Celebrating 170 years of WM College with a mosaic that tells our story

Jason (Above), learner and winning designer of the mosaic.

Last week, on a warm summer evening in July, WM College proudly unveiled a permanent mosaic to celebrate an incredible milestone – 170 years of community, creativity, and lifelong learning. The event brought together students, staff, governors, community partners, and special guests to honour our past and look forward to our future. 

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Following the initial unveiling of the mosaic by long-term supporter and former chair of the governor’s Tom Schuller, the event, held in our historic library, the heart of the college — featured moving speeches, a stunning artistic reveal, and personal reflections from the students who helped shape the mosaic. Guests also heard a personal message from the Prime Minister/ our local MP, congratulating WM College on our remarkable contribution to education and civic life.

And a video message from our Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth, Howard Dawber OBE:
“The power of learning, and a place like this, is that it gives people hope. It gives people a space to grow, to create, and to be part of something bigger. This mosaic is more than art – it’s a reflection of that spirit.”

A living work of art, designed by learners

As part of this celebration, to mark the college’s 170th anniversary, Principal Dipa Ganguli OBE, along with the senior leadership team and the college governors, commissioned a bold and inclusive artistic project – a challenge to learners to co-create a mosaic that captured the college’s ethos. 

Six learners from the Illustration Level 2 course worked with tutor Steve Mepsted, mosaic artist Tessa Hunkin, and local non-profit group the Hackney Mosaic Project, responding to a live brief and pitching original design concepts. The selected final design, created by student Jason Browne, was brought to life by Tessa and her team over several weeks and is now installed at the college entrance.

The story behind the mosaic: in Jason’s words…

Learner artist Jason delivered a powerful and heartfelt speech during the event, reflecting not only on the mosaic’s creative process but also on his journey at WM College: 

“Before I found WM College, I was feeling lost. No direction, no confidence, unsure of myself. But the moment I walked through those doors, something changed. I was welcomed with kindness, offered guidance, and reminded that I had something to give.” 

Jason’s design features: 

• A Tree of Life – symbolising growth, support, change and the passing of seasons to represent continuous learning. 
• A glowing lightbulb – representing ideas, learning and creativity 
• Two hands – showing openness and opportunity 
• Seasonal colours – illustrating the journey of lifelong learning  
• Icons – celebrating the wide range of courses at WM College 

Jason said,
“The message of the mosaic is simple but powerful: It’s never too late to grow, to learn, or to begin something new.” 

Jason closed by thanking everyone who supported him:
“To Dipa, Steve, Tessa, and every friendly face who helped me believe in myself again – I hope this mosaic inspires people for another 170 years, just like this college inspired me.” 

A celebration of creativity and community

In true WM College spirit, the mosaic launch was also supported by fellow learner musicians, who volunteered their time and talents to perform at the event. Their music added warmth and atmosphere to the evening – a testament not only to the depth of talent among our learners but also to the friendly, inclusive, and supportive community that defines WM College. 

Their presence reflected everything the evening stood for: students lifting each other up, sharing their achievements, and helping to create something meaningful together. 

A moment to reflect

Dipa Ganguli OBE, WM College’s Principal & CEO, reflected on the significance of the moment and the college’s enduring role in Camden and beyond: 
“For 170 years, WM College has stood as a beacon for inclusion, second chances, and creative potential. This mosaic reflects the people who walk through our doors every day — people who want to learn, to grow, and to be part of something. We are so proud to celebrate this moment with our learners at the centre.” 

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The event also marked the final public engagement for Lisa Marklew, Director of Learning (Arts & Vocational Skills), who retires this month after years of dedicated service. 

“This project reflects everything I love about the college – creativity, collaboration and community. I want to thank every learner, tutor and colleague who helped make our arts programme something we can all be proud of. What a beautiful way to say goodbye.”

Dipa and fellow staff members also thanked Lisa for her contributions. The mosaic project that Lisa directed is a legacy that we all hope will support the college to survive the next 170 years. 

A permanent legacy

With thanks to not only those involved in the visual masterpiece but also to those behind the scenes who supported the mosaic installation and the garden redesign – the mosaic now stands proudly at the front of the college, greeting all who enter with the right sense of welcoming spirit: you belong here, all of you, – and it’s never too late to begin. Aligning with the earlier EDI promises and commitments made by the college this year to promote full inclusivity in the heart of Camden, London.  

We thank everyone who made this project possible and look forward to the next chapter in our journey. WM College continues to stand as a symbol of lifelong learning and community resilience, and this mosaic will serve as a visual reminder of that for generations to come. 

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Your donation will help us provide bursaries for low-income learners, invest in sustainable initiatives, and support the upkeep of our historic Grade II listed building. By contributing, you’ll be helping to preserve a vital community space, expand access to adult education, and support those who need it most. Every donation brings us closer to ensuring opportunities and inspiration for our learners and the wider community.