Following the development, hundreds of new places will become available from September 2012 for anyone interested in brickwork, painting and decorating, carpentry, plumbing or electrical courses.

Construction was introduced to the Enfield Centre in 2010 and has been expanding ever since. The College’s Enfield Centre will now be able to extend its offer to Electrical, Plumbing and Level 2 courses, and in 2013 extend further to Level 3 and sustainable technology courses. Short and part time courses are also available for those working in the trade who want to develop their skills.

The College has delivered construction courses successfully at the Tottenham Centre for over 20 years, making it an expert in delivering quality courses, which are now accessible to those living in and around Enfield.

The new centre, which will be based on Hertford Road, close to Ponders End, is an excellent opportunity for local residents to get skilled in the construction trade and increase their employability.

Paul Head, Principal and Chief Executive, said: “Regeneration in Enfield is high on the agenda, with the council investing and improving many of its homes, estates and neighbourhoods. This will bring a lot of jobs and developers to the borough, which means the opening of our new centre is very positive for local residents to get skilled and take advantage of these new opportunities.”

The College has a long standing relationship with some of the biggest construction firms in London, including Mulalley, Ardmore, United House and Lee Valley, who employ and work with learners from the College on a regular basis.

Most recently, Kojo Hurley-Holder, who completed his Construction BTEC Level 3 with a distinction, was taken on by Mulalley as part of a six-year training programme, which includes Mulalley funding him through his degree in Construction Management.  Kojo said: “The close relationship the College had with Mulalley allowed me to have this opportunity, which doesn’t come along every day.

I’m very grateful and looking forward to a long and rewarding career in the construction industry.”

Applicants are being interviewed every Monday 4-6pm. There is also an Open Day on Saturday 26 May 2012, 10am – 2pm where you can speak to tutors and find out more.

For more information, visit: www.conel.ac.uk or call the Course Information Line on 020 8442 3055.

Dogas Karsili and Laura Dewey went along to the event where they had the opportunity to hear Boris Johnson, Ken Livingstone, Jenny Jones and Brian Paddick, compete for their votes in the most important event of the London mayoral election campaign.

Unlike the usual election hustings, the event focused on accountability and candidates were asked to make specific pledges in front of the audience, made up of 2500 Londoners.

Pledges covered a number of topics, including the underground, local bus services, policing, green spaces, air quality and tourist attractions.

Public Service student Laura Dewey, who hopes to work for the emergency services, said: “I wasn’t really sure what to expect as I haven’t voted before, but it was very informative, providing me with information about each candidate and what they stand for. I’m looking forward to turning 18 in June so I can vote.”

Co student, Dogus, who is also studying Public Service and hopes to join the ambulance service, added: “It definitely gave me the information I needed to make the right choice. By attending the husting I know who I’m going to vote for and why.”

Jane O’Neill, Vice Principal at the College, said: “It’s extremely important that our students understand and exercise their right to vote. This trip allowed them to see firsthand how they can have an impact on their community and the whole city, allowing them to become responsible and active citizens.”

The vote for the Mayor of London and the 25 members of the London Assembly takes place on Thursday 3rd May 2012.

For more information on the mayoral elections and how to vote, visit: http://www.londonelects.org.uk/im-voter

Workshop facilitator, Derek Tutt, discussed the various roles available, what they involved, what future prospects they offered, and what type of salaries students could expect if they were successful.

He spoke to over 40 students in two separate workshops at the Tottenham and Enfield centres, who all left determined to pursue a high flying career in IT.

 “The workshop was motivating and inspiring and has helped me to decide on my future career paths in IT,” said Cleveland Forte. “It’s always good to hear from someone who is doing the role you want to do or working in a company you inspire to work for. It makes it achievable.”

The workshop was based around career and leadership advice and was set up as part of Hewlett Packard’s commitment to work in diverse communities across Haringey and Enfield.

Enrichment Manager, Anthony Robinson, who set up the workshop, said: “It was a good session. The students received some very useful advice that will help them as they go forward.”
 

The students, who ranged from Level 1 to Level 3, pampered and pruned dozens of customers who visited the College’s Style Zone to get a range of treatments, from colouring and perming to Indian head massaging and manicures.

The Style Zone, which is a working salon, offers low cost treatments to the public and allows students to learn the skills they need to become qualified hairdressers and beauticians.

All the money raised during the week will go to ‘Yes for Life’ who the College have supported for several years.

Amy Trotter, Fundraising Manager at the Charity, come along to find out what was happening, while sampling treatments at the salon.

She said: “Thanks so much to everyone involved over the week. It’s been fantastic to see students’ enthusiasm and professionalism. Yes to Life is very grateful for all the hard work involved in raising some much needed funds.”

As part of the fundraising the students came to College in fancy dress and managed to raise over £800.

Level 1 Hairdressing student, Maria Zaccaria, said: “Today was fun. It was for a good cause but we also managed to see a lot more customers, which is what we need to develop our skills.”

Curriculum Manager, Caroline Gibbs, said: “We put these events on to raise money but the students genuinely love doing it. They have fun, they work hard and most of all they give something back, which is an important life lesson.”

For more information about hairdressing, or to make an appointment at the Style Zone, visit: www.conel.ac.uk
 

Sponsored by BaBylis, Sardasht enjoyed a double feat when he won not only the top prize in his category but also the overall prize.

Using the film Hairspray as inspiration, Sardasht entered the music category, creating a sleek 1960s up do that impressed the judges with its simplicity and technique.

Judged by leading publication ‘Hairdressing Journal’ and celebrity stylist Patrick Cameron, the Awards are prominent in the hairdressing industry and known as a platform for new up and coming talent. So much so that as soon as Sardasht added his new title to his CV, he was instantly offered a job as junior stylist at north London salon Fabulous.

He said: “Winning the competition was a huge shock as there were some amazing hairstyles entered. It increased my confidence so much that I decided to try for a full time role as a stylist.

“I identified a few salons that I knew were good and handed in my CV. Within an hour, Fabulous called and asked me in for an interview. The Manager was impressed with my CV and after seeing my work thought I could offer a ‘youthful’ approach to styling at the salon.”

As part of his prize, Sardasht won hundreds of pounds worth of products from Babylis and a photoshoot with the Hairdressing Journal.

“Taking part in the competition was good enough” says Sardasht. “But getting to work with Patrick Cameron was amazing. He is fantastic at what he does and learnt me so much.”

Sardasht was shortlisted for the competition with co student, Sharon Kaur, who entered the film category with a Bollywood movie creation. “It was a great experience to be shortlisted and work with Patrick and I’m just glad that one of us walked away with the top prize” said Sharon.

Sardasht hopes to work as a celebrity stylist in the future, while Sharon would like to specialise in cutting. Both students will continue on with their studies in September moving on to a Level 3 in Hairdressing.

Vice Principal, Jane O’Neill, said: “It’s wonderful that we have such talented hairstylists at the College. Through hard work and determination they’ve learnt the skills that allow them to utilise their talents. This is a great achievement for the students and the College, and I congratulate them on this accomplishment.”

If you’re interested in studying Hairdressing at the College, please visit: www.conel.ac.uk or call the Course Information Line on 020 8442 3055

A competition, launched by Podium - the Further and Higher Education Unit for the 2012 Games - and London 2012 partner Procter & Gamble, appealed for eight Health and Beauty students to take on paid employment working as a Salon Junior on the Olympic Park during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Charlene won one of the highly sought after roles after writing a submission that explained why she wanted to be a Salon Junior at the Games. After attending an interview she wowed the panel and was offered a place on the team.  The panel included Lara Zee and Kenneth Soh who have over 10 years' experience under their belts within the industry, working on countless campaigns including Pantene, Mulberry, Chanel and Vivian Westwood.

As part of her role, Charlene will get paid to work five days a week, working alongside an international crew of stylists and artists, experiencing a highly dynamic and creative salon environment - ideal for an ambitious and talented individual eager to learn and build their skill set. The salons will be based in the media suite and the Olympic village, serving athletes and a host of celebrities and VIP clientele.

Charlene, who was overjoyed when she heard the news, said: “Since starting out in hairdressing, I’ve always visualised working with celebrities and the best stylists, and now that dream has come true.

“When I heard I’d got the job, I was ecstatic. I celebrated with my whole family who were all really happy for me as they know how much this means to me. I’m totally overwhelmed with this opportunity and want to thank all my tutors, Rachel, Sandra and Marilyn, and the College for providing this opportunity.”

Charlene completes her course in July, just in time to start work at the Olympic Park. Afterwards she hopes to open her own salon and specialise in providing wigs for cancer patients. “I love to make people smile” says Charlene. “Just 30 minutes each day makes such a difference, and that’s my aim when I do people’s hair.”

Vice Principal, Jane O’Neill, said: “Opportunities like this don’t come along every day. We’re extremely proud of Charlene and hope this experience leads to a wonderful career in hairdressing.”

Jane added: “This is just one of the many opportunities we’ve provided for our students this year, with many students also gaining work in the Olympic Park through our work with North London Citizens. The Olympics coming to London may only happen once in our lifetime so we’re doing all we can to get our students involved.”

If you're interested in studying Hairdressing at the College, click here to see what courses are available. 
 

The Challenge, which is the name of the organisation that delivers the programmes, visited the College to appeal for volunteers to work with the 16 year olds during the summer.
Over 50 students from the College’s Tottenham and Enfield centres attended the specially designed workshops that informed them about the programme and allowed them to apply.

If successful, students will receive training with The Challenge and work as Team Mentors, earning approximately £1,100 - £1,500 for up to six weeks work. They will accompany the school leavers on a number of trips and excursions all aimed at improving their confidence and self-esteem.

Antonio Horta (22), who is studying Applied Science at the College, was interested in applying, saying: “The Challenge seems like a really good idea. It looks like it would be something fun to do throughout the summer, while also helping young people at the same time.”

Students who work as team mentors will gain valuable leadership and team building experience and skills, which will help them in their future careers. 

Enrichment Manager, Anthony Robinson, said: “The Challenge approached us as they know we have a lot of young people who could offer some good advice and support to these 16 year olds.

“A lot of our students were really interested and hopefully they’ll go onto work with The Challenge during the summer.”
 

The game was a nervous affair with both sides not wanting to give anything away in the opening exchanges. The College’s Academy adopted an attacking  4-3-3 system with Jermaine Izukanne and Jaac Stone either side of Sebastian Headley spearheading the attacking.

Daniel Longa Longa impressed playing out of position at centre half commanding the back four, made up of Chris Omole, Marvin Birch and Daniel Addae.

The 2nd half sparked into life when Seb Headley finished clinically as he was put through with a defensive slipping pass by Mat Newman, who alongside Captain Abdul Marong dictated the midfield for Wood. Marong has been the rock  of the team excelling on and off the pitch completing a Sports BTEC Level 3 with a Distinction/Merit grade, and is now looking forward to going on to university.

The College’s Academy players worked tirelessly and their breakthrough came after some neat work by Marong, Newman and Stone.

The ball found its way back to Marong who sent it over the opposition keeper and into the back of the net for a 2 – 1 lead.

Academy Coach Ryan Kirby said ‘I am delighted for the team and with the win. The players worked so hard all game and have done all year. The Academy has helped them develop and it will be a memory that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. It just shows that if you have the right attitude, discipline and desire you can achieve great things.’

Spectacular and tough games paved the way to the College Academy team’s victory in the SESSA (Southern England Student Sports Association) Cup Challenge Final.  The team beat Middlesex, 1- 0. Southampton Montefiore 4-2, North West Kent 5-3 and Queens School in Bushey, Hertfordshire Semi Final  5-0, 23 March 2012, Final 28 March Tower Hamlets College.

On 2 May, the College’s Football Academy plays Gower College Swansea at the TNS ground, Wales in the final of the ECFA English Colleges Football Association National Premier Cup.
 

The planting marked 100 days to the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, and coincided with the planting of a Coubertin Oak at
the Royal Botanic Gardens by LOCOG Chair, Seb Coe.

The trees, which will form a ‘ribbon’ linking Much Wenlock with the Olympic Park, have been grown from acorns taken from a tree planted in Linden Field in Much Wenlock in 1890 in honour of Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic movement. 

Attended by Principal Paul Head, Mayor of Enfield Cllr Christiana During, and College students – Shqipe Ceka, Jeffrey Asamoah and Vasile –
the planting at the College’s Enfield Centre set a milestone in the history of the College.

Paul Head, Principal and Chief Executive,  said: “We are very proud to be chosen as one of only three further education Colleges to have the honour of planting a historical feature that for many years will demonstrate our involvement and commitment in the Olympic Games.

“We are looking forward to the planting ceremony and doing more to promote and celebrate the 2012 Olympics.”

The Mayor was also pleased to attend, saying: “I’m extremely delighted to be here planting the Coubertin Oak as part of the ribbon, which symbolises the start the Olympic 2012 Games.”

Travel and Tourism student, Shqipe Ceka, said: “I’m excited about the Games and that I have had the opportunity to take part in the planting of this tree that will stand for many years to come as a memory of the Olympics.”

Cllr Bambos Charalambous, who is Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture, Sport & the Olympics, said: "The planting of the oak tree to commemorate Pierre de Courbetin's great achievement in being the father of the modern Olympic games is a true honour which we in Enfield should all be proud of. I hope that this tree along with the other 39 across London will serve as a permanent reminder and inspiration of the magnificence of the modern Olympic Games and of Courbetin's legacy."

The College was chosen to take part in the initiative as part of its membership in the Get Set network. There are 28 Get Set networks across the country, which are each a special community of schools and colleges that  are demonstrating a commitment to the Olympic and Paralympic Values, and using the London 2012 Games to inspire learners of all ages and abilities to get involved.

Three organisations, Bruce Castle Museum, The University of Third Age and Higher Heights agreed for Level 3 Media Production students to produce a promotional video, website and leaflets for their organisation.

After months of liaising, filming and gathering information, students working with University of Third Age were ready to present their work, inviting staff in to the College to view the finished products.

Kadeem Roberts-Findlay, Fils Wetshi and Nakus Gomes delivered a 20 minute presentation which incorporated a proposed website, promotional film and leaflet.

Staff from the University of Third Age, an organisations that provides courses for those in retirement, were delighted with the finished results, with Ernest Nunes commenting:  “We are very happy with the effort the boys have put into the work, and we look forward to incorporating it into our existing material. We appreciate their support in helping us promote our courses to people in the community, and I wish them luck in their future endeavours.”

Student Nakus said: “This project has been a great experience. It’s prepared us for working with clients and has been a valuable learning experience, especially knowing how to make all three elements cohesive.”

The project is one example of how the College works with the employers and the local community to enhance learners’ experience.

Tutor, Sharon Wallace, said: “This has been an exciting project for the students and they have produced some very good work to a professional standard, which they should be proud of.”

If you’re interested in studying Media at the College or any other creative courses, please visit: www.conel.ac.uk or call Course Information on 020 8442 3055.
 

The process involved a final interview with recruitment agency Michael Wisher who, if accepted, will guarantee candidates a four week job during the Olympics working in either retail or catering.

College mentor, Kane Walker, who completed his Business BTEC Level 3 at the College last year, sailed through his interview and has secured a job in the Olympic Park during July. He said: "I'm always open to any opportunities the College presents, and this one is particularly beneficial. I'm currently at university and I'm running my own business, so I'm hoping this experience will add to my CV and provide me memorable experience."

In addition, current Science Level 2 student and College ambassador, Adaize DeSilva, left the event with a smile after successfully completing her second interview and guaranteeing herself a job in catering. She said: "I was already looking for work at the Olympics so when this came up, I was really excited.

"Working at the Olympics will be a new and fantastic experience and something that will look impressive on my CV wherever I go in the world. I really appreciate the opportunity and I'm thankful that the College provides these types of opportunities for its students"

Hani Gue, who completed his Public Services Level 3 at the College last year, and Melike Yegin, who is currently studying Hairdressing, also sailed through their interviews and secured jobs at the 2012 Games. "It's a once in a lifetime experience, " said Melike. "It's something that I can tell my children and grandchildren about."

Adaize, Kane, Hani and Melike will join approximately 100 other successful candidates at the Olympic Games in July.

North London Citizens set up the recruitment project to get as many people from North London working at the Olympic Park as possible. The College recently became a member of North London Citizenship, and as a result participated in the jobs fair.

North London representative, Matthew Bolton, said: "Over the last 6 months we have secured Olympic jobs for 1,200 young people, all at a living wage.  Today is it so important to bring opportunities to young people in Haringey and North East London." 

Just back from the US, Charlie visited the American University in Washington DC where he won the full scholarship worth approximately $45,000 a year. 

Charlie will play College football, or as it’s locally known ‘soccer’ at national level while at the same time study for his Business degree at the university, which rates in the top twenty business schools in America .

With a strong track record in performing well on the football field since he was seven years old, Charlie has also focused on his education and qualifications.  He has played for Watford FC, Brighton FC and now plays with his local team Boreham Wood FC. 

A strong player in the England Colleges’ Team, Charlie  who is also studying for his NVQ Level 2 in Sports and Fitness, said: “I am thrilled to have won the scholarship where I will be playing football at the highest level.  This is a great opportunity and I am determined to make the most of it.”

Kurt Hintz, Director for Sport, said: “We are all so excited for Charlie. He’s worked incredibly hard to get to where he is today and now he’s about to embark on a wonderful university career combining football with studying for his degree.”

If you are interested in joining the College’s Football Academy, come along to trials. For more information and to register, click here.  

The team, which is based at the College’s Enfield Centre, faced the more experienced Southgate College Academy. Apprehensive, yet confident our Enfield side scored first with a fantastically worked try, featuring a lightning-fast run from Basirou Jeiteh.

Tskikewa and the indefatigable Franklyn McPherson; the two best players in the Enfield ranks hounded Southgate throughout the game with their physical prowess, both relentlessly continuing to smash their way towards the try line.

The College’s Student Ambassadors joined organisers from North London Citizens to interview over 300 students and residents who came along to apply for work at the Olympic Park during July and August.

Sports courses at the university are now delivered in a state-of-the-art, £21m centre at UEL’s Docklands Campus. The centre opened last weekend and will be the main training base for Team USA during the London 2012 Games.

Sports staff and students from UEL will later visit students at the College’s Enfield Centre to talk about the programmes and opportunities they can offer.  This will be followed by students from the College once again visiting UEL, but this time using the universities sports labs facilities for data collection as part an assignment for their Sports BTEC Level 3.

In addition, students will benefit from academic writing group support and a number of other activities aimed at preparing them for life at the university.

Kurt Hintz, Curriculum Director, said: “This programme is a great opportunity for our students. We’re extremely happy with the agreement and hope a lot more people will enrol with us knowing that they have a good chance of progressing on to one of the best sports degrees in the country.”

Anyone interested in studying sports at the College should visit: www.conel.ac.uk or call the Course Information Line on 020 8442 3055.
 

The project, led by MUF Architecture who develop public spaces, will see shop fronts given a makeover as part of a wider regeneration project taking place throughout Enfield.

Initial designs began at the one day workshop at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London’s Enfield Centre, where students from both colleges worked together to develop ideas, mood boards, 3D designs and other materials.

Patrick Morris, a post graduate student at the Royal College of Art, worked with Arvin Dabiri who is studying Art and Design Level 3 at the College. Together they were set a task to enhance the external appearance of C Light – a beauty salon set back off Fore Street.

Using a mixture of textures and materials, together they came up with ideas which were presented to the group at the end of the day.

Patrick said: “Using the design process to have a positive impact on a community is exciting. It’s been really good working with Arvin and I think we’ve come up with some great ideas.”

The collaboration also allowed students to share experiences, and advice and guidance on higher education.

Patrick said, “I have several years of experience but I’m still learning, and this is what I’ve explained to Arvin. If you truly enjoy what you do, the learning process never ends.”

Arvin added: “Today has been inspiring. We are helping the community but by working with experienced artists, it’s expanded my creative thinking. It’s also made me excited about going on to university when I finish my course.”

The College’s involvement is part of MUF’s approach to involve the local community in regenerating the area, creating a sense of pride and ownership amongst residents, businesses and young people.

Curriculum Manager, Cyrus Armstrong-James, said: “This is an excellent opportunity to work with our partners, both educational and in the community, to help in the regeneration of the area.”

He added: “Working on a project of this magnitude while still at College will fill students with an immense sense of pride, and further inspire them to continue on to greater things.”

Following the one day session, students will present their ideas to shop owners and if agreed, will work on implementing the designs during the summer.

For more information about creative courses at the College, please visit; www.conel.ac.uk or call Course Information on 020 8442 3055.
 

The awards, held on 15 March at the BFI on Southbank, brought together the key players and emerging and established talent from the UK animation scene to view the some of the most popular animations. 
 
Overall films from approximately 80 animators were shortlisted with their work uploaded to Vimeo, a creative sharing website. The public along with industry professionals decided the winner ‘liking’ their preferred video.
 
22 of the 80 films shortlisted were from students at the College. However it was Michael Elesheku, Melda Mahmutoglu and Victoria Armamatskaja who made the biggest impression with their videos rated in the top ten.
 
Melda, said: “It was so exciting to have my animation viewed by such important people from the industry. I’m very happy I came in the top ten and know there will be loads of other opportunities to feature my work as I continue to improve my skills.”
 
The students are all studying Animation BTEC Level 3, which teaches them the skills needed to succeed as a professional animator in the studio environment. By the end of the course they will leave with a showreel of films they have animated working on commercial assignments, such as the British Animation Awards.
 
Animation Lecturer, Matthew Phelan, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to get noticed on the animation scene. We have some amazing talent at the College so I knew they would impress the voters with their creativity and technique.”
 
If you’re interested in studying animation, or any of the other creative courses at the college, click here.

The College celebrated with a traditional folk band and lots of Halay – the traditional dance.

Students came together and joined in the festivities watching and joining in the traditional dance, which allows as many people as possible to hold hands and dance with their feet.

Ceren Bilgili, who moved from Turkey as a child, was happy to see the New Year being celebrated. She said: “I’m so glad the College has organised this event. I’ve been celebrating with family and friends all week but it’s nice to come to College and celebrate with your teachers and friends who may not know much about your culture.”

She added: “Being Kurdish and carrying on the tradition is very important to me, especially with all the issues that are happening across the world. Today was a good day and it makes me proud to be in a College that celebrates all races and cultures equally.”

Enrichment Manager, Anthony Robinson, said: “It’s important for our students to learn about the various cultures that help make our College what it is today. This event was a good way for students to experience another culture.”

Also known as Newroz, the festivities are considered the start of the New Year in Iran, and the most important festival in Kurdish culture.

A similar event will run at the College’s Enfield Centre on 27 March.
 

Professor Noboru Mizumoto, Associate Professor Kiyoko Kobayashi, and Lecturer Hideaki Kawashima were welcomed by Principal Paul Head, Level 3 Business student Tara Clifford and Director of Business, Kurt Hintz.

Soka Women’s College, who are interested in introducing vocational qualifications in Management, Accounting and Computing, were keen to find out how the College delivered its NVQs in Business and ICT.

Director, Kurt Hintz, spent the day with the delegates explaining the process and showing them around the College’s School of Business, and ICT. He said: “It’s always beneficial to speak to other colleges and universities about their processes, but this was particularly interesting as they were from a country that has a different approach to education.”

As a private college, Soka students pay between £7-9k a year and learn in classes of 40. Each student receives an Ipad during enrolment, which they use for classes, and have a dedicated recruitment process on completion.

Student, Tara Clifford, said: “It was good insight to find out about Soka Women’s College, and a good opportunity to learn about another culture. This adds to the knowledge I received visiting China and Dubai earlier this year as part of my course.”

Associate Professor, Kiyoko Kobayashi, said: “We were quite impressed how deeply your classes such as apprenticeship courses are related to jobs directly. We were [also] amazed to see your construction facilities and how carefully [you] guide students to their achievements.

“We enjoyed meeting with you and learning about the NVQ system at your college. We really appreciate the information you have given during our visit.”
 

Particularly beneficial to those who are interested in studying hairdressing, the show running at 5pm and 6pm, will showcase the talent of the College’s hairdressing students.

Titled ‘Global Hair Styling’ it will include hairdressing styles from around the world with models taking to the catwalk to display students’ hard work.

The show will take place in the College’s Learner Hub -  recently built to provide more space for student activities. Tickets will be on sale at the Open Day the day for £1 with all proceeds going to cancer charity.

The Open Day runs 4pm until 7.30pm and is a perfect opportunity for people to come down and speak to tutors about courses they are interested in studying. Visitors can also get advice and guidance if they’re not sure what to study and there will be people on hand to help with applications and any questions they may have about fees.

This is the final Open Day until May 2012 so people who are keen to enrol are best to come along so they can apply early and have a better chance of getting onto the course of their choice.

Vice Principal, Jane O’Neill, said: “We do what we can to make our Open Days as informative as possible, so potential students can experience what life would be like as a student at the College. The hair show is a great example of the work we do, and a great way to raise money for charity.”

More information about open days can be found at: www.conel.ac.uk/opendays

Over three hundred women celebrated the day in style trying new activities ranging from arts and crafts to dance and Tai Chi and from painting and decorating to counselling skills.
Now in its ninth year, the celebration brought together women from all walks of life to celebrate achievement, health and wellbeing.

As well as workshops and an Information Fair about local groups and services, the afternoon was rounded off with the annual Unsung Women Awards, in recognition of the fantastic contribution made by women of the borough to the local community. 

Cllr Bernice Vanier, Cabinet Member for Communities at Haringey Council, said: “I’m very pleased these inspiring women have been recognised for the contribution that they have made to life in the borough in so many different ways. They provide great motivation to us all.”

For a spot of well-earned pampering, the college’s Style Zone was open for free manicures and facials.

Beauty Therapy Level 3 Learner Lida Mossanan (pictured) gave manicures and facials to the delight of Anila and her friend Runi.  Anila said: “We’re so glad we’ve discovered Style Zone – it’s a gem.  We’ll definitely we back for more treatments.”

Principal and Chief Executive Paul Head, said: “We are always pleased to host this event for Haringey Council and Women’s Forum every year to bring together women from the community and celebrate their achievements.”

Held during the College's Tottenham Centre Open Day, around 200 visitors had the opportunity to take part. 

Physics Tutor, Catherine Cleary, said: "The College has put together fun experiments to entertain, fascinate and teach visitors about the natural world and how things work.

Two visitors who hope to study Science Level 3 courses at the College, April Vismonte and Amara Joseph (pictured) both plan to go on to make a career in medicine and dentistry.

Science and Engineering at the College is Outstanding, which means our learners have continuously performed considerably above the national average for three years.

Due to this success, the College is expanding its provision and introducing three new courses in September 2012 which are; Lab Technician Apprenticeship Level 3,  Engineering Level 2 and HNC Engineering (subject to approval).

This means people who are interested in studying Engineering may be able to go from a Level 2 to a Level 4 qualification at the College. Those interested in learning while earning can apply for an apprenticeship, or fast track to university by successfully applying or and completing our Access to Higher Education course.

Science and Engineering Week, which is run by the British Science Association, shines the spotlight each March on how science, technology, engineering and maths relate to our everyday lives and helps to inspire the next generation of scientists with fun and participative activities.

Head of Science, Georgina Lambrianides, said: "The College is very proud of its Outstanding status and the fact that we are over performing in an area that is nationally underperforming. Anyone interested in a science related career will have exceptional training at the College and should come down to the Open Day to find out more."

For more information about College Open Days, visit: www.conel.ac.uk/opendays

COATA is an umbrella organisation set up by 11 Apprenticeship Training Agencies (ATA), which includes Apprenticeships First, across the UK to promote and support the development of the ATA model.

HRH The Duke of York gave his backing to the new organisation to boost the growth and development Agencies, which recruit, employ and train young people while they are working with a host employer.

He said: “Too often employers want to employ young people with a minimum of three years’ experience. How are young people going to get this experience if they don’t get a chance to be employed in the first place?

“COATA is looking to overthrow that by encouraging young people to come through their doors, take the employment risk for a period of time and enable young people to get on that ladder of experience.”

Phil Gowan, Director of Employer Engagement at the College, said: “It is good to have the support and backing of COATA as we continue to encourage young people and employers to engage in apprenticeship opportunities. At Apprenticeships First, we have various apprenticeship vacancies coming in on a weekly basis and have helped many young people with their first step on the ladder. Apprenticeships are increasingly becoming a viable option for young people and employers and we encourage anyone interested to get in touch.”

For more information about Apprenticeship First, and the opportunities available, visit: www.conel.ac.uk/apprenticeships
 

City Year, London’s leading youth and education charity, ran a two hour workshop attended by 23 learners, introducing them to the programme, which recruits talented and passionate young people aged 18-25.
As part of the workshop students were given an explanation about City Year London’s vision for change, before being coached on ways to communicate and work more effectively in teams, better understand personal strengths and weaknesses and develop flexible working styles.

City Year London engages diverse young volunteers (known as “corps members”) to spend a year of full-time service in schools as “near peer” tutors and positive mentors and role models.  Each corps member supports children to attend punctually, behave responsibly and achieve good academic results.  City Year’s overall goal is to help children break the all-too-familiar cycle of low aspiration and under achievement.

Kennedy Walker (18), who is currently studying Public Services Level 3, was particularly interested in becoming a ‘corps member’ and has since attended a further information session at City Year’s north London offices. He said: “The workshop was really interesting. It gave us insight into City Year but we also learnt techniques that help you communicate effectively with young people. I’m definitely interested in becoming a mentor.”

College Principal and Chief Executive, Paul Head, said: “City Year is ideal for our learners as most will be able to relate to the social and economic circumstances of a lot of the young people City Year work with.  In addition to helping disadvantaged children, joining City Year will also bring great personal reward as each volunteer receives a leadership development programme aimed at boosting their employment skills and confidence for the workplace.

Eric Mtungwazi, Recruitment Manager at City Year London, said:  “We were delighted with the response from learners to our leadership workshop and would be delighted to return to deliver this again in the future.  I was particularly impressed by participants’ willingness to challenge themselves during the session and identify and explore opportunities for personal development.  Since the session we’ve received strong interest from college students wanting to join our programme.”

Last year, the College hosted an event for City Year inviting the local community to find out more about the programme and mentoring. This aimed to develop opportunities for our learners and support the local community.

The Fair, organised by Enfield North MP Nick De Bois to tackle rising employment figures, was held at Southbury Leisure Centre and opened by Mayor of London Boris Johnson.

Apprenticeships First had various apprenticeship offers available in a wide range of areas, including ICT, fashion, rail engineering and accounting.

Phil Gowan, Director of Vocational Skills and Employer Engagement, said: “It was a positive day and good to meet so many people interested in apprenticeships. It was also good to meet employers who we can possibly work with in the future.”

Mayor, Boris Johnson, said: “It's amazing to see the energy and excitement of young people who came here today to get jobs and apprenticeships."

For more information about apprenticeships on offer, visit: www.conel.ac.uk/apprenticeships