WM College Connect: Feb 2026
25 February 2026
Dear Learners,
February half-term marks the halfway point of our academic year. By now, the rhythm of college life is well established, induction feels long behind us, and we’re not yet in the busy summer term of exams, final projects, and exhibitions. The spring term is often thought of as the calm one, but behind the scenes, it’s actually when we plan what our courses, services, and opportunities will look like for the next academic year.
As many of you may have seen in the news, there has been no new government investment for colleges like ours, which means we face some tough decisions. One of these is the need to increase course fees. I want to reassure you that we’re doing everything we can to balance this by offering more interesting courses, longer terms, and extended opening hours where possible, to better meet the needs of all our learners.
At the same time, we’ve had to make some reductions—such as shorter opening hours for the Library and Learning Centre. These changes are not ones we want to make, but they are necessary in the current funding climate. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate these challenges together.
I also want to say a big thank you to everyone who participated in the Macmillan Coffee Morning and joined in with our enrichment activities earlier this month. Your involvement helps build a warm, supportive community here at WM College, and I hope you’ll continue taking part in the events and opportunities we offer.
February is also LGBTQ+ History Month, an important time to celebrate diversity and reflect on the contributions of LGBTQ+ communities. In addition, we are entering the Lunar New Year, and this year we welcome the Year of the Horse—a symbol of energy, independence, and ambition.
With that spirit in mind, I wish you all a happy and restful half‑term break. Look after yourselves, enjoy the pause, and come back refreshed for the second half of the year.
Dipa Ganguli OBE, Principal
Updates, Planned Works, Achievements & Important Dates
Important Update: paying for materials at the college for your creative/visual arts course
We’re pleased to let you know that card payment terminals are now available in:
- Room 112 – Jewellery Room
- Room 802 – Print Room
What this means for you
- You can no longer pay for materials at Reception or in the Enrolment Room. All payments for materials must now be made directly in Room 112 (Jewellery) or Room 802 (Print).
- Payment must be made by using a credit, debit card, or contactless payment via mobile phone.
Please note: payments for course fees will continue to be taken in the enrolment room and reception as per usual.
Policies and Reminders
Arrive on time, start strong
To help everyone learn well, please arrive on time. If you arrive late, it will be recorded. You may also miss important learning at the start of the lesson.
Thank you for helping to create a good learning environment for everyone.
Staff Spotlight
Meet Zahra
We’re delighted to welcome Syeda Zahra, who joined WM College at the beginning of the year as a Learning Assistant, based in the Library and Learning Centre. Her preference is to be called Zahra.
In her role, Zahra works closely with learners, offering support with learning resources, digital tools, and day-to-day troubleshooting assistance. She is passionate about helping learners feel confident, engaged, and supported throughout their studies.
Zahra takes great pride in contributing to learners’ progress and success and values being part of WM College’s supportive and inclusive learning community. She is committed to creating a welcoming environment where learners feel respected and encouraged, and she looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with colleagues across the college.
Please join us in giving Zahra a warm welcome when you see her around!
Learner Spotlight
Meet Laura
Laura’s journey at WM College has been all about exploring creativity, learning new things, and just having fun. “I’ve always loved coming to Camden. It’s such an interesting place, and the college has such a welcoming vibe”. Over the years, she’s dabbled in everything from music courses and jazz nights to painting, portrait classes, and writing. “The tutors have always been amazing, so talented and inspiring,” she adds, and their support has helped her grow in confidence and creativity.
Laura’s journey has included performing in concerts on clarinet and singing, writing a music drama about Sir Isaac Newton, self-publishing five poetry books, and showing her artwork in local galleries. “Learning here has been really good for my mental health; it gave me something to get up for and a place to be myself,” she says. She even got help tackling tricky parts like music programming and still managed to collaborate with others and bring her ideas to life.
For Laura, WM College is more than just a college. “It’s a place where you can always be yourself, meet amazing people, and try new things”. The friendly atmosphere, creative freedom, and supportive tutors have helped her turn challenges into achievements and keep exploring her creative side.
Catch up on the Latest News and Blogs
Macmillan Fundraiser – 4 February 2026
Thanks to everyone who helped make the recent Macmillan Coffee Morning on 4 February 2026 such a memorable success. From setting up and baking to attending, serving, tasting, and most importantly, donating, your support made a real difference for such an important cause.
Well done and thank you all for your generosity and teamwork. We have raised £441. We couldn’t have done this without you!
Stay connected with what’s happening across the college by exploring our latest stories and blogs. Visit our News & Blogs page to discover updates, features, and inspiring moments from our community.
Support, Wellness and Adjustments
Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness Session – 11 February 2026
Our recent women-only Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness Workshop was a great success. It was encouraging to see such strong engagement from our learners, with open discussions, thoughtful questions and supportive conversations throughout.
Creating a safe space for women to talk about health helped build confidence around screening. Thank you to everyone who attended and took part. Remember, early detection saves lives. Please book your screening with your GP or local NHS service if you’re eligible.
Have an idea for a workshop? You can suggest one on your own or with classmates. If you’d like to help run a session, we’d love to hear from you too.
Email learnerservices@wmcollege.ac.uk with the subject line: Workshops and Events Learner Suggestion.
We also have a short form to sign up for health-related activities with Camden. Click here to submit your interest.
Careers – Workshops, Events, Job Fairs, Jobs
Next steps event – 4 March 2026
We are running our bi-annual Next Steps Event in Maurice Hall on Wednesday, 4 March, 11 am – 4 pm. Come along to meet recruiters, business set-up experts, unis and companies offering shift work while you learn, plus others offering more permanent opportunities.
CV workshops
As always, we hold two CV workshops a month in the library for us to take a quick look at improving our CVs. Keep an eye on the Noticeboard by the drinks machine for more dates and of course, keep checking the Next Steps page on our website – new jobs and info each week.
What’s On in the Local Community (Camden)
Camden is full of life this February, with plenty happening just a short walk or bus ride from WM College. Here are a few worth knowing about:
Community Kitchen and Warm Space
- Thursdays, 3.30 pm to 6.30 pm
- St Pancras Community Association, NW1 0LB (opens in Google Maps)
Enjoy weekly sessions offering a free hot meal and new activities for children and families.
Community Open Day
22 March 2026, 10 am to 5 pm
The Postal Museum, WC1X 0DA (opens in Google Maps)
- £1 per person for Camden and Islington residents
Take a ride on Mail Rail and discover the history of the postal service with your family and friends. Join the Jolly Postman to deliver the post in a magical storytelling experience inspired by Janet and Allan Ahlberg’s much-loved book.
Camden Mobile Health Bus
Friday 27 March 2026, 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm (women-only sessions
The Dome Youth Club, NW5 4NU (opens in Google maps)
- free, drop-in
Come to The Dome for a free health check-up with the Camden Mobile Health Bus. Services include diabetes risk assessments and other health screenings.
For more information, email Jhakkir at jhakkir@qcca.org.uk or call 07859 879452.
Lunar New Year event
Sunday 1 March 2026, 1 pm to 4 pm
Calthorpe Community Garden, WC1X 8LH (opens in Google Maps)
- free, food included
Come and celebrate the Lunar New Year in Calthorpe Community Garden in King’s Cross. There will be fun workshops, performances, and a barbecue.
Health and Wellbeing Awareness at Somers Town Community Centre
10 – 12 March 2026, 11 am to 4 pm
Join and enjoy free exercise, workshops, acitivites and talks related to health.
For more information, email sonia@thelivingcentre.org
National Events Taking Place
Month of Ramadan
Ramadan is a holy month in Islam when many Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, pray, reflect, and give to charity. The dates depend on the sighting of the moon. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and charity. Dates depend on moon sighting.
Learner tips:
- Be mindful that some classmates may be fasting (no food or drink during daylight hours).
- Energy levels can vary, kindness and flexibility go a long way.
Lent – 18 February
Lent is a 40-day period in the Christian calendar leading up to Easter. It is a time of reflection, prayer, and preparation, when many Christians choose to fast or give something up as a way of focusing on faith and spiritual growth. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at Easter.
St David’s Day – 1 March
Celebrated on 1 March, St David’s Day honours the patron saint of Wales.
Did you know?
The daffodil and leek are national symbols of Wales. You might see people wearing one with pride!
International Women’s Day – 8 March
Get involved:
A global day celebrating women’s achievements and raising awareness about gender equality.
- Shout out to an inspiring woman in your life.
- Learn about women pioneers in your subject area.
Wear purple to show support.
Neurodiversity Week – 17–23 March
A UK initiative celebrating the strengths and talents of neurodivergent people, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more.
Top tips:
- Different minds work in different ways—embrace varied learning styles.
- Ask about reasonable adjustments if you need them.
St Patrick’s Day – 17 March
Ireland’s national day, celebrating Irish culture and heritage.
Fun fact:
The shamrock is a key symbol linked to St Patrick.
Learner Gram
Got something to celebrate? We want to hear about it
Learner Gram is your space to share your stories, achievements and special moments with the WM College community.
You could send us:
A fun photo from your holiday
A picture of you enjoying a restaurant visit
Something creative or productive you’ve been working on
A workshop you’ve delivered
A professional photo celebrating an achievement
A proud learning milestone
Big or small — if it matters to you, it matters to us!
How to get involved
- Send your photos or stories to: Learnerservices@wmcollege.ac.uk
- Please include the subject line: Learner Gram – Learner Newsletter
- It would also help us if you could add in the email that you permit us to use your content for marketing purposes.
Important Information: consent to use
By sending us your content, you are permitting WM College to share it in:
- The learner and staff monthly newsletter
- Social media platforms
- Other college marketing materials (digital and print format)
All submissions will be reviewed before being published. WM College reserves the right to decline or remove any content that is inappropriate or not suitable for our platforms.
We can’t wait to see what you have been up to — get involved and be featured in the next edition!
