Annual Conference Workshops 25

Mastering Careers Leadership: Designing a Future-Ready Programme

Presented by Sue Alder, Professional Training Manager at The CDI on Monday at 11.45am

In an ever-evolving world of work, the role of a Careers Leader has never been more critical. This workshop is designed to equip career leaders with the knowledge and practical tools they need to build a dynamic, forward-thinking careers programme that meets the needs of today’s students and prepares them for the future.

The Careers Development Institute (CDI) is the UK's professional body for careers practitioners, bringing together individuals who work in careers education, information, advice, guidance, and development. The CDI sets professional standards, offers training, and promotes best practices for individuals working in the careers sector, whether school-based, in higher education, or in other career-related roles.

Creating a Positive Culture of Behaviour

Presented by Dr Anna James, Director at March Training and Development on Monday at 11.45am

This workshop will provide participants with strategies to minimise inappropriate behaviours and consider a whole-college approach to challenging behaviours. Participants will also be shown that strategies focused on promoting the positives in students’ behaviour can be very successful.

By the end of this session, participants will have:

1. Considered what minimises the risk of challenges occurring
2. Acquired techniques for addressing a variety of challenges that occur across campus
3. Learned strategies to de-escalate issues before they become serious
4. Reflected on how student support services can help reduce challenges

At March we specialise in providing practical and actionable strategies tailored to everyday challenges, from managing difficult situations to enhancing mental health. Our commitment is to ensure that every participant leaves our sessions with implementable ideas they can apply immediately.

Our expertise stems from research and hands-on practice, primarily within prison and Further Education environments. However, our diverse clientele spans various sectors, reflecting our adaptable and effective approach. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of real-life issues and our ability to deliver solutions that work in practice, not just in theory.

Introducing Internationalisation into the curriculum without the need for travel

Hosted by Harry Spear, Co-Founder of Caribbean Elective, and Terry Dray, former Director of Careers and Employability at some of the UK's leading universities on Monday at 11.45am

All of us educators know about the rich and diverse benefits of introducing students to international experiences and contexts. There is a big world out there, and we want to show students they can aspire to play a part in it.
However, providing such experiences has usually come by way of travelling and overseas trips. Sadly, these can be inaccessible to students from marginalised backgrounds and expensive for colleges to pursue.

So what if there was a way to introduce internationalisation into the curriculum without the need for travel? That way we could share some of the amazing benefits of international understanding and develop key soft skills like confidence, adaptability and resilience at your campus.

In this workshop Harry and Terry will offer some insight and inspiration on how this can be achieved, including practical examples and demonstrations on how Caribbean Elective created its innovative Caribbean inspired educational boot camps. They will share some of their findings and experience from operating in this innovative space and help you create your own ideas of how you can accomplish this at your college.

Caribbean Elective creates powerful cultural learning interventions across the Schools, FE and University sectors. Our travel programmes harness UK Government Turing Scheme Funding to deliver transformative overseas work experience programmes across a wide range of subjects, including Business, Catering, Tourism, Healthcare, Sports and Beauty.
We also create innovative educational interventions that enable FE Colleges to integrate internationalisation into the curriculum without travel. Our boot camps, which are delivered at your campus, help develop key soft skills like confidence, adaptability and resilience by empowering students to work on challenges directly linked back to and inspired by Caribbean communities and culture.

What do we actually mean by being inclusive in all we do?

Hosted by Sarah Le-Good, Assistant Principal at The Sheffield College on Monday at 11.45am

The session will be interactive, engaging and full of compassionate agitation. Come along to define inclusion, discuss co creation and how we can use lived experts to make all of our student support services supportive and inclusive by design.

The Sheffield College (TSC) is a large general FE College. It serves Sheffield and the surrounding areas and offers a wide range of curriculum, apprenticeships and HE. Recently TSC has seen significant growth in high needs numbers working collaboratively with the Local Authority to develop appropriate specialist provision and develop its Peaks Campus.

Getting Started with AI - Time Saving Tips for All

Hosted by James Wells, Director: Digital Innovation & Support at Middlesbrough College on Monday at 11.45am

Like many FE institutions, since January 2023 Middlesbrough College have worked extensively to ensure the AI education of all curriculum staff and learners. As part of our AI CPD strategy, we have also focussed on educating all our College senior and middle managers on the effective and ethical use of AI. As part of this initiative, our staff have undertaken targeted AI CPD both in-person and online as part of a strategic attempt to raise awareness of the benefits and pitfalls of AI and ensure that its effective use is driven at all levels. This session will explore Middlesbrough College’s approach to holistic AI CPD in-depth and will provide a live demonstration of our CPD activities.

Middlesbrough College, the largest provider of post-16 education in Teesside, offers a diverse range of courses from A Levels to vocational training and higher education. With state-of-the-art facilities and a £120m campus, the college supports students in achieving their full potential. It serves a vibrant, multicultural community, providing inclusive education and training across various disciplines. Whether you're a school leaver, an apprentice, or an adult learner, Middlesbrough College is dedicated to helping all of our community thrive and succeed.

Is Further Education ready for Inclusion?

Hosted by Jeffrey Greenidge, Director for Diversity and Governance & Nylah Ali, EDI Officer at the Association of College on Monday at 3.45pm

This session explores the journey of embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion in further education, moving from basic compliance to a fully inclusive, sustainable culture. What does it feel like for staff and students as we move from compliance, awareness, commitment, and championing through to embedding and innovation? We’ll discuss practical strategies at each stage, reflect on our own college’s current state, and set actionable goals to create a genuinely inclusive environment that benefits staff, students, and the wider community.

Association of Colleges is the national voice for further education, sixth form, tertiary and specialist colleges in England. We are a not-for-profit membership organisation established in 1996 by colleges, for colleges. Our members make up more than 90% of the sector - educating and training 1.6 million people each year.

As a membership body we:

Influence government and local and national policymakers to create the environment for strong and sustainable colleges at the heart of the economy

Provide high quality professional support, advice and intelligence to meet the needs of every member

Champion and enhance the reputation of colleges, leaders, staff and students.

Taking a whole college approach to Violence Against Women and Girls & Sexism - BMet & UK Feminista Collaboration

Presented by HillaryJenkins-Baldock Programme Coordinator (Schools) at UK Feminista and KayBurton-Williams, Director of Student Experience, DSL, SMHL at BMet on Monday at 3.45pm

Understand how BMet engaged in the UK Feminista programme to take a whole college approach to VAGW & Sexism. BMet will take attendees through their approach looking at areas of impact and reflection and lessons learnt. UK Feminista will take attendees through the wider societal issues and how these are manifested within an educational context giving attendees practical tools and approaches to implement in their colleges. Attendees will hear about the UK Feminista Action Award and have an opportunity to hear about how they can get involved with UK Feminista in the future.

BMet is a large general FE college with approximately 15,000 students across 3 colleges based in Birmingham: James Watt College, Matthew Boulton College and Sutton Coldfield College. We have a cohort of circa 5'000 16-18s alongside adults, apprentices and higher education.We are proud to be an anti racist college and support students from some of the most deprived communities in the UK. Birmingham is the first majority minority city in the UK and has the youngest population in Europe with 40% of residents aged under 25.

UK Feminista is a charitable organisation working for a society in which women and girls live free from sexism and male violence. We support schools and colleges to tackle sexism and sexual harassment by conducting research, delivering teacher training and providing resources to schools.

The Reality of Youth Violence

Presented by Alison Cope, Anti violence campaigner on Monday at 3.45pm

Alison covers the reality of youth violence, she uses her unique life experiences to show why we are seeing an increase in youth violence, the reality and what we can all do to prevent it.

Alison Cope delivers anti violence workshop following the death of her son in 2013. She focuses on knife crime awareness, causes and prevention.

Personal Development - The Journey to Outstanding

Presented by Tracey Todd, Head of Foundation Studies and Personal Development at New College Durham on Monday at 3.45pm

This workshop will look at how to create and design an outstanding Personal Development Framework and model to engage learners that will maximise attendance whilst meeting the needs of learners in today's society. The session will evaluate different approaches, support ideas of how to get curriculum staff onboard and to share resources and guest speaker contacts that don't break the budget.

New College Durham is a further and higher education college and a sixth form college in County Durham, England. New College hosts over 5000 students within the North East region, the college is one of the highest performers, underscoring its dedication to empowering learners of all ages. Furthermore, New College Durham stands out as one of the top 2.5% of colleges nationally, exceeding the national rate by an impressive 7.9%. In November 2023 it was graded oustanding for Personal Development, Strong for Skills and Good Overall.

The Moralist: The New Balance in Classroom Behaviour

Hosted by Luke Rodgers, CEO of The Care Leaders Ltd on Monday at 3.45pm

This session, The Moralist, introduces a balanced, practical approach for educators to effectively manage classroom behaviour without feeling pressured to choose between strict discipline and nurturing. In today’s educational landscape, teachers often grapple with the challenge of balancing empathy with structure. This session proposes a new path forward by embracing the role of The Moralist—an educator who combines clear expectations with compassion, tailoring responses to meet each student’s unique needs.

The session is structured around three key pillars for a well-rounded learning experience: Lived Experience, Theory, and Practical Tools. Through real-life stories from young people, attendees gain insight into common behaviours in the classroom and the underlying factors that influence them, such as trauma, social pressures, and family dynamics. Theoretical foundations in child development, trauma responses, and attachment deepen understanding of behaviour origins, while evidence-based tools offer actionable strategies for managing both immediate behaviours and their root causes.

By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to balance empathy and structure confidently, fostering supportive, harmonious classrooms that promote student growth and reduce teacher stress. This approach is ideal for educators looking to create impactful, sustainable behaviour management practices.

We are The Care Leaders, a team that combines lived and learned experiences to offer training, consultancy, and a 12-month leadership programme focused on empowering those who work with care-experienced young people. Our mission is simple: to do good things with good people for good causes. Through our award-winning e-learning platform and tailored training, we equip teachers and frontline professionals with practical skills, strategies, and insights. Our goal is to enhance understanding and support for care-experienced individuals, enabling professionals to make a positive, lasting impact in their lives.

CEIAG for Apprentices – Taking away the fear!

Presented by Kate Roberts, Head of Careers, and Kevin Mills, Head of Apprenticeships at Learning Curve Group on Tuesday at 10.15am

This interactive workshop is designed for student services professionals who support apprentices. "CEIAG for Apprentices – Taking Away the Fear!" aims to demystify the process of delivering high-quality Careers Education, Information, Advice, and Guidance (CEIAG) tailored specifically to apprentices. Participants will explore practical strategies to address common challenges, such as balancing the dual demands of their workplace and their training, navigating career progression, and ensuring apprentices are well-informed about their future opportunities.

The workshop will cover essential CEIAG frameworks, best practices for engaging both apprentices and employers, and most recent Ofsted requirements. Through case studies, group discussions, and resource-sharing, attendees will leave equipped with actionable insights and tools to enhance their CEIAG delivery, ensuring that apprentices feel supported, confident, and prepared for successful career journeys. Join us to learn how to empower apprentices and help them overcome the fears and uncertainties that can arise in their unique educational pathways

Learning Curve Group is a national, award-winning training and education provider based in Spennymoor, County Durham. LCG works with further education providers, employers and learners to help them achieve success. Since 2004, Learning Curve Group (LCG) has grown both organically and through acquisition to become one of the largest and most diverse providers in the UK. We impact over 200,000 learners every year through our apprenticeship programmes, flexible learning courses, academies – adult, study and schools programmes, advanced learning qualifications and our strategic partnerships with FE providers.

Revolutionising Student Support with an AI-Powered Portal

Hosted by Scott Morgan, Head of Digital Innovation & IT Services at Bridgend College on Tuesday at 10.15am

This workshop explores the development and implementation of an AI-driven student portal designed to enhance the learner experience at Bridgend College. We will explore how this platform provides personalised, multilingual advice and guidance on information including course details, timetables, financial aid (EMA), academic progress and career support.

Powered by Google Gemini, the portal features a live, dynamic link to our MIS which can be interrogated by natural language and contextualise learner data to provide personalised recommendations.

The session will also highlight some ethical considerations of this technology, focusing on data privacy and ensuring equitable access for all learners. We will also discuss our strategies for gathering student feedback to iteratively improve the portal and ensure it remains a valuable resource aligned with learner needs.

Bridgend College is a multi-award-winning institution within the Further Education (FE) sector. The College sits across three campuses located in Bridgend, Queens Road and Pencoed.

Supporting over 7,500 students each year, Bridgend College offers a diverse range of full and part-time courses spanning a number of vocational areas. The College also works in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University and is a collaborative partner of the University of South Wales.

From GCSEs to Honours Degrees, Bridgend College’s industry-qualified staff share the same mission: to help students realise their potential and be all that they can be in a safe and inclusive environment.

Where Are We Now? 21st Century British Values in Action

Hosted by Steve Wright, Director at The Wright Stuff Education & Training, on Tuesday at 10.15am

Steve Wright will deliver an engaging and insightful session on contemporary British values. Taking the temperature of the riots of last summer and discussing the risks our students face from fake news and far-right hate campaigns. The session will also focus on migration with real life stories gathered and presented by Steve in FE settings across the country.

Steve delivers engaging and insightful sessions on contemporary British values. Using student voice and creative arts Steve seeks to re-invent and re-energise values education through well-balanced critical thinking and positive messaging.

Gaming and Gambling Related Harm

Hosted by Kyle Riding, Head of Programmes at Ygam on Tuesday at 10.15am

This interactive workshop will explore the convergence between gaming and gambling and the related harm to these subjects. It will delve into the effects of advertising , co morbidity between gambling and other risk taking behaviour, how to spot the signs of harm and where to get help and support and explore some of the findings from the recent 2024 Young People and Gambling Report released by the Gambling Commission. The workshop will also identify a case study from a college that has successfully implemented the Ygam training throughout its locations and the positive effect this has had on the students wellbeing.

Ygam are an award-winning national charity working to prevent children and young people from experiencing gaming and gambling harms through awareness raising, education and research.

Through a portfolio of education programmes, Ygam provides free training and recourses for teachers, youth workers, practitioners, universities, faith leaders and health professionals. All programmes have been independently scrutinised, challenged, evaluated and quality marked by a wide range of organisations.

Understanding Student Finance

Hosted by Sharon Cousins, Vice Principal Adult Skills & Student Services at Newham College and NAMSS Executive at 10.15am on Tuesday

We will explore the context and meaning of the various Bursary Guidance, discuss systems and processes, including using Pay My Student, and share best practice. During the session there will be an opportunity to share challenges and look at solutions together.

Student Happiness Index - understanding students' experiences

Presented by Billy FitzJohn on Tuesday at 11.45am

This session will present key findings from the fourth edition of our annual Student Happiness Index report, including year-on-year comparisons of how students' experiences, motivations, and concerns have evolved. Notably, for the first time, the research includes insights from college students alongside university students, providing a comprehensive view of their overall happiness, their challenges , what drives their successes, and their perspectives on the future.

Managing those above you

Presented by Diana Osagie,CEO & Founder of Courageous Leadership on Tuesday at 11.45am

During this workshop Diana will talk about:

Working effectively with your boss
Managing a negative relationship with your boss, moving to a place of respect
Developing your leadership influence

A platform founded by Diana Osagie to transform your leadership journey so you thrive as a leader. Online, in person training, keynotes and books that will secure your skills and enable you to develop the mindset of a formidable leader.

We give you the tools, strategies and guidance to navigate the difficulties of leadership.

Mentoring
Coaching
Individual and team training
Leadership language and culture development

Courageous Leadership is the strong advocate you need to be successful - to thrive and not simply survive your leadership journey.

Can attendance be affected by a College's enrichment offer?

Presented by Lisa Humphries, Associate Principal: Students/Customers at Chichester College Group, at 11.45am on Tuesday

This session will explore how enrichment can impact overall college attendance, considering enrichment in its broadest sense and the variety of ways to engage students, supporting positive attendance. The session will also consider impact on attendance for specific groups of students such as looked after children and SEND students.

Chichester College Group comprises of 7 Colleges across West Sussex and Brighton and Hove. The demographic area of each college is very different and the group has focused on ensuring individual identity for each of the 7 Colleges. Delivering vocational and academic qualifications, as well apprenticeships and HE, the curriculum is diverse. The group was last inspected in March 2020 and achieved outstanding.

Bournemouth & Poole College and Middlesbrough College NEW

Building Futures: Developing Outstanding Careers Programmes in FE Colleges

Presented by Pippa Allner, Personal Development Manager (Careers Leader) at Bournemouth & Poole College and Zara Proudler, Careers Lead at the Middlesbrough College Group on Tuesday at 11.45am

Careers education is the foundation of student success, equipping learners with the skills and confidence to navigate their futures. This workshop is designed to empower Careers Leaders in FE colleges with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to develop outstanding careers programmes that meet the needs of all students.

Explore best practices in careers guidance, gain practical strategies for aligning your programme with Gatsby Benchmarks, and learn how to foster meaningful employer and community partnerships. Through interactive discussions and case studies, you’ll discover innovative approaches to embedding careers education across the curriculum and ensuring your programme is inclusive, impactful, and future-ready.

Bournemouth and Poole College serves around 10,000 students and works with around 1,000 employers each year and we embrace careers in virtually every sector of the economy. Our campuses are located on three sites, and the largest are Bournemouth Campus and Poole Campus. The other site at the Fulcrum at Tower Park, Poole is the centre for Carpentry, Joinery and Composites provision. Our purpose is to help people improve their lives through education and training, and we help commercial businesses and public sector organisations recruit and train skilled employees.

Middlesbrough College, the largest provider of post-16 education in Teesside, offers a diverse range of courses from A Levels to vocational training and higher education. With state-of-the-art facilities and a £120m campus, the college supports students in achieving their full potential. It serves a vibrant, multicultural community, providing inclusive education and training across various disciplines. Whether you're a school leaver, an apprentice, or an adult learner, Middlesbrough College is dedicated to helping all of our community thrive and succeed.

Building Strategic Partnerships for Mental Health

Hosted by Miles Carabine, Project Manager at the Mental Health Foundation, and Jen Hope, Area Director (Midlands) & Senior Policy Lead (Mental Health) at the AoC on Tuesday at 11.45am.

The Mental Health Foundation and Association of Colleges will co-facilitate a workshop focused on building strategic partnerships to support the transition of students throughout education and into work. This session will address the importance of student-focused support and holistic partnerships to drive a whole-organisational approach to mental health and wellbeing.

With a history dating back to 1949, the Mental Health Foundation aims to ensure everyone in the UK has the opportunity for good mental health. Their UOK? programme will empower young people aged 16 to 25 to take charge of their well-being.