Greenwich Community College

GCC Welcomes South African Delegate
We were privileged to host Dr Raymond Patel, CEO of ‘merSETA’(Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Skills Education Training Authority), one of South Africa’s largest Skills Education Training Authorities. During his visit, Dr. Patel visited our casino at London Gaming College and toured our electrical and motor vehicle workshops. He also met with Principal Geoff Pine to gain a greater understanding of Vocational Training in England and exchange examples of best practice. The visit coincided with the state visit of President Zuma to London. Please click here to visit the merSETA website.
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Colleges Inspired by London 2012 launch the UKÂ’s first ever Legacy Champion Initiative
On Monday 22nd February, over seventy students from nine colleges from the 2012 Olympic hosting boroughs marked the launch of the UK’s first ever Legacy Champions. The launch took place at a 2012 Legacy Day held at Stratford Circus, in East London. The event was attended by guest speakers, including six-time Olympian, Tessa Sanderson and four-time Paralympian swimmer, Dervis Konuralp as well as Nick Fuller, Head of Education at London 2012 and Samantha Sifah from the Olympic Park Legacy Company. The Legacy Champions is a joint-initiative pioneered through a partnership of colleges – BSix Sixth Form College, Greenwich Community College, Hackney Community College, Leyton Sixth Form College, Newham College of Further Education, Newham Sixth Form College (NewVIc), Sir George Monoux College, Tower Hamlets College and Waltham Forest College. The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games’ (LOCOG) have awarded the participating colleges the ‘Inspired by London 2012” Inspire Mark as part of the LOCOG Inspire Programme. The prestigious award recognises the Legacy Champion initiative as the first of the exciting collective moves by the colleges to advocate and maximise the benefits of the games for their students, local businesses and the wider community. During the event, the Legacy Champions were given an exclusive opportunity to view the Olympic Park through the View Tube facility. They took part in interactive workshops run by Olympic Park Legacy Company, learnt about the recent developments on the Olympic park and presented their visions of how the games could benefit Londoners to an audience of 2012 decision-makers and special guests. Seb Coe, Chair, London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games said: “The Inspire programme is ensuring the legacy of the 2012 Games starts now as projects like the Legacy Champions are enabling people in the host boroughs to make positive life changes. The Legacy Champions are encouraging the participating colleges to fulfil their potential. We want to use the power of the Games to inspire change. The Inspire programme is recognising the work our partners all round the UK are doing to help us achieve this vision now. I congratulate everyone involved in the Legacy Champion initiative and for securing the Inspire mark and I wish them every success with their work.” The following GCC Legacy Champions attended the event: Dushane Morris, Caitlin-Nico Martin, Myles Warren and Jade Elston.
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Eltham Centre Update
Daytime classes will be running at the Eltham Centre from Monday 01 March. Access to the Eltham Centre will be through the alley way next to the library. All of our evening Adult and Community Learning classes have been relocated to the Haimo centre for week commencing 1 March. They will resume at the Eltham Centre from 8 March. Please click here for more information. For details on other services operating in The Eltham Centre please click on the following links: Click here to visit the Greenwich Council Website – Eltham update page For updates on the Leisure Centre and alternative facilties in the borough click here to visit the GLL Website
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Mayor of Bexley Raises Money for Starting Blocks Charity
The Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Bernard Clewes MBE, teamed up with the South East Chamber of Commerce and Greenwich Community College Business Unit to raise money for the Greenwich Starting Blocks Trust. As part of their match sponsorship for the recently televised Charlton Athletic vs. Leyton Orient match, Greenwich Community College Business Unit offered two tickets for auction at the December South East Chamber of Commerce networking event. The Mayor, a lifelong Charlton fan, kindly donated £190 to the Starting Blocks Trust for the tickets. Greenwich Starting Blocks Trust is a charity committed to helping young people in Greenwich sporting dreams come true. It will provide bursaries to give young, up-and-coming athletes a chance to develop their talents. Kam Dehal, Greenwich Community College Business Unit Sales Director (pictured with the Mayor), was delighted with the amount raised: “We were honoured to host the Mayor and help raise money for a fantastic cause.” At the match the Mayor and his attendant, Steve Martin, enjoyed a tour of The Valley, pre-match meal and seats in the Directors Box. Apart from the result (Charlton lost the match 1-0) The Mayor and Mr Martin thoroughly enjoyed the evening: “The Mayor and I would like to say a big thank to Greenwich Community College Business Unit for a wonderful evening. The company and the food was superb.” ul li For more information on Greenwich Starting Blocks please click here /li /ul ul li For more information on the South East Chamber of Commerce, please click here /li /ul
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Leonardo da Vinci helps to bust Apprenticeship Myths
Apprenticeship week 2010 see’s the start of a new Recreation Assistants Apprenticeship at the Eltham centre. Run by London Leisure College (LLC) in partnership with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), it is aimed at getting local people into paid jobs and providing them with the opportunity to start their career in the leisure industry. Apprentices are employees who earn a wage and work alongside experienced staff in businesses to gain job-specific skills. Off the job, usually on a day-release basis, apprentices receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications. They can take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of Apprenticeship, the apprentices’ ability and the industry sector. The LLC Apprenticeship adopts a unique approach – a shorter 20 week course based at a GLL Leisure Centre leading directly into employment with GLL, after 6 weeks attendance. New apprentices begin their course at the end of February and they all get will be paid whilst completing their training! 22 year old apprentice Sarah Ealing said “I have enjoyed my experience on the apprenticeship very much. I have gained valuable experience and it has provided me with training whilst working. I would recommend anyone to join an apprenticeship and the qualifications gained give a good baseline for further development”. Zak Goldsmith (pictured) aged 19 said “throughout my short experience so far with GLL, I feel that this apprenticeship has given me every opportunity possible. At work and at College you get to meet all different kinds of people, building good relationships with colleagues and customers. This apprenticeship allows anybody from any age, or background to show what they can offer. Employers can be reluctant to take on Apprentices due to the myths surrounding how they work and what they involve. Research has shown that the opposite is true; Apprenticeships are “good for business”. strong Myth Buster /strong Myth – My business needs skills that fall outside the traditional sectors / Apprenticeships are in areas like trades and construction / only in traditional crafts. Busted – Apprenticeships are not just offered in traditional sectors. There are more than 190 types of Apprenticeships covering hundreds of job roles ranging from accountancy to textiles, engineering to veterinary nursing, business admin to construction. Most businesses will have skills needs that could be filled by apprentices. Myth – I don’t want to train someone up for them to leave and benefit someone else’s business. Busted – The statistics show this is not so. 83% of employers rely on their Apprenticeships programme to provide the skilled workers that they need for the future. 80% said that Apprenticeship programmes reduced staff turnover. So, it seems that Apprenticeship programmes produce staff loyalty and satisfaction (Feb 2008 Populus research). Myth – Apprentices won’t earn as much long-term as those who take university route. Busted – The average apprentice earns £170 per week, which works out at £8,840 annually. Considering that university students may graduate with debts and need to find a job, the earn while you learn Apprenticeships route has several advantages. Career progression is excellent for apprentices, and over the course of their careers those with a level 3 Apprenticeship earn on average £100,000 more than those without. [A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Apprenticeships and Other Vocational Qualifications, University of Sheffield, 2007]. Myth – Apprenticeships are a thing of the past. Busted – They have been around for centuries: Leonardo da Vinci was an apprentice! Since 1996/97 there have been more than 2 million Apprenticeship starts. With the launch of the national Apprenticeship Service (NAS) in April 2009, there is more structure and support available for Apprenticeship programmes. For more information on apprenticeships contact the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150 600 or visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk
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London 2012 Inspire Mark Achieved
A project by the Colleges in the 5 Olympic Host boroughs (including Greenwich Community College) has been awarded the prestigious London 2012 Inspire Mark. The Colleges have been working together to ensure our students and communities benefit from 2012 and its legacy. Our aim is to promote the opportunities and values of the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics to students and our wider businesses and communities. Additionally, we aim to ensure that the voices of our students are heard by the Olympic Park Legacy Company and LOCOG (London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games). With that goal in mind we have organised the first ever Legacy Champion Event! This ground breaking opportunity brings together 10 students from each college in the five host boroughs, giving them an opportunity to shape the 2012 Legacy. For more information please visit www.5boroughcolleges.com
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Communities Get Together For Tree Dressing Fun
Each year, the communities of Kidbrooke organise a non religious festival celebrating light in the midst of winter darkness. Young people create decorations for the trees in Telemann Square in the Ferrier housing estate and these provide the backdrop for an evening lantern parade, live music, fireworks and food served in the Community Hall. In recent years, the event has grown in size and ambition. Many individuals and organisations take an active role in helping to organise the event. This year, these included: Thomas Tallis School, Greenwich Community College, Holy Family School, Holy Spirit Church, The Greenwich Food Co-operative, Greenwich Council, Emergency Exit Arts, The Ferrier Cultural Centre, Kidbrooke Vietnamese Chinese Supplementary School, Southern Housing Group, Greenwich Youth for Christ, The Ferrier Safer Neighbourhood Team and Berkeley Homes. The Ferrier Estate is undergoing a massive regeneration programme and it is vital the existing and new communities of this part of London have regular opportunities to meet and celebrate together.
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2nd Year Students put forward Landfill Product Ideas
As part of their BTEC coursework, a project undertaken to produce a variety of different design solutions to use land fill products, wins a competition. Students Sophie Persaud and Heather Lucas wrote: “We had to present our work to a panel of judges in our classroom and one group was put forward to attend the Global Entrepreneurship week at the Institute of Directors on the 20th November 2009,to present their idea. Our idea was to reduce plastic milk bottles going to landfill by transforming them into lighting and also creating craft packs for making your own lighting and accessories, which too us through to the next round. We arrived and following a chance to get acquainted with pupils from other colleges, we were given information about others businesses and how they became successful, which was insightful and inspiring. After a brief lunch each college presented their work to a successful business mentor who gave feed back on the idea and helped us improve our presentations. Once the session was over each group had to present their final presentation to another business owner before a winner was selected. Geoff Pine, Principal at Greenwich Community College announced the winner and it was us! We were amazed, we couldn’t believe it, and we were all so excited. Once the announcement was made we had to present our idea to the whole room, which was extremely nerve wracking. We were then introduced to Mr. Bill Morrow who is the co-founder of Angels Den, a company that arranges events for entrepreneurs to present ideas to the ‘Angels’ who are a set of investors. We have our chance to present to the Angels later in January which we cannot wait for”.
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Greenwich Cultural Celebration
Students celebrated their diverse cultural backgrounds at the Greenwich Cultural Celebration on 17 December 2009. A variety of stalls were set up for students to visit as well as dressing up in traditional clothes and tasting a variety of foods, a treat for anyone’s palette! Each stall represented a country in the world, from Afghanistan to Tanzania, Angola to Romania and all points in between. ESOL students decorated their stands with traditional clothing, ornaments, posters etc. Students and staff had a chance to have henna patterns painted on their hands, watched traditional Thai fruit carving and take part in singing and drumming. Fashion students organised a Fashion Show to show off their fair trade projects they had been working on. This spectacular fashion show smoothly lead into the His & Her Competition where students competed against each other by dressing up and giving a brief description about their motherland. The Student Union organised a drumming workshop by inviting Nubian Sunshine & Dogon Music who encouraged students and staff to dance and play drums. Students from Meridian Music Centre performed in front of a large audience as well as encouraging them to take part in singing. The Greenwich Cultural Celebration was an excellent opportunity for students to exhibit and share their cultural roots with others.
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Health & Social Care Celebration
A celebration evening was held recently for students of Health & Social care courses. Students that completed NVQ CCLD level 2/3 and NVQ Care level 2/3/4 and Registered managers Award all received their certificates. Achievements have been excellent for 08/09 and we handed out post cards to students asking them to give feedback on their experiences either good or bad. There were very positive comments made on the support they have received by their tutors and assessors and the opportunities the course has given them. Donna Travis, who studied on the Health & Social Care BTEC Level 2 & NVQ Level 3 said “Greenwich Community College is a fantastic College with fantastic tutors. I would not hesitate to come back and further my education even more!” A few days after the award evening we had our External Verifier’s visit from City & Guilds and we received very positive feedback: “The standard of the work that I have examined today is of a very high and consistent standard, the assessment team are a high functioning cohesive team that are solid and set and achieve extremely high standards, the consistency from the team is to be congratulated and should be shown as an exemplar of good practice”.
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Mayor attends construction course induction day
A MAYOR has met with teenagers who want to join construction courses at a training centre. Mayor of Greenwich Allan McCarthy attended an induction day along with more than 30 potential candidates at the flower skills and training construction centre on Woolwich Road, Charlton. Applicants aged 16 and over toured the training centre, tried out the equipment and spoke to tutors. Flower skills and training has been one of Greenwich community college’s partners since 2007, offering six-month courses. Together they deliver intermediate and Level one construction diplomas in plastering, painting and decorating and carpentry and joinery. Mr McCarthy said: “The facilities at flower skills and training are very impressive and I wish the current and future students every success in their chosen career path”. Life skills and student support manager, Jason Bodimeade, said: “We are dedicated to offer construction skills courses to Greenwich residents, which will allow them to progress into employment in the industry.”
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Local Student Wins Award at National Music Awards Ceremony
Last week local student Daniel Blake attended the Access to Music National Awards Ceremony. The glitzy, VIP studded affair took place in the prestigious Mermaid Theatre in London on Wednesday 2nd December. Daniel Blake, who studied at Greenwich Community College, a partner centre of Access to Music, collected the award for Outstanding Music Student of the Year from Head of Vocational Initiatives, Gillian Jones and celebrity Lauren Laverne. Guests were treated to a night of entertainment from the hottest and freshest new artists from Access to Music and partner company Armstrong Learning, from across the UK. Daniel said: “It was great to win the award, to me it’s recognition for all the hard work I’ve put in, and the progress I’ve made. On the award it says “identifying new talent’ and that’s stuck with me and will do as I continue my career into the music industry” Lauren Laverne hosted the awards for the second year running. Her career began with band Kenickie, since then she has had various roles in radio and television. She currently co-presents the BBC Culture Show with Mark Kermode and has her own radio show on BBC 6 Music. Access to Music (ATM) is the country’s leading designer and provider of popular music training, with 20 centres nationally. ATM aims to provide quality, innovation and opportunity in music and increase the number of people who are actively involved in music at all stages in their lives. ATM has helped thousands of artists including Vanessa from The Saturdays, Jamie from the Noisettes, James Morrison, the Zutons, LMC, Pete Doherty, Soweto Kinch, Toploader & Starsailor. Tutors of ATM have worked with top acts including Amy Winehouse, Peter Gabriel, Beverley Knight, Massive Attack, and Kylie.
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Greenwich Named ‘New Capital of Industry’
With the help of Greenwich Community College, Greenwich’s contribution to England’s economic success is recognised with the borough named a ‘New Capital of Industry’ for its success in the tourism industry. The borough is leading the way for London, with attractions such as the O2 arena, Old Royal Naval College and National Maritime Museum attracting a total of 3.6 million visitors in 2008. Greenwich is also poised to receive an influx of visitors thanks to the 2012 Olympic Games, with growth supported by high skills levels and excellent training programmes at institutions such as Greenwich Community College. Developing the skills needed to fuel the tourism boom, Greenwich Community College offers courses for young people and returners to education hoping to get into the industry and businesses working in the sector. Geoff Pine, principal of Greenwich Community College, says: “Our tourism courses are increasingly popular and our partnership with AEG Europe has won us HR in Hospitality awards. Thanks to our involvement with the Prime Minster’s Initiative for International Education our students have been involved in projects in Vietnam, Russia and Ghana and visited Beijing for the Olympic Games last year.” The ‘New Capitals of Industry’ list was produced by the Association of Colleges (AoC) ahead of Colleges Week (9-15 November), a national celebration of the role colleges play in providing opportunities for communities, businesses and individuals. Greenwich joins towns and areas up and down the country, including Brighton, Leamington Spa and Cumbria, that have demonstrated considerable growth over the last few years and are examples of the development of new industries and skills which will keep the UK competitive. Audrey Slade, Director of Business, Jobs and International Promotion at the London Development Agency, says: “We are delighted that Greenwich is leading the way in an industry that is vital for the London economy. The world class arts, culture and entertainment facilities give the borough an edge and allow it to succeed in a competitive visitor market.” Colleges Week is coordinated and organised by the Association of Colleges and the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS).
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Matrix Award
Our Student Services team successfully gained the Matrix Award across all aspects of our service. This moves us ahead on our objective to gain external accreditation in support of our Excellence Goal. Congratulations to all the staff and students who contributed to the process this week.
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Nextstep Careers Advice available to all learners.
An agreement has been reached between Nextstep providers, Prospects Services Ltd and Greenwich Community College, that careers information, advice and guidance (IAG) should now be available to all learners aged 20 and over. Last academic year, the service was restricted to adult and community learning courses, particularly the community engagement unit, but a new protocol has been agreed that sees the service rolled out to all adult learners who are not already catered for by Connexions or the college’s own careers advisers. Adrian Caffery (Pictured) is the Nextstep Adviser who is based in the Admissions and IAG department at the main Plumstead site and is available Mondays to Thursdays between 10am and 4pm for booked appointments. He provides impartial and confidential advice on learning and work matters including help with writing CVs, looking for work, career planning, future study plans and identifying any skill gaps that learners may have.
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GCC Student in the X Factor final 9 contestants
Greenwich Community College’s Musical Theatre Teachers and Classmates will be amongst the staff watching the X factor with baited breath this weekend as Rachel Adedeji has made it through to the final 9. Rachel lives with her family and has been singing all her life. She attended stage school since the age of 2 years old and whilst she was there performed in many musical productions. She was also a singer in the musical Mamma Mia. Last year she applied for The X Factor and made Bootcamp but sadly didn’t get any further in the competition. She has a happy family life, really supportive friends and hopes to make her mark on The X Factor this year with her singing. In an exclusive interview with Rachel she said “the performances are a combination of nerves and excitement – mostly excitement as it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. The Musical Theatre course was brilliant. I loved it because I learned so many different things. All the knowledge I gained doing the Musical Theatre Course, I’ll be applying to all the genres of music they will be giving to me”. Our Musical Theatre course co-ordinator David Watters commented on Rachel’s talent “She’s a natural and very gifted vocally, she’s capable of going all the way to the grand finale” The live studio shows are on every Saturday and Sunday night on ITV1, each week the public will vote for their favourite act to stay in the competition, after watching their performance in the live Saturday night show. In the Sunday night results show, the two acts with the lowest public vote will sing once again for the Judges, who will vote on who they think should stay in the competition, and who should go. We’re backing Rachel, who has already gathered a huge following including last year’s winner Alexandra Burke and Radio 1’s Chris Moyles who predicts she will be one of the final 3.
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Sorrell Fashion Project
GCC BTEC students collaborate with Greenwich University students on the ‘Sorrell project’. The Sorrell foundation was founded in 1999 and was set up ‘to inspire creativity in young people, improving the quality of life through good design’. The aim was to join students from FE with design students from HE who in turn are mentored by professional designers. The project was funded by the South East London Lifelong Learning Network (SELLLN). Our BTEC Year 2 Fashion students were involved in the South East region together with neighbouring FE colleges. Each college group were given a team of Greenwich University design students to work with, from a variety of disciplines such as Graphic design, Architecture, Landscape and gardening. Our students set the design brief and acted as the clients, the HE students then created the designs to fit the brief, with meetings and discussions with ‘the clients’ along the way. It was a great experience for the group, improving team work, confidence, communication skills and some found themselves surprised that they even had leadership skills. Being involved also helped to develop their independent learning and transfer knowledge from one specialism to another. They could see and understand design more broadly. The students involved were treated to a ‘Celebration Day’ where they were awarded a certificate for their achievements and attended the opening of the exhibition to show final designs by the University of Greenwich students in response to the FE students brief. The designs created in partnership with GCC are currently on show at The Young Design Centre, Somerset House until October 2009. Drop in or call 020 7845 5860 for a group visit.
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Passport To Your Future Competition
The Win a Wii @ GCC competition has now closed. Whether you want to gain qualifications to enter University or further your career, or enrol on a general interest course learn a new skill or hobby, Greenwich Community College is the strong Passport to Your Future /strong . span style="color:blue;" click here for more details /span . strong Did you know…? /strong ul li We offer many Vocational Qualifications within a number of industries. /li li Courses are free if you are 16-18. /li li Our A Level pass rates are consistently above the national average. /li li Student support is a big success at GCC and using this service will enhance your studies. /li li We have an active Student Union, who organise events, run elections and welcome you with a comprehensive Fresher’s fair. /li li Our music students performed their annual showcase at one of Europe’s top venues, the O2 Bubble. /li li We hold a highly successful fashion show each year for the collections our students work hard to create. /li /ul
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MMC @ The O2 Bubble
The 2009 end of year show attended by over 200 people saw performances from students on the Vocal Artist level 2 and 3 courses, BTEC Music courses and Creative Music Producer Level 3 course. The Musical Theatre Performing Arts students also gave a performance from The Wizard of Oz on the night. The line up included Aminata Evora, who gave a breathtaking solo performance and Vocal Artist student Catherine Pestano performed live together with her band for the first time. Cathering said “we were all so excited and i was a bit terrified! I am going on to study for a higher degree at Winchester University.I have just been awarded £5000 to start a business in the University, teaching their musicians how to draw on their skills in order to help the community. I would definitely say that I will take inspiration from the way I was taught at Meridian Music Centre, to help me deliver this training in my new business”. Paul Hall, Head of Music said “At the recent Meridian Music O2 Bubble Concert, Performing Arts and Music students gave an exciting and professional performance to an enthusiastic audience. Visitors to the venue also enjoyed the interactive british music experience exhibition. GCC have supported students outside the remit of their course enhancing learning through providing a professional venue to showcase their talents”.
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GCC Students Help Create Safer Community
The Greenwich Community College Student Union have been working closely on a number of initiatives with Greenwich Police, Local MPs and Charlton Athletic Community Trust to send a strong message of zero tolerance against carrying knives and street crime. A combination of tutorial sessions, meetings and events, including the installation of a knife arch for a morning at the Plumstead and Burrage Centres, have culminated in the students from the college being invited onto Safer Neighbourhood Panels which allows them to input into the priorities set for the Safer Neighbourhood Teams. Greenwich Community College Principal, Geoff Pine believes students are integral in creating safer communities: “80% of our students live in Greenwich and know the issues facing young people and the wider local community better than anybody. Using their knowledge to identify key priorities for the Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be beneficial to the Police and residents across the borough. In a recent survey 98% of our students said they felt safe in the college. We are proud of our safety record and want to use our influence to create the same environment in the streets around our college centres.” John Austin, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, believes that partnerships like this are vital for the community; “I am really pleased about the positive relationship between the police, and Greenwich Community College staff and students. The Police are expected to solve problems on their own but they are just one player within the community. Other institutions and the wider community have a role to play in keeping our streets safe.” Sergeant Gavin Gaskain said, “This partnership is about reassuring students, their families, staff and local residents that Greenwich Community College and Greenwich Borough Police place the safety of all young people in the borough at the very top of our daily work. Initiatives such as the knife arch raise awareness of knife crime issues and to deter young people from carrying a weapon.” Jason Morgan, Chief Executive of Charlton Athletic Community Trust said, “We are keen to support work with our partner organisations in raising awareness of the issues of knife and street crime and any projects and initiatives that we can be involved in which helps to combat, address and alleviate this terrible trend in today’s society that we must all work together to stop.” To find out more about community policing in Greenwich please click here To find out more information about the ‘Street Violence Ruins Lives’ campaign please click here
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The Jack Petchey Foundation
The College has been given the go-ahead to run the Jack Petchey Award Scheme. It awards students – aged 16-25 years old who have done something positive, this could be excellent grades, volunteering, even having a good attitude. Students can be nominated by staff or other students, the winner is then selected by the students themselves- e.g. through the student union. Nomination boxes will be put up at London Leisure College in Eltham and at the Plumstead cnetre, in the reception area and the student union. The winner is presented with a certificate, badge and will also receive £200, which they must spend on a project of their choice (from a list the college devise). This award is monthly and we have the money to award for April, May and June this year. Please have a look at the Jack Petchey Foundation website for more details on the award scheme.
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Adult Learners' Week 2009
From Saturday 9th to Friday 15th May, there are many activities in the London Borough of Greenwich for Adult Learners’ Week, a great opportunity to try something new for free! The week kicks off with free taster sessions and activities at the great Get Together @ Winns Common, Plumstead on Saturday 09 May. Other activities in the week also include: ul li Free taster sessions run at libraries across Greenwich /li /ul ul li A range of exhibitions and advice and guidance events throughout the week /li /ul Take a look at the full programme of events here
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Save up-to £345 on an ESOL course
For a limited time we are offering your first ESOL course at a special price. If you have not studied on a Greenwich Community College ESOL Course we are offering you an opportunity to save up-to £345 on course and exam fees. span style="color:red;" The deadline has closed for this offer /span . We may run a similar promotion for courses later in 2009. strong If you are interested in receiving details of future offers then please follow this link and fill out your details . /strong
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New Chair For Sound Sense Combines Voluntary Sector And Community Music Experience
Catherine Pestano has been appointed as the new chair of Sound Sense; a UK development agency for community music, following a long period as member and board member for Sound Sense. Catherine brings much experience to the role as a trained group worker, counsellor and mental health social worker as well as a practising community musician. Musically, she trained with Frankie Armstrong of the Natural Voice Practitioners Network, completed the Goldsmiths Certificate in workshop skills course and is currently studying Vocal Artist Level 3 at the Meridian Music Centre (MMC); to focus on her own performing skills. Catherine, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, also runs Croydon-based CRISP, which offers training for community musicians and music making opportunities for all ages. In 2007 CRISP won an ISME (International Society for Music Education) Gibson Community Music Education Project Award for a Serbian project, which shared models of creative music making with disabled children and their carers. In the social care field, Pestano has most recently been vice chair of Carr Gomm Housing Association, and she continues to serve on the registration and conduct committees of the General Social Care Council, where she offers teambuilding and corporate wellbeing advice using group activities and her music skills. Catherine Pestano comments “my Vocal Artist studies at the MMC have been a wonderful extension of my own musicianship. I can now help shape the development of music education in the UK to include the emancipatory and life-affirming values and practices of community music. I believe my time at Greenwich will continue to provide an enhancement of my work.” Kathryn Deane, Director of Sound Sense, says: “I am thrilled to have Catherine as my chair. Her mix of skills as we continue to develop Sound Sense as the voice of community music will be crucial.” Picture shows Sound Sense Chair Catherine Pestano, right, receiving an ISME Gibson community music award
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Vocal Competition Takes GCC Student to New York City
Ellika Prabhaker’s amazing achievements have added focus to her journey into the music industry. When the Vocal Artist student went with her mum on a shopping trip to Lakeside they were approached by organisers of the Motorokr star competition being run by Motorola, with an exciting prize – a recording contract and collaborative work with top artists such as Wyclef. Ellika was soon persuaded to enter by her mum, who pushed her into the booth where she chose to sing ‘Stand by me’ by the Temptations. Whilst her mum and sister helped to generate votes through a dedicated website, Ellika got on with her studies and forgot about it for 3 months. A high number of votes were deservedly achieved to push Ellika through to the final 100 and from then on it was in the judges’ hands. Ellika, a self confessed quiet child, had no interest in music until her early teens after watching her sister sing around the house and followed her interest in R’n’B and Soul music. She developed her voice at her secondary school, where she was also encouraged by friends who spotted her talent and came to GCC to study the Vocal Artist Level 3 course at the Meridian Music Centre based in East Greenwich. One evening whilst doing her homework she took a call and at first thought it was a prank, only to discover that it was a representative from the competition bringing good news about Ellika’s success – they wanted to fly her out to New York City in 2 days time as she had made it through to the final 10! Ellika was the youngest finalist and was selected to go straight through to the final 10. She was whisked off to New York City on 26th January for an all expenses paid trip into the next round. “Staying in the West Inn Hotel right in the heart of Times Square was amazing” Ellika said “On a daily basis we went to the studio and were split into groups, then had to learn and record a song – going through a set of rigorous warm ups beforehand. It was both a fun and exciting experience. We were recording with a producer called Dean “Freak” Farmer who had worked with top artists such as 50 cent and Jay Z and had vocal coaches who had previously sung as backing singers to Joss Stone and Alicia Keys”. “Each day we were judged on how well we could record and how much time it took us; we also had every moment recorded on camera and had to reveal how we thought the day was going. It was like a reality TV show. The whole process was very tiring, going to bed late each day and getting up early every morning took its toll on all of the finalists. I was exhausted after getting only 4 hours sleep per night and it really showed me how hard it was” It seemed a strenuous but rewarding experience for the bright vocal student who said “On the final night of the competition we thought we were all going to a party, it was really good to have made it that far. We all got dressed up but it turned out to be the final challenge! We had to perform live with a band and they gave us a song to sing. The following day we were all sat in front of the judges with a camera running and were given a critique about our performances during the week. The judges had an envelope with the winner’ name inside and took what seemed to be forever to open it and announce Martin as the winner, it was a nail biting moment and he was well deserving of his win”. All the runners up have been offered the opportunity to be produced and recorded by Dean “Freak” Farmer should they return to New York City. It’s apparent that to this ambitions teenager, networking was the second most important thing next to winning having no complaints about the experience and opportunities gained from entering the competition. “The whole thing helped me to see how much hard work is involved in being a recording artist. It’s so much more than having a good voice, it’s about your whole presence as well” stated Ellika confidently. “The competition really inspired and motivated me to continue within the music industry, I have reached the conclusion that managing and promoting artists is the direction I want to head in, singing will be moved to the back burner as an enjoyable hobby. Before the competition I was not focused on anything and being a vocal artist was an option, but now I have applied to the University of Westminster to study a Music Business and Management degree. The competition winner Martin Rowe-Miller will be returning to NYC, for a recording session in which he will record a track written and produced by Wyclef Jean, and will receive vocal coaching from Fergie together with a 12 month management contract with Maximum Artist Management, and a recording contract with Universal Music. Once the competition has finished internationally it will be made into a short film to appear on MTV. More on the competition and finalists can be found here and more photo’s can be viewed here .
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GCC Awarded Disability Two Ticks
Greenwich Community College has recently been awarded the two ticks disability symbol for its commitments to the employment, retention, training and career development of disabled people. strong The disability symbol /strong The disability symbol is represented by ‘two ticks’ and the words ‘positive about disabled people’. You will see the symbol displayed on job adverts and application forms. strong What the symbol means /strong The symbol is a recognition given by Jobcentre Plus to employers who have agreed to make certain positive commitments regarding the employment, retention, training and career development of disabled people. strong These commitments are: /strong ul li to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a job vacancy and to consider them on their abilities. /li /ul ul li to ensure there is a mechanism in place to discuss, at any time but at least once a year, with disabled employees, what both parties can do to make sure disabled employees can develop & use their abilities /li /ul ul li to make every effort when employees become disabled to make sure they stay in employment /li /ul ul li to take action to ensure that all employees develop the appropriate level of disability awareness needed to make sure these commitments work /li /ul ul li to review these commitments each year and assess what has been achieved, plan ways to improve on them and let employees and Jobcentre Plus know about progress and future plans /li /ul All local Jobcentre Plus offices have information on employers who have adopted the ‘two ticks’ disability symbol.
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Mayor unveils DLR Woolwich Arsenal station
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, officially opened a £180 million extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Woolwich Arsenal, which delivers another vital north-south link across the capital. The extension opened seven weeks ahead of schedule linking King George V station on the north of the river with a brand new station at Woolwich Arsenal in the south. It has been funded as part of Transport for London’s multi-billion pound Investment Programme. Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: “I am absolutely delighted that this extension of the DLR with its cracking new station is up and running and puts Woolwich Arsenal firmly on the tube map. “Woolwich has long lacked the transport links that encourage the creation of new jobs, homes and shops; and this is exactly the sort of project that will help kick the credit crunch where it hurts. The extension will also play an important role in the Olympic transport network. People in this part of London will now be just a 24-minute hop, skip and a jump away from the Olympic site.” Key benefits of the completed extension include: *Improved transport links, connecting Woolwich to London City Airport in six minutes, Canary Wharf in 20 minutes, Stratford in 23 minutes and Bank in 28 minutes. In the peak period, trains will leave every six to seven minutes; *Assistance with the ongoing regeneration of Woolwich and the southern Royal Docks by supporting the creation of new jobs, homes, shops and leisure facilities along the route; *Better access to employment, education and leisure facilities for the communities of Woolwich, Silvertown and North Woolwich; *Direct interchange with overground services at Woolwich Arsenal main line station; *Bus, taxi and riverboat services all within walking distance. Transport Commissioner, Peter Hendy said: “The Mayor and Transport for London are investing billions to improve transport in London and this is a great example of that. This extension delivers a fully accessible step-free station and another much needed north-south transport link for this under served area of London. Read more about the New DLR station here
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Adult Skills Campaign Hits the Bulls Eye
Former dart world champion and local hero Andy Fordham joined shoppers in Thamesmead on Friday 19 December for a day of festive fun. The event was arranged by the Learning and Skills Council and community partners, including Greenwich Community College, to highlight courses available to local residents from January 2009. The T.A.S.T.E.R (Thamesmead Adult Skills – The Education Route) campaign ran for a week with a range of taster sessions including CV writing, Literacy and Numeracy and Smart Darts, a specially developed magnetic darts game which encourages parents to help brush up on their numeracy skills with their children. The week culminated in the ‘Quizmas’ event held outside Morrison’s supermarket. Shoppers took time out from their busy day to take part in a range of quizzes for a chance to win shopping vouchers. 2004 World Champion Fordham came to the oche to test the maths skills of local residents, young and old, using the Smart Darts game. Greenwich Local Labour and Business and Trust Thamesmead were also available during the week to provide support, advice and guidance to local people looking for training and employment. James Miller, Marketing Advisor at the Learning and Skills Council , was delighted with the event; “It was fantastic to see so many people take part in the T.A.S.T.E.R event. We have hopefully achieved our aim to raise the awareness of learning and job opportunities available to the residents of Thamesmead which can enhance their careers and skills whilst having fun.” Click to view courses starting from January 2009
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GCC Website Wins Award
We recently attended the Marketing Network FE First Awards (the national marketing awards for Colleges) and are pleased to have won the best website award and received a highly commended award for Market Research. The College Marketing Network’s FE First Awards are now well established as the sector’s annual opportunity to celebrate marketing best practice. They showcase the excellent and imaginative work that is being achieved in further education colleges across the UK. Over 100 colleges entered the Awards in 2008, with 130 entries across the 15 categories. Each category has specialist, independent judges, who not only look for best practice in the category area, but also how the entry fits into the college’s marketing strategy. They are also looking for detailed evaluation of success against goals and objectives. Overall, judges agreed that there is a huge amount of innovative and creative thinking going on in colleges, and a very high standard was set. Some colleges won more than one award, showing the excellent work being done by some of our colleagues. The 2008 Awards were presented by Chris Hughes, Chairman of the Learning & Skills Network, at the Network’s 21st annual Gala Dinner on 24th November 2008. Click here for more information about the College Marketing Nework
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New Careers Adviser Joins GCC
A new Careers Adviser has joined the Adult and Community Learning (ACL) directorate at Greenwich Community College specialising in providing careers information, advice and guidance to adults over the age of 19. Adrian Caffery has been appointed to work within the Community Engagement Unit at Haimo where you can find him on Monday, Thursday and Fridays, but also with the Informaion, Advice & Guidance team at Plumstead on Wednesdays. You may not always find Adrian at one of these bases – he is often out and about at events or visiting learners in their classes, usually towards the end of their course. He specialises in helping to find education and training opportunities for adults living in Greenwich and can also help with writing CVs, looking for jobs, preparing for job interviews, and filling in application forms. It is all the business of Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) but with particular emphasis on helping First Step learners to progress. When he has a spare moment, Adrian is also available to deliver presentations and workshops on employability skills such as ‘How to write a CV’ to adult classes within the college and to community groups around the borough. If you would like to book an appointment or an employability workshop with Adrian, please contact: Adrian Caffery Next Step Adviser adrianc@gcc.ac.uk
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Get Qualified Whilst Working!
Graduates who completed the Personal Best program at Greenwich Community College were invited to attend a Job Seekers Event on the 26th November to seek employment whilst studying. The job seekers event gave graduates an opportunity to meet employers who were interviewing and hiring stewards around Greenwich and across London. Employers such as Persona HR, G4S and Centre Circle Event Management exhibited at the event. They offered flexible part time jobs which gave an opportunity to study the NVQ2 Spectator Safety program whilst working at the same time. Persona HR recruits security guards and stewards to work at venues such as Wembley, o2 and the Royal Festival Hall. They aim to work closely with GCC by offering the NVQ2 Spectators Safety program which gives employees a chance to pursue a new career as a steward. Exhibitors from Centre Circle , a recruitment agency, saw em genuine interest from graduates. Having seen twenty people already, we will invite them for an interview and induction on the 6th and 13th of December at The Valley. /em G4S . employs stewards for the o2, they encourage employees to work for them for a few weeks before starting the NVQ2 Spectator Safety program at GCC. G4S exhibitors were delighted to exhibit at the jobs seekers event and em were pleased to see a good amount of local interest in and around Greenwich. /em If you have completed the Personal Best program and would like to study the NVQ2 Spectator Safety program whilst work as a steward please visit London Leisure College
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Gloria's £50 Hairclip
Student Gloria Okeke won £50 in a competition for her business idea of creating a hairclip that you can write with. The Ideas Mash Up held on Friday 21st in the GCC SU was part of Make Your Mark’s Ideas competition for FE Colleges. The competition was pretty simple – think of two ideas, mash them together to win a prize of £50. The Ideas MashUp Competition challenges young people in colleges to come up with exciting new ideas by mashing existing ones together! Rarely is an idea created by just one person, and rarely does it take the direction you expected at the beginning. By talking about your ideas and connecting with others you can make an idea happen! More info can be found on the Make your Mark website Judges were Kate Fredericks, the director from make your mark plus GCCSU’s Trevor Dean and Rav Dhillon. There will be more Make Your Mark challenges with our students throughout this year so watch this space.
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Student Success Celebrated
A host of sponsors, students and local dignitaries gathered at Greenwich Community College on Wednesday 29 October for our Annual Student Awards. The event celebrates the achievement of students from the previous academic year. Winners included Josephine Brown, who received the highest grade in England whilst studying AS Italian, song writer and recording artist Brainlokk and former Student Union President, Muhammad Aasim Mirza. After receiving his award, sponsored by Reed Specialist Recruitment, Muhammad recognised the impact studying at the college has had: “Greenwich Community College has given me nothing but opportunities for the future. The teachers are great, the staff are great and the corporation are great.” At the ceremony, students were presented with certificates donated by sponsors including: Barclays, Charlton Athletic, Reed and the University of Greenwich. Guest speaker Steve Waggott, Chief Executive of Charlton Athletic and a former tutor at the college, told the audience about the journey he has taken since he first arrived in London to teach thirty years ago. He recognised the vital role education has had in his successful career: “The one piece of advice I would pass on is the importance of up-skilling throughout your working life.” Greenwich Community College Principal Geoff Pine thanked the sponsors and looked back at another successful year for the college as a whole: ‘This celebration of student success comes in a year when we have seen a further rise in the success rates of our students and our reputation for delivering training to local employers continues to grow.’ Please click here for a list of all the winning students.
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NVQ Awards in Customer Service
In April 2006, the Wilson James Security Team introduced a step change in how the Security Team approached customer service at TATE Britain Gallery. An essential ingredient to enable this culture change was the development of a strong knowledge base amongst its Security Officers. They identified at an early stage, that the Security Team needed additional training and that the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) was sufficiently adaptable to deliver the right results. Working with our Tourism & Heritage Department as a training partner, and in conjunction with TATE, they were able to design a package that would not only meet the needs of the customer, but also enabled the Security Officer to understand how to deliver these needs to a consistently high standard – every time, all of the time. While bringing fresh ideas and a positive approach to the work place, the Awards have also helped the team recognise the need to adopt a people first philosophy in very facet of the security function. With funding via the Train to Gain programme and support from the Tate with the “Welcome Host ” and “Welcome All” training packages, this approach has helped 10 Security Officers successfully completed NVQ Level 2 & 3 Awards in Customer Service in 2008. Graham Dunkley has already seen a positive impact from the course delivered and…” em With a further 7 Security Officers preparing to commence their NVQ programme in January 2009, the Security Team has demonstrated that they are willing to work hard to ensure that the visitor enjoys a safe and relaxed visitor experience /em ”.
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The Rise of Brainlokk
From tough beginnings that could have seen him become another statistic, Brainlokk aka Daniel Blake has a passion for music that’s taking him places. “A lot of youths walk around with a chip on their shoulder talking about racism and Operation Trident. They think that the world owes them” he says “you make your own luck – get out there and do something!” I met up with the charismatic 22 year old, whose refreshing attitude complements his composed style. At just 22 Brainlokk has been refining his musical technique for eight years, reaping the benefits of his hard work with a deal signing him to Hustler Inc, a record label founded by Colin Crook a tutor at GCC’s Meridian Music Centre (MMC), where he studies. “I’ve got my head screwed on. I know where I want to go but I don’t want to lose myself” he continues “I used to just rap but have developed my voice with the vocal artist course; I’ve now opened up my repertoire to include more vocals”. Brainlokk’s music spans many genres “I don’t want to be pigeon holed, I make music appealing to a wide audience”. Through his life he’s appreciated music from hip-hop legends like Nas and Jay-Z but admires a wide variety of artists outside of the Hip- hop spectrum including Queen’s Freddie mercury “I did a project on him at the MMC – I like his stage presence”. During a recent performance at the indigo2 end of year college show, Brainlokk gave an enthralling performance charming the crowd with his distinctive style and gaining valuable experience of a live event. “I’m looking forward to next year’s show and plan on including a live band”. Brainlokk’s rewards continue to roll in and Daniel is one of the students being recognised for his achievements on the Vocal Artist course at the forthcoming annual student awards. His debut album is being released next year on Hustler Inc so watch the rise of Brainlokk at www.myspace.com/brainlokk and you can also catch-up with him tomorrow night – 9th Oct, live on Choice FM’s Gammo Speng’s show.
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Freshers Fair 2008 @ GCC
New students at Greenwich Community College attended the annual Freshers’ Fair last Friday. It was an opportunity for new students to gather information about external and internal support available whilst studying at the college. Freshers is an incredibly useful fair that offers new students something to do and something to get involved in during their time at the college. With representatives from local businesses such as Barclays, the Army, Childrens Society and Demelza House, students were given the chance to collect advice and information from various stalls together with freebies and give-aways. There were also representatives from the Student Union, Media Resource Office (MRO), Learning Resource Centre (LRC), Learner Support and the Marketing department, there was something for everyone! The MRO provided information such as print and buying stationary, whereas the LRC gave information about the library and IT suite, whilst the marketing department was conducting surveys about the 16-18 year old campaign, full time/part time and signing students up to help out with forthcoming marketing events. It was also a great opportunity for new students to mingle with other students, tutors, and representatives from the Student Union. The Student Union was signing up students for cricket, golf and dance clubs. It is a great way for new students to meet new people, try new activities and explore new interests. Freshers Fair 2008 was held to welcome new students to Greenwich Community College and hope all new and existing students have an enjoyable time whilst studying at the college.
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A Level Results Even Better Than Expected!
Rami Jasem, Anita Chukwu and Alfie Meekings were some of the top achievers on A Level results day this year. Celebrations began early with excited squeals and tears of joy as many students opened their results at Greenwich Community College (GCC). Rami, aged 18 (pictured top with Director Steve Whittingham), achieved four A’s for Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Maths at A Level and said; “I can’t be happier; it’s the best I could hope for. I’m going to University to study an MBBS in Clinical Medicine. It’s a 6 year course and I’m aiming to be head of cardiac surgery somewhere.” 19 year old Anita was beaming when she learnt of her results and said; “I’m so happy, I’m speechless!” as she established she had received three A’s for Accounts, Economics and Business Studies. Anita, pictured bottom with her Teacher Andy Nichol, has a place at Southampton University. A Level results day brings another increase in results, as the country sees the achievement rate increase for the 26th consecutive year. GCC students accomplished 100% pass rates across most subjects including Psychology, Sociology, Media Studies, French, German, Spanish, Italian and English. GCC’s Director of Academic Programmes, Steve Whittingham is thrilled with the results; “Our results this year are a testament to the tremendous hard work of the students and teachers. So many people will be going on to University and they thoroughly deserve all their success.” Josephine Brown who achieved an A in her Italian A Level was amongst the top ten students according to Edexcel, the UK’s largest awarding body. Out of 1152 candidates, Josephine achieved one of the highest overall marks. Jerry Jarvis, Edexcel’s Managing Director, said: “This is a tremendous achievement and testament to the hard work students put into preparing for their exams. We send our congratulations to Josephine.”
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Wooldridge Takes Gold and Heads for 2012
It was gold all the way for 18 year old Lawrence Wooldridge and his relay team who took first place at the British Schools Championship recently. Starting at the age of 16 and now in just his second season, Wooldridge made a huge achievement in being selected as part of the London Schools athletics team “I always did well at sports day and look up to athletes like Jeremy Wariner and Michael Johnson” The race was a success with Wooldridge (pictured far right passing the baton), completing the penultimate 100 meters for the team. Lawrence has just finished his BTEC in Sports Science at London Leisure College achieving a distinction overall and said “These are the best grades I ever achieved in education, its different from school, I had to do it myself, in my own time and got all the help I needed.” An endurance sprinter comfortable running 200 and 400m, Lawrence can do the short distances too. At the age of 18 he’s just left the senior boys groups to compete against men and is working with his coach to find his event. Currently living in Sevenoaks he is a member of both Catford based, Kent Athletics Club and Tonbridge AC. Lawrence is heading off to University to study a BSC in Sports Science and due to his grades was able to select Southbank University from his two offers, proud to have surpassed their higher entry requirements. Yet his dedication to studying is second place to his goal of getting a place in the British Athletics team. “My main aim is the 2012 Olympics, its what I’m living for and I can use my studies to go into coaching after athletics”. If his grades are this good, then his passion for athletics is in the right place. Photo by: Gary Mitchell
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London Leisure CollegeÂ’s Luke Powers to Young Apprentice of the Year Award
A Greenwich student on a Sports Apprenticeship programme run by London Leisure College and Eltham Green Specialist Sports College has been named the Learning and Skills Council Young Apprentice of the Year. 16 year old Luke Power from Greenwich received the prestigious award from actress Amanda Holden at the Royal Horticultural Halls in central London on 10 July 2008 having impressed the judges with his commitment, achievement and demonstration of the way the scheme has benefited his life. Luke embarked on his career in the leisure industry when he signed up to take a two-year Young Apprenticeship in Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching alongside his GCSE’s. The programme was divided between teaching time at London Leisure College and Eltham Green Specialist Sports College and work placements in local employers including the David Beckham Academy, Bean and Co and Venture Health Club where Luke is now working full time. Greenwich Council, who hold the contract for the scheme, and the Greenwich Employer Business Partnership supported the delivery partners in maximising the benefits to local business and the students whilst maintaining students’ academic achievements at their Schools in Greenwich. Although Luke was diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age he was able to gain the confidence needed to complete his assignments whilst still studying for his GCSE’s. “I began to use my determination and thirst for success to improve my performance, and the Young Apprenticeship Programme boosted my efforts tremendously,” said Luke. “My programme started as I commenced my GCSE studies and so it helped me tackle my exams in an independent and more confident way.” Neil MacGillivray, Head of Sport, Leisure & Tourism for London Leisure College, said Luke is a cut above the other students. “Luke overcame a lot of challenges and was a pleasure of a student. I can’t say enough good things about him,” said Neil. “I’ve been teaching for a long time, and he is just the single, most outstanding student I’ve ever come across.” Luke’s employer Gary Adams of Venture Health Club is delighted that accepting Luke on a work experience placement has had such a positive impact on his organisation; “Had it not been for this programme, we would not have been introduced to Luke and we would have been the poorer for it.” Luke is now an ambassador for Young Apprenticeships, giving presentations to other young people on the benefits of pursuing a learn-while-you-earn scheme.
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Get Ready For Enrolment
Our main enrolment dates are approaching for you to come in and apply if you plan to start a course with us in September and have not yet applied. span style="color:Purple;" strong Qualification Courses /strong /span Postal enrolment has closed for Qualification courses and you will need to visit our span style="color:blue;" Plumstead Centre (map) /span , between 9am and 2pm, Monday to Thursday for advice about available courses. Use these links for more details about span style="color:blue;" Full Time /span and span style="color:blue;" Part Time /span Qualification courses. span style="color:Purple;" strong General Interest Courses /strong /span For General Interest Courses you can span style="color:blue;" Enrol Online using this link. /span You can also download an span style="color:blue;" application form, /span fill in your details and post it, by Friday 8th August to: Reception Greenwich Community College 95 Plumstead Road London SE18 7DQ The Plumstead centre is open between 9am and 2pm for you to enrol in person for a General Interest course. You can apply for General Interest courses throughout the year. span style="color:blue;" More details can be found here. /span If you need any information about GCC, our courses or enrolment, please call 020 8488 4800.
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LRC Prove Their Contribution To Learning
On analysis of our college enrolment data for 2006-07 we have identified positive correlations between use of the Learning Resource Centre and increased success and retention rates for LRC members to non members. A summary of findings is below: The LRS contributes to the success and retention rates most in the Social Sciences student cohort with success at 28% higher and 26% higher retention amongst LRC members to non members. The above corresponds interestingly with the highest LRC membership across all Sector Subject Areas with 92% membership. The LRC contributes more highly to success at the higher levels i.e. from level 3 upwards. LRC contributes to success across all age groups. There is a 22% higher success rate for LRC members to non members at GCSE. There is a 100% success and 100% retention rate for LRC members at level 4 to non members. The department of Academic Programmes has the highest success rates of LRC members to non members by 21%, the highest retention rate by 16% to non members (shared with the EAL department), and the highest membership to LRC by department by 76% membership. Success rates are highest for LRC to non LRC members in the Asian or Asian British – Indian ethnic group with a 9% higher success rate to any other ethnic group. Follow this link to see our span style="color:blue;" Final student achievement report 06-07. /span
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Musical Theatre Auditions
Greenwich Community College are holding Musical Theatre Auditions for the BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts on Tuesday 15th July 2008 from 1pm at our Greenwich Park Centre, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8PY. The BTEC in perfomeing Arts is a two year performance course, 3 days per week, in which students study at Level 3. It includes comprehensive lessons in Acting, Dance, Singing and Musical Theatre. Within Acting students will learn about Basic Workshop Theory, Exploring Text, Improvisation, Stanislavski, Voice and Movement. Dance classes cover most genres including Jazz, Street, Ballet and Contemporary. Singing and Musical Theatre lessons offer instruction in both solo and ensemble singing with emphasis on developing the students’ awareness of the broad range of Styles and Genres within Musical Theatre. The course can lead to further study at drama college or university, or to direct employment in the theatre industry. It is designed to develop confident and technically proficient performers who will have the necessary skills and expertise to successfully audition for Performing Arts Courses at the countries most respected higher education institutions. If you would like to attend please come along to the Greenwich Park Centre, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8PY at least 15 minutes prior to the audition and report to reception. You’ll need to participate in a Musical Theatre Workshop involving Drama Games and Group Singing. Please be advised that you are likely to be required from 1pm to 3.30pm. We look forward to seeing you at the auditions.
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GCC Students Win Adult LearnersÂ’ Week Awards
The achievements of thirteen adult learners from Greenwich Community College were recognised at a prestigious Award Ceremony during Adult Learners’ Week. The 2008 Greenwich Adult Learners’ Week award ceremony was held at the Chapel in the Old Royal Naval College on Tuesday 20 May as part of the boroughs celebration of lifelong learning. The award ceremony recognised the personal and academic achievements of a range of Greenwich Borough residents who had undertaken a variety of courses over the previous year. Other winners included learners from the University of Greenwich, Asian Resource Centre and Volunteers Greenwich. The full list of Greenwich Community College winners is below: Maria Ramirez Asma Begum Charlene Laundy Daksha Makwana Nabeela Qammar Trust Samutsa Natasha Peart Fatou Sanneh Andrew Inneh Christopher Cole Amanda Binks Clare Presnell Kala Whyte
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New Entrepreneurs Venture into the Business of Interior Design
Bernard McGettigan and Evangeline Fender attended an Interior Design course at Greenwich Community College in 2004 and just 4 years later are about to launch their own business. The course inspired Greenwich based Bernard and Evangeline to set up their business called Hidden Depth Design. The City & Guilds course included a clear insight in managing projects, preparing sketches, understanding how the industry works and business elements. Bernard said “Â…the course was well structured and perfectly delivered by our tutor David Allchin who brought humour into a positive environmentÂ…” The course gave them the opportunity to move away from their nine to five jobs and build a career in an area they enjoy. After completing the course at the college’s Greenwich Park Centre, Bernard continued working at John Lewis in Bluewater on the curtain orders desk. He also concentrated on building a portfolio of work and networking with builders to establish a reliable work force. Evangeline continued her education and is due to complete a BA hons in Interior Design this summer. The new business has tapped into a fast housing market of recent small houses being built in and around London and such developments have meant that occupants need to utilise every space effectively. Bernard and Evangeline are now able to use their skills and knowledge gained whilst studying at GCC to provide an affordable service targeting the everyday person. The course prepared them for renovation, project management, design consultation, personalised interior design and colour schemes. Bernard has been trading under the name Beemax Design since January 2008, with various projects successfully completed and many more in the pipeline. They will be launching their business Hidden Depth Design in August. For further information please email
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Fashion Students visit Milan
Our 1st and 2nd year Level 3 BTEC Fashion cohort recently had the wonderful opportunity to visit Milan, from 2nd of April to 5th April. Arriving at the hotel late, tired and hungry they went out for a meal at a traditional Italian family restaurant. The food was delicious consisting of pizzas, spaghetti, seafood, anti pasta and some amazing desserts! Official business began promptly the next day with a presentation and guided tour of the Istituto Marangoni a Higher Education Fashion and Design School. Its one of Europe’s leading creative schools where talented individuals learn the expertise they need to become professionals in the Fashion Industry. Our students were amazed and commented; ‘It’s gorgeous! There is so much space and a different room designed for each subject such as Fashion Photography, Styling, CAD, Design and Construction. I would love to be able to afford to go there! ‘Melanie Decker (2nd year Student). ‘What I did notice was that the students design work was not far off what we have been doing at college. I would love to come here after I have finished my BTEC!’ Jade Blythe (1st year Student). They took a guided tour around the Fashion District in the afternoon. ‘We walked for hours exploring the Fashion District. We got to see a lot of different top designers’ collections which were very inspiring. It was great to be able to analyse and touch the clothes that came from the catwalks’ Syeda Begum (2nd year Student). Gillian Jones (Curriculum Leader) said, ‘Milan is such a Fashion orientated City. This was an excellent experience thanks to the Greenwich Community College Aspire Fund. The shop managers in all the Designer Fashion Houses were very friendly and keen to give us information even though 20 of us had descended upon them! The students gained a lot of knowledge and insight into High Fashion and Italian style. This visit has enlightened and inspired all of us and I am sure the experience will make an impact on forth coming Projects and Fashion collections.’
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Catherine OÂ’Flynn Visit on Thursday 27th March
Catherine O’Flynn, winning author of the Costa First Novel award for her book “What Was Lost” will be at Greenwich Community College on Thursday 27th March at 1.30pm to talk about her novel and answer any questions. “What Was Lost” is a gripping and thought provoking story about urban disaffection, consumerism and living in a CCTV society. The author will be visiting us as part of this year’s “Greenwich Reads” campaign. The idea of “Greenwich Reads” is to choose a book that is relevant and interesting and to encourage as many people as possible in the borough to read it, discuss the issues and use it as a catalyst to create events and activities. A wide range of groups and individuals are planning to be involved with this project including bookshops, publishers, music and arts organisations, community groups, museums, theatres, universities and cinemas At GCC one of the activities we have already planned is to work with a local arts organisation and Connexions to organise a number of workshops for Drama, Music and MCing to support and encourage more young people into work or study. We have several copies of the novel in the Plumstead Learning Resources Centre and Greenwich libraries have bought 300 copies. Click here for more information about the Greenwich reads Campaign .
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Memento Project, Sharing Memories & Culture Through Arts
1-22 March 2008, The Landcommandery, Alden Biesen. The European Community Arts Project, Memento, funded through Grundtvig, celebrated with major a exhibition in Belgium this month. The artwork was generated through collaborative and individual projects of the partners & their student learners. The exhibition took place in Alden Biesen a 16th century castle, located in the beautiful surroundings of the small village of Rijkhoven, Bilzen. Used today as a cultural & conference centre. It has to be said, that the feeling on entering and seeing the work on display was overwhelming for us all. Photography Teacher Karen Rawlinson commented “For once I was stunned into silence! There was a moment of taking stock & seeing what we can achieve, what we have achieved and of celebration. This is something that will remain with me forever”. Memento was conceived as a European Community Arts Project for community groups, artists and adult education providers. Evident here was the cultural diversity in these local communities. The art work produced through the projects was indeed a cause for celebration. The exhibition showed the links between colleagues, learners, the wider community & ultimately the European community and its diverse cultures. Seeing the look on the faces of the Polish partners when they saw the memoirs that they had contributed as part of the project, capturing their memories of the Nazi & Soviet occupations of Warsaw, now carefully bound & beautifully presented by the Belgium students would have been enough in itself. Karen reports that ” For me, also seeing the work achieved by our students & staff was indeed a reward. Representing Greenwich Community College was the work of photography & textile students who had worked on a project that addressed issues related to transforming, manipulating & questioning the traditions of family photography, culminating in an exhibition at the Viewfinder Photography Gallery, Greenwich. Also attending the Exhibition and meetings with me was Jaime Taylor (Media Studies Teacher), who showcased the films of 15 GCC students in collaboration with a team of university anthropology students & professional film makers, to create short documentaries around issues of local identity & community. The work on show was a tribute to the multi disciplinarily nature of Memento, the individual work of each partnership and the collaborative nature of the work, conceived throughout this European partnership. The exhibition & project meetings were hosted by our Belgium partners, OVSG & School of the Visual Arts Genk. They took us on a tour around their college, where we met with the staff and adult learners and saw a wide range of art classes in progress. We were also taken to galleries and exhibitions. They were perfect hosts”. This was also an opportunity to celebrate the launch of the Memento Project website, although still under construction, it can now be visited at: www.memento-europe.be .
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First Female Footballers celebrate an Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence Qualification
Charltons home game against league leaders Watford was an opportunity for students and Charlton Academy players to celebrate their football achievements. It was a great achievement to see talented girls who had worked hard to improve their game and strive for excellence. Kim Dixon, Jay Blackie, Chelsea Fowler, Charmaine Benjamin and Nina Boorman completed a certificate in Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (AASE) at the London Leisure College in conjunction with Premiere League Learning. They were the first girls in the country to receive the AASE qualification for ladies football. It is proposed that the academy girls currently based at the London Leisure College would be entered for the AASE program again. The Charlton Academy recently rescued by the Charlton Community Scheme has meant everyone involved has worked very hard to keep it alive. We aim to see more top sportswomen achieving the AASE Award in the near future.
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MP Supports Fundraising Event
A fundraising event for Great Ormond Street Hospital has received the support of Nick Raynsford MP during a recent visit to Greenwich Community College. The event on Saturday 29 March, at the Lakeside Complex in Abbey Wood, includes a comedy act, DJ, Karaoke and raffle. Funds are being raised by the sale of tickets. Organiser Donna Brazil, 16, from Abbey Wood decided to arrange the evening with her class mates following a group discussion; “We covered the subject of supporting less fortunate children as part of our childcare course before Christmas and decided to do something to support Great Ormond Street Hospital” Donna and her team have been busy spending time between lessons selling tickets to students and staff. Mr. Raynsford, MP for Greenwich and Woolwich, was more than happy to help out during a visit to the college’s Plumstead Centre: “I am delighted to support this fundraising event for a great cause. Great Ormond Street is a marvelous hospital and it is wonderful to see students engaged in this initiative” The evening’s entertainment starts from 8pm and tickets (available on the night) cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for under 12s. Under 5s can gain free entry.
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John Austin MP Promotes Train to Gain
John Austin, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamemead supported Greenwich Community College’s training service for local businesses during a visit to the Plumstead Centre today. Mr Austin is pictured promoting the Train to Gain programme with College Principal, Geoff Pine and Vice Principal of Corporate Services, Carole Davidson. Through Train to Gain (funded by the Learning and Skills Council) the college has already succesfully delivered training for large employers such as the Anschutz Entertainment Group (owners of the 02) as well as smaller businesses. For more information about Train to Gain and other services to business, please visit our Training Solutions pages .
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Classes Underway At Eltham Centre
GCC classes have begun this week at the recently opened Eltham Centre. The centre based in Archery Road is running full time London Leisure College courses throughout the day and a wide range of general interest courses during the evenings and weekends including German, Indian Head Massage, Reflexology and Positive Thinking. As well as our learning facilities, The Eltham Centre will give you access to leisure and Greenwich Council services – all in one place! It will bring together a range of integrated services in a new, purpose-built centre, enabling local residents to carry out their council business and make enquiries as well as access first class leisure and training facilities. The Eltham Centre is one of the first of its kind in the UK, and the first of three similar service centres to be built in the borough as part of Greenwich Council’s ambitious £750 million modernisation programme. As well as acting as catalysts for regenerating the town centres, these integrated centres will ensure new and improved services that are easier to access, enabling customers’ enquiries to be dealt with more quickly and efficiently at the first point of contact. strong Working in partnership with Greenwich Leisure Limited the new Centre will offer state-of-the-art leisure services including: /strong ul li Three swimming pools including a 8-lane 25m competition pool, training pool and spa pool with spectator area /li /ul ul li A 100 station fitness centre and group exercise studio /li /ul ul li Purpose built crèche /li /ul strong Partnerships with a range of service providers will ensure: /strong ul li Counter facilities for Greenwich Council enquiries and services /li li An enhanced library with better access to computers and self service points /li li A café and meeting spaces /li li Citizen’s Advice Bureau /li li Town Centre Manager’s office /li /ul You can view a copy of our Eltham Newsletter here
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94% of Students Recommend GCC
Results of a recent survey of GCC students revealed that 94% of them would recommend the college as a place to study. Over 1300 students completed the survey which included questions about the service they received before they came to the college and their experiences during enrolment and induction. There was an overall rise in the level of satisfaction compared with the same survey run in the previous year with a significant increase in knowing how to access learning support and resources. You can view the complete results of the survey here
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International Human Rights Day at GCC
Greenwich Community College commemorated International Human Rights Day on the 10 December 2007 by setting up a display in the Learning Resource Centre. The display enabled students and staff to read and learn about the importance of this day. This day marked the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The entire UN family took part in a campaign to promote the Declaration’s ideals and principles of justice and equality for everyone. The campaign reminded us of the world that still reels from the horrors of the Second World War. The Declaration was the first global statement of what we now take for granted, the inherent dignity and equality of all human beings. The extraordinary vision and determination of the drafters produced a document that for the first time set out universal human rights for all people in an individual context. Now available in more than 360 languages, the Declaration is the most translated document in the world. It has inspired the constitutions of many newly independent States and many new democracies.
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Début Screening of Documentaries by GCC Students
Fifteen Greenwich Community College students celebrated their achievements on the 4 December 2007 for the début screening of three short documentaries they had produced at the Greenwich Picturehouse. The students were presented with certificates and a ‘making of’ film of the three short documentaries; “Anglesea Road”, “The Good O1’ Day” & “Talk of the Trade”. The evening commenced with a short welcome speech by tutor Jaime Taylor who explained how the remarkable films were produced by GCC students and how it offered perspectives on issues of local identity and the community. Jaime further explained how they embarked upon an exploration of their local community, eventually choosing a group of people or place as the subject of a short documentary. Their success was how they reflected the diversity and vibrancy of South East London, whilst telling the personal stories of individuals. Participating student, Yasmin Begum who is studying A2 Sociology, Law, Media Studies and Politics realised one of her ambitions furing the project; “It has always been my aspiration to learn about society and diversity. I took part in this documentary in order for me to accomplish my vision” Fellow student Clarke Puncheon who is studying AS English Literature, Media Studies and Psychology also found the experience rewarding; “I chose to take part in this project so that I can broaden my skills with the media as it is a part I want to take in the future. I plan to go into journalism.” The project was a collaboration between The Royal Anthropological Institute and Greenwich Community College, which was made possible through Mediabox and Aspire . The course covered anthropology and filmmaking and was designed and taught by professional filmmakers: Ed Owles and Elhum Shakerifar; Donald Daby and Jaime Taylor of GCC.
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GCC Wins National Marketing Award
A football based education programme run by Greenwich Community College and Charlton Athletic at The Valley has recently won a national marketing award for successful collaboration. The Football Association and Government backed ‘Heading for Success’ programme uses the power of football to attract adults into learning, for example, improving reading and writing by producing match reports or analysing commentary. Since its launch in March 2006, over 40 Greenwich residents have successfully completed the course at the college’s facilities in the North Stand. The success of the programme was recognised at the FE First Awards (The national marketing awards for colleges) in Coventry on Monday 26 November. Steve Waggott, Chief Executive of Charlton Athletic Community Trust was delighted with the award; “Our collaboration with Greenwich Community College on the Heading for Success project is a fantastic addition to all our cutting edge community work at Charlton Athletic that engages a range of local people in to education through an innovative approach by using football as an exciting engagement tool” Alec Brand, Head of Marketing at Greenwich Community College, who collected the award on behalf of the partnership, was pleased that such an important project has been nationally recognised; “Often we find that many people who did not have the chance to take their English exams at school regret it as they often need qualifications to get on at work. This scheme offers a chance to learn in an exciting setting towards national qualifications. We are delighted that our strong relationship with Charlton has enabled residents to return to education so successfully.” If you would like to find out more information about the Heading for Success Programme please call 020 8488 4892, mentioning ‘Heading for Success’. GCC Head of Marketing Alec Brand and Steve Waggott, Chief Executive of Charlton Athletic Community Trust are pictured being congratulated by Charlton Manager Alan Pardew.
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BBC Film at Plumstead Centre
The BBC visited the college’s Plumstead centre recently to film a scene in our Science Laboratory for a new BBC 3 documentary series starring Dawn Porter. In the series Ms Porter is on a mission to create her own perfume and needed to do some scientific experiments. The Dawn Identity will be aired on BBC3 in early 2008.
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Julia Paillier’s 1st Book Publication, ‘Mehdi’s Story’
Julia Paillier currently an ESOL teacher at Greenwich Community College is celebrating the publication of her debut book ‘Mehdi’s Story’. Together with the book there is also a CD-ROM which aids teaching and is currently used to teach 16 – 18 year old GCC students. Students have said that they have found the book very accessible as it is easy to read and understand. Mehdi’s story is about a young man who flees his native country Afghanistan in the back of a truck, in search of safety in Canada. Tricked by the very people he hoped would save him, Mehdi embarks on a new life in England. Julia has taught ESOL students for six years and was inspired to write Mehdi’s Story to help students those who have difficulties with reading and writing. She explained how there is very little ESOL reading material available that engages the interest of ESOL students. “The reader can reflect to some of the real issues that students may face or are currently facing, so the context of Mehdi’s Story is appealing to them. Students are able to interact better with stories which they are able to relate to.” Julia wishes to pursue her new career as an author and publish more books for ESOL students. Targeted for young readers and ESOL students, it is available at all leading bookstores, including Gatehouse Books
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Ideas Igloo visits GCC
Innovator Alex Tew is leading a search for hidden entrepreneurs in college and universities across the UK as the face of the Igloo roadshows, coordinated by the Make Your Mark campaign in partnership with Microsoft UK. The new initiative, which will launch Enterprise Week before visiting 18 UK colleges and universities over the next six months and aims to inspire innovation and ideas generations amongst further and higher education students. Greenwich Community College Students visited the giant inflatable igloo on campus for workshop sessions designed to help them generate ideas and think about how to turn them into a reality. Later that day, they got the opportunity to pitch their ideas in front of a panel of judges, including ‘Million Dollar Pixel’ entrepreneur Alex Tew, for the chance to win a prize of £150. This round was won by Grace Orford a Childcare and Education student, whose idea of a recruitment and support agency called ‘Open Your Eyes’, for people with special needs had a unique selling point of dedicated mentoring before employment. Grace [Pictured with cheque] will go forward to a national final, where she will compete to win £2,000 plus a package of Microsoft products to help the overall winner to get their business underway. Natalie Campbell, from Students! Make Your Mark, said: “Making enterprising ideas happen while at college or university is a creative way for students to earn money on their own terms, pay off debts, learn new skills and make useful contracts. The Ideas Igloo imitative is unique in that it is targeting both FE colleges and universities as untapped enterprise potential.” Alex Tew, who was a student when his Million Dollar Homepage ideas hit the jackpot, said: “There are scores of students combining successful studies with entrepreneurial schemes and many more with ideas just waiting to be developed. I hope sharing some of my experiences, and offering practical advice, will help inspire the next generation of students to reach their full potential.” The Ideas Igloo roadshow is just one of many innovation-driving initiatives which Microsoft currently runs, including the Imagine Cup – a global competition aimed at student software developers, a partnership with Foundation Degree Forward and the Start-ups Accelerator Programme, recently launched to support fledgling tech businesses. Skills Minister David Lammy, said: “Anyone who spends any time with young people quickly recognises that they are the ones with the best ideas. By making enterprise and innovation exciting and accessible to students in this way, we will unearth a new generation of hidden entrepreneurs, from all backgrounds, who can turn their ideas into reality.” Lars Lindstedt from Microsoft’s UK Emerging Business teams, said: “I get frustrated when I hear young people say that they can’t see how innovation can be part of their lives. My strong opinion is that we need to get across the message that being entrepreneurial isn’t but is within everyone’s reach. “Being innovative has got to be about thinking in new ways and being given the confidence to experiment. This is as relevant and important to a Foundation Degree student as it is to a PHD graduate working in our Cambridge Research Centre. “Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Microsoft, and we’ve developed the FE/HE roadshow to bring our own learning to life, with the aim of encouraging more young people – whatever their academic background – to take the first steps to start up their to start up their own enterprise.”
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Be Part of the Legacy
The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will see over 25 different sports held in a multitude of venues over London, 3 of which are in the borough of Greenwich- Greenwich Park, Royal Arsenal Barracks and the O2. It’s estimated that 70,000 volunteers will be needed at the 2012 Games and the Personalbest programme is your chance to be one of them. London Leisure College is delivering the Personalbest programme in Greenwich, providing key skills essential to event volunteering. strong What is it? /strong Completing the training will give you a nationally accredited Level 1 qualification, an enhanced opportunity to become a ‘Games Time Volunteer’ and a chance to gain new skills and experience that will help you move closer to employment. By qualifying, individuals will be able to get involved immediately in voluntary work in their own community. For example, in Greenwich Personalbest Programme participants have volunteered at events such as London Triathlon, BOOST launch, Countdown to 2012 and Concert for Princess Diana. strong Who is eligible? /strong The Personalbest Programme is looking to interact with people who meet the following criteria: ul li Customers should be a legal resident and able to take up full time paid employment in the UK /li li Must have entry Level 2 or above literacy skills /li li Those on Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) will NOT normally be considered /li li Those will a previous qualification that includes or exceeds Level 2 will NOT normally be considered for this programme /li /ul strong What support is available? /strong GLLaB is supporting Greenwich residents attending the Personalbest Programme by; helping with travel fare costs, contributing to childcare provision costs and providing luncheon vouchers. Additional support after the training includes; guidance and support with accessing further training, help with applying for work and receiving information about new volunteering opportunities strong How can I find out more? /strong Contact Maxine Graverson the Personalbest Programme Coordinator on: 020 8312 7960 GLLaB 122 – 130 Powis Street Woolwich SE18 6NN or visit the GLLaB web pages on the Greenwich Council website.
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GCC Celebrates Black History Month
GCC celebrated Black History Month by setting up a display in the Learnning Resource Centre (LRC) and hosting a talk by Rachel Nkumunda who spoke about her first hand experiences as a young person during the revolution of South Africa. She also stressed the importance of the youth today who can make a difference by helping organisations. Students were encouraged to visit the LRC and read the material which was on display about Black History Month. They also had the opportunity to allocate their country of origin on a map which was also displayed in the canteen. Students and staff were invited to attend a talk hosted by Rachael about the uprising in South Africa to end the apartheid on Wednesday 31 October. The talk highlighted how South Africa gained independence in 1994 and how this young democratic country needs to overcome the battle of corruption to help it progress and flourish. Rachel explained the importance of students campaigning positively in order to make changes within South Africa today. “it is important for the youth to be involved in moving South Africa forward as they are the next generation” She stressed the importance of students supporting South African youth programmes such as the South African Youth Council . The SAYC helps shelter street children by providing food, medication and education. To commemorate such organisations South Africa has a National Youth Day on the 16 June which is a national bank holiday to honour all the young people who lost their lives in the struggle against apartheid. After the talk students had the opportunity to ask Rachel questions. Student Nqaba Metu found the talk both interesting and inspirational: “Even though I was born in South Africa and knew about the apartheid, I was unaware of these charities but now I know I will be interested in helping out.”
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Prince's Trust Students Celebrate
Eight students were celebrating after successfully completing a Prince’s Trust Programme, in association with the London Leisure College. The Get Into Sports and Leisure programme gives disadvantaged 16-24 year olds the opportunity to gain qualifications in the Sport & Leisure Industry. The two week course also aims to build individuals confidence and motivation. During the programme the group studied for a Community Sports Leadership Award Level 2 certificate. These sessions allowed the group to visit the Charlton Athletic Football Club training ground and observe coaching sessions in action. The programme also included equality and diversity training, careers workshops with experts from the industry, a team building exercise at the David Beckham Academy and a tour of the 02. After completing the course students were awarded certificates from the London Leisure College and the Prince’s Trust . Neil MacGillivray Head of Sport, Leisure & Tourism from London Leisure College praised the students attitude and commitment to the course “it has been a real pleasure working with the group and we wish them all the best for their future career plans”
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Student Success Celebrated
A host of sponsors, students and local dignitaries gathered at Greenwich Community College on Wednesday 24 October for the Annual Student Award Ceremony. The event celebrates the achievement of students from the previous academic year. At the ceremony, students were presented with certificates and prizes including tickets to The 02 Arena donated by sponsors including: News Shopper, Barclays, Charlton Athletic, the Learning and Skills Council and the University of Greenwich. Guest speakers included Laura Gander-Howe, Director of Learning and Skills for the Arts Council, Iain Smith, Chair of the Greenwich Community College Corporation and Principal Geoff Pine. Mr Pine thanked the sponsors and looked back at another successful year for the college as a whole: ‘This celebration of student success comes in a year when we have seen another improvement in examination achievements and our links with employers continues to build and gain recognition’
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Students on a High After Cabin Crew Course
Travel & Tourism students based at our Charlton Athletic centre took part recently in a one day cabin crew training course. The course was run by ‘Career in Travel’ who deliver courses to students studying travel and tourism in colleges across the country. The aim of the course was to provide students with an insight to the skills needed to progress in the travel industry and included: ul li A full review of how a cabin crew interview is structured /li /ul ul li ‘A day in the life of cabin crew’ /li /ul ul li A background to aviation and the general airline terminology /li /ul ul li Preparation on how to present yourself to a group of people /li /ul ul li Grooming and dress /li /ul ul li Safety and emergency procedures /li /ul ul li Cabin services /li /ul ul li Airline training courses /li /ul Students were also given useful tips how to successfully complete an application form and give a strong interview. At the end of the day students had the opportunity to speak to existing cabin crew members, trainers and airline interviewers to find out more information about the industry. strong Visit the ‘Career in Travel website here /strong
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BBC Interview with Oti Ikomi
Greenwich Community College Student Oti Ikomi appeared on the BBC London 94.9 FM’s Late Show with Jumoke Fashola earlier this week. The BBC reported on one of the documentaries Oti made, focusing specifically on his aspirations as a film-maker. He was interviewed on BBC London news on Sunday and then BBC’s 94.9 FM radio on Monday. Deptford raised Oti Ikomi is currently studying A Level Media & Film Studies at Greenwich Community College. The film was made with several other GCC students, who produced a 15-minute documentary film with footage and interviews captured in the Deptford area. “I chose film studies after doing an editing course. My media teacher, Jaime Taylor is brilliant. She makes classes easy to understand by breaking things down and making it interactive. She makes learning fun. I was a grade D student when I started here but now I get A’s. My next step is to go to Uni to get a degree in Film studies.” Oti has plans to direct many more documentaries and feature films in the future. Click here to watch the news report and the documentary, which looks into the lives, thoughts and feelings of people using community venues in the Deptford area. The film, dedicated to the teenage victims of knife and gun crime, gives insight into Oti’s motivations for documenting Deptford life.
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Esher Rugby Tournament
LLC’s Rugby Team took part in their first event of the year playing in a pre-season tournament at Esher Rugby Club in Surrey. The team put in impressive performances against some of the best rugby playing schools in the country. It was great to welcome new players into the side for the first time and given that this was the first time the new squad had played together, the results were very positive. Despite narrow losses against St Edwards, Whitgift and Dulwich College and drawing with RGS High Wycombe, the boys can take a lot from these games moving into the new season. They’re now busy preparing for the first match of the competitive season on the 19th September in the Daily Mail Cup at home against St Dunstans. Good luck Team!
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London Gaming College Launched
Employers and the Gaming Media were present as Greenwich Community College launched its new London Gaming College in style at a Rolling Stones concert at the O2. The London Gaming College was set-up with the support of Blackpool and Flyde College who run courses at their Regional Gaming Academy, which has been running courses succesfully for a number of years. There are currently two courses running at the college’s Plumstead Centre for Coin Slot Attendants and Coin Slot Technicians; The Coin Slot Attendant course is accredited with City & Guilds Level 2 and is a one-year course requiring attendance for two days a week. It is designed to enable students to carry out day-to-day coin slot machine maintenance, including hopper fifils, coin stoppages and diagnostics. It also incorporates the NVQ electronic level one course. The Coin Slot Technician course is the next level up and is also a one-year course requiring attendance for two days a week. It provides high levels of theoretical and practical skills in preparation for duties of a coin slot technician. Future courses planned include: Casino Gaming Floor Operatives BTEC Diplomas in Casino Operations; Security and Surveillance Systems Hardware Support Maintenance; and Foundation Degree in Coin Slot Technology. Representives from the gaming industry included Cosmic Video’s Terry Farr and John Farrington, Jerry Hosea of Kerzner International and Leisure Link’s Dave Wilson.
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Roadshow Success
The 2007 Marketing Summer Roadshow proved to be the most successful ever as over 4400 local residents received information about enrolment. The roadshow ran for a three week period from 23 July to 10 August, visiting supermarkets including ASDA, Morrissons, Somerfield and Sainsbury’s as well as leisure centres and high streets. Once again we were joined by students from the college who talked to shoppers about college life and the range of courses on offer. If you are a company and would like us to visit you on next years roadshow please contact the marketing department.
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Students Who Use Learning Resource Services Are More Likely to Achieve
A report out today shows that students who use the colleges’ Learning Resource Services are more likely to achieve than those who don’t use it. The main findings of the report for students who studied from 2005/2006 include: ul li The LRS contributes to the success and retention rates most in the Access student cohort with success at 21% higher and 10% higher retention amongst LRS members to non members. /li /ul ul li The highest LRS membership is within GPlus with 95% membership, which corresponds with very high success for LRS members. /li /ul ul li The LRS contributes more highly to success at the higher NVQ levels i.e. from NVQ level 3 upwards. /li /ul ul li The higher the LRS membership to any student cohort, the higher the success and retention rate for that group. /li /ul ul li LRS contributes to success across all age groups. /li /ul ul li There is a significant success rate for A2/AS level students attaining grades A – E (71% – 63%) compared to non LRS members. /li /ul ul li The largest ethnic group of LRS members are Black African and out of all ethnic groups the LRS contributes to their success the most. /li /ul ul li Generally, the LRS has contributed to increased retention rates across all departments compared to LRS non members. The highest retention rate is in GPlus at 39%. /li /ul
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Chic and Unique
Over 200 guests enjoyed the annual Student Fashion Show, held at Greenwich Community College’s Plumstead Centre on Thursday 12 July. The Show, which started as quite a small offering some time ago, was at its best ever this year with over 20 collections designed and produced by students. The set-up was spot on for the 2007 Student fashion show. Classroom space within the new building was opened out and transformed into a stunning catwalk to display work by students from BTEC National Diploma, BTEC Diploma and BTEC Certificate Fashion courses. The audience were dazzled by collections including: East Meets West, White Trousers, Tailoring Undone and Sound & Vision, which were modelled by student and staff volunteers. Gillian Jones, who coordinates fashion courses at GCC said, “This year’s show has been Colourful, lively and extremely creative. For the first time we showed a Ladies and Menswear range. It has been all hands on deck for our second show of this scale. The runway props were fabulous and the walks came together brilliantly at rehearsals, both shows went very smoothly and we are pleased with how the students and audience responded. Our Year 2 students will soon be moving onto Higher Education. Many are going on to the London College of Fashion or Coventry University, which is now the place to go to study fashion at HE level.” Many students and staff committed a lot of time and effort to the show, congratulations to everyone for creating such a successful event.
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Heading For Success
Donna Howe, a GCC student taking the Heading for Success Literacy course at Level 2, has been rewarded for her determination and excellent attendance as she passed the Level 1 course last winter. Donna attended a celebration of student achievement at Football Association headquarters in Soho Square, Central London, where she was presented with a Certificate of Achievement by Trevor Brooking. Ex-England footballer Garth Crooks hosted the event, where 13 learners on Heading for Success programmes across the country heard Richard Caborn, Minister for Sport, praise their efforts at brushing-up literacy and numeracy skills. The next Heading for Success programme begins at CAFC in mid-September and enrolments are now being accepted at Level One and Level Two. For further information please contact Ray Hill on 020 8355 3946 or e-mail rayh@gcc.ac.uk
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Greenwich Community College Joins National Green Colleges Launch
Greenwich Community College is part of a new national initiative launched today which aims to showcase green education and help encourage sustainable development. The launch is marked with a survey of further education published by the Association of Colleges today (21 June), which shows: ul li 70% of colleges have undertaken an energy survey and another 19% plan to do so /li li 77% of colleges encourage their staff and students to travel ‘green’ /li li 100% of colleges have recycling facilities of some sort /li li 58% of colleges have an environmental energy policy and a further 36% intend to adopt one /li /ul Greenwich Community College’s green features include: ul li Installing censor lighting and water controls to refurbished toilet blocks /li li Installing censor controlled Wudu facilities to 2 toilets /li li Installing 8 waste paper recycling bins at the Plumstead Centre in partnership with Greenwich Council /li li Paper recycling bins in every classroom and staff room /li li Reduction of general waste bins, reducing collections /li li Recycling printer cartridges /li li Installing new control panels to the boilers to give more control over boiler usage /li li Reducing printed copies of the staff newsletter from 1100 to 200 by creating an e-mail newsletter /li li Sheltered cycle park to encourage staff and students to ride in /li /ul Geoff Pine, College Principal said: “We have been working for a number of years to ensure that Greenwich Community College plays a significant role in taking forward an agenda of sustainability and we are delighted that this is now being taken forward on a national basis by the Association of Colleges.” Over 150 colleges completed the new survey. Colleges are also urging the Learning and Skills Council, which has recently invested significantly in new buildings, to offer further assistance; 84% of colleges would like the LSC to set up a fund for green projects costing under £100,000. Tim Smit, Eden Project co-founder, is backing the Green Colleges initiative. He said; “Our centres of learning have for many years been quietly going about the business of academia, but now is the time for them to become activist in turning statements of optimistic vision into action, so that we, the new battalions in the war on the careless destruction of our only home planet, can get behind them.” Dr John Brennan, AoC Chief Executive, said; “Colleges are playing a critical role in developing environmental curricula to equip young people and adults with specialist skills and knowledge. Many others are already delivering on the environmental agenda by, for example, incorporating innovative sustainable features in new buildings, introducing recycling stations or implementing greener transport policies. “But more can always be done – which is why AoC is working to showcase college best practice to exemplify that sustainability is achievable and to help colleges access the advice, guidance and funding that is available to support sustainable development.”
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GCC Student Wins 'Go' Tournament
GCC student Tung Nguyen won the under eighteen section of a ‘Go’ Tournament held on 28th April at Milton School in Cambridge. The tournament was part of a teaching day for the East of England Schools, including London. It was a special regional event run by the UK Go Challenge which is an annual Go competition for schools in the UK. Tung started playing Go last September in the popular College Go club and this was his first tournament outside of the College. Go originally came from China and is similar to Western chess as a strategy game, but it offers more scope for intuitive play. It is an easy game to learn but difficult to master.
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MMC Students tour Pioneering Soundcraft Factory
Meridian Music Centre students toured the Potters Bar Soundcraft factory earlier this month. Marketing Communications Vice President Keith Watson and Director Dave Neil showed students the impressive facilities at the electronic equipment manufacturing plant. Following a health and safety briefing the Access and Audiovisual production students donned white coats for a tour of the production facilities and recording studio. A lively question time followed in which students had the opportunity to test the recently developed £40,000 Vi6 mixing desk. GCC’s Rob Ivy played Guitar whilst students sampled and monitored his performance through the groundbreaking Vi6 console. At the end of the visit Leo Beaumont was presented with his Award of ‘MMC Soundcraft student of the year’, for his outstanding achievements made whilst studying.
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DLR Sponsors Student Newsletter
A newsletter produced by ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students was given a boost after receiving £480 worth of sponsorship from DLR (Docklands Light Railway). The cheque was presented by David Sanders, DLR Stakeholder and Publicity Manager to Principal Geoff Pine and student representatives at the site of the Woolwich Arsenal DLR extension. Mr Sanders was eager to help the students and is looking forward to continuing the relatioship DLR has formed with local residents: “DLR is delighted to support ESOL News and is confident it will prove a huge success. DLR is committed to an equal and inclusive East London and our sponsorship forms part of this objective. “We now look forward to further local community involvement as the DLR Woolwich Arsenal extension moves towards it opening date of February 2009.”
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GCC Welcomes Tourist Officials from Ghana
Greenwich Community College welcomed tourist officials and education representatives from Ghana recently as part of a £20,000 initiative set up by the Prime Minister to help develop vocational education and training partnerships in Africa. During the visit, the guests worked with staff at the college’s Plumstead and Charlton Athletic centres to learn how tourism courses are run in a UK college. They then enjoyed tourist attractions in Greenwich including the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark. The initiative was run in partnership with City College, Plymouth and representatives from both colleges visited Ghana last year to hold a number of events for the tourism industry. Akin Ojolo, Greenwich Community College’s Director of Innovation and Development was delighted at the success of the visit and hopes it will have a lasting impact: “Next year we are planning to set up a staff exchange programme with colleges in Tema and Sekondi Takoradi and hopefully the tourism training model will be implemented throughout Ghana.”
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Rolf Harris Praises Fante Flag Project
A project involving Greenwich Community College and local schools to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Britains abolition of the slave trade was praised by Rolf Harris during a ceremony at the Horniman museum recently. The 114 pupils from schools in Greenwich and Lewisham worked with Ghanaian master flag maker Baba Issaka who had a workshop at the colleges’ Greenwich Park centre in Royal Hill. Fante Asafo flags were inspired by the regimental colours flown by European powers when they visited West Africa during the slave trade. Asafo means “men of war”, but now the flags are generally used as emblems of community groups. Mr. Harris, who used to live near the Horniman Museum and retains close links with it, admitted he was ‘close to tears’ as he viewed the artwork and talked to the children about the message on their their flags. The pupils colourful versions of Ghanaian Fante Asafo flags are on display at the museum alongside works by Mr Issaka in the museum’s African Worlds gallery until June 3.
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Eltham Centre Update
The scaffolding is up and work is well under way on The Eltham Centre which is due to open in Autumn 2007. The centre in Archery Road, Eltham is a joint project with Greenwich Council and Greenwich Leisure Limited and will include leisure facilities, a library and council services with the college providing courses across 12 classrooms. GCC staff are pictured viewing the college facilities on a guided tour of the centre on 18 April.
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Showtime for Showcase Women
Women from across the Greenwich borough came together to celebrate their achievements and mark the end of the Skills Showcase programme, with an event held on International Women’s Day 2007. Many of the women came onto the programme with little confidence and unaware of their skills. The programme raised awareness of themselves and attitudes changed with many women discovering more than being ‘just a mother’ and the skills they possess are the keys to their future. Skills Showcase for Women offered 5 weeks of intensive training in confidence building and employment skills to over 25 women from four Children’s Centres in Greenwich – Glyndon, Mulberry Park, Quaggy and Storkway, through an initiative funded by the London Development Agency. The showcase commenced with a message from guest speaker Doreen Lawrence who presented certificates of achievement following after speaking of her tough experiences of going back to learning as a mature student and the traumatic challenges she overcame. Women taking part in the event wrote inspiring poems of their experiences, performed a play and spoke of their experiences and future plans. Participants were also presented with a range of vouchers from event sponsors Boots, Marks and Spencer’s and the London Dungeon. Henna PaintingThe women celebrated in true style with pampering activities like Tai Chi, head and shoulder massage, henna body art, and Skills Showcase participants Andrea Rejlek and Iraida Ewins also offered their services with a Pilates and a nail art demonstration. “It has built my confidence and made me realise what I am capable of, especially with the guidance of my mentor, I now know which steps to take to accomplish my goals”. Andrea Further information about GCC’s Community Engagement Unit is available here.
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GCC's 3rd Go Tournament
Ten players took part in GCC’s Spring 2007 Go Tournament held on Monday 19th March at the Plumstead Centre Students’ Lounge. Go originally came from China and is similar to Western chess as a strategy game, but it offers more scope for intuitive play. Five of the entrants had only learnt the game recently and never played in a tournament before. There were four rounds played on the small 9×9 boards and the winner was Omar Mohamed (pictured left) who won all four of his games. Olumide Oyedele was second with three wins followed closely by Tung Nguyen, also with three wins. Darian Thomson, Ali Sadeghi and Mustafa Nazim each scored two wins. Positions were decided by countback of opponents’ scores. Omar and Olumide received gift vouchers provided by Students’ Services and the Students’ Union. Everyone else collected either a 9×9 cardboard set, a Go resources CD or some chocolates as a reward for taking part and for their patience with the organiser. Olumide and Ali Sadeghi were each promoted to the rank of 20 kyu.
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WRL Students Fundraising for Red Nose Day 2007
Our Work Related Learning Year 10 students raised over £78.00 for Comic Relief on Friday 16th March. The students gave up their mid-morning and lunchtime breaks to raise the money in reception and the restaurant at the Plumstead centre. A big thank you to all of the class and everyone who gave money. Pictured from left to right are – Charlotte, Lillian, Amy, Antonia, Chelsey, Alicia, Gemma, Kirstie and Ella. Activities organised by the college’s Learning Resource Centre for staff and students raised an additional 177 pounds for Comic Relief.
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Camels, courses and collaborations
We were delighted that the grandly named ‘eLIDA CAMEL [e-Learning Independent Design Activities for Collaborative Approaches to the Management of e-Learning] January project conference, took place successfully at GCC on the 29 & 30 January. The project is investigating the different tools necessary to deliver e-learning and how to design really good inter-active learning objects within online courses. Each partner college or school is visited – hence the idea of the Camel trek – to find out what is working well with e-learning design. Led by the University of Greenwich, our partners include: JISC InfoNet, the Association of Learning Technology (ALT), Leeds College of Technology, Loughborough College, Barnet College, Dartford Grammar School and Greenwich Children’s Services and City Learning Centres. Our photograph (left) shows Helen Bannon-Lambe explaining basic First Aid to Dr Rhonda Riachi, Director of ALT within a blended learning lesson delivered both via ‘Leo – Learning Online’ and classroom teaching. The lesson includes audio pod-casting and videos to demonstrate life-saving techniques and was planned and composed by Helen together with e-Guide, Clare Treganowan. ‘Thank you very much for a fantastically productive trip to Greenwich. I have returned with many good ideas and genuine enthusiasm for how we can make better use of Moodle (Leo). I’ve shown a couple of enthusiastic colleagues the training resource provided by ClareÂ…this has been very positively received.’ – Kerry Hazlewood, Leeds College of Technology. John Hywel Williams, Director of LR & e-Learning
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CEU Student News
On Wednesday mornings at the Haimo centre, Margaret Aubrey’s Clothes Making class, which is run by the Community Engagement Team, takes place. With Christmas approaching Margaret’s students were able to fulfil the community element of their class by helping to make some of the costumes for the children of Montbelle Primary school’s nativity play. Whilst making the costumes, students were able to reinforce processes they had already learnt during the earlier part of the term. Students were unable to watch the school’s production, but the Headteacher, Mrs Marshall really appreciated the class’s efforts and wrote to thank our students and also sent some photo’s of children in their costumes. Mrs Marshall wrote “On behalf of the children, staff and Governors of Montbelle Primary school, I would like to thank you and your fellow clothes-makers for making us such wonderful costumes for our nativity. The children looked wonderful and rose to the occasion by singing their hearts out.” Helen Nicholas Community Engagement Unit
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Visit from Iraq
Greenwich Community College recently said goodbye to visitors from an Iraqi Further Education College on 9th February, following a month long stay in the UK. The group of Iraqi visitors arrived on 10th Jan and during a series of meetings at the college observed and met with department heads, senior managers and many other college staff to investigate how Greenwich Community college works as a Further Education institution. As part of the visit there was also a meeting at the University of Greenwich, many training sessions ( including Leadership and Management of curriculum design), GCC class observations and a meeting with Nick Raynsford MP. We talked to Hakim Muhammed a Manager at the College in Iraq who said ‘I’ve had a lovely time at GCC. I’m very keen to put new plans into action, as there are so many things I’ve learnt here that are needed in Iraq and can be applied there. I especially liked studying e-learning. It was surprising how the staff and students are treated, regarding management and evaluation.’
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Rising star
18 year old Crayford based Natalie Harman recently completed 57 shows, in her ensemble part in the Pantomime Sleeping Beauty at Greenwich Theatre. Dancing from the age of 3, Natalie has worked steadily towards her vocation in theatre, something which she has always adored. Natalie spoke excitedly about her Theatre debut “Rehearsal was really intense at first but we were really well looked after. As an apprentice and part of the ensemble I was paid, but would have done it for free, the experience was so great. I improved myself loads, in particular with harmonies. The audiences were fabulous and the actors I worked with are such professionals, and gave excellent advice on how to look after my voice, what the industry was like in general and what to do when you’re out of work”. Greenwich Theatre launched Greenwich Musical theatre Academy (GMTA), in September 2003. The Academy provides a full-time course in acting, dancing and singing as well as a number of shorter courses, many of which lead to nationally recognised qualifications. Natalie studies here at Greenwich Community College, just one of partners running the Level 3 Musical Theatre course. Natalie thinks the teachers are really experienced “because they are theatre professional and have worked on major Broadway shows such as FAME and the Lion King. I’m really enjoying the course, which is hard work at times, very physical – which is a good thing!” Natalie has ambitions to work on stage in the west end and would love a part in the show ‘Wicked’ (the untold story of the witches of OZ) with Idena Menzel who she greatly admires. “My next step is to train further and I’m currently applying to Arts Ed, Guildford and Mount View to further specialise in theatre studies”
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Songs that inspired the King
On the 8th January, Meridian Music Centre Head Of Year (CMP3) Colin Crook, released the second volume of “Elvis – The Songs That Inspired The King” on Hustlerz, Inc. Recordings. It would have been Elvis Presley’s 72nd birthday. ‘Educating Minds through the Music of Our Time’ is the theme for this series, taking the listener on a musical journey with a very young Elvis Presley. Volume one of the series was released back in April 2006 and proved such a success that a second volume was imminent. The idea of these releases is to enable the listener to compare the original songs that inspired Elvis early on in his career alongside his own versions that he later went on to record for Sun and RCA Records. From Rhythm & Blues, Gospel, Rockabilly, Country and fifties Pop crooners, Elvis went on to create a blend of all of these styles with a sound that would be universally accepted and pave the way for today’s Popular Music. Colin Crook, creator and Producer of the album was interviewed by the BBC on stations up and down the country, at a total of 17 BBC regional stations. During a BBC interview with Roger Day, Colin said: “Inspired by the needs of my students at the Meridian Music Centre, I found that most were not aware of the roots of Popular Music. Elvis Presley was the first international Superstar, who penned the way for those who came before and after him. The world as a whole suddenly became aware of Rhythm & Blues, Country, Blues and all of the other genres that Elvis had been inspired by and which may never have been heard outside of the U.S if the Rock ‘n’ Roll explosion hadn’t happened” Featuring the King Of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself alongside Little Richard, Carl Perkins, Kay Starr, Arthur Crudup and many more Rock ‘n’ Roll pioneers. Elvis – The Songs That Inspired The King Volumes 1 & 2” are available now from all major record stores and Digital Download sites. (Distributed by T.H.E.) Paul Hall Meridian Music Centre Manager
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Greenwich Reads
The 14th February is not only the day for love but also for literacy! The BBC RaW (read more – write better) campaign is about finding fun and interesting ways to encourage adults to improve their reading and writing skills. As part of this campaign, the Greenwich RaW group (led by Maggie Horback a from Greenwich Library Service and including staff from a number of other organisations including GCC) will be launching a project called “Greenwich ReadsÂ…..” starting on St Valentine’s day 2007 and continuing through till the summer. Inspired by a project undertaken in Liverpool last year, the idea of “Greenwich ReadsÂ…” is to choose a book that is relevant and interesting and to encourage as many people as possible in the borough to read it, discuss the issues and use it as a catalyst to create events and activities. We want to include as many groups and individuals involved with Greenwich as possible who would like to be part of this project: bookshops, publishers, music and arts organisations, community groups, museums, theatre, university, cinemaÂ…. Whilst waiting for a bus, you discover that everyone waiting with you has recently read the same book, leaving young and old with something to discuss until the bus comes. You chat and laugh about it while you wait. Wouldn’t it be great if life were like that? The chosen book for Greenwich is “Brand New Friend” by Mike Gayle. It is a book with relevance to anyone who has had to cope with change, loss, a move to an unfamiliar environment or loneliness. It deals with love and friendship and will also appeal to anyone who enjoys ‘putting the world to rights’ over a pint in the pub. Teresa Cambell, Fay McIntosh, Helen Nicholas and Liz Shaughnessy are all involved in the RaW group and some of us will be helping with the launch on 14th February. The day comprises a number of events including an afternoon at Charlton House with Mike Gayle giving a reading from his novel and being interviewed by Asad Ahmad from London News. It may even be on the television that night! We have a copy of the novel in the LRC and Greenwich libraries have bought 300 copies. Some local bookshops may also be offering reduced price copies of the book to support the launch if you or someone you know might wish to read the novel. At GCC we are also intending to organise a number of follow up events for the campaign over the next few months. If you would like to be involved or have any ideas for an event, please feel free to contact any of us. Fay McIntosh Wider Family Learning co-ordinator, 020 8312 5014 Helen Nicholas Widening participation area coordinator, 020 8859 9364
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GCC Vocal Artists bring Covent Garden to a stand still
Meridian Music Centre Students performed to Christmas shoppers at Covent Garden on behalf of GCC and the Mayor of Greenwich. The event was laid on to support Demelza a children’s charity that are raising funds for a new hospice. Shoppers were brought to a stand still with the impressive talents of the vocal artist level 3 students. The event was supported by Heart FM who mentioned our involvement in the charitable fund raising activities. The Vocal Artists 2 students also performed on Friday 29th December and received an equally warm welcome from shoppers. GCC students have now been invited to take part in the opening ceremony of the new Demelza Children’s Hospice later on in the year. The Mayor has thanked the college for our support. Paul Hall, Meridian Music Centre Manager
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Heading for Success Celebrated
Learners from Greenwich Community College who have taken part in a course backed by the Football Association and run in partnership with Charlton Athletic were rewarded with a presentation evening at the Valley on Thursday 11 January. ‘Heading for Success’ is a national scheme offering free courses to encourage adults to improve their reading, writing and mathematics skills using football related activities. So far over 25 learners have completed the course at the Valley with many passing their examinations or about to take their national tests, making it one of the most successful ‘Heading for Success’ schemes in the country. Successful learners were treated to a tour of the Valley before receiving their certificates and free matchday tickets from former Charlton players Carl Leaburn, Paul Williams and Mickey Bennett. Speakers at the event included Steve Waggott Chief Executive of the Charlton Athletic Community Trust who was delighted at the success of the scheme: “We are thrilled that our first Heading for Success courses have been successful and congratulations to all those who have completed their course. Charlton is proud to support this initiative as another example of our vital work in the community.” Maggi Knights, Vice Principal at Greenwich Community College praised the effort shown by the participants: “The learners are very committed, many coming to class after a busy day at work or after the responsibility of looking after a family. They have all made great progress.” There is still time to join the next Heading for Success course which takes place on Thursday evenings at the Valley. For further details on the free courses please call 020 8488 4892. Students Peter Shobiyi and Sharna Ellis are pictured receiving their award from former Charlton player Paul Williams.
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Students sell designs at craft fair
On Sunday 10 December, GCC Craft students became stall holders after being offered last-minute free stalls at Three Mills House, Bromley by Bow, for their Victorian Christmas event. A beautiful location and quite a surprise tucked away just across the road from the tube station. Our Textile and Jewellery students braved the elements and produced excellent displays of their work selling along side other designer maker stalls. In 2007 students hope to sell at a location in Greenwich and we’ll keep you informed before the event. So watch this space! Michele James Textiles Team leader
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Broken perform at MMC
Students were treated to an end of term lunch time concert as a reward for all of their hard work throughout the term. The band ‘Broken’ performed rock and pop covers to rapturous applause from students. The band held a question and answer session covering touring, song writing and musicianship. All students agreed that they had not only enjoyed the performance but had learnt more about the music industry. Paul Hall, Manager Meridian Music Centre
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Access to Music Awards
On the 6th December 2006, the Access to Music awards ceremony was held at the BAFTA building in Piccadilly, MMC student, Leo Beaumont, was presented with the music student of the year award as recognised by Meridian Music Centre and Access to Music. The prestigious award ceremony was hosted by Edith Bowman (Radio1 DJ) and John Hart (Access to Music). It was the ideal event to thank Leo for his commitment and dedication to the Meridian Music Centre. Throughout the last academic year Leo had volunteered to mix all of the live music events at the centre. His award was well deserved. Paul Hall Meridian Music Centre
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CEU Dig Deep
The Community Engagement Unit team volunteered their time to Greenwich and Bexley Cottage Hospice to improve the look of their garden. The team donated shrubs and plants and created a beautiful garden for visitors to the Hospice. John, Chief Gardener co-ordinating the employee challenge at the Hospice, with Volunteers Centre Greenwich, was really pleased with the result of the CEU team’s hard work. They are looking forward to working with the team again. “It has been a wonderful day and it feels great to have an input in something that will make a difference to the lives of the people using the Hospice.” Vedia Hasan “It enabled me to re-contract with the team and bond with my colleagues. We very rarely spend time together as a team and it was a perfect opportunity for me to bond with my team… I also learned a lot about gardening!” Ingrid Dick “It was enjoyable working as a team in a completely different activity.” Kate Askew The garden is a wonderful facility meant for the enjoyment of patients, visitors, staff and volunteers visiting the Hospice. The garden covers an area of about 5 acres and the surrounding grounds run to about 30 acres. Volunteer Centre, Greenwich has lots of volunteering opportunities across the borough, for teams to get involved in, from gardening to painting, decking to decorating. For more information on these projects and more, contact Susan Reynolds at Employer Supported Volunteering on 020 8853 1331 or email info@volunteersgreenwich.co.uk. Arinola Edeh Head of Community Development
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