Working with local businesses has long been upheld as a value at Newbury College. Some of the relationships it has with organisations in the Newbury area span many decades.

Once such relationship is with Hungerford-based Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS). KCS sponsors one of the College IT rooms and has worked for many years supporting students on work placements, attending careers events and offering employment to those seeking a career in IT. For example, ex-student Polly Theobald now works at KCS as a Trainee Software Engineer.

To celebrate their long-term partnership, Ian Bendelow, CEO, and other employees from KCS, including Polly, joined the College Principal and CEO, Anne Murdoch and other members of College staff for lunch last Friday in the newly-decorated room.

Talking about the importance of building links with the community, Anne said: We fully appreciate the support that local businesses give us. It helps us to offer a more engaging curriculum and aids student progression. In turn, employers gain access to a pool of talent and can work with us in other areas such as apprenticeships and management training.

Not working with Newbury College? Our business team would like to hear from you. Give us a call on 01635 845229 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find out how we can support each other.