News
First Student Conference Unites All Campuses for a Powerful Student Voice
Wednesday 26th June marked a significant milestone at Sandwell family of colleges as we hosted our first-ever student conference, bringing together students from across all three campuses (Sandwell College, Cadbury Sixth Form College and Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form). The event aimed to amplify our students’ voices, providing them with a platform to share their perspectives and contribute to shaping our colleges communities.
Graham Pennington, CEO and Principal of Sandwell family of colleges attended and expressed his excitement about the conference. “It was inspiring to witness our first ever conference and hear from the students themselves. Their enthusiasm and insights are invaluable as we aim to create an inclusive and responsive educational environment”.
Raza Hussain Spoken word Artist and former Cadbury Student joined us as our guest speaker who spoke about his journey and his home City Birmingham. Additionally, Tarenpreet student president of Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form and Central Campus and Bilal, student president of Cadbury Sixth Form College shared their personal thoughts and journey at the college.
A key highlight for all attendees was the breakout sessions where students had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions which had a particular focus on the family of colleges values; Respect, Responsible and Ready, the content of tutorials and mindfulness. The students were able to delve into these core values, exploring their relevance within the community. The feedback from these discussions will play a key role in guiding our future initiatives.
We are already looking forward to next year’s conference as this year’s event has set a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration between students and the college ensuring student voice remains at the heart of what we do.
National Recognition for College’s Health & Wellbeing Support
The Sandwell Family of Colleges – of which Cadbury forms part – has been recognised for its commitment to Health and Wellbeing support at the annual Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA) awards.
The Health and Wellbeing category specifically acknowledges initiatives and programmes that prioritise the mental and physical wellbeing of the college community, including students and staff. We are extremely proud to announce that we have been awarded recognition for our dedication to Mental Health & Wellness.
Principal and Chief Executive Officer Graham Pennington said: “We’re delighted to be recognised for our mental health and wellness initiatives. I’m incredibly proud of the extensive and tailored support we have in place across The Sandwell Family of Colleges to support our learners, staff and the wider community with issues surrounding mental health and wellbeing. The impact is enormous and real, and it’s all made possible by the passion and commitment of individual staff members who work so hard to remove barriers and realise potential. It’s a real privilege to lead a College with mental health support truly at the heart of its culture and it’s encouraging to see the positive impact we are making year on year. This achievement is down to the tireless efforts of so many of our staff whose commitment and dedication is unwavering.”
Every year, the SFCA provide this sector-wide opportunity and select a small number of providers nationally, who shine within eight areas of work. This is an invaluable way to share the successes of the sector and celebrate the achievements and impact of individual Colleges.
Culture Day and One World Make Summer Unity Fest a Hit
Cadbury Culture Day and One World hugely contributed to the success of Summer Unity Fest – a celebratory week across the Sandwell family of campuses for everyone to unite, reflect and have fun.
Culture Day was an incredible day filled with cultural exchange, interactive quizzes and delicious food at our Cadbury campus. We then joined with Sandwell College to celebrate the festival week with a showcase of diversity, talent and togetherness at the annual One World event. Central Saint Michael’s very own A Level Science lecturers Dr Ross Cooper and Dr Avtar Singh also performed a duet on the vibrant main stage.
A host of talented artists and performers performed on the colourful main stage, from Wen Sheung dancers, Eternal Taal drums, Giddah, Kathak, Ecuadorian, Columbian and Congolese dancers to K-pop, street dance, storytelling and Afrobeat, and so much more besides, while learners and lecturers wore their national and regional dress.
A series of speakers opened the inspirational event, including Principal and CEO Graham Pennington and Councillor Ahmed Bostan. Stalls were also selling a wide variety of handmade crafts and gifts and serving delicious food from around the world.
One World Organiser Manjit Johal said: “This event is a fantastic opportunity for us all to come together and celebrate our global community. Every year we make One World a more memorable one.”
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Cadbury Sixth Form College proudly hosted its Freshers Fair to welcome in new and welcome back current students.
The inclusive induction event, organised by Senior Student Support and Community Liaison Manager Madison Shanahan and the Student Support team, was a fantastic opportunity to welcome both our new lower and upper sixth students and provide them with a day filled with engaging activities and the opportunity to make valuable connections.
Students had the chance to meet representatives from various universities and local community organisations, including West Midlands Police, Pure Gym, Roshni Birmingham and many more.
Fun activities included inflatable games and an ice cream van, which created a lively atmosphere. Our Sports and Arts departments also organised exciting activities that allowed students to showcase their talents and interests. The day was a resounding success, with an amazing turnout and superb feedback.
Deciding where to continue your education is a big milestone for both students and parents. Cadbury Sixth Form College is here to make that decision easier with two upcoming Open Days – Thursday 10th October, 5-7pm and Saturday 12th October, 10am-2pm.
Our Cadbury open days offer prospective students the chance to explore the college and facilities, ask questions, speak to teachers and get a true feel for what life at Cadbury Sixth Form College is all about.
Talk to Teachers and Current Students
One of the key benefits of attending our October Open Days is meeting the people who make Cadbury Sixth Form College’s community. Our expert and dedicated teachers will be on hand to discuss your course interests and help you find not only the courses you enjoy, but the course which can help lead you to your chosen career path. Whether you’re passionate about Science, the Arts, Psychology or History, we have it all and the list goes on with over 50 A Levels, BTECs and T Levels to choose from.
Equally important is the opportunity to connect with current students who will be available throughout the day. They can give you honest insights into what it’s like to study at Cadbury Sixth Form College, student life and extracurricular activities.
Feel for Campus Life
Cadbury Open Days give you the chance to explore world-class facilities including our new Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths Centre, the modern classrooms and vibrant social and study spaces. It’s the chance for you to envision yourself here and experience day-to-day student life.
Supportive and inclusive
You can meet our inspiring teams of tutors who go above and beyond to not only prepare Cadbury students for the transition to university, but to also help them build a strong skillset for the workplace, within a supportive and enriching environment.
So Sign Up Today!
Now is the perfect time to kick-start your future career plans ready for when you join us as a student. Open Days are designed to give you all the information you need before courses start in September. Don’t miss out on your chance to explore Cadbury Sixth Form College, ask questions and take the next step towards your future.
Have you signed up to our Open Day and wondering how you can make the most out of your time here? With so much to see and do, we’ve pulled together our top tips to help you get the most of your experience.
- Meet current students: get the lowdown!
Ever wondered what student life is like at Cadbury Sixth Form College? Now’s your chance to find out by talking to our current students. Whether it’s about the freedom of college life, course choices or even how they use their free bus pass (yes it’s really a free bus pass), they’re there to help you! They’ve been in your position before so will be more than happy to help – they’ll be wearing green t-shirts!
- Choose your perfect timetable
At Cadbury Sixth Form College, we don’t make you choose certain subjects to fit within a timetable. You can mix A Levels and BTECs to create a schedule that fits you and your career plans. That’s right, you can balance the Arts with Science and Biology with Drama. So make sure you ask as many questions about your courses as possible.
- Enjoy the freedom of college life – welcome to independence
At Cadbury, you’re treated like an adult here. This means you manage your own time, choose which subjects to focus on and find the balance between socialising and studying. Make sure you take a look around the campus to find study spaces, hang out spaces, canteen and anything else you fancy!
- Learn about student support – we’ve got your back
Need some extra help with your studies or settling into the change of college life? We have an incredible student support team who can offer guidance, mental health support, learning support and so much more. Be sure to chat to them on the day and how it can help you through your time at Cadbury!
- Free bus pass for all students
One huge perk of studying at Cadbury College is that all students get a free year-round bus pass making it easy to get to college without breaking the bank. At the Open Day, you can ask all about this, knowing your transport costs to college won’t be an issue.
BONUS TIPS!
- Ask about extracurricular societies on offer
- Take notes (whether that’s on a notepad or your phone)
- Come with any questions you want to ask and we’ll be more than happy to help
Not yet signed up? Sign up here: https://www.cadcol.ac.uk/open-days/
