Parent Newsletter – Term 2 2024/25
This is a particularly special year for the College as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of transforming lives through education on our Fulwood campus. Many of you may have been students at the College yourselves, and we are still collecting memories from former students on our website as part of this special commemoration. These stories are truly inspirational, and I am sure that the current experiences of your children are just as impressive.
Our aim is always to provide a high level of education and support in a caring environment. This newsletter will provide a host of information about the things we are doing to achieve that aim. I hope you find the content interesting and informative, and please let the College know if you have any questions or comments.
Headline News
Competition Wins
This term has been filled with success and wins for Preston College, our students and staff have showcased the talent we have and what we strive for in education. We have competed in numerous competitions ranging from, construction to hairdressing and the Lancashire skills competition which included all sectors. Huge congratulations to all those who competed, and to the staff for enabling these successes!
MP Visit to Preston College
Recently, MP Maya Ellis visited Preston College, exploring how we use technical education to shape the future. During her visit she saw all of our facilities including the robotic hand and 3D printers allowing her to witness the impact of our strong employer partnerships, preparing students for high-skilled careers.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
National Apprenticeship Week is all about celebrating apprenticeships, to celebrate this event we held an advice night. This event was well attended with booked in 1 to 1 sessions and also group sessions for the more frequently asked questions. We also made sure to showcase some of our students case studies, highlighting their journeys and achievements.
BBC Radio Lancashire Interview
In support of Mental Health Week, Principal, Simon Nixon, and Director of Learning Support, Kat Fawcett joined the Sharon Hartley Show on BBC Lancashire, where they discussed mental health and the support offered to students. They also discussed the transition from school to college and the possible affects it may have on students, and the vital role that our institution plays in creating a safe, supportive environment for all.
Aspiration
Studio Week ATA
To celebrate Studio Week 2025, our Media Year 1 and 2 students worked together to create a live studio experience using the theatre. Ex-ATA (Actor Training Academy) student and professional actor Brandon Worrall attended two of the days as a guest director to support the project.
Barbering Guest Speaker
Recently, our Level 2 Barbering adult students had the pleasure of listening to Brian Eva – a previous Preston College student and now a successful barbershop owner called The Bearded Fool based in Blackpool, specialising in beards. A huge thank you to Brian for sharing his experience!
Careers Fair
Recently, we had our annual careers fair, offering students an invaluable opportunity to explore a wide range of industries, gather inspiration, and gain insight into potential career paths. This event allowed them to connect with employers, ask questions, and discover what aligns best with their passions and skills.
Volkswagen Guest Speaker
Our Automotive class got the opportunity to hear the success story of Rebecca, who now works for Volkswagen. From a young age, she has always had a passion for the automotive industry. She shared her story, the challenges she faced and how she overcame them. Thank you to Rebecca for sharing your story and inspiring our students.
Achievement
NODA Wins
We are pleased to announce our performing arts courses won a total of six NODA awards for our productions in 2024! Awards were won by our Foundation Learning, ATA and MTTA students in a range of categories. Our performing arts department win at these awards year after year. Congratulations to all those nominated!
Concept Hairdressing Competition
Congratulations to Kelly Hill one of our Level 3 Hairdressing students who competed in the Concept Hairdressing Competition. This competition had over 2000 entries and Kelly was one of the 53 to be selected! Kelly demonstrated resilience and performed with expertise under pressure.
Exceptional Apprentice & Employer Awards
In March, we hosted the annual Exceptional Apprentice & Employer Awards. This night is all about celebrating the hard work and dedication from our employers and apprentices. Special congratulations go to Chloe Sumner our Apprentice of the Year from Shout Connect!
World Skills Competition Win
Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology recently held a world skills cyber competition. Our Level 3 IT students attended and competed against Level 4 and 5 students from other colleges, and won! Huge congratulations to the team – what an amazing achievement.
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ATA Hair, Beauty & Media Make-Up Competition
Recently, our Hair, Beauty, and media make-up class had an exciting opportunity to attend the ATH Blackpool competition. It was an incredible experience that not only boosted their confidence but also gave them a taste of what it’s like to work in this industry.
Congratulation to those who competed!
Lancashire Skills Competition
The Lancashire Skills Competition is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our students and staff here at Preston College. This year as a college we won more shields than any other provider which is an incredible achievement and something to shout about!
All participants were a credit to the College as they showed off their knowledge and skills. Huge congratulations to everyone!
Accountability
Health & Well-being Week
Health and Well-being Week at Preston College always ensures there’s something for everyone, activities include a petting zoo, forest school, glow in the dark sports, board games, and many more.
Students thoroughly enjoyed this day and made sure to get involved with a range of different activities allowing them to unwind and take a break for their well-being.
Comic Relief
Every year at Preston College, we like to celebrate comic relief and support this good cause.
This year we had photo booths, cake stands, car washes, sweet stands and lots of activities.
Thank you to everyone who participated and made this week so special.
Easter Egg Donations for RPH
This Easter, Preston College held an Easter egg donation drive in support of the Royal Preston Hospital. Thanks to the generosity of staff a total of 85 Easter eggs were collected, making Easter a special time for all!
Travel & Tourism Fundraiser
Travel and Tourism students hosted a fundraiser for the Homeless Hounds and raised a total of £452! A huge thank you to everyone. The support we get from the Preston College Community is incredible!
Attendance
Term dates
Term dates for the academic years 2024/25 and 2025/26 are available. Remember, every lesson matters and students and parents should not book holidays during term-time. Plan your holidays out of term using the link below.
Reporting Absences
If a student is going to be absent they must contact the College using one of these methods:
- Absence hotline: 01772 225959
- Email: absencehotline@preston.ac.uk
- Online: Report your Absence
Attitude
Carpentry Mental Health Trip
Earlier this year, our carpentry and joinery class went on a stadium tour after 6 weeks of mental health awareness sessions. These sessions allowed students to gain a deeper understanding into mental health and the impacts on themselves and other. This trip was a fantastic ending to the sessions and left students feeling inspired and motivated.
Campus Cohesion
Students who display the College values can be nominated by a member of staff for the Campus Cohesion Awards. All nominated students are then entered into a prize draw for a chance to win vouchers for our onsite Starbucks!
Wicked
Huge congratulations to Nat Ingham who has secured his first West End contract in Wicked. This is a fantastic achievement and we can’t wait to see more of his successes in the future!
Sports Portugal Trip
In March, 30 Centre of Sporting Excellence students jetted off to Portugal for five action packed days. Their trip covered many exciting activities including; Footlab Lisbon, S.L Benfica’s stadium, being coached by Benfica’s coaching staff and loads more!
Upcoming Events
GCSE Maths & English Exams
GCSEs exams are as follows:
Friday 6 June, 9am – GCSE English Paper 2
Wednesday 11 June, 9am – GCSE Maths Paper 3
Arrive at college no later than 8.30am for registration.
Aspiration Week – June 2025
A week of celebration at the College culminating in two days of fun activities and award ceremonies.
Students will be allocated either Thursday 12 or Friday 13 June to take part in a range of activities including fairground stalls, lawn games, large inflatables. They will also get free food!
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Useful Links
Parent Portal Accounts
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