WM College Connect: Oct 2025
29 October 2025
Dear Learner
As the days grow shorter and the leaves turn golden, we welcome a new season of change, reflection, and celebration. Autumn not only brings comfort and familiarity but also reminds us of the importance of growth and action.
This month, we proudly celebrate Black History Month under the inspiring theme: Standing Firm in Power and Pride. This is a time to honour the achievements, culture, and contributions of Black communities and to recognise how our shared history shapes our shared future. I encourage you to read my latest blog on our website by clicking here, where I explore how we can all embrace our collective strength and move forward with unity and pride.
One of my personal highlights this term was our Learner Awards celebration on Friday, 17 October. What an incredible event! It was wonderful to see so many of you recognised for your hard work, determination, and passion. Hearing your stories of resilience, ambition, and success was truly inspiring. You are the heart of this college, and every achievement reflects your commitment and creativity.
As you reach the end of the half-term break, I hope you spent this time resting, recharging, and reflecting on how far you’ve come. Return ready to embrace new challenges with renewed energy, enthusiasm, and a continued love of learning.
With pride and best wishes,
Dipa Ganguli OBE
Principal
Planned Works, Achievements & Important Dates
Campus Improvements – What’s Happening This Term
We’re continuing to make improvements to our building to give you a better learning environment. Thank you for your patience during this time!
Window Refurbishment
Window replacement and refurbishment works are ongoing throughout October. The good news? Most scaffolding will be removed over the half-term break.
Main Staircase Repairs
Repairs to the main entrance staircase will take place over the half-term. While some sections will remain accessible, all work is expected to be completed before courses resume on 3rd November.
Safety & Security Updates
Lift B – Fire Evacuation Notice
We’ve been informed of a fault affecting Lift B during fire evacuations and drills only. Notices will be posted near the lift, and we’ll update you once it’s been resolved.
Building Access – Student ID Cards Required
Your safety matters and we have recently updated our security procedures. Please remember to use your student ID card to enter and exit through the main reception gates only. This is now a key part of our updated security procedures.
Level 1 Entrance – Staff Only
The Level 1 entrance is now restricted to staff use. There are new security arrangements in place for staff using this entrance. Learners should use the main reception entrance to access the building at all times.
Level 3 Seating Area – Quiet Space Guidelines
The level 3 seating is a quiet, informal space designed for staff and learners to relax between courses or tasks. The area is not for the purpose of eating meals and therefore we would be grateful if meals are consumed in the cafe.
Thank you for helping us keep WM College safe, secure, and welcoming for everyone!
Staff Spotlight of the Month
Employee of the Month: Barrington Brown
This month, we’re proud to highlight Barrington Brown, our dedicated Curriculum Manager for Business, ICT, and Vocational Skills.
After 18 years in the classroom, I decided to step away from the front line and into management. While I’ve held leadership roles before, stepping into the position of Curriculum Manager for Business, ICT, and Vocational Skills has been a profoundly different experience, one that has challenged me, stretched me, and ultimately helped me grow.
A year into the role, I can confidently say that the journey has been transformative. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated team and receiving unwavering support from colleagues across the college. Their collaboration and commitment have made all the difference.
Of course, I miss the daily interaction with learners—the energy, the curiosity, the shared moments of discovery. But I’ve come to appreciate that supporting their progress through strategic curriculum planning and provision is just as impactful. Behind every timetable, every course structure, and every intervention is a learner whose future we’re helping to shape.
Learning, after all, is a continuous process. It flows both ways: we impart knowledge, and we learn from our learners in return. Their experiences, perspectives, and ways of engaging with content teach us how to be better educators, better leaders, and better humans. No two days are ever the same, and each one brings new opportunities to grow.
The pursuit of knowledge is limitless. The seeds we sow today, through thoughtful planning, inclusive provision, and responsive leadership, will bear fruit in the future. So let’s keep sowing, keep learning, and keep growing.
New Staff Introduction
We’re excited to welcome several new team members to WM College this term.
Sessional Tutors
- Lindsey McLean
- Sarah Ney
- Theo Papadopoulos
- Anna Salamon
- Jade They
We’re also pleased to introduce Spoorthy Shanthappa, who joins us as our new Marketing & Events Coordinator.
And a warm welcome back to Polly Rashid, returning to the College as a Sessional ALS.
Welcome to the team, everyone – we’re excited to have you with us and look forward to working together!
Learners of the Month
This month, we’re thrilled to recognise several learners who have truly stood out through their hard work, dedication, and achievements. We had the pleasure of celebrating their success at the Learner Awards Event.
If you missed the event or want to relive the highlights, click the button below to catch up on all the moments!
Community Partner of the Year
Winner: Kundakala
Resilience Award
Winner: Aimee H
Highly Commended:
Dorys C and Gabriel H
Honourable Mentions:
Aileen J and Rosemary W
Kindness in Learning Award
Winner: Ergun U
Highly Commended:
Aduke H and Amina A
Learning for Work Award
Winner: Shahar B
Highly Commended: Jacob A
Outstanding Group Achievement
Winner: Fashion & Textiles Learners (Portraits of Camden Quilt)
Highly Commended: Confidence with English (Community Offsite Group)
Lowes Dickinson Awards
Overall Winner: Hilary B
Principal’s Award: Simeon P
Exceptional Progress Award
Winner: Mheealden D
Highly Commended: Amy S
Departmental Awards
Creative Arts – Barbara D
ESOL – Mheealden D
Maths – Kaltrina M
Business – Mariam T
ICT – Gabriel H
English – Jake P
Foundation Art & Design – Valerie B
Inspirational Learner of the Year
Winner: Nataliia B
Upcoming Events, Workshops and Campus Activities
Fake or Real?
Join a FREE online workshop on 13th November from 5:00pm – 6:30pm to learn how to spot the difference online with Birkbeck University.
What you’ll learn:
- Why fake news matters
- How to spot misinformation
- Fact vs. opinion
- Tips for better online conversations
- Practice with real-life examples & quizzes
Participants receive a Certificate of Participation from Birkbeck University*
*Subject to registration and workshop attendance
Sell Your Work at the WM College Art & Craft Fair!
Are you a WM College learner who creates handmade work?
This is your chance to showcase and sell your creations at our popular annual Craft Fair!
Tuesday 25 November | 12:00 – 3:00 PM | Ruskin Hall
- Click on the button below to apply for a stall by 10 November
- Share your creativity with the community
- Invite friends and family to come along
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this exciting event and sell your work to the public!
Portraits of Camden Community Quilt Exhibition
3 November – 15 December | Ruskin Gallery
Be sure to visit the Portraits of Camden Community Quilt exhibition, launching in the Ruskin Gallery.
Created collaboratively by members of the WM College community, this beautiful quilt celebrates the people, stories, and spirit of Camden.
Free Entry – All are welcome!
Annual Winter Craft Fair – Tuesday 25 November
Celebrate creativity. Shop unique. Support local talent.
Join us for WM College’s annual Art & Craft Fair, a celebration of the incredible craftsmanship of our learners and staff. You’ll find a wide range of handmade items including:
Textiles | Prints | Jewellery | Woodwork | Ceramics | Glass and more!
It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts or get ahead on your Christmas shopping, with affordable and original pieces available for sale.
Tuesday 25 November | 12:00 – 3:00 PM | Ruskin Hall
Free Entry – Open to the Public, Entrance via Camden Road
Cash and card accepted
Extras on the Day:
Fabric Sale – Bargain wool, fabric, and fleece tops (perfect for felting) in support of the Fashion department.
Drop-In Workshop – Make your own festive decoration (12:30–2:00 PM) – no booking needed!
Mark your calendar and come support WM College’s creative community – you might just find something truly special.
Catch up on the Latest News and Blogs
Stay in the loop with the newest stories and insights. Click on the links below to read more.
Support, Wellness and Adjustments
Sexual Harassment Awareness
At WM College we are committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment for everyone. This edition of our learner newsletter focuses on sexual harassment: what it is, who can be affected, what to be mindful of and, crucially, how you can get support.
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature which violates someone’s dignity or creates an intimidating, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for them. It can include verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct, and can occur online or offline.
Examples include:
- making sexual comments about someone’s appearance, body or clothing
- asking intrusive questions about someone’s sex life or sexual orientation
- unwanted sexual jokes, taunting or innuendo
- displaying sexual images without consent or sharing them
- unwanted physical contact (for example, unwanted hugging, touching, brushing)
- sexualised gestures, staring, leering
- sending sexual content via messages, social media or email
Even a single incident can qualify as sexual harassment if it has the effect above.
Who can be a victim (or target) of sexual harassment?
It’s very important to recognise that anyone can experience sexual harassment, regardless of gender, age, background or role. For instance:
- Learners (students) of any age, on-site or online.
- Staff, tutors or other learners.
- People of any gender, sexual orientation, or neurodiversity. Guidance emphasises that behaviours may overlap with issues of discrimination or bullying.
- It might be peer-to-peer (learner to learner), or by someone in a position of authority or someone you don’t know.
- The behaviour might happen in a classroom, on campus, in placements, socially, or online.
Because of this breadth, it is vital that you feel empowered to speak up if you experience or witness it.
What to keep in mind – Recognising, preventing and responding
Here are some practical things to think about:
Recognising behaviour
- If something makes you feel uncomfortable, intimidated, degraded or offended because of its sexual nature— that is still worth taking seriously, even if it was “just a joke”. Guidance states that dismissing it as “banter” or “just growing up” risks normalising unacceptable behaviour.
- Behaviour can be subtle: e.g., unwanted looks, sharing sexual images, persistent advances, comments about your clothes or body.
- Online behaviour counts: messages, social media posts, sharing images, video chats—if it’s of a sexual nature and unwanted, it may fall into harassment.
Taking action
- If you or someone else is subject to harassment, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Speaking up is a key step.
- If you feel safe doing so, you could tell the person their behaviour is unwanted and ask for it to stop but you are under no obligation to confront them if you don’t feel comfortable.
- Tell someone you trust: a tutor, a friend, a member of the Safeguarding & Prevent team, or go via the official reporting mechanisms at the College.
Preventing and improving the culture
- Respect others’ boundaries. Think about how your words or actions might make someone else feel.
- If you witness something: you can offer support to the person who may be affected (if safe to do so), or report it.
- Use your voice: contributing to a respectful culture makes it safer for everyone.
How to get support at WM College
If you ever feel uncomfortable, unsafe or simply unsure about something you have experienced or seen, you can contact our Safeguarding & Prevent team as follows:
- Email: safeguarding@wmcollege.ac.uk
- If you are on campus and need immediate help: speak to your tutor, your Curriculum Manager, or go to Reception and ask to speak with a member of the Safeguarding Team.
- For further information and guidance you can visit “Safeguarding for Learners” on the College website: https://www.wmcollege.ac.uk/information-advice/safeguarding-for-learners/
You deserve to learn and work in an environment that is safe, respectful and free from harassment. If you are feeling uneasy about a situation or know someone who is, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It is not your fault, and you have the right to support.
Together, by staying alert, respectful and caring for each other, we help make WM College a place where everyone can thrive.
Take care,
Safeguarding & Prevent Team
Careers – Workshops, Events, Job Fairs, Jobs
Next Steps Event – Explore Your Future Opportunities.
Wednesday 12th November | 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Maurice Hall, WM College
Join us for our Next Steps event, where you can connect with Universities, Recruitment agencies, Employers from sectors including: Hospitality, Care, Design, Security, Housing and more!
You’ll also find information on: CV and employability resources, Apprenticeships and Local employment support
Stay Updated on Opportunities
- Visit our iLearn Page weekly for new job listings, free visits, and exciting opportunities.
- Check the Noticeboard by the café for updates on trips, CV drop-in workshops, and lunchtime employability sessions.
- Subscribe to our Next Steps newsletter. for a regular round-up of: External job fairs, CV support, Career events and more!
What’s On in the Local Community (Camden)
Looking for things to do in Camden? Discover local events, exhibitions, performances, and creative opportunities through Love Camden, Camden Council’s official guide to arts and culture.
Learner Testimonials, Feedback and Success Stories
Learner Success Stories – Celebrating Achievements This Month
At WM College, we’re proud to celebrate the incredible progress and achievements of our learners. Each success reflects hard work, determination, and the supportive community that makes our College such a special place to learn. Here are just a few highlights from this month!
GCSE Success – Results Above National Average
Congratulations to all our learners who completed their GCSE English and Maths this year! We’re thrilled to share that our College’s results were above the national average, a fantastic achievement that reflects your dedication and the commitment of our teaching teams. Whether you were returning to study after a break or balancing studies with work, your success is an inspiration to others aiming to achieve their goals.
Foundation Art & Design Learners – 100% University Offers
A huge well done to our Foundation Art & Design (FAD) learners! Every student who applied through UCAS received an offer from their first-choice university. This is a tremendous accomplishment and a testament to the creativity, talent, and hard work shown throughout the year. We can’t wait to see the exciting artistic journeys you’ll embark upon next.
Young Learner Gains Experience at the House of Parliament
We’re also celebrating one of our Young Learners, who has been offered an exclusive work experience placement at the House of Parliament. This unique opportunity provides an inspiring insight into the world of politics, public service, and national decision-making an experience that will no doubt shape their future ambitions. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!
ESOL Learner Builds a New Career Path
Finally, a big congratulations to one of our ESOL learners, who recently achieved their certification to work in construction. This qualification opens the door to new opportunities and demonstrates the power of learning new skills and language to progress in life and work. What an amazing step forward!
Each of these achievements showcases the diversity of success across WM College from academic excellence and university progression to personal growth and new career pathways.
Well done to all our learners – we’re so proud of you!
The Learner Gram
Learner Awards 2025 – Celebrating Success
We’re proud to celebrate our amazing learners at the WM College Learner Awards 2025!
From academic achievements to personal growth, this event highlights the inspiring journeys of our students.
