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Science Students Sharpen STEM Communication Skills in BBC TV Studios
A Level Science students from Cadbury got a masterclass in sharpening their communication skills at the BBC – winning a film production challenge.
Going behind the scenes of the live lunchtime broadcast of Midlands Today, students got to meet the programme’s regional news presenter and production team. They were also able to use the studio and had the help of the teams and equipment to script, make and perform their own short film clip.
Cadbury emerged winners of the production challenge, outshining two other school sixth form groups.
BBC STEM Ambassadors, who use or communicate Science in their roles, talked students through the skills needed to become brilliant Science communicators, plus the importance of providing researched, factual and evidenced scientific information to a vast range of audiences for many different purposes.
Cadbury Science Team said: “It really was a fantastic day and the students all got a lot out of it. They were incredibly engaged and gave a lot of smart responses to the ambassadors’ questions and asked insightful questions.”
Deputy Principal Ian Vogel said: “The BBC event looked absolutely incredible – and what a great experience for those students. It will have been inspirational for them and something that they will treasure forever.”
On A Roll: Celebrating Another Successful September Enrolment!
School leavers can aim high and achieve their goals at Cadbury Sixth Form College, with another successful September enrolment well underway.
Highly regarded for its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional teaching standards, our College offers learners the opportunity to excel and develop within their chosen field.
Students at the College celebrated another summer of success this year, with an increase in the A Level pass rate for the third year running. Excellent results were also secured for T Level students, with a 100% pass rate and 85% of students achieving high grades.
Renowned as a centre of excellence for young people, new learners joining Cadbury will benefit from a £6.6million investment to create a brand-new Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Centre on site.
The 1,000 sqm, two-storey STEM Centre will deliver a new technical curriculum, with dedicated suites for Digital Media, Health, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Employee Engagement. Digital learning labs and VR suites will offer robotics and coding opportunities for new T Level and A Level courses, alongside a media suite, a practical healthcare learning space, extended classrooms and flexible study and social spaces.
More than 50 different A Levels, T Levels, BTEC Diplomas and Subsidiary Diplomas are delivered by our specialist faculty. Tutors go above and beyond to not only prepare students for university, but to also help them build a strong skillset for the workplace, within a supportive and enriching environment.
ALL Cadbury students can also benefit from our Mega Deal which offers a free bus pass. Financial support, free meals and free and subsidised activities are also available to students who are eligible.
Julia Stevens, Principal of Cadbury Sixth Form College, said: “Whether students wish to continue to higher education or into the workplace, our team of tutors are committed to equipping every learner with the skills and knowledge they need. With our broad range of A Levels, T Levels and Diplomas, we can create a flexible learning programme that meets the goals and aspirations of every individual.”
Get The Jump: Explore The Different Routes Available To You Now
So you’ve just had your results. What’s next for you?
Whether you know where you’re heading or not, knowing about the different routes open to you is a great place to start.
There are many ways to get your dream job, and T Levels are one of your options.
If you’d like to know what a career is like while you continue to study, T Levels just might be for you.
What’s a T Level?
A T Level is a nationally-recognised qualification for 16 to 19-year-olds that takes 2 years to complete. Leading businesses and employers helped design T Levels to give you the knowledge and skills you need. They’re roughly equal to 3 A Levels.
What you’ll do on a T Level course
You’ll spend 80% of your time in the classroom and 20% on a minimum 9-week placement with an employer. This means you’ll learn what a real career is like while you continue your studies.
The very first cohort of Cadbury T Level students have secured excellent results this year, with a 100% pass rate and 85% of students achieving high grades.
Lucy Webb and Jessica Cartmell both achieved Distinctions.
- Lucy is planning to study Primary Education at Manchester Metropolitan University
- Jessica plans to study Counselling at Newman University
Grades you need to take a T Level
To study T Levels at Cadbury you’ll need GCSE grade 4 or above in Maths and English (plus Science for the Health T Level)
Subjects you can take
Digital Design & Development
Education & Childcare
Health
After your T Level
A T Level is worth the same UCAS points as 3 A Levels. You can use UCAS points to apply to university or another type of higher education. You can also use your T Level to do a related higher level apprenticeship or start your career.
If you’d like to chat or get advice about T Levels or your future, come and see us in campus during our opening times.
Older News & Event Articles
Cadbury Sixth Form College, part of The Sandwell Colleges, has been recognised on a national stage, securing Runner-Up in the Inspirational Project of the Year category at the prestigious National Association of Managers for Student Services (NAMSS) Awards 2025.
The recognition celebrates SafeHaven, a transformative project delivered in partnership with West Midlands Police, which provides a vital safe space for young people in the community. Designed to support local primary and secondary school students, SafeHaven offers a welcoming environment where young people can access guidance, support, and positive role models outside of school hours.
Reflecting on the impact of the initiative, Emma Brannen, Senior Vice Principal, said:
“SafeHaven is a fantastic example of how collaboration can create real change. We know that young people face a variety of pressures, both inside and outside of school, and having a safe and welcoming space where they feel heard, supported, and empowered makes a significant difference. This project is not just about safeguarding—it’s about creating a community where young people can grow in confidence, build positive relationships, and develop the skills they need for a brighter future. We’re proud to work alongside West Midlands Police to provide this invaluable support network for the young people in our region.”
PC Matt Shakespeare of West Midlands Police also praised the initiative, highlighting its role in strengthening community ties:
“SafeHaven is a wonderful initiative that gives young people positive outlets for self-expression and growth. Our collaboration with Cadbury Sixth Form College on this project reinforces our commitment to supporting Birmingham’s youth and fostering a safer, more connected community.”
The award ceremony, which celebrated outstanding student support initiatives across the UK, recognised the project’s commitment to safeguarding and community engagement, reinforcing the college’s role as a trusted pillar of support for young people in the region.
In attendance at the event were Campus Principal Lydia Maher, Project Lead and Director of Student Services Amie Banford, and Madison Shanahan, Senior Student Support and Community Liaison Officer, who have all played a pivotal role in the development and success of SafeHaven.
This recognition highlights Cadbury Sixth Form College’s dedication to fostering safe and inclusive spaces, empowering young people with the resources and support they need to thrive.
Cadbury Sixth Form College – part of The Sandwell Colleges, has officially launched its High Achievers Programme, a dedicated initiative designed to support students who have made a strong start in their education and are eager to excel in their chosen subjects. The programme includes over 60 students this year and provides tailored opportunities that enhance learning, develop leadership skills, and prepare students for their next steps, whether that’s securing places at top universities, progressing into higher apprenticeships, or moving into employment training.
The launch event welcomed Dr. Ekbal Hussain, a distinguished alumnus of Cadbury Sixth Form College, alongside Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and Principal of The Sandwell Colleges, representatives from local universities, and members of the Cadbury Sixth Form College team. Dr. Hussain, who studied Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge and is now a geoscientist at the British Geological Survey, shared his inspiring journey, demonstrating to students what is possible with ambition, dedication, and the right support.
The High Achievers Programme offers students a comprehensive package of support, including specialist academic tuition to deepen subject knowledge, critical thinking, university preparation workshops covering personal statements and interview support, and guidance for higher apprenticeships and employment opportunities. Students will also benefit from guest lectures by industry leaders, resilience training to help them navigate challenges, and leadership development activities that equip them with the confidence and skills needed to thrive in any path they choose.
Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and Principal of The Sandwell Colleges, said: “The launch of the High Achievers Programme at Cadbury Sixth Form College marks an exciting step in our mission to provide exceptional opportunities for our students. We are dedicated to supporting learners in achieving their full potential, whether that means securing places at the world’s top universities, progressing into higher apprenticeships, or excelling in their chosen careers. Having Dr. Ekbal Hussain return to inspire our students is a testament to the calibre of talent that comes through our College, and we look forward to seeing our next generation of high achievers make their mark on the world.”
Lydia Maher, Campus Principal said: “We work with our feeder schools to ensure a tailored pathway for our students. Young people and parents have told us that our personalised approach and enhanced support, trips and visits make a world of difference for our students. We want to capitalise on that and make the most of their time with us at Cadbury and the Sandwell Colleges. As well as this programme we have a number of other initiatives that cater for all our students at Cadbury including specialist clubs, work placements, and great teaching.”
Monica Madriaga, a current Cadbury Sixth Form College student, shared her enthusiasm for the programme: “Being part of the High Achievers Programme is exciting. The additional support and opportunities are really going to help me push my boundaries and aim higher for my future.”
Cadbury Sixth Form College continues to build on its strong reputation for academic and technical excellence, providing students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. The High Achievers Programme will play a pivotal role in empowering students from all study pathways – whether academic, technical, or vocational – to achieve their full potential.
Get more information on the Cadbury High Achievers Programme here
Learners at Cadbury Sixth Form College, part of The Sandwell Colleges, were celebrated for their outstanding achievements at the Learner of the Month awards, presented by The Rt Hon Lord Hunt of Kings Heath OBE and Minister of State of the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero. The prestigious event, attended by Lisa Capper MBE, CEO & Principal of The Sandwell Colleges, was a testament to the hard work and dedication of students who have gone above and beyond in their studies.
The day was filled with inspiration and celebration, starting with a special lunch for the award recipients, followed by an insightful Q&A session with Lord Hunt and Lisa Capper MBE. The session provided learners with a unique opportunity to engage with both leaders, ask thought-provoking questions, and gain valuable insights into leadership, education, and career aspirations. The highlight of the event was the official certificate presentation, where students were recognised for their exceptional academic performance and personal development.
Among the winners was Molly Banks, who stood out for her impressive academic record, securing A grades in all her recent mock exams. Molly’s commitment to her studies and proactive approach to learning earned her well-deserved recognition. Reflecting on her success, Molly said:
“I always make time to work outside of college, whether that’s revising at home or visiting the library. For me, it’s all about staying focused and putting in the effort—it’s good old-fashioned hard work.”
Lisa Capper MBE praised the learners, highlighting their dedication, resilience, and ambition:
“The learners at Cadbury were celebrated for their commitment and dedication to excelling their chosen subjects – this included A levels, T Levels and BTECs. Their futures look very bright as a result of their hard work and I am sure they will go on to forging very successful careers in their chosen field as a result. It was an honour to have Lord Hunt present the certificates today and to share his background and to talk about the opportunities in industry open to them.”
Lord Hunt commended the students for their hard work and aspirations, encouraging them to continue striving for success in their academic and future careers. He also shared his thoughts on the importance of education and lifelong learning, reinforcing the significance of opportunity, perseverance, and ambition.
The Learner of the Month initiative at Cadbury Sixth Form College recognises students who exemplify academic excellence, resilience, and dedication. The event underscores the College’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting learners in achieving their full potential, whether through higher education or career pathways.
As Cadbury Sixth Form College continues to celebrate student achievements, the College remains dedicated to providing a high-quality learning experience that empowers all students to succeed in their chosen fields and beyond.
