News

31 August 2016

Consumer group Which? has published survey results which suggest that further guidance is needed for students when deciding on what subjects to study after GCSEs.

The poll of 1,020 UK teenagers revealed that 30% felt inadequately informed about how their subject options would affect their university and degree courses, with 29% agreeing they would have appreciated more advice.

The survey also revealed that over half of the students polled picked their sixth form or college subjects without considering their future prospects.

This, coupled with the news reported recently by The Guardian that one in four UK graduates remain low earners ten years after leaving university, makes it even more important for young people to consider what they want to do in the future and seek advice from a range of different sources prior to choosing what subjects to study after GCSEs, commented Dr Anne Murdoch, Principal at Newbury College.

Which? also advises students to consider vocational qualifications as a route to university.

The traditional route to university isn't one-size-fits all', continued Murdoch. BTEC diplomas (HNCs and HNDs) and apprenticeships offer an alternative to higher education, and include practical experience relevant to the subject choice.

Newbury College student, Bryony Petersen, recently completed BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Uniformed Public Services, and has a place at University of Northampton to study paramedic science in September. The BTEC course taught me the self-discipline to develop leadership and teamwork skills, expedition training, command, control and much more. My results have earnt me a place at university in a subject that will ultimately lead to me to my dream career as a paramedic, said Bryony.

Newbury College is holding an open enrolment event on Saturday 3 September between 10am to 1pm. Curriculum subject leaders will be on hand to discuss the various options available to students, who can also seek advice from members of the College's Information, Advice and Guidance team.

18 August 2016

On Sunday 14 August, West Berkshire Classic Vehicle Club held its annual Classic Vehicle Show in the grounds of Newbury College. Now in its 24th year, the event attracted over 4,000 visitors and featured many different exhibits ranging from a rare 1905 Fiat Fraschini, an AEC coach, to modern day classics such as the Ford Escort.

Funds raised from the event are donated to the blood cancer charity Bloodwise (formerly known as Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research).

West Berks Classic Vehicle Club Chairman, Mike Kent, said: In the 24 years the show has been running, it has raised a total of almost £129,000 to help with the fight to beat blood cancers.

We could not do this without the support of the club members, our supporters and Newbury College. Thank you for allowing us to use your wonderful venue. We were blessed with fine weather on the day and everyone had a great time.

Newbury College Contracts Manager, Steve Long, said: It was an absolute pleasure to once again host this important fundraiser for West Berkshire Classic Vehicle Club. It was great to see so many people enjoy the classic vehicles on display and have our extensive grounds used for such a worthy cause.

The total amount raised at this year's show was approximately £12,200. This includes a donation of £425 raised by Newbury Radio Control Car Club, who held races in the sports hall.

Click here for more information on West Berkshire Classic Vehicle Club. Click here for more information on Newbury Radio Control Car Club.

10 August 2016

Newbury College is one of four further education colleges in the UK to achieve a 100% student satisfaction rating in this year's National Student Survey.

The survey was undertaken by over 300,000 students across the UK from 155 higher education institutions, 190 further education colleges and 13 alternative providers. The survey takes place each year and the results, announced by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) today, help universities and colleges further improve the education service they provide.

Commenting on the results, Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Anne Murdoch said: We are delighted to be one of four further education colleges to score highly in terms of student satisfaction. The result, which surpasses this year's benchmarked score of 88%, is testament to our hard work and determination and supports our aim to provide an outstanding level of further and higher education in the West Berkshire area.

More data and details of the results can be viewed on the HEFCE website.

The other three colleges were Richmond Adult Community College, St. Mary's College in Blackburn and Trafford College.

Read more on this story in the Times Education Supplement (TES).

04 August 2016

Newbury College is holding a series of advice clinics and a specific post A Level/Level 3 guidance event at its campus on Monks Lane this summer, where members of its Information, Advice and Guidance team will be on hand to answer questions. The dates are:

Thursday 18 August, 11am to 4pm ' A-level results day advice clinic

Monday 22 August, 11am to 4pm ' Post A-level/Level 3 guidance event

Thursday 25 August, 11am to 4pm ' GCSE results day advice clinic

Friday 26 August, 10am to 12:30pm ' GCSE results day advice clinic

At the post A-level/Level 3 guidance event on Monday 22 August, students can find out about options for higher education courses, as well as obtain information and view the current opportunities for apprenticeships. Apprenticeships combine paid employment with on-the-job training and offer the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications.

All of the sessions are free to attend. The College is also open every day throughout the summer holidays for queries or advice on all courses starting in September.