.”

She studied for her GCSE in the evening at CONEL while undertaking an access to higher education engineering course full time, having previously studied for a degree in engineering in her home country of Uganda.

Annet also looked after her two children and worked part-time as a Support Worker for SweetTree Home Care Services while completing her studies.

She said: “It was challenging, but I made sure I was organised. I couldn’t have done it otherwise. My tutor was great. She was encouraging and supportive, and I feel I did the best I could in the time I had to study.”

Each year hundreds of CONEL students go onto university and around 60% gain full time employment after leaving the College.

Emine Gunes, 35, is working as a teaching assistant at Bishop Douglass School in East Finchley after completing a Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning last year.

She said: “I have a degree in physics and maths from Turkey and worked there as a teacher before I came to England, and hope to become a teacher here.

“The course taught me about the English education system and how to support children in school, understand what help they need and show them the way. My tutors at the College were very good and helped me to do my best and find me a job.”

Safiya Richards-Goolamallee, 29, is employed as a beautician at Alternatives in Islington after completing a Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy.

“I studied for the Level 2 at CONEL a few years ago and enjoyed it, and that was one of the reasons I came back,” she said.

“It was a good course all round and taught me what I needed to learn and get the qualification I need by law to perform some beauty treatments. My teachers were great and very supportive.”

Click here or call 020 8442 3055 to find out more about our Apprenticeships and courses at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London.

Ruben Junior, from our Football Academy, who has won a trial at Leyton Orient Football Club.

An aspiring footballer from The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) has won a trial at Leyton Orient FC.

Leyton Orient Football Club has been an official partner of the College’s Football Academy since its launch in 2013, as well as its Accountancy Academy.

Coaches from the League Two side provide training to the Academy’s elite and second teams, which both compete in the Association of Colleges Football League.

They agreed to offer trials to a handful of players this year and were so impressed with Ruben Junior that they took him on earlier this season.

The 16-year-old, who is studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Sport, was excited to have been given the chance to trial out with the east London club.

Portuguese-born Ruben said: “This is the opportunity I’d been waiting for since I came to England over a year ago.

“The football programme at CONEL is very good. The coaches really motivate the players and encourage you to work hard and not to give up. We’re lucky to have ex-players as coaches. I don’t know if other teams are as privileged as us.”

Ruben Junior shows off his football skills.

Ruben moved to England in 2015 having begun playing in his home country for his local team Real Massama near Lisbon before joining the junior squad at European giants Benfica.

Nicknamed Pogba by his teammates, due to his likeness to Manchester United’s French midfielder Paul Pogba, he cites Liverpool as his favourite English club and Philippe Coutinho andRoberto Firmino among his favourite players for the Reds.

Ruben is also a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo, Mario Ballotelli and a number of former international stars, including ex-Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf.

“My ambition is to become a professional footballer, playing at the highest standard in the Premier League, and even get into my national team. I love everything about football, from training to the game and the hunger and competiveness to win.”

The Football Academy has gone from strength to strength since it was formed with applications up from around 70 players at the start of the 2015/16 season to 110 this year.

Players not only have access to professional coaching, but also  use of the College’s sports centre including the gym, tailored fitness and nutrition programme, performance analysis and physio and medical support.

Jonathan Silman, Head of School – Sport, Public Services and Key Stage 4, said: “We are very proud of Ruben. He is an exceptionally gifted young footballer and has the skill and ability to go far in the game.

“He really stood out when he joined the College and this is a great opportunity for him to develop his talent. He has put the work in both academically and on the football pitch and thoroughly deserves his chance at Leyton Orient.”

Click here to find out more about our Football Academy.

Ruben Junior dreams of playing for his home country of Portugal.

If you’re new in London and want to learn English or have been here for a while and want to improve it, an ESOL – or English for Speakers of Other Languages - course could be an excellent decision.

Good communication skills in English will make it a lot easier for you to make friends, study other courses or even find a job here.

We will explain what courses we offer, what it is like to study here and what you can do after you finish to help you decide if taking an ESOL course with us is the right choice for you.

Which level of course should I take?

At the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London we offer various courses for different levels and areas of English.

They start at Pre-Entry Level, designed for people with no English. This level prepares you for our other courses – Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3 and Level 1 – and when you pass any of these levels, you can get a qualification from Pearson or Ascentis.

16-18 learners study all modes (Reading, Writing and Speaking and Listening) but if you are an adult you can specialise in one or two areas of English as we offer each mode as separate programme. You can study each mode at the right level for you and an interview and initial assessment will help determine what is the right course, or combination of courses, for you.

If you have already know a little about English certificates, Entry Level 3 is equivalent to a PET (Preliminary) and Level 1 is the same level as a First Certificate.

Don’t worry if you don’t know what level you are now – we will check your level of English before you begin to make sure you are on the best course for you.

What will I do on the course?

We want you to learn as much English as possible but we also want you to enjoy it! Sometimes we use traditional teaching methods but our students also have a lot of fun doing group activities like games, projects and presentations.

You will also learn lots of other important skills on our ESOL courses. On full-time programmes we will teach computer skills, Maths and other skills specifically for working in London. At the end of the course there are also awards for students. This year the winners won £250 to spend on an educational trip! Apart from coming to classes, you will have tutorial sessions to give you extra support and you will get regular homework.

There will be frequent assessments to check your progress and Pearson or Ascentis exams at the end, recognised everywhere in the UK. Apart from studying, you will also get opportunities to do things in the local community, for example, this year our students and teachers made and sold cakes to make money for charity.

What about my future after the course?

We are really proud of our ESOL students - in 2015, 93.8% of them passed their exams, achieving essential English skills which they now use in their studies, at home and at work.

Many students continue studying at our college. For example, Sitarah Ahmadi studied a BTEC course in Science after doing ESOL Entry Level 3, even though in Afghanistan she had never gone to school.

Some students start working after their courses and use our Careers Service that can help you search and apply for jobs and give you lots of guidance.

If you would like to find out more about our courses, apply online and we will be very happy to meet you at one of our London campuses.

More students are satisfied with their education at CONEL.

The vast majority of new students and apprentices are satisfied with education and facilities at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Each year the College, which has centres in Tottenham and Enfield, undertakes an induction survey to help improve the experience of its learners.

The 2016/17 poll carried out in October found that overall 90% were satisfied with the College – up 2% on the previous year – with 97% confirming teaching on their course was good.

The survey follows the College being placed second in London in the FE Choices Learner Satisfaction Survey with a score of 87%, having been top in 2012/13 and 2013/14, and 93% in the Employer Satisfaction Survey, the best in London and among the top 20 nationally.

The College has continued to work with various organisations this year to invest significantly in its education and training provision.

This has included the launch of a new risual IT Academy and Martial Arts Academy, and the establishing of new partnerships with Siemens, Whittington Health and SoundSkool.

Learners were invited to say if they agreed or disagreed with 32 statements with the College seeing 19 scoring 90% or above.

The survey found 98% acknowledge that their teachers had helped them settle onto their course and 97% maintain they felt safe at the College.

The findings also revealed 96% felt welcome on their first day, knew who to ask for help if they had any problems and felt they had been treated with respect by staff.

Kurt Hintz, Vice Principal “Our induction survey reconfirms the high quality provision at CONEL and the excellent teaching available here, which has been established in external and independent student surveys as well as our own internal ones.”

If you are a business or organisation interested in working with CONEL call 020 8442 3055.

Construction students have been working on the Dujardin Mews site, the first phase of the Ponders End Regeneration programme.

Construction students have been gaining a solid foundation in the skills needed to work in the industry on a major housing project in Enfield.

Groups of learners from The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) have been undertaking work experience at the Dujardin Mews site since June 2016.

CONEL offers a wide range of construction apprenticeships and courses from Level 1 to Level 3 in areas including bricklaying, carpentry and joinery, dry lining, electrical installation and plumbing.

Dujardin Mews is the first phase of the Ponders End Regeneration programme and is the first social housing to be built in the London borough for 40 years.

The development includes a mixture of town houses, flats and maisonettes and is due to be completed in February 2017.

The latest work placement saw seven students from the College work on all aspects of construction at the site, including plumbing, electrical installation and painting and decorating.

The work placements were arranged in partnership with construction firm Durkan, Joe Brennan Training (JBT), property developer Countryside and Enfield Council.

Level 1 Carpentry student Ben Newton and Level 2 Plumbing student Anthony Tsangaris at Dujardin Mews.

“Growing up I was surrounded by family who worked in construction, and I thought I might have a natural talent for it,” said Level 1 Carpentry student Ben Newton,19.

“I’ve learnt a lot at the College and on work placement from learning how to work better as a team to situational awareness and other skills you need on site.”

Level 2 Plumbing student Anthony Tsangaris, 20, said: “I’ve always wanted to be a plumber. I am very practical and like using my hands, and I now have a much better knowledge of the job and the tools you need to use.

"The teaching at the College has been very good and the tutors are very supportive. I’ve enjoyed my time at CONEL”

Construction students Alex Papacharalambou, Dejvi Xhika, Anthony Tsangaris, Ben Newton and Jasper Phillips at Dujardin Mews.

A number of students who have worked on the Dujardin Mews site are expected to be chosen for trainee positions or apprenticeships with JBT and Countryside on a much larger project to build nearly 1,000 new homes on the Alma Estate.

"Dujardin Mews has not only provided a platform for training in construction, it has also presented a clear progression for CONEL students to move on to accredited apprenticeships on the Alma Estate over the next three years,” said Kevin O'Connor, Head of Social Responsibility and Inclusion at Durkan.

“The quality of students from the College has been excellent, and we were delighted to offer the opportunity for them to gain experience on a working construction site.”

The Construction Skills Network’s Industrial Insights 2016-2020 report expects the industry to grow by 2.5% each year – 3.5% in Greater London.

Cllr Alan Sitkin, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Business at Enfield Council, said: “The large number of massive development schemes planned in Enfield means it is a hugely exciting time for the construction industry in this borough. It is vital that schemes such as these seek to raise awareness of the opportunities that exist for young people in the construction and other industries." 

Click here to find out more about our new Career First programme offering work placements in various industries, including construction, for 16 to 18s not in education, employment or training.

Audrey Lakeman left school at 12 to support her family and now plans to study nursing at university.

An inspirational healthcare worker who left school aged 12 with no formal qualifications looks set to fulfil her childhood dream of becoming a nurse.

Audrey Lakeman, 54, who works at North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust, says her life was transformed after studying at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) and is now applying to study for a nursing degree.

The third of 10 children from an impoverished family living in a shanty town in Jamaica, she was forced to give up school to help with household chores and work at a local market to pay for food.

“My parents couldn’t afford the uniform, shoes or books. My teachers felt sorry for me in primary school because they could see I wanted to learn. I was in dark hole with no light, but I did have a dream that I wanted to be a nurse,” she said.

She joined the Jamaican Red Cross at the age of 10 and helped with charity work, including playing with children in a local hospital.

Audrey fell pregnant as a teenager but tragically lost her first son in a gangland killing in 2001 when he was 24, the same fate the father had suffered when her son was just 18 months old. A baby daughter Milini from another relationship also sadly died aged only two weeks.

She met her husband William, 50, the son of a pastor, and they were married in 1991 and had the first two of their three children. Her husband emigrated to England in 1996 and she followed with the children in 2003 and they had their third child the same year.

They both struggled to find work and Audrey’s health suffered and she later underwent surgery to remove a benign brain tumour. Unable to look after their family properly at this time, the couple volunteered to place her children foster care. The couple were later reunited with their children, at which time a judge recommended Audrey go to college.

Audrey later enrolled at CONEL and successfully completed Entry Level 1 to Entry Level 3 and Level 1 and 2 Functional Skills courses in English, Numeracy and Computing in the years that followed.

She said: “My life began to change. I was seeing results – my children behaved better and I was able to help them with their homework. I felt more worthy and a good mum, and felt a lot happier in myself.”

Audrey later achieved a grade B in GCSE English in 2015, which along with her Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths gave her the springboard to study for a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care.

While studying for the diploma she became one of 19 students from CONEL to land job as a Healthcare Support Worker after a visit by staff from the hospital in Edmonton.

“I was so nervous,” said Audrey, on her job interview. “My self-esteem was low and I did not think I was the right person and did not see myself getting the job. They then asked me back into the room and congratulated me. I cried and cried. It was a dream come true.”

Audrey Lakeman at CONEL's soon to be opened healthcare training facility in Enfield.

Audrey is based in the Acute Stroke Unit but has also worked in the T4 Surgical Ward, Maternity Unit, children’s Rainbow Ward and A&E, and has been told by doctors her patient observation has potentially saved lives.

“CONEL changed my life tremendously. When I look back on my life it’s like looking at someone I used to know. My family and friends say how much I’ve changed,” said Audrey.

“Everything I went through has made me want to be a more caring person. My journey has been hard, but if it wasn’t I wouldn’t be the person I am today.”

Audrey hopes to study her degree at Middlesex University or the University of Hertfordshire.

Call 020 8442 3055 or click here to find out about our Health and Social Care courses.

Students will be able to study for a new Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Basketball from 2017/18.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) is to become the only college in London to offer a new BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Basketball course from September.

The Basketball Academy elite team, known as the Warriors, recently appointed ex-London Lions and Team GB coach Jay Williams as Head Coach assisted by Alex Ducasse.

Our Basketball Academy elite team 2016/17.

Paratrooper Private Hani Gue-Hassan joined The Army after studying Public Services at CONEL.

A Paratrooper has told how he leapt at the chance to fulfil his dream of joining the Armed Forces by enlisting on a Public Services diploma.

Private Hani Gue-Hassan, 25, joined the Army in October 2012 after completing a Level 3 Diploma in Public Services at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) in 2011.

After finishing his basic training, he was posted to the 3rd Battalion of The Parachute Regiment for the 16 Air Assault Brigade for four months before being assigned to reconnaissance.

Hani said: “Many of the skills and knowledge I learned at CONEL – team building, courage, commitment, discipline, respect for others, integrity - followed me into the military, and helped me to adjust quickly and excel in my career.

“The course was both interesting and fun. There was always an element to look forward to and  something new to learn about, and the tutors made sure that kept that running throughout the year.”

Paratrooper Private Hani Gue-Haasan.

The College offers Public Services courses from Level 1 to Level 3 and HNC and HND qualifications, with many students going on to enter the military or emergency services or continue their studies at university.

“The course is really beneficial in making sure you are prepared for the services when you join,” said Level 3 student Jonathan Ellis-Beattie, 20, who hopes to join the Royal Navy.

“It gives you an understanding what is happening around the world and how to deal with situations, such as holding the line, standing your ground and not using excessive force if you’re controlling a crowd.”

Can Comak, 21, is studying at the College while training to be a Special Constable with the Metropolitan Police at Hendon Police College.

“It’s always been my ambition to join the police and I felt this was the right option. There’s no other course that gives you the actual skills you need to get into public services.” he said.

Britto Mathew, 18, who also wants to join the Met, added: “This is the best place to learn the skills you need. The teaching is excellent. There isn’t anything like this at school that prepares you for what it’s exactly like on the beat.”

Brendan Berry, Curriculum Manager for Sport, Public Services, Princes Trust and KS4, saluted the achievements of past and present students at the College.

He said: “Joining the Armed forces or any of the public services can be a very rewarding and exciting career, and our courses at CONEL continue to produce some great talent within these professions.

“When you hear what students like Hani have gone onto achieve, it not only makes you feel very proud and satisfied as a teacher, but it’s also hugely inspirational for our students.”

Click here or call 020 8442 3055 for more information on our Public Services courses.

Enfield entrpreneur Jamelia Donaldson inspired students on our Business and Travel and Tourism course. 

Students gained a valuable insight into running a business when young Enfield entrepreneur Jamelia Donaldson visited the College.

Jamelia, 25, runs Treasure Tress, a subscription-based online shop selling boxes of hair products for women and girls with naturally curly or frizzy hair.

She shared her knowledge and experience with students on our Business and Travel and Tourism courses at our Enfield Centre.

From creating her business to being motivated and delivering good customer care, Jamelia spoke about all aspects of starting and running a successful company, and how she has recently expanded into America.

Esmeralda Imeraj, 19, who is studying a Level 1 Diploma in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development for Business, said: “Jamelia was very confident and approachable. Seeing someone who has set up their own business at such a young age was very inspiring.”

Sopiya Ragunathan, 18, who is studying the same course, added: “I really admired her very positive attitude. Listening to her talk has given me the confidence to know I could do the same.”

Jamelia explained one way she grew and promoted her business was by hosting tea parties for younger children and their parents, which featured guest speakers, such as hairdressers and bloggers, and demonstrations of hair care products.

During her talk at the College, Jamelia also stressed the importance of gaining good and appropriate qualifications.

At the end of her presentation, students asked a number of questions and shared some of their own business ideas.

“Jamelia was one of a number of visitors invited to the College to give talks to our learners this academic year,” said Jackie Mitchell, Head of School for Business, Accounting and Travel & Tourism.

“Having professional businessmen and women talk about their businesses, careers and experience really helps bring what they have been learning in class to life.”

Click here or call 020 8442 3055 for more information on our Business magement and Administration apprenticeships and courses.

Jamelia Donaldson presents to our students.

Irina Nearnt (right) was among the students meeting their mentors from our Business Management Career Academy.

Business students have taken their first step towards boosting their career prospects in the commercial sector with the support of industry experts.

Around a dozen Level 3 Diploma in Business students have signed up to the Business Management Career Academy at The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) this year.

The Academy, run in partnership with Career Ready, turns students into skilled, driven and highly employable young executives, with the support of mentors from businesses, including many blue chip companies.

Students not only benefit from expert advice and guidance from their mentors but also have the opportunity gain more experience on work placement, develop their skills alongside industry professionals and attend business workshops and seminars.

Many of those who have been part of the Academy in the past have gone on to gain successful employment in business or secure places at university.

The latest group of students met their mentors for the first time at the College’s Enfield Centre on 16 January, which included representatives from Lloyds Banking Group, HMRC, HM Treasury, Kaplan and BT.

Business student Vithusan Chandrasegaram, 17, said: “Being on the Career Ready programme will be an extra boost for me.  I want to engage fully in any work experience opportunities so I am well prepared when I get a job.”

Another student, Aurelia Obuchowska, 16, said: “I hope to learn and gain more confidence working with and talking to business people so that they get a good impression of me, which will also help me in the long run.”

Vithusan Chandraesegaram (top) and Aurelia Obuchowska (bottom) meet their mentors.

The students took part in quiz with their mentor to break the ice and then discussed then started to complete their Career Ready log books, which help prepare them for work, job applications, setting goals, career paths and personal development.

Student mentor Mark Spriggs, from Lloyds Banking Group, said: “Going into work or any new environment can be daunting for the first time. This is a chance to share some of my 30 years’ experience at the bank and what I wanted to know when I first started getting into business.”

Career Ready is a UK-wide charity that has been linking businesses with schools and colleges to help young people gain skills for employment since 2002.

Evelyn Len, Head of Business Development and Fundraising, whose brother studied business at CONEL, said: “Career Ready doesn’t just give young people invaluable skills and experience, but also makes sure they have the attitude and behaviors employers expect, which will set them apart from others in the job market.

“Mentoring can have a real impact on a person’s life. For the student, it is not a parent or teacher telling them, but someone with real experience. That can be very powerful in helping them to succeed.”

Call 020 8442 3055 of click here to find out more about our Business Management Career Academy.

Leverage your Apprenticeship Levy payments to gain a high rate of return on investment.

Don’t let the Apprenticeship Levy be just another tax burden on business. 

At The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) we believe you can leverage your levy payments to a high rate of return on investment within a very short time.

Government commissioned research on Employer Investment in Apprenticeships and Workplace Learning found that employers are able to recoup their training costs within one or two years of the completion of training – even less for some intermediate roles and for existing employees. 

We also know from our 30 years’ experience this can be recouped in half the time for existing employees taken into Apprenticeship training and we can reduce this further through high income generating and add-on skills delivered very early in the training programme, which give increased income generation and improved productivity. CONEL really understands, like you, that Apprentices should never ‘just make the tea’ and every employee needs to be a productive member of staff from the day they start working.

At CONEL we’re very proud of our Apprenticeship programme and last year worked with 370 organisations to train over 1,000 apprentices. 

Our overall Apprenticeship achievement rates are very high andwe were ranked the best college in London, and among the top 20 nationally, for employer satisfaction in the FE Choices survey in 2016. 

Last year our own survey also revealed 95% of employers were very happy with the training we provide and 97% saw an immediate improvement in employee skills and increased productivity. 

“We began working with CONEL to help ease the shortage of apprentices in the dry lining industry and have been very impressed with the quality of training provided at the College and the pool of talent coming through,” said Mark Hoey, Regional Construction Director at Conneely Group. 

“We are proud to have employed 30 apprentices in 2016 and looking forward to continuing the relationship with CONEL into 2017.” 

One of the key benefits that our employers have identified is that Apprenticeships increase the inflow of skills to the workforce, ensuring that future skills needs are met.  

Our Apprenticeship programme offers training in accounting, business, childcare, cleaning, construction, customer service, engineering, hairdressing and beauty, health and care, horticulture, hospitality, ICT and computing and management. 

We also offer Pre-Apprenticeships in accounting, ICT and computing, dry wall lining and rail track engineering. 

.If your company is interested in starting an Apprenticeship scheme or would like advice about the levy call us on 020 8442 3442