Staff Update – Friday 14 February

As we come to the end of another half term, this Staff Update gives us a great chance to reflect on the many successes we have achieved over the past few months. The rest of this academic year will provide plenty of opportunities to celebrate College life through apprentice and student awards, staff awards and 50^th year anniversary events, as well as more localised school and department events. There is much of which we should proud, and we shouldn’t be shy about demonstrating that pride.

The achievements in this Update are in many ways just the tip of the iceberg. When we look at these successes, it really is a reminder of the incredible (and too often unsung) work we do every day. Every single member of College staff should be incredibly proud of how we are making a real difference in the lives of our students.

After half term, we are excited to see even more fantastic initiatives come to life, including new partnerships with external employers and organisations, ongoing improvements to our College campus, and the start of our awards season with the Exceptional Apprentice and Employer Awards. I’m confident that these projects and awards will not only highlight the incredible achievements of our students, but will also inspire them to continue to thrive and succeed.

Also in this Update, you’ll find some important dates to mark in your calendars. Whilst not everything will apply to everyone, it is great to share the hard work happening across the College and ensure that all staff are kept informed about what will be happening for the rest of the year.

As always, thank you for your continued dedication and hard work, and for making our College a place of growth, excellence, and inclusivity for all. Nothing that we do would be possible without the individual and team efforts on show every day. I am proud to be able to say that I work here, and I am confident that you feel the same.

Headline News

CyberFest

Over 12,000 young people across Lancashire explored high-tech careers during a cyber education week initiative, as part of Lancashire Cyber Festival 2025, backed by the Lancashire Cyber Partnership.

Year 10 pupils from Garstang Academy, Hillside School, Our Lady’s Catholic High School, St Cecilia’s RC High Schol and Fulwood Academy visited Preston College to discover the exciting world of cyber.

From virtual escape rooms to technical challenges, pupils tackled real-world cyber scenarios during Education Week.

National Apprenticeship Week

This week we have celebrated National Apprenticeship Week by showcasing the achievements of our students and strengthening connections with local employers.

We’ve highlighted success stories through case studies and shining a spotlight on the outstanding apprentices who have excelled in their roles. In addition, we featured current apprenticeship vacancies and began shortlisting candidates for our prestigious Exceptional Apprentice and Employer Awards.

And last night, we hosted our VERY FIRST Apprenticeship Advice Night; providing valuable guidance to both students and parents/carers looking to explore apprenticeship opportunities. The evening was a big success – and thank you to everyone involved!

Making Mocktails!

The Travel, Events and Hospitality learners were recently put to the test in two exciting practicals following their return for the new term of 2025.

Covering service skills, creative skills and industry knowledge- the learners used popular methods and an array of ingredients to make some magnificent mocktails as well as serve tables and use over the bar service all in order to hit their merits and Distinctions!

A huge thank you to the Delta Marriott Preston for their amazing support and hospitality with the off site task, the learners had a great time and took so much from it!

Health and Wellbeing Week

In January students had the opportunity to take part in a range of activities for their health and well-being including:
Petting Zoo
Forest School
Glow in the Dark Sports
Board Games
and… a visit from the Guide Dogs!

We’ve been shortlisted – AAT Apprenticeship Provider of the Year!

Exciting News! A few weeks ago, we submitted a nomination for the prestigious AAT Awards, and we are beyond proud to announce that we’ve been shortlisted for the Apprenticeship Provider of the Year!

The AAT Awards recognise outstanding training providers, tutors, and students, and we are thrilled to be part of such an inspiring community. This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire team.

We’re excited to attend the AAT Gala on Thursday 13 March, when the winners will be revealed.

Supporting Young Minds: Mental Health Matters at Preston College

Last week was Children’s Mental Health Week, a week that shines the spotlight on the importance of supporting young people‘s emotional wellbeing.

Simon Nixon and Kat Fawcett joined the Sharon Hartley Show on BBC Radio Lancashire to discuss how we can better support the mental health of students.

They spoke about managing anxiety and apprehension, helping students transition from school to college, and the vital role that institutions like Preston College play in creating a safe, supportive environment for all.

Listen to the full interview here

Top of the League

PNE A Team are sitting at the top of the CEFA North West Division 1 League after securing wins against Accrington A, Liverpool B, Manchester City A, Tranmere Rovers and Everton!

Well Done Team!

For all updates, visit the Preston College Sports Facebook here!

Sustainability Students Enrich Learning on Field Trip

Construction students headed out to Whalley to see the community hydro electricity station in action.

The students saw first-hand how the power of the river was harnessed to generate up to 100kw of electricity per hour. They also visited the historic Abbey and the weir for an insight into the water wheel and renewable energy.

Photography Project Reaches New Heights

Every year our Media (Film & Photography) students embark on a portraiture project. And once again the results are amazing!

See more of the Creative Arts’ fabulous work here!

Liam’s Selection Success

Congratulations to Preston Centre of Sporting Excellence student Liam Kilbane on being selected to represent Lancashire Schools FA U18’s for the 2024/25 season.

Liam has also been selected for the England School boys trials.

This is a major achievement for Liam, and one he fully deserves.

We Won! SIX NODA awards for our productions in 2024

Congratulations to our Our Musical Theatre Training Academy (MTTA) who began 2025 celebrating a whopping 19 NODA nominations across three productions from 2024, including the MTTA’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

And, on Saturday 1 February we picked up an incredible six of these awards! Awards were won by our Foundation Learning, ATA and MTTA students in a range of categories.

Nominated students, together with and their families and college staff, attended the ceremony at Viva in Blackpool.

Congratulations to EVERYONE involved in these shows.

Tell Marketing

Remember, if you have a story to share, be sure to Tell Marketing! Whether your students have participated in a project, competition, or college trip, overcome challenges, or achieved something they never thought possible – let us know! Have your School or Department received exciting news, or do you have exceptional staff or student work you’d like to showcase? We want to hear from you!

Please note that ‘Tell Marketing’ is for staff use only.

Tell Marketing