Open Event March 2026

Choosing the right path after school is a major decision, and for many, the traditional sixth form isn't the only option. We invite you to discover a different route, one that's led by employers and designed for your career. 

This is a chance to see how we prepare students for the workplace of tomorrow, creating a truly immersive learning environment that blends technical skills with professional, work-related activity. You’ll find a supportive community with a friendly, small campus feel that is distinctly different from a school environment. 

  • Meet tutors and students: Talk directly with our highly trained staff who have industry experience and hear from current students about what life is really like at Newbury College.   
  • Tour our professional facilities: Get a feel for the campus and explore our industry-standard workshops and facilities, including engineering labs, professional training kitchens, and hair and beauty salons.   
  • Discover our career-focused programmes: Find out about our full-time courses, apprenticeships, T-Levels, and university-level degrees through University Centre Newbury (UCN).   
  • Learn about our support: Speak with our support staff about the financial bursary, transport options, and the student support services we offer.   

Our open event is the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand why Newbury College is the destination for students who prefer a practical, hands-on approach to learning.


  • School leavers

    For young people, our focus is on careers, not just courses. While sixth forms concentrate on A Levels, at Newbury College we offer career-focused vocational programmes, such as NVQs and the new T Level qualifications, a direct route to employment or university.

  • Parents

    Parents are warmly welcome to attend and get their questions answered, as we know this is a huge decision. 

  • Adults

    Our event is also an excellent opportunity for adults looking to return to education, upskill, or start a new career. You can learn about our extensive provision for adult learners, including professional development courses and free maths and English qualifications.

  • Employers

    Whether you're looking to upskill your workforce, explore apprenticeship opportunities, or partner with us to help shape and support future talent, this event is a great way to connect. Discover how Newbury College can support your business through professional development, bespoke training, and collaborative projects.


Itinerary 

16:00 Registration
16:05 Welcome
16:10 The College Experience - Lee Probert, Principal
16:20 Opportunity to talk to subject tutors, explore our facilities and get your questions answered by our specialist staff

17:00 Registration
17:05 Welcome
17:10 The College Experience - Lee Probert, Principal
17:20 Opportunity to talk to subject tutors, explore our facilities and get your questions answered by our specialist staff

18:00 Registration
18:05 Welcome
18:10 The College Experience - Lee Probert, Principal
18:20 Opportunity to talk to subject tutors, explore our facilities and get your questions answered by our specialist staff

Please note: Performing Arts, Football Academy and Foundation Learning programmes have different open events. Please see our events page for details.

11 Mar 2026 16.00 - 11 Mar 2026 19.00
Categories: Open Days


Speakers

  • Lee Probert - Newbury College / UCN

    Lee Probert - Newbury College / UCN

    Lee Probert is Principal and Chief Executive of Newbury College, and serves on the Newbury College Corporation Board as an ex officio member.

    Lee joined the College in October 2024 as an associate member of the leadership team before taking up the Principal and Chief Executive role from January 2025.

    He brings wide-ranging senior experience from across the further education sector, having held leadership roles in colleges in York, Bristol and Hull, as well as working within the funding council for colleges.

    Working closely with governors, staff, students, employers, and partners, Lee is focused on developing a high-quality, sustainable future for the College in line with its “careers not courses” mission, creating opportunities that transform lives across West Berkshire and the surrounding area.

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