Capital City College Launches Apprenticeships+

The CWU has a longstanding relationship with the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CoNEL). Over the past 25 years they have provided learning opportunities for thousands of CWU members across London. CoNEL is now part of Capital City College (CCC), alongside City and Islington and Westminster Kingsway Colleges. During National Apprenticeships Week CCC hosted an event to celebrate the launch of their new initiative Apprenticeships+. CWU London Learning Lead, George White was in attendance.

The first presentation was from Ajay Purbhoosing of Workwhile, a not-for-profit initiative to encourage more employers to support apprenticeships at work and to widen opportunities to workers from across the community. There followed presentations from three key initiatives: Employability, Visionaries, and Multiply. Employability collaborates with various employers and referral partners to assist unemployed Londoners by providing training and support, which leads to guaranteed job interviews. Visionaries focus on helping start-ups and entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life through its innovative, practical program. Multiply offers free short courses aimed at empowering adult learners to improve their numeracy skills, which can enhance their daily lives and promote professional growth. Each presentation highlighted the unique strengths of these diverse initiatives. This included personal stories from learners who had successfully completed the programs, courses, or training offered, boosting their self-esteem and improving their quality of life.

The final event of the day opened with live music performed by two of the college’s student bands. Guests then took their seats for presentations, learner awards and an engaging and insightful talk delivered by Stuart Pick, Senior Partnerships Manager at the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Stuart drew attention to the positive impact of apprenticeships on the business landscape while detailing how they continue to benefit employers. Attending the event was a privilege, as I listened to the inspiring stories of students who once lacked confidence at the start of their journey with Visionaries. Through its innovative and practical program, they brought their ideas to life. Their courageous act of sharing their learning experiences on stage in front of a professional audience highlighted the transformative power of education.