SCOLA

27 January 2012 - Message from SCOLA's new Director of Curriculum

2012-01-28T03:14:00.000-08:00

I am extremely delighted to be able to say how welcomed and impressed I have been by the warmth, friendless and support that I have received from SCOLA staff during my first week at SCOLA.

Personally, I have found colleagues to be extremely helpful, positive and engaging, which has been a tremendous pleasure for me to know that I am joining such a supportive, fun and dynamic team.

I have met a good number of colleagues this week and will continue to meet other colleagues during the coming weeks, especially those who are working in the outreach centres. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to thank you for the kindness that you have shown me.

I have worked in the education and skills sector in senior roles for over 15 years, in various colleges such as Havering, Westminster Adult Education Service, Newham College and more recently, South Thames College. I passionately believe in adult education and how we at SCOLA can powerfully transform the lives of those whom we serve.

I hope that this is a start of a long and successful journey at SCOLA.

Eileen O'Gara
Director of Curriculum and Quality

11 January 2012 - Arnie Skelton (Effective Training & Development) on SCOLA!

2012-01-11T09:32:00.000-08:00

Comments from Arnie Skelton - Effective Training & Development - "I’ve worked with over 100 FE colleges in my role as external trainer, and without doubt, SCOLA is in my list of top 5 favourites. Why? Here’s a few reasons, all in evidence last week, as I spent two days with the College and its staff:
- The standard of friendliness and courtesy shown by everyone, always, wherever I am, and whatever I’m doing
- People remember my name! This week, as I arrived, the receptionist said ‘”Hello, Arnie, nice to see you again..” – fabulous…
- People seem genuinely pleased to see me (even if they are not!), and take an interest in me, my work, my interests and my family. Geoff Kenward and I could talk for hours about our shared love of Tommy Cooper…..
- Everyone is always so helpful. I am constantly being asked “is there anything I can do for you?”, and when there is – it is instantly delivered. Just prior to one of my courses, I asked if Jenny Sims could get me a rope or a length of string…she got me both (so I could have a choice). And I never want for the offer of a cup of tea, or coffee. Nothing – nothing – is ever too much trouble
- People do what they say they will do. They turn up. On time. With the right materials. Trust me, that is, by most college standards, amazing…
- People willingly volunteer. This week I asked a senior manager if he’d speak to a potential student – “no problem” – even though it was clear Kevan was busy….
- People make sense of and apply, the learning I am hoping to provide. People like to tell me of the things that have stuck, and also (more importantly) the things they have put into practice. This week, for example, several people have not only said they enjoyed the sessions, but have also reminded me of what I have said, and how they intend to use it. A couple of people have already discussed their TFGs with me….it is fabulous for a trainer to see the impact the learning is having…
- It’s not just about me, though, and that’s the killer point. Whenever I visit a college, I informally carry out a mystery shop – how is it as a customer experience? And SCOLA always passes my inspection with flying colours. Students are treated courteously, and with respect; there is usually something going on to celebrate some student or staff achievement…the atmosphere, the mood, the spirit, is always good
- SCOLA is inventive: there’s always something fresh or new to see….this week it was the PRIDE documents, including the cartoons of the senior management team….everyone seems to be looking for, and finding, something new, fresh and exciting to add value to this College and the learner experience
- Above all, perhaps, and unlike (unfortunately) most of the colleges I go to, the staff here seem to want to be here, and want to work hard and well for the student success. I have never heard a moan or groan, a whinge or gripe, about students, or the college, or the community – or whatever. The mood is unfailingly upbeat, positive and pleasant: thanks to each and every one of you, for making this visitor feel very welcome, and for making every visit a delight…."

It is wonderful to hear comments like this about SCOLA from external providers!

11 January 2012 – Principal attended SFA London Skills Investment Statement Briefing

2012-01-11T09:25:00.001-08:00

New challenges, new chances: The Skills Investment Statement 2011-2014: Investing in a World Class Skills System was published on 1 December 2011. The Statement sets out the key policy objectives and operational drivers for the Further Education and Skills sector for 2011-2014. SCOLA’s Principal attended a briefing on the Statement which was delivered by the Directors of Relationship Teams for London, Jill Lowery and Clare Arnold today.

16 December 2011 - Congratulations to NIACE!

2011-12-15T16:39:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to David Hughes (CEO) and NIACE (National Institute for Adults Continuing Education) for achieving the EFQM Commitment to Excellence accreditation. SCOLA is also on a journey to excellence and looks forward to applying for recognition sometime in the future!

7 December 2011 - 'Getting Started' Internet & Email course at SCOLA

2011-12-07T03:50:00.000-08:00

SCOLA’s Principal visited the Internet & Email ‘Getting Started’ course which is being held at the College’s North Cheam Centre. The Principal regularly visits SCOLA’s outreach centres and enjoys seeing the progress that students are making. When meeting this class who had been shown how to set up an email account, the Principal emailed the students and received this response:

“I have enjoyed the course, the weeks have flown by and now just one more week to complete I have certainly gained more confidence using my computer at home. I have applied for the follow on course commencing in Janaury 2012. Pam is a good tutor who makes her course understable and humourous.”

It is good to hear from students on how they are progressing in their classes and makes my job as Principal of SCOLA so worthwhile and rewarding.

29 November 2011 - Internet & Email 'Getting Started' classes

2011-11-29T07:34:00.001-08:00

Recently the Principal, Saboohi Famili, visited Pam Coleman-Smith's Internet & Email 'Getting Started' class at SCOLA's North Cheam Centre. Each student were set up with their own emaill address and the Principal sent them each an email saying that she had enjoyed meeting them and that she hoped that they continued to enjoy their studies at SCOLA. She invited the students to take the time to share their views on how their learning experience at SCOLA could be improved. A good way for sharing views would be to join the Student Focus Group and the students were encouraged to join if they were interested in doing so. One of the students responded to the Principal's email as follows: "Thanks for the interest taken. I have benefited from the course, thanks to the good tutor. I have enrolled on the 'Getting More Involved' course".

The students were wished the best of luck with their studies.

29 November 2011 - Blog that Book! Article published in RaPAL

2011-11-29T02:55:00.000-08:00

An article, written by Susan Aldridge, Senior Lecturer for Skills for Life English & Maths at Sutton College of Learning for Adults (SCOLA), has been published in RaPAL (Research & Practice in Adult Literacy) Volume 75. The article entitled 'Blog that Book! - An exciting new literacy project at SCOLA' explains the concept of 'Blog that Book' as a simple idea based on the national 'Six Book Challenge' run through local libraries. Students were able to develop their digital literacy by sharing their book reviews on a blog. To view 'Blog that Book' blots please visit the SCOLA website where you will find a link to the site. http://www.scola.ac.uk or visit www.scolabookbloog.blogspot.com

29 November 2011 - SCOLA represented at the BQF Winners Conference

2011-11-29T02:41:00.000-08:00

SCOLA’s Principal and Deputy Principal attended the 2011”Winning with Excellence” Award Winners Conference on 29th November at IET Savoy Place London – the conference featured many of the Winners of the BQF National Awards.
This unique event featured speakers from the following 2011 BQF Award Winners:
• Bishop Burton College - winner of the UK Excellence Award
• Co-operative Banking Group - winner of the BQF Achievement Award for Process Improvement
• CooperVision - winner of the Lean Six Sigma Award
• Phoenix Futures - winner of the BQF Achievement Award for Leadership
• The Probation Service - winner of the BQF Gold Medal for Excellence
• Siemens Industry Automation & Drive Technologies - winner of the UK Excellence Award
• Skanska UK - winner of the BQF Achievement Award for Sustainable Future
• St Anne's Primary School - winner of the UK Excellence Award
• Virgin Trains - winner of the BQF Achievement Award for Customer Satisfaction
All of these organisations have demonstrated exceptional performance and this event brought them all together to share the secrets of their success for the first and only time.

23 November 2011 - SCOLA Principal attends HOLEX event in London

2011-11-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

SCOLA’s Principal, Saboohi Famili, is attending the Holex Event today, which is including a presentation from OFSTED on the HMCI Annual Report on 2010/11: this will primarily focus on "ACL" inspection findings, but will also include reference to wider OFSTED judgements on the FE/learning and skills sector's performance over the last year. Discussion will also take place around key issues that have been raised by the “strategic dialogues” that have been held with adult learning providers. A summary will be given of the key announcements made by Ministers at the recent AoC Conference, as well as input from the SFA Funding Policy Team. This event is customarily a significant highlight in the HOLEX year: an opportunity both to look back and take stock on past performance, and to begin to get to grips with future government priorities and SFA strategic intentions.

15 - 17 November 2011 - Principal and Deputy Principal attend the AoC Annual Conference 2011

2011-11-15T07:12:00.001-08:00

The Principal and Deputy Principal of SCOLA are attending the Association of College’s Annual Conference where they will participate in a dynamic programme that will address the key issues facing the sector. They will enjoy a three-day revamped programme with unbeatable access to key sector speakers; participate in high quality breakout sessions with variable delivery styles; network and share best practice with over 1700 sector colleagues; celebrate the sector's achievements and relax with friends at the Gala Dinner. They will also have the opportunity to visit a variety of student showcases demonstrating some of the best skills that our sector has to offer and hear from Beacon Colleges about their award winning practices.

10 November 2011 - LSIS Regional Policy Seminar

2011-11-10T15:05:00.000-08:00

The Principal and Deputy Principal attended an LSIS Regional Policy Seminar entitled Shaping and realising the vision for the future of FE and skills, the purpose of the seminar was to provide a forum for sector leaders in their regions to:

• consider emerging perspectives about the role and purpose of FE and skills in the evolving context of greater freedom and devolution;
• explore the implications of different visions and purposes within the regional and local context;
• discuss the implications for LSIS services and consider how LSIS might support sector leaders in realising these future roles and purposes; and
• inform LSIS’s strategic planning, including identifying further development, prototyping, research and evidence needed to support the sector into 2012 and beyond.

28 October 2011 - SCOLA Principal attends the WEA Conference in Nottingham

2011-10-27T17:42:00.000-07:00

SCOLA’s Principal attended the WEA Conference 2011 in Nottingham on 28/10/11 at the East Midlands Conference Centre, University of Nottingham. The conference and workshops focussed on Equality, Inclusion and Action in Adult Education.

At the heart of the WEA’s mission has always been a commitment to widening participation in adult learning: enabling people to realise their full potential and campaigning for every adult to have the right to do so.

After a keynote address which was delivered by John Hayes, Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, delegates were able to attend four sessions through the day from a choice of twenty. Formats ranged from addresses by speakers in the main theatre to participative workshops. Attending were published authors, bloggers and leaders within the adult learning sector and beyond, as well as examples of outstanding practice from within the WEA.

27 October 2011 - SCOLA Principal attends NIACE AGM

2011-10-27T07:21:00.000-07:00

SCOLA’s Principal attended the NIACE (National Institute of Adult Continuing Education) AGM which was held in London today! The Annual General Meeting provides NIACE members with an opportunity to make their voices heard in shaping the debate on the future of adult learning. NIACE aims to encourage all adults to engage in learning of all kinds.

20 October 2011 - Horace goes to pilates

2011-10-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

Horace’s nose twitched. He smelt the scent of
Autumn, the falling leaves and the snitch of cold
in the air. A ray of sunshine had hit the hedge
under which he had been hiding and stirred the
last vestiges of warmth in his bed of leaves. He
stretched carefully and realised that he could not
hide forever. One day soon he would have to go
back to SCOLA. It was a part of his destiny. Despite
his great embarrassment.

The clock repair class had been fine. It had been Olympian in its compass and the company of those who attended and who had been so generous to a small hedgehog. No, it was the Pilates class that had been his undoing. He still glowed redly with the memory of it.

The start had been fine. There was a gentle warm-up where he stretched and squirmed with great satisfaction. He reached for the sky. He dug down into the ground and twisted to his left and his right. He had even successfully navigated the use of big rubber bands to give a little more effort to the stretch. It was when he started to work with the big blue ball that he had encountered problems.

He was sort of ok when he was asked to lie on his front. That gave a good stretch to the base of his spine though he did keep rolling off and having to catch himself before he hit the ground. There had even been one moment when he had been well balanced and able, just for an experiment, to take all four feet off the ground. He had felt as if he was flying, or swimming without water!

No, his downfall came when he was asked to reverse the process and to lie on his back on the big blue ball. It was inviting trouble. He had raised an eyebrow to the instructor to sort of say, “Are you sure?” But they had seemed full of confidence … and .. who was he to question it? But … well, as you can imagine, big rubber Pilates balls and a hedgehog’s spines are not the best combination.

Briefly, things had seemed ok. And then he began to feel that sinking feeling as the spikes penetrated the ball. For a moment, while he stayed perfectly still, he had the illusion that all might be well. All it took was the smallest of movements, a minor re-adjustment, and he began to hear the hiss of air escaping beneath him. He saw the ground coming towards him. He knew it was an illusion and that he was heading towards the ground.

As he sank he thought he heard someone mutter something about, “Hedgehogs!” He did not know if it was a disparaging remark or even if there was a hedgehog or animal equivalent of racism or sexism. But he felt it keenly. Here he was trying to live a life like any other. It wasn’t his fault. The tutor had ok’d it. But he was being blamed just because he was a hedgehog!

The blue ball finally sank to the ground. He tried to roll over to get up. But he was still sort of attached to the ball and it held him firmly in place. The ignominy! He had to wait until someone saw his plight, came over and helped him up. He had to stand quivering on all fours as they pulled the flattened ball off his spikes. He was embarrassed. He felt belittled. He felt that people were pointing and laughing. Whether they were or not, this was how he felt.

When the ball was off, he fled. That evening at home he reviewed his day. He tried to talk about it with his friend Robin but found that he could not. It was too soon, too fresh and too painful. Perhaps in time … …

He recognised that he might have over-reacted. But he was a sensitive being and didn’t like people making comments. How could he possibly go back and have them pointing him out to one another. No, he would just lay low for a while until perhaps they had forgotten. So, was today the day when he should face up to it?

14 October 2011 - UK Excellence Award Winners

2011-10-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

At the UK Excellence Awards 2011 held at the InterContinental London Park Lane last night, the BQF announced the following Award Winners:

UK Excellence Award
• Winner: Bishop Burton College
• Winner: St Anne's Primary School
• Winner: Siemens Industry Automation & Drive Technologies (IA&DT)
BQF Achievement Awards
• Customer Satisfaction – sponsored by Oracle
Winner: Virgin Trains
• Leadership – sponsored by BT
Winner: Phoenix Futures
• Process improvement – sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline
Winner: Co-operative Banking Group
• Sustainable Future – sponsored by TNT Express
Winner: Skanska UK
Lean Six Sigma Award
• Winner: CooperVision
BQF Gold Medal for Excellence
• Winner: The Probation Service
Congratulations to all the winners!

11 October 2011 - Mental Health Open Day

2011-10-12T03:09:00.000-07:00

The centre in Belmont has been open for a number of years, and last year won a bid to refurbish, and have added an extra office/interview space and a larger training room with new computers. SCOLA has had 2 Literacy with computing classes there for the last ¾ years, and also started a progression class at Sutton 2 years ago, for some of the earlier students to move back in to the wider college life. We have been exploring how many of their members would be interested in a maths class and are now ready to actually start a basic class, to help them with managing their money, and everyday life.

The Principal, Saboohi Famili, had the privilege of presenting certificates to various students at the Open Day event.

Chris Jackson
Head SfL English & Maths

11 October 2011 - Two days to go to UK Excellence Awards 2011

2011-10-11T07:22:00.000-07:00

The Principal, Saboohi Famili, and Deputy Principal, Jenny Sims, will be attending the 2011 UK Excellence Awards on Thursday 12 October, at the InterContinental, London, Park Lane. The HRH the Princess Royal, will be in attendance this year. This gala evening will celebrate the 2011 winnders of the BQF Gold Medal for Excellence, the UK Excellence Award, the BQF Achievement Awards and Six LEAN Sigma Awards. This gala evening is being hosted by broadcaster and journalist, Louise Minchin, and will culminate with a cabaret from leading performers of current West End musical theatre productions of Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables.

It promises to be a great evening!

11 October 2011 - SCOLA holds first PIMS session!

2011-10-11T06:40:00.001-07:00

The first PIMs session of this academic year is being held at SCOLA's North Cheam Centre tomorrow, Wednesday 12/10/11 from 3.15 – 5pm.

The input, participation and brain power of staff is of utmost value. These PIMS sesions, where we are hoping to find creative solutions to some programme and process issues, will be held on a regular basis.

The session is open to all staff but members of CMT are required to attend if available.

The session is run by the Principal and will use creative leadership techniques to reach meaningful, actionable and tangible outcomes.

Barbara Eayrs
Exec Asst to the Principal

10 October 2011 - iPads @ SCOLA

2011-10-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

John Faulkner, Programme Manager and Joanne Barnett, Senior Lecturer for IT, Digital Media and E-Learning, recently attended the 'Future of Technology in Education', a well attended event run by ULCC, aimed at e-learning experts from all over the UK. http://fote-conference.com/wordpress/ . The prominent theme that emerged throughout the day, was around the use of devices such as iPads and smartphones in the classroom and how they can be used to enhance learning anywhere and at any time.

So what is SCOLA doing that is new or innovative to address this topic for their students? The exciting news is that we now have iPads for students' use both to enhance learning in a variety of ways within lessons as well as for wider use at staff and student drop in sessions. Tutors are currently being offered training for using the devices as well as researching the best apps to enhance teaching and learning.

Contact the tryIT centre for details and look out for further exciting open learning opportunities in the next month.

6 October 2011 - Principal attends official launch of the One Planet Experience

2011-10-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

SCOLA’s Principal, Saboohi Famili, attended the official launch today of the One Planet Experience – BioRegional’s new multimedia exhibition, at the BedZED Centre in Wallington, Surrey. The exhibition was opened by David Weir MBE, Paralympic Gold medallist. This is a new interactive exhibition that tells the London 2012 sustainability story to inspire greener lifestyles. London 2012 has embraced the spirit of One Planet Living. If you visit the exhibition you will learn what you can do to save energy and reduce waste, and you will be able to take the challenge to see how many household appliances you can power in the energy velodrome.

4 October 2011 - Congratulations to Jenny Sims

2011-10-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Jenny Sims who assumes her new role as Deputy Principal (Planning and Resources) today, 4th October 2011. My congratulations to Jenny on this well deserved new appointment. I wish her well in this role and I am certain that she will continue to be a valuable member of our College and I know that she will maximise the benefits that the new responsibilities will grant her. I am sure that SCOLA staff join me in wishing her success, enjoyment and both personal and professional achievement in her new role and that you will do everything in your power to support her in moving the college forward during the challenging times ahead of us.

Saboohi Famili
Principal

26 September 2011 - SCOLA Principal completed St Raphael's Hospice Midnight Charity Walk

2011-09-26T02:57:00.000-07:00

SCOLA's Principal, Saboohi Famili and her Cockapoo, Lilia, took part in a 5 mile sponsored midnight walk in support of St Raphael’s Hospice on 24 September. Donations will be gratefully received and Barbara Eayrs will be collecting them on Saboohi’s behalf.

Since 1987, St Raphael's has offered the special skills of Hospice care to those facing life-threatening illness living in the boroughs of Merton and Sutton. The service is completely free of charge, and provides high quality medical and nursing skills, as well as support to family and friends. Medical, nursing and support staff do everything possible to relieve pain and sustain quality of life in an atmosphere of peace and comfort. In each case, Hospice care is tailored to the individuals needs.

By donating to this worthy cause we are able to do a little bit to help improve the quality of life for those suffering from life-threatening illness.

23 September 2011 - SCOLA represented at National LEAFEA in London

2011-09-26T02:55:00.000-07:00

Today Geoff Kenward - Deputy Director of Curriculum at SCOLA represented the college at the National LEAFEA termly meeting on London where members are offered the opportunity to hear about emerging policies, practice and research; meet representatives of key national organisations; come together and engage in dialogue on current issues and send messages to government departments and other agencies.

22 September 2011 - SCOLA attends Talk London event at Secombe Theatre

2011-09-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

Jan Koene and Scott Sherriffe attended a Talk London event at the Secombe Theatre, Cheam Road, Sutton, where Boris Johnson met residents and businesses in Sutton. The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, and a panel of guests took questions from those present on issues affecting the capital, including community safety in Sutton.

Thanks to Jan Koene and Scott Sherriffe for representing the college at this event.

Saboohi Famili
Principal

16 September 2011 – Principal attends HOLEX consultation day

2011-09-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Today the Principal took part in a consultation day designed both to inform HOLEX responses/forward activity and to help members share views on a range of “live” issues our sector faces including the future of OFSTED; Strategic dialogue in relation to the future of ACL and an efficiency Indicators consultation paper.
BIS has published New Challenges, New Chances a consultation paper which intends to promote the government’s main overall aims for adult skills to promote high-quality teaching and learning at all levels of the adult education system; free colleges and other skills providers from as many bureaucratic restrictions as possible in order to allow them to respond more effectively to the needs of their local communities; and secure a fairer balance of investment in skills between the taxpayer, individual learners and employers.
The consultation will close on 21st October 2011. SCOLA will be participating in this consultation. The primary purpose of the consultation is to inform HOLEX responses and our own individual college responses to government.

15 September 2011 - Foodie blog!

2011-09-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

A blog of sorts has been started by two sisters, where they can post food info: recipes, news, anything relating to nutrition, wellness and health. The site is http://yourfoodlife.com/blog
They hope you like it! Lots of you are probably foodies yourselves, so they would welcome your feedback and you are welcome to post anything as well.
We would also appreciate if you would check out and 'like' the corresponding facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Your-Food-Life/242500745794928?sk=wall
Thanks for your support!

14 September 2011 - Government u-turn on ESOL funding

2011-09-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

The government has done a U-turn over the funding of English classes for immigrants. September is always a busy time for colleges as it is the peak time for enrolments. But after a government U-turn on funding for English classes for immigrants (known as ESOL), this year it has been busier than usual. The U-turn has been mostly welcomed by the sector, but it has caused staff in colleges around the country to work really hard to manage the volumes of ESOL students enrolling on courses. A campaign, led by ESOL tutors, against the changes has been running since the beginning of the year and colleges are keen to know why it took so long for the Government to come to a decision.

12 September 2011 - Induction of new staff at SCOLA

2011-09-13T03:59:00.000-07:00

SCOLA’s Principal met with new staff to share the ethos of SCOLA with them. Over the coming months there will be a variety of initiatives and activities that will engage and involve all staff in various exciting and worthwhile projects in order for us to Live with PRIDE @ SCOLA. Staff are being asked to ensure that they consider PRIDE in everything they do. PRIDE (SCOLA’s values – Creativity/Quality/Inclusiveness/Diversity/Integrity - in action) – P is for putting students first; R is for rewarding relationships; I is for inspiring people; D is for delivering excellent service; E is for exceeding expectations. SCOLA is fortunate to attract talented and dedicated professions to join its creative, enthusiastic and friendly team of staff. Those attending the inductions also had the opportunity of meeting the Principal’s pooch, Lilia, who is very popular and makes regular appearances at the college!

12 September 2011 - 24th All Staff Briefing

2011-09-13T03:55:00.000-07:00

Last week saw the Principal holding her 24th Staff Briefing to which all staff were invited. Approximately 70 members of staff attended the two meetings, where the Principal outlined the future plans for the college. Staff had the opportunity to ask questions and to share their views. These staff briefings are a great opportunity for staff to be kept informed on what is happening locally, regionally and nationally.

12 September 2011 - SCOLA is ready to face the challenges ahead!

2011-09-13T03:49:00.000-07:00

The big picture across the education sector as you have probably seen and read is at best uncertain and turbulent. The government’s cuts to the FE sector, and removal of various access schemes such as Aim Higher, or helping-hand programmes as well as the Review of ACL continue to put a huge squeeze on colleges and as a result thousands of the most vulnerable will no longer qualify for help to study. Some curriculum areas have lost their funding, some provision has been cut and other public sector cuts such as libraries are putting a substantial strain on education. At SCOLA we have been working hard to remain focused on what we value most; to be a community college providing excellent quality provision to our learners.

9 September 2011 - Student recruitment surge and hard work of SCOLA staff!

2011-09-13T03:04:00.000-07:00

This week was one of the college’s busiest times for enrolments. The team work amongst both support and academic staff has been evident and it is great to see staff working together so tirelessly as a team so that SCOLA can deliver on our promises and values. Over 1000 enrolments were taken by the dedicated enrolment team at SCOLA. At times prospective students had to patiently stand in a queue, but this was quickly rectified by SCOLA support and academic staff who helped to clear the queue as quickly as possible. SCOLA has many new programmes this year and is always happy to listen and engage with students who have ideas that they would like to share.

8 September 2011 - The Big Event

2011-09-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

SCOLA ran its first annual Autumn BIG EVENT at Manor Park, Sutton, on Saturday 3 September 2011.
The event brought together 15 partners from various areas together and resulted in over 1000 people visiting the different stalls. The Marketing team is seeking official feedback from all involved to ensure that we improve and do what we do best even better next year.

On the day the great sense of team work, the wonderful atmosphere and the positive vibes felt by the volume of people who came and enjoyed the event was a real testament to the success and effectiveness of the college’s efforts. The Principal thanked staff for the time and hard work they put into ensuring the event was the success it was, saying “ I know how much work is involved in arranging an event like this and especially at one of the busiest times of the year for us. I am proud to say that once again SCOLA exceeded expectation and delivered to a high standard. I have already received many positive comments from our partners who mentioned our professionalism and the approachable and friendly manner in which we conducted ourselves and ran the event. A very rewarding and enjoyable time was had by all.”

It was great to see everyone working together in such harmony and with such energy. A true sign of an excellent organisation and a great mark of the mutual respect we have for each other as colleagues, the dedication and commitment we have to the work we do and the pride we take in doing a job well.

8 September 2011 - Thank you from a happy student!

2011-09-08T07:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks and appreciation has been received from Elspeth V. Clarke M.B.E., a student studying at SCOLA. Elspeth wanted to thank those who had contributed to a great course - Spanish A2 - Thanks to ... Caroline O'Reilly (Programme Manager - MFL/Cultural Studies); Jenny Sims (Director); the exam supremos - Rhona Edmonds and Jane Waldman and the super tutors - Alicia and Natalia, as well as the friendly staff on reception and the caretakers who welcomed her in a jolly, friendly way on the day of the exam!

Alicia wanted the Principal to know how much she enjoyed her time at SCOLA - 'it was like a breath of fresh air'.

Thank you to SCOLA staff for making Alicia's experience of SCOLA so memorable!

27 July 2011 - Blog That Book Project

2011-07-27T04:43:00.000-07:00

This Skills for Life project entitled 'Blog that Book' encouraged students to write a review of a book that they had read on a monthly SfL blog. This project needed some incentives to get it started BUT students enjoyed it (much to their surprise I think) and one tutor has already commented that one of her students is already reading and drafting her blogs for next year – fantastic! Student comments we have received are:

“…the first book that I have ever read from start to finish in my life”
“I read this big book and it gave me confidence and enthusiasm with 445 pages and it is so interesting. I want to read more books rather than watch T.V.”
“The book excited me and when I told my husband and children around the dinner table, they said, it was as though I was there.”
“…I wanted to read more and more of this book”
“… now I can read that helps me with my college work and it gives me confidence to read books. Now I know how to write a book review, that makes me happy.”
“I loved The Dare so much that I’m going to read his other five novels.”

This project has improved student's confidence in their reading, writing skills and style, as well as increased their confidence in the use of ICT. For non-library users it has promoted an active interest in libraries, and has also encouraged their imagination and creativity!

Well done!

12 July 2011 - Regional Conversation Meeting

2011-07-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

Today, SCOLA’s Principal, Saboohi Famili, attended the second phase of the regional conversation meetings conducted by Rob Wye, LSIS Chief Executive. This event took place at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North London, Tottenham centre.

The purpose of the regional conversation meeting was to ensure that the LSIS strategic plan provides a robust and balanced statement of priorities for services, support and research and is properly informed by and commands real support from the LSIS Council, and from the sector. LSIS is looking at five broad areas of activity for future investment:
• improving teaching and learning;
• improving capacity for curriculum design and development;
• turning policy into practice;
• enhancing leadership, governance and management; and
• doing more with less money.

This was an informal opportunity to discuss the role of LSIS at national level and across the region.

8 July 2011 - Day 5 at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

2011-07-08T15:57:00.001-07:00

Another great day at the Hampton Court Flower Show despite the weather! The SCOLA stand still looks good and SCOLA prospectuses proving to be very popular with the public! Lots of positive comments and big crowds taking pictures of the SCOLA exhibit by Level 2 Floristry students.
Thanks to Debbie Sykes, tutor, and the Level 2 students for their wonderful exhibit.

Saboohi Famili
Principal

08 July 2011 - Learners speak about what adult education means to them

2011-07-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

John Faulkner, Saboohi Famili and Joanne Barnett of SCOLA presented at the RSC London eFactor Showcase, Senate House, London University.
Despite costing the taxpayer a fraction of the money spent on other educational sectors (schools, FE and Higher Education), millions of learners in the UK benefit from participating in adult education each year. Adult education offers a flexible and welcoming environment in which people can realise their potential. It is often a valuable late option for those whose first experience of education was not a positive one. There are many theories and strategies as to what lifelong learning should be and how it should be funded. Perhaps a good way to start to think about this question is to listen to what actual participants in adult education think.
Here is a selection of short films produced by SCOLA, an Adult Education College in the London Borough of Sutton, in which students talk about what their experience of adult learning means to them:
Basic Skills (2min 38 seconds)
http://www.youtube.com/user/sco1a#p/u/4/l0bb8n-3df0
Teaching and Learning Support (2mins 30 seconds)
http://www.youtube.com/user/sco1a#p/u/2/vucOdoZfM34
Independent Learning and Support (2min 26 seconds)
http://www.youtube.com/user/sco1a#p/u/6/NodZEIHcKfs
Computing and Digital Design (2 mins 46 seconds)
http://www.youtube.com/user/sco1a#p/u/8/gZ6BVepcJzo
Art & Photography (2mins 23 seconds)
http://www.youtube.com/user/sco1a#p/u/9/8nW5FMMPixo
This SCOLA film project was showcased by RSC London at their e-Factor Event on June 28th 2011.
On 28th June 2011 RSC London held an event at Senate House, London showcasing some of the excellent work being done by post-16 learning providers across London. The theme was the effective use of technology and featured presentations ranging from virtual desktops in Bromley Adult Education to advanced VLEs in Haringey, Enfield, and North East London College.

4 July 2011 - SCOLA students at Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

2011-07-04T13:42:00.000-07:00

SCOLA Floristry students along with their tutor Debbie Sykes won a prestigious competition to take part in the Swinging Sixties Floristry & Fashion Show. Their exhibit called “The Swinging Sixties “ which includes a floral guitar and Abbey Road style crossing can be seen at ‘The world’s largest flower show’Hampton Court Palace, Surrey 5–10 July 2011

We hope to see you there!

Angela Williams
Head of Programme - Creative Studies - Arts & Crafts

1 July 2011 - Great feedback from the JISC event!

2011-07-01T16:47:00.000-07:00

The following comments were received after SCOLA presented at the London JISC e-Factor event on Tuesday 28th June 2011.

"I didn't get the chance to see the SCOLA videos on Tuesday, but have been watching them this morning and totally agree with Martin's comments. Nothing so effective as the learner saying why they are learning , what it means to them and where they want to go next. Great advert for SCOLA and for the work of the adult and community sector." - JISC Information Officer

"Thank you very much for presenting at our event.
I would like to disseminate these videos more widely, if that is alright with you.
In all my time in Adult Education, thirty years, we have always had to persuade funders and governments of the value of Adult Education. It seems to me you can give them charts and graphs but nothing is as powerful as hearing learners talk about how their course hastransformed their lives.
Your films do just that. So I will see how we can get more people to see these films.
Keep up the excellent work." - JISC Senior Adviser

Well done to the Principal, Saboohi Famili, John Faulkner and Joanne Barnett

21 June 2011 - Stimulating and Supporting Innovation in Learning

2011-07-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

SCOLA was thanked for presenting at the RSC London e-Factor event on Tuesday 21 June and sharing the excellent work being done at SCOLA.

The feedback on the day was been very positive and the delegates certainly seemed to have enjoyed the presentations.

SCOLA was thanked for sparing the time and contributing to the success of the event.

17 June 2011 - SCOLA Principal's visit to French Level 6 class

2011-06-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

SCOLA's Principal, Saboohi Famili, made a big impression on loyal SCOLA French students (some have attended classes at SCOLA for over 20 years)when she visited their class on Friday. Comments from the students included : "We are very appreciative of your approach to SCOLA's staff and students".

Of their tutor, Daniele de Mori Calderon, they said that 'such a teacher is priceless!"

It is wonderful to know that these students have been enriched by attending classles at SCOLA and thanks to Daniele for providing such inspirational teaching!

15 June 2011 - Signature Teacher of the Year awards 2011

2011-06-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

SCOLA is delighted that Casper Dyne, a teacher at Overton Grange High School and SCOLA British Sign Language Level 2 (BSL) tutor has won the Signature - excellence in communication with deaf people - Regional (South East) Teacher of the Year award. Teachers can make all the difference to a learning experience and this award recognises those who through their drive and enthusiasm, classroom commitment and high-quality teaching have expanded provision, improved access or achieved consistently outstanding results in our qualifications. Regional winners will be entered for the national Teacher of the Year award which will be presented at the evening awards ceremony in London in November.

Congratulations, Casper, on this outstanding achievement!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

14 June 2011 - STEPS & Ways to Work - putting our students to work

2011-06-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

Following on from our recent successful bid for “Effective Support for the Journey from Worklessness to Sustained Employment in Sutton”, we have been putting our students to work in more ways than one. We have to help people on their journey to work establishing good partnership links, paperwork and training programmes in the process.

A pack has been put together by Jan & Jo that comes under the title ‘STEPS – Sutton and Training Employment Providers’. The pack includes a series of individual inserts from a range of local partners who are all working together to help those seeking work to become aware of the many ‘Ways to Work’. It focuses on Advice, Employment and Training options and opportunities on the path to gaining employment.

AS Level Graphic Design students were offered the opportunity of working and inputting on this live brief to help them gain an insight into how a real job progresses. 7 students took part. This showed great enthusiasm and dedication from these students as they were working on their final exam projects at the same time and the workshops were extra to their normal class times.

It was felt that the pack needed to be user friendly, engaging, interesting and accessible to a wide variety of people. It also needed to have a professional feel without being too wordy.

Initially the students each designed some STEPS logo options and the best solution was selected. They then worked on colour choices, possible content and suitable quotations to include. Much consideration was given to the layout and folding methods of the pack and the inserts. The idea of a game of snakes and ladders relating to finding work was included to lighten the feel of the pack. The digital artwork needed to be set up in the correct colours for print, images and logo elements in the correct file formats, with cutter guides, mock ups and proofs supplied for the printer to work from.

I hope you will agree that the students have done a fantastic job. We would like to thank them so much for giving their time, creative and technical skills plus enthusiasm to this project.

Please ask Jan if you would like a pack. They will be going out to all of the partners in the Ways to Work project together with libraries and other suitable distribution points. We will also be looking to others who may want to place additional inserts. Carshalton College has indicated interest for their Apprenticeship programme. If you think of other suitable contributors, let us know.

14 June 2011 - Quilts4london

2011-06-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

Sutton College of Learning (SCOLA) in Sutton, Surrey, have been making pennants to support Quilts4london. This project has inspired many students at the college who have enjoyed designing and making the pennants. 80 pennants have been made and they are currently on display in the Sutton Library. The majority of the pennants have been made by SCOLA Quilters who attend Patchwork and Quilting courses at the Wallington and Sutton centres, with their tutor, Amanda Paul. Other classes in the college have also taken part and pennants have been made by students attending clothesmaking classes and a textile class for adults with learning difficulties.

26 May 2011 - Thanks to team at SCOLA's North Cheam Centre

2011-05-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

As Principal of SCOLA I encourage suggestions and comments from both students and staff alike. What a pleasure it was today to receive such wonderful comments regarding Pam and her team at the college’s North Cheam Centre.
One of our tutors had a busy day ahead of her today facilitating professional discussions for the NVQ Business and Administration Levels 2 and 3 at North Cheam. Despite some technology hiccups, she says the day was very successful and that this was mainly due to the help and support given by Pam and her team. The support had not been requested, but was automatically provided.
This ranged from detailed lists of appointment times printed and posted onto the door, assistance with meeting and greeting learners for appointments to providing the tutor with much needed cups of tea along with lots more. The tutor says that the environment that Pam provided ensured that the business centre at North Cheam indeed lives up to its name and provides a professional and supportive environment.
Well done, Pam and the North Cheam team. Your commitment to the college is very much appreciated!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

14 May 2011 - Family Fun Day during Adult Learners Week

2011-05-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the 20th Adult Learners' Week in 2011, the initiative continues to be the largest drive for learning of its kind - celebrated in over 55 countries across the world. Founded and co-ordinated by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), Adult Learners' Week in England is backed by thousands of supporters.
During this week-long festival of learning, events take place in workplaces, libraries, cafes, prisons, museums and colleges across the country, motivating adults of all ages and backgrounds to take up new activities. Throughout Adult Learners’ Week the achievements of remarkable adults that have transformed their lives through learning are celebrated.
On Saturday 14th May SCOLA held a Family Fun day as part of Adult Learners’ Week, which was a great success. There was great team spirit on the day – from those involved in making posters, standing in the high street handing out flyers and balloons to those overrun with late enrolments in the enrolment centre. Hundreds of families came to see us and we gave out hundreds of prospectuses too!

The day was a great success and we received positive feedback from our partner family support groups who attended the morning event and also the families attending the morning and afternoon sessions.

Parents, grand-parents and carers had the opportunity to gain advice and information on family matters, find out about new SCOLA courses and have a fun time!

The families also took part in activities ranging from music and dance, making a miniature garden and ‘fake wounds and fun first aid’. This latter course caused much amusement as the children and adults were given very realistic ‘fake wounds’ which caused many heads to turn!

Thanks to everyone who gave so tirelessly of their time to make this event the success it was!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

19 May 2011 - SCOLA Reading Evening at the Wallington Library

2011-05-20T02:18:00.000-07:00

When I was invited to attend the Reading Evening being held at the Wallington Library at 7pm on Thursday 19th May, I was very pleased to accept. I am always interested to learn what people think and what they have to say, especially when it comes to our students at SCOLA. There are many ways to express our view of the world and to share the views of others. Reading and writing are certainly powerful ways to share our views.

I was thinking about how I might describe this event to someone else, and was reminded of a project for young readers and writers that a colleague had run. It was called, “Brave New Words”. This seemed to me to encapsulate what the evening was about. Learners had set out on a voyage of discovery. As they develop their skills they open themselves up to the ideas of countless others. At the same time, some may decide to chart their own innermost thoughts either in the form of a poem, a work of fiction or even in the form of an autobiography. It can be a brave step forward, both to commit their ideas to paper (or screen) and even more brave to decide to share them with others.
During the evening students read the pieces that they had written. Some students when starting their course at SCOLA had no reading or writing skills, but were now able to pen touching poems and wonderful stories.

So, bold adventurers of SCOLA, I salute you. I enjoyed hearing what you had to say immensely, and to sharing in your projects as you progress along your journey. I am so grateful for the invitation - it was a great pleasure to have Lord Graham Tope and Cathy McDonough - supporting the event. I’d also like to thank all those who have supported these learners on their journey both in terms of their family and friends, as well as those at SCOLA who are sharing this journey with you.

A very pleasant evening and one that reminds us why we are in the industry we are in and why we do the job we do!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

18 May 2011 - COSLP Best Learner Awards at the House of Lords

2011-05-20T02:02:00.000-07:00

Today I attended the COSLP Best Learner Awards which took place at 3.30pm at the House of Lords at Westminster. Thanks go to Lord Graham Tope for hosting and facilitating this wonderful event.

It was my privilege to introduce SCOLA’s winner of the Best Learner award, Margaret Sparks, to colleagues from various South London Colleges, families and friends of the Best Learner award winners and members of the House of Lords and Parliament. Formerly a librarian, Margaret retired in 2007. She has been studying printmaking with SCOLA for 3 years. She had studied history at Oxford University and originally specialised in basket making. She has always been interested in making crafts and studying part time whilst working. As design and drawing were part of her studies, she decided to attend drawing classes in order to expand her skills to printmaking.

Her tutor, Simon Burder, encouraged her to enter the V&A’s annual ‘Inspired by’ exhibition. Her entry, a lino cut entitled ‘A Medieval Forest’, the first print she has ever submitted or exhibited was not only chosen for exhibition, but also won the ‘Medieval & Renaissance Gallery’ prize and was on display at the V&A in Kensington in November 2010.

At the risk of embarrassing her, Margaret has developed her skills and confidence, becoming a dedicated and committed student. She is a wonderful example of a student using and enjoying retirement to continue to further her knowledge and skills, participating with and inspiring her fellow students, and always being very modest about her achievements.

Margaret says that having her work exhibited has changed the way that she looks at herself and has given her the confidence to develop artistically and most important of all, has made her family proud!

I was accompanied by Angela Williams, Programme Manager – Creative Studies, Art & Design, who works tirelessly to ensure her department runs smoothly and has the admiration and support of her students and colleagues, Simon Burder a dedicated and very encouraging tutor who has been instrumental in Margaret’s achievement and of course Margaret herself who I am sure, enjoyed the proceedings. We were sad that Margaret’s daughter, Hana, was unable to join us to celebrate this event - having given birth to twins in January this was fully understandable. We made sure we captured the event in photographs for her to enjoy.

I must add that my greediness of tucking into not only one, but 2 freshly baked scones did not go unnoticed. Not sure if I am going to live this one down… I guess people will question my munching on celery if they find out about this… better think of an excuse and quick. Any ideas?!!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

01 April 2011 - SCOLA supports Refugee and Migrant Network Sutton

2011-03-31T16:35:00.000-07:00

SCOLA supports the Refugee and Migrant Network Sutton (RMNS)by attending meetings and being kept informed regarding the work that they do. RMNS aims to relieve poverty among, and offer assistance to, refugees, asylum seekers and newly settled migrants living, working or studying in the London Borough of Sutton
They offer: friendship, advice, counselling, English Language classes, food & clothes, crisis support.
Any individual or organisation supportive of the aims of RMNS may apply for membership.
Members may influence the policies and strategies of RMNS in the following ways:
• They are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting and any such meeting where major policy changes are to be proposed and discussed
• They are entitled to vote at any such meeting
• They are entitled to attend any meeting of the Management Committee, by previous arrangement with the Chair, in order to give their views on any issue relating to RMNS policy or strategy.

SCOLA is supportive of the work that RMNS does and wish them well for the future!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

23 March 2011 - Students exhibit at Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

2011-03-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our Floristry tutor Debbie Sykes and her students who have been selected to exhibit in the Swinging Sixties Floristry and Fashion Show at Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 5-10 July 2011.

UK florists and top floristry colleges will be linking to all aspects of the "swinging sixties" with displays, demonstrations and talks, alongside singing sixty themed fashion shows taking place on a stunning catwalk.

Amanda Paul
Snr Lecturer - Business, Management,
Professional & Public Services Manager

18 March 2011 - Making dreams touchable : Poetry, Music and Language Learning

2011-03-18T03:46:00.000-07:00

Scott Sherriff, a tutor at SCOLA, had an article published in the NATECLA News (No. 94 – Spring 2011) relating to a workshop given by Steve Bingham and Jeremy Harmer. The purpose of the workshop was to demonstrate how poetry related activities could be used in a language classroom.
Harmer and Bingham first met through their involvement with an amateur string group. Their ambitious project grew one evening when Harmer started to read some poetry he had written. Bingham picked up his violin and began accompanying. And so this ambitious project grew.
Harmer began by putting forward a passionate argument in support of the inclusion of poetry in language classes. Tutors were urged not to dismiss poetry simply because it sounds difficult. So much of ESOL gets caught up in the functionality of language, but Harmer argued that no overlook the beauty of poetry is to fail to utilise a wonderful medium for facilitating learners’ engagement with a language.
Scott said that he is sure that many tutors left Spring Gardens keen to infuse their language teaching with poetry and music following this uplifting and inspiring seminar.
The full version of the article can be found on the NATECLA website.

18 March 2011 – Interview with SCOLA’s Principal (NATECLA News)

2011-03-18T03:44:00.000-07:00

SCOLA’s Principal shared her views and experiences with NATECLA News. Saboohi said that since taking up her post in May 2010 her completely paper-free office, ipad, blogging, tweeting and fun team-building activities in management meetings had raised a few eyebrows.
One year on she has impressed the staff with her innovative, enthusiastic style land her strong leadership and vision. She is also well on her way to achieving her avowed intention of bringing SCOLA from a good to an outstanding college by the next inspection.
Saboohi shared how she arrived in England 11 years ago as an asylum seeker faced with the prospect of starting her career all over again, having fled her homeland, Iran. As a matter of principle she lives as a resident of the world and as long as she is contributing and feel valued she doesn’t mind which part of the world she is in. This attitude helps her understand some of the cultural differences and enables her to be positive and forward looking.
Saboohi is a great role model especially for ESOL students who are always pleased to see that other people can achieve even though they may not have had English as a first language. She is very much opposed to the changes to entitlement which will affect ESOL from September 2011 and said ‘The cuts simply do not make sense for a progressive nation’.
Saboohi said she misses the nature, the mountains and the welcoming culture of Iran, but that she has a new country now with new friends.

11 March 2011 - EFQM training event

2011-03-11T04:35:00.000-08:00

By the end of Friday Jenny Sims and I shall have spent 3 full days in Central London on an EFQM training event. Working at a very high level on rigorous quality assessment this will provide the ground not only for working with outside bodies but also for improvements across the college. It will form the basis for our quality improvement plans for the next five years. If we are able to meet the standards, we shall be well on the way to becoming the providers of an outstanding service. Together with the Own the Change programme it should form the basis for transforming our managers into leaders for the benefit of all. These are exciting times with a great deal of hard work ahead in a very difficult climate. But the dividends should prove well worth the effort.

Saboohi Famili
Principal

11 March 2011 - Own the Change - Shape the Future

2011-03-11T04:32:00.000-08:00

Own the Change, Shape the Future is taking shape. Groups responsible for the initial delivery are not only learning about the content but also having to find new ways of working with each other. In this way the process also becomes an integral part of the content.
Each group will present an abstract of their work next Tuesday. For this they will have to analyse their message as a coherent whole within the workshop rather than focus on their individual part. This should aid them present their module in a unified way.
There has been some excellent work taking place. There are many good teachers working in fields that are very new to them. It will be exciting to see how it all comes together. The launch event will be on March 23rd and we have invited a number of notables to join us. We want to share this innovative project, but we are also confident that we have something that is very marketable. (If having read this far you do not have a clue what I am talking about, please contact us and we will be happy to explain.)

Saboohi Famili
Principal

8 March 2011 - 157 Group welcomes Wolf’s recommendations for learning accounts and more flexibility

2011-03-09T16:07:00.000-08:00

The 157 Group has welcomed several of the recommendations made by Professor Alison Wolf in her independent report of vocational education, launched this morning.

Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group said, “We believe the Wolf Review affirms the important role of vocational education for 16 to 19 year olds and the successful ways in which FE colleges contribute to this. Although the report is critical of some vocational programmes it is very clear that it is the centralised design of qualifications and the way they have been used by government agencies that is the core of the issue not colleges.

“We have argued consistently for the relaxation of central control of qualifications and so we particularly welcome the recommendation that funding should follow the learner. In our ‘Learning accounts that count’ policy paper, which we published in November 2010, we were quite clear that priorities in the further education system should be based firmly on the informed choices of individual learners and employers, and are pleased to see the explicit reference to learning accounts in Professor Wolf’s recommendations.

“We agree with the recommendations that institutions should be free to offer any qualifications they please from a regulated awarding body, and encouraged to include non-qualifications-based activity; and that young people should have more flexibility in terms of which programme level or type of qualification they can pursue.”

Frank McLoughlin, principal of City and Islington College and chair of the 157 Group said; “We are delighted with the recommendation to make explicit the legal right of colleges to enrol students under 16 and ensure that funding procedures make this practically possible. Many 14 to 16-year-olds thrive in different environments outside school, and we believe that offering provision for them in colleges also makes good economic sense, especially at a time when we need to ensure efficient use of public funding to deliver high-quality teaching and training, with the best possible outcomes for learners. We are pleased that Professor Wolf has endorsed the need for qualified FE teachers to be allowed to teach in schools. This is testament to the professionalism and excellent standards of teaching and learning in FE.

“We need to consider the entire report in more detail, and the government’s response, but there is much to encourage us in our initial reading of Professor Wolf’s findings.”

---ENDS---

---NOTES TO EDITORS---

Professor Wolf’s report on vocational education is available to download at http://www.education.gov.uk/publications/eOrderingDownload/Wolf-Report.pdf

The 157 Group response to the Wolf review consultation is available to download at http://www.157group.co.uk/files/157_groups_response_to_the_wolf_review_of_14_to_19_vocational_education.pdf

The 157 Group Learning accounts that count policy paper is available to download at
http://www.157group.co.uk/files/learning_accounts_that_count.pdf

The 157 Group Real choices for 14 to 19 year olds policy paper is available to download at
http://www.157group.co.uk/files/real_choice_for_14_to_19_year_olds.pdf

---About the 157 Group---

The 157 Group represents 27 of the most influential colleges in the FE sector. It was formed in 2006 in response to paragraph 157 of Sir Andrew Foster’s report on the future of further education colleges, in which he argued that principals of large successful colleges should play a greater role in policymaking.

1 March 2011 - Impact of Family Learning

2011-03-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

I wish to share this valuable testament received by SCOLA's Family Learning Team, which shows the extent of the impact that family learning makes and the skills and expertise of SCOLA's tutors.

"I just wanted to write to say thank you so, so much for the courses you put on for families. They are excellent...outstanding in fact. My son, who is diagnosed with ASD (Autism) has been so blessed and privileged to be able to attend cookery and pottery and the teachers have been very patient and understanding and he has enjoyed the courses very much. He just about engaged with another child at the Wandle Valley cookery course last term and then last Wednesday at St Paul's I saw him interacting (not verbally yet) with another child who wanted to get his attention. It was so good to see this. Also, at cookery he has touched different textures (like in kneading bread etc)...normally he won't tolerate different textures/touch things...for years he wouldn't even hold his own sandwich and he still abhors shampoos and soaps and won't have creams on him etc. So it has been so good for him to touch some different textures and he actually enjoys participating which shows how it has helped his confidence, because normally he would just stand back and not participate in things. He has even tried most of the foods after cooking them, and even found he liked a couple of things he would normally not touch! Even some of the foods he didn't like the taste/texture of, we were so pleased to see him try a very small mouthful of.

So these cookery classes are doing him the world of good. And the pottery class is absolutely wonderful for him too, because he has started to make things out of clay...which means he's touching it and also creating his own piece of work...something I never thought he would do...and he is really enjoying it...so much so that he's talking about it daily and saying "I love pottery. It is my favourite"...it is very rare to hear him express this kind of emotion and enjoy something so much. He keeps asking what we will do at the next session and talking about the objects he has made and asking if we like them and wanting to hear that there are still some more sessions left etc. It is so good and such a relief to see him feeling confident about something and enjoying it so much. It has also been a very welcome relief to hear him talk of something other than bus numbers!

I would just like to say again how good the teachers have been (Fay at Pottery and Polly and Debbie, the cookery teachers), so patient, understanding and encouraging. We are so grateful to be able to do these excellent courses and want to thank whoever sets them up. We are so thankful to SCOLA for running them. We have been very blessed. THANK YOU!"

Saboohi Famili
Principal

Successful Studio Portrait Photography course!

2011-02-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Short Professional Photography Course

The first SCOLA Short Professional Course (SPC) was held on Tuesday 22nd February at the Sutton centre. The intensive one day course focused on studio portrait photography and had been fully booked for weeks before the start date. Tutor Miles Winter covered areas such as lighting, background and setting up cameras as well as shooting sessions on single and group photography.

The course was extremely popular with feedback from attendees including ‘enjoyed!’, ‘will definitely be signing up for more!’, ‘amazing’.

The College will be holding a further SPC in Wedding photography in July. See www.scola.ac.uk soon for details.

Spring Craft Fair

2011-02-23T03:04:00.000-08:00

Saturday 19th February saw over 220 people walk through the main centre doors to attend the first SCOLA Spring Craft Fair. Students and tutors brought a range of handmade, traditional and contemporary crafts to the College including jewellery, stained glass and pottery. Handmade fine foods and treats including chutneys, chocolates and an Italian delicatessen added to the ambience and many an unusual, unique gift was purchased.
Visitors commented on the ‘great atmosphere’ and the ‘wide variety of wonderful jewellery available’ as well as learning more about the College and what we have to offer. The fair was a huge success and was the first of many to follow.
The next fair will be held at our Wallington centre on Saturday 25th June and we will see you there!

16 February 2011 - Sharing poems

2011-02-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

Take the time to read these two inspirational poems by William Ayot

A Doodle at The Edge
Another meeting, another agenda, another
list of buzz-words, initials and initiatives.
PSU is entering Phase Three
while the CDR wants G2 to go to Level Five.
If we go the full nine yards on this one;
if we get pro-active, get out of the box, get
our teams together and on the same hymn-sheet;
if we hit the ground running, if we downsize HR.
if we get the money on board, and our asses into gear,
then we can change something, make a difference,
change what the other guys changed last week.
Meanwhile the god has left the garden,
the muse lies minimised in the corner of our screens.
Not dead, not buried, but ignored and unseen,
like a doodle at the edge of an action plan.
Me? I say make a sacrifice to the doodle;
pick some flowers, speak a poem, feed the tiny muse.
Draw, paint, sing or dance, and you'll bring the gods
back into the board-room; the laughing, smiling,
weeping gods of the night-time and the wild.
William Ayot

The Contract
- A word from the led -
And in the end we follow them –
not because we are paid,
not because we might see some advantage,
not because of the things they have accomplished,
not even because of the dreams they dream,
but simply because of who they are;
the man, the woman, the leader, the boss,
standing up there when the wave hits the rock,
passing out faith and confidence like life jackets,
knowing the currents, holding the doubts,
imagining the delights and terrors of every landfall;
captain, pirate, and parent by turns,
the bearer of our countless hopes and expectations.
We give them our trust. We give them our effort.
What we ask in return is that they stay true.
William Ayot

8 February 2011 - MoLE Workshop

2011-02-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

I will be attending the MoLE Workshop for the next 3 days. The Mobile Learning Environment (MoLE) Coalition Warfare Program (CWP) project will leverage "smart" mobile phones, the global cellular network infrastructure, and emerging mobile application/service models to build a mobile learning (m-learning) capability. That capability will integrate with the United States Joint Forces Command (USJFCOM) Joint Knowledge Online (JKO) e-learning infrastructure to facilitate the sharing of educational content between the US and partners in support of medical stability operations (MSO).

MoLE is based on a requirement by the Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe (CNE)/Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa (CNA)/Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet (C6F) to operate effectively in a large maritime area of responsibility (AOR). The ability to train and communicate with limited internet connectivity and infrastructure is a significant challenge, and MoLE will help by delivering low-bandwidth on-demand training through mobile devices.

Apart form being very excited about this 3 day workshop I look forward to seeing how this platform can be used to improve access to learning from our college. I hope to be able to cope with the amount of 3 letter word abbreviations that I will be introduced to over the next few days. Watch this space for further posts!

Saboohi Famili
Principal

13 January 2011 - Campaign to save ESOL classes

2011-01-13T13:04:00.000-08:00

Jenny Roden and I both attended a meeting at UCU headquarters in Camden on 12 January. The meeting was led by Dan Taubman of UCU and Patricia Sullivan
Of NATECLA (National Association of Teachers of English and Community Languages), along with around 100 supporters from London and several other cities in the UK.

Our country has had a long history of welcoming people from all over the world but in the past few years that welcome has begun to wear thin from our Labour and now Coalition governments. If the proposed severe restrictions on the most disadvantaged migrants, and those dependent on others, go forward, this will mean that those least able to pay for their own fees will be prevented from learning English. Inevitably this means that a college like SCOLA would lose a substantial proportion of its ESOL learners from next September. It also jeopardises jobs for Skills for Life teachers.

It was exciting to be with a group of long standing ESOL practitioners setting up a campaign group that will network all over the country, but the imminent cuts are very real and the implications for both those in employment as teachers, let alone those who will arrive in this country alienated from our culture from the outset, are grim.

Sarah Freeman

9 December 2010 - LLDD Presentation Evening at SCOLA

2010-12-17T16:46:00.000-08:00

How privileged I felt to be part of the LLDD Presentation Evening at SCOLA on 9th December. 104 students received their certificates – students of all ages who have chosen to share their lives and their learning experiences with us at SCOLA. The students have worked hard to achieve their goals and receiving their certificates is evidence that they have done this.

A big thank you to all the unsung heroes of the team who have helped to make this happen – the teachers, the administrators, those who have given their time to drive students to the college, the parents, carers and support workers – the list goes on….

The Mayor of Sutton, Cllr Margaret Court, presented the certificates to the students. Also present was Steven Ingram – a SCOLA Governor and Exec Head of Service Management, LBS, amongst other VIPs. Tom Brake MP had a chance to congratulate students and to share a few words with them about their experiences of studying at SCOLA. SCOLA aims to enrich the lives of people and help them to succeed and achieve their goals and it is fantastic to be part of events such as these.

What a wonderful evening and well done to all the students who received their certificates!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

9 December 2010 - A 'thank you' lunch!

2010-12-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

I attended the AOC Conference in Birmingham on 16 and 17 November 2010 and was so proud of the team from SCOLA’s Complementary Health Department who had an exhibition stand at the conference, giving free treatments to the delegates.

Georgina Benjamin, Consultancy & Training Co-ordinator - AoC Create Ltd - had this to say about Jacqui McElwee (Head of Complementary Health) and her team‟s contribution to the AoC Conference :

“Thank you so much for your contribution at our Conference - it was such a pleasure having you there, and you really brought your stand to life. I hope you and the students found the experience enjoyable, too. I think it was great that your very own Principal got to see you in action!!”

Thank you, once again, Jacqui and your team for representing SCOLA so well at the conference - it certainly did make me proud to be the Principal of SCOLA!

To say thank you to the team I took them to Lunch at the Maneeya’s Thai Restaurant in Carshalton village to thank them for supporting the college in this way and for showcasing their skills. The students who took part spoke highly of their experience of studying at SCOLA, how they have gained self confidence and how their studies at SCOLA have given them a career to follow. Both the students have done their PTLLS and are now teaching at SCOLA.

The food was excellent and there was a wonderful ambiance in the restaurant – a wonderful time was had by us all!

Saboohi Famili – Principal

08 December 2010 - The story of Horace continues...

2010-12-08T06:38:00.000-08:00

Horace awoke with a start. The snow had melted. It was cold, but it was not the snow or the cold that had woken him. A ripple of embarrassment ran through him. His spikes rattled. He recalled the opening to Charles Dickens’ novel, ‘A Tale of Two Cities’. Although he did not have a big tail, for a while he’d been drawn to reading everything that had the word ‘tail’ or ‘tale’ in the title. It was just one of those hedgehog things, you know, searching for your identity, why am I here? The usual. He even remembered a poor joke that someone had recounted based on an old radio programme, ‘Listen with Mother’:
“Are you sitting comfortably? Good. Then I’ll begin. I have a tale to unfold …”
“Well you can’t be sitting comfortably then!”
No, it wasn’t a stunning joke but it was better spoken than read. Anyway, we digress. ‘A Tale of Two Cities’. The opening was:
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.”
Horace felt that he had done all of that! In the past week!! After he had enjoyed himself at the IAG, he’d been to see the nice ladies in the recruitment centre. They had smiled at him and been extremely helpful in enrolling him. There had been a little hiatus regarding the fees however. What do you charge a two year old hedgehog? Should you enrol him at all or should you insist that he goes to school? But all that had been resolved by a very helpful lady named Jenny. She seemed to know everything about everything. She’d rattled off rules and codes and statistics whilst talking simultaneously to six other people without a hint of impatience. It was bewildering but it had resolved his problems and he was happy. A good start.
Even better was when he went to the clock repair class. It was at the top of the building so he had to take the lift. He couldn’t reach the buttons but he found a walking stick and waved it around a bit until he hit the right button. To an outsider it might have looked a strange sight, a small hedgehog thrashing around in the lift with a walking stick. Someone once said, ‘The ends justify the means.’ I think it was probably Machiavelli. Trotsky then said, ‘The ends determines the means’. Anyway, it worked.
Arriving on the second floor he found the door and went in. It was marvellous. It was fantastic in the true sense of the word. It was another world. There tall men and short men, fat ones and thin ones. There were men with beards and men without, men with glasses and men without. It was all men but, he recalled, not once had they talked about football. Remarkable! Refreshing.
They had all turned to look at him as he entered, but in a kindly and curious way. No-one had commented on his being a hedgehog even though you probably don’t get many in the average clock repair class.
They showed him where to sit and even piled up some books for him so that he could reach the bench. They seemed very impressed when, as he was dismantling his clock, he stored the various cogs on the prickles on his forehead. They didn’t laugh when he sneezed and the whiplash sprayed cogs all around the workshop. They had tutted sympathetically and helped him to retrieve them all, even going down on their hands and knees to look in the dark places under the benches. One of them had a sort of miner’s lamp on his forehead that was really useful for that. They had all said things like, “Ah well, these things will happen.” and other phlegmatic comments. Yes, these clock repair people were a race apart. As was the tutor! He was so knowledgeable, so self-effacing and he had a really good sense of humour. Just what Horace enjoyed.
No, these clock men in the sky really had their hands on time. They were Olympian. When he left at 9.00pm he wondered if they all actually stayed there. If he opened the door any night in the week, would they still be there managing time and ready to turn and greet him again? It was another world. Did they organise the difference between night and day? Did time speed up or slow down as they took their clocks apart and re-assembled them? Did their pendulums cut the holes in the sky that let the rain in? (What was the plural of pendulum? Perhaps that was for a later class.) No, the clock world was great. It was the Pilates where he had had problems.

(To be continued.)

25 November 2010 - Learning & Skills Research Network Conference (LSRN) - London

2010-12-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

25 November 2010 - Learning and Skills Research Network Conference (LSRN) in London -Travelling together: evidence for practice in the Learning and Skills Sector.
Building confidence with digital technology: a collaborative action research project focusing on the use of Flip Video cameras to reflect on practical teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (LLS)
The object of the presentation between Canterbury Christ Church University Senior Lecturers Noelle Graal, Jane Evershed and I was to share the key findings of a collaborative action research pilot project on the use of Flip Video cameras to reflect on practical teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (LLS). My participation was to offer a sense of where this work had taken me and my learners since I joined the project two years ago whilst in my second year of the Diploma in Teaching in the LLS (DTLLS).
The filming of one of my French classes was the beginning of a deeper self-evaluation and enabled me to understand the meaning of critical reflection. Having seen myself teaching, I was able to adjust my practice much faster developing and using more learner-centred strategies as personal targets such as "voice on and voice off". As my learners and I had greatly benefited from watching and discussing authentic case studies and videos, I felt it was important to encourage others to do the same and recorded a podcast that students would be able to listen to on the university virtual learning environment with the aim of perhaps considering doing the same.
Since September I started teaching a new group of DTLLS students and in order to build confidence and trust among them and overcome anxiety, I made a conscious effort to plan activities into my lessons using technology so they too could potentially become digitally literate and confident in using Information Learning Technology. They saw first hand how videos can be used as an alternative method of informal and formal assessments or record achievements and how all learners were engaged and included.
As the purpose of LSRN and the annual conference is to encourage collaboration and mutual support, and having been involved in the construction of the Channel Tunnel, I concluded my presentation with a photograph of another great feast of Franco-British engineering: the Viaduct de Millau, the highest bridge in the world crossing the river Tarn in the South of France and designed by Norman Foster. It said “videos allow us to record our journey between our learning experience and its understanding so we can reflect more effectively”.
Our workshop had evidently attracted attention as it was full. Many conference participants could see applications of this device in their context such as observations, tutorials and professional development. It was good to see that later that day when attending another workshop on how to decide whether to pursue a Ph.D. or D.Ed. a participant was interviewing eminent professors including the inspirational Professor Yvonne Hillier, so she could inform her learners.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank many people here. First of all Sutton College of Learning for Adults (SCOLA) for providing continuity in my studies from learning English as a foreign languages over 25 years ago to completing my DTLLS and Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) this summer. This journey would not have been possible without my colleagues and mentors at Canterbury Christ Church University, Jane and Noelle and of course my family who gave me the time and the space to develop this.
But most of all, I would like to thank my students.
Je tiens tout d’abord à remercier toutes celles et tous ceux venant à mes classes de Français avec dans leurs bagages leurs expériences, leur bonne humeur, leur personnalité et leur défi, leurs espérances et leurs attentes. Merci d’avoir bien voulu participer à mes initiatives parfois singulières tout en me donnant la confiance et les moyens d’aller de l’avant depuis 10 ans, surtout dans mes moments de profondes incertitudes personnelles et difficultés professionnelles.
Mais aussi, my current DTLLS students, thank you for allowing me to use a Flip Video in my practice this autumn. I do hope that you will be considering its benefits and perhaps recording your learners’ journey with yours. Consider innovation, creativity and independence so you too, can become researchers and contribute with your own perspective as subject specialist to new heights in our profession and our society as a whole.
Danièle de Mori Calderon
Senior Lecturer
Sutton College of Learning for Adults (SCOLA)
Teacher training, Foreign Languages and Cultural Studies

25 November 2010 - Learning & Skills Research Network

2010-12-03T08:13:00.000-08:00

During the nineties I was working for CETS (now CALAT) and it was drawing on a lot of European Social Funding which meant there was a lot of contact between ourselves and European partners so I think this would imply the same.
Quite a lot of visits took place.

All the possibilities for SCOLA seem to be under the programme called GRUNDTVIG which as Sue points out is in Section 4. I think there are quite a lot of openings there which could be tapped into such as:

" motivating individual learners to commit to learning, including through guidance services, out-reach strategies, awareness raising campaigns, validation of non-formal and informal learning, appropriate teaching and learning approaches and partnerships with enterprises; �� using ICT, e-learning and the media to widen access to adult learning; �� developing alternative learning approaches to integrate or reintegrate marginalised and disadvantaged citizens into society and the labour market."

But as I was following through the links in some of the small print to a document which is called LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAMME, GENERAL CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2011-2013 http://ec.europa.eu/education/policies/adult/com558_en.pdf,
I noticed that
the emphasis on establishing partnerships is stressed again and again, and this includes working with other stakeholders and on a local as well as national and international level.
Really, it seems there is a great deal of scope.

Sarah Freeman - Tutor (SCOLA)

02 December 2010- Adverse Weather continues

2010-12-02T10:04:00.001-08:00

An even heavier snowfall overnight meant that we had to cancel the classes at all our centres for the second day running. I was also unable to get to the Niace conference - Colleges in the community - that was to be held in central London. The aim of the conference was to report on the strategic role colleges can play and the added value they bring in leading adult learning and serving local communities at a time when colleges are taking responsibility for the shape and balance of educational offer to their locality. On this the 3rd day of a frozen transport network in the Capital it meant no trains going out of Sutton this morning. Some of us however managed to get to work. This included my puppy Lilia who refused to go back to the house after her morning walk and made her way to the College with me! Enjoying the walk in the snow we arrived looking like snowballs! Lots of staff had managed to get in to work and they gave Lilia the warmest of welcomes! Jo Fowler from the SCOLA coffee shop greeted us with her scrumptious Bacon Sarnie's courtesy of SCOLA as a thank you to those who had braved the storm - in many cases literally!
The forecast for 3rd of December seems to be less snow but very cold. We are planning to have classes running at the Sutton Centre tomorrow. Fingers crossed the weather doesn't take a turn for the worse.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

01 December 2010- Chamber of Commerce Breakfast meeting

2010-12-02T09:49:00.000-08:00

In almost knee deep snow and icy conditions, it was ambitious to think many people would be able to make their way to the Sutton Chamber Breakfast event held at the Holiday Inn - Sutton. But there was a nice gathering of businesses ready to share their views on Cameron's initiative - the Big Society and to explore what it means for Sutton. It was disappointing that Paul Burstow MP of Sutton and Minister of State for Care Services, was not able to join us. However, we made the most of the event and SCOLA and the Chamber agreed to form a small working group between education and business to come up with a framework that will enable us to make better sense of the Government's Big Society. It became obvious as many attendees expressed they felt there wasn't enough information from the government on the initiative and lack of confidence that this would do much good. We all felt that we needed a better understanding of how this could be achieved, what it would look like and how Business could benefit from it.
There is clearly a role for Education and Training if the Big Society is to manifest itself in civic action. SCOLA have a big role to play. As Sutton's community college and a leading provider of Adult Education it is our duty to help educate the community and to take charge and make decisions. From our point of view the Big Society is to empower civic action to take place with the purpose of improving community life. There are caveats in this sentiment. We need to make sure we do not duplicate or lose the quality of the community engagement activities that already exist. For it to work, training will play a huge role, as will clear and regular communication. SCOLA look forward to hosting and leading on this venture.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

30 November 2010-Back to Brrrrrrilliant Britain!

2010-12-02T09:25:00.000-08:00

What happend to the very pleassant 25'C experienced in Gran Canaria?!!! Landed at Gawick after a delayed flight to be faced with heavy snow and freezing temperatures! Staff and students had to be informed that because of the adverse weather conditions a decision would be made about whether or not to cancel classes - staff and students alike were kept updated via the college website. During the course of the day the snow got thicker and thicker and it seemed very unlikely that we would be able to have students safely travelling to our outreach centres. During the next few days we kept a watchful eye on the weather and updated the notice on the website. The safety of our learners comes first in everything that we do. I was pleased to see so many colleagues making the effort to get to work despite the weather - some walking over 6 miles! We also had many who could not get to work who called in to say they would work from home. Excellent to see such high spirits and dedication on the part of the staff.

I visited Caroline Salters' class which is based in a local resource centre - the course supports students with mental health difficulties working to improve their basis computer skills in a small group. On arrival at the centre, it was amazing to see that Caroline had her students waiting outside the centre ready to learn and keen to show me how they have learnt to use the computer to research their favourite topics and improving their writing and reading skills at the same time. One of the students, John, is a musician and he told me his story about playing his music in Japan and how skillfully he had learnt to play his guitar, which he can play with either his left or right hand. Margaret, another student, said she had enjoyed doing research on the Origins of Christmas online and despite a nasty fall she had endured earlier in the term, she was keen to type up her report to put in her portfolio.

That evening we decided to cancel all classes - many colleagues were stranded for hours when trying to travel home. A long day for many. Let's hope as a country we get to a point that we can be better prepared! Haven't I heard that somewhere before?

Saboohi Famili - Principal

29 November 2010- Flying to the sunshine

2010-12-02T08:51:00.000-08:00

One of the advantages of booking things online is that you can do this anytime of the day or night. After a few hectic weeks in Oct and Nov I felt it was time to recharge my batteries. Looking for a short break at midnight resulted in bagging a very reasonable holiday to Gran Canaria. If you haven't been it is worth a visit. The most facinating aspect of the trip was meeting a gentleman in his mid 70's at the Bay of Mogan who epitomised what we are doing at SCOLA. He was on a bench by the sea listening to his music and chatting with friends online. When I curiously asked him what he was doing he said he co-ordinates various talks through Skype for those who are interested in world music. He continued to explain that he had been an IT novice a few years back and recently had learnt how to use Skype by attending a short class at his local community church. He said he cannot remember how he got in touch with his friends across the world before. He said: "I can now be anywhere in the world and still keep in touch and for free. Isn't it Marvellous!" I said, "Marvellous indeed" and walking away from him I thought how technology has changed the way generations think and interact. On the flight back I was thinking we should run and iPad club. With Christmas approaching many lucky people will receive an iPad as a gift and would need to learn how to use it. My mum is on the list waiting to see if Santa thinks she has been a good girl this year or not. I should check with Rita, her excellent Flower Arrangement tutor, who she speaks very highly of! Considering she is 79 and so very active she ought to be in Santa's good books....

Saboohi Famili - Principal

24 November 2010 - Newcastle College Group event

2010-11-26T04:46:00.000-08:00

The Newcastle College Group’s mission is to develop people through learning and achievement for the benefit of themselves, society and the economy. Their focus is on meeting national and regional education, skills and employability needs for individuals and the skills priorities of employers in-line with Government policy. They deliver high quality education, training, employability and work-based learning solutions to thousands of organisations and learners throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

I attended a sharing good practice event held by them on Thursday 24th November. Over 60 colleges and organisations attended this briefing where Dame Jackie Fisher, the Principal and Chief Executive of NCG, alongside her executive team, shared their experience from acquiring a poor performing college to becoming one of the largest and most influential organisations in the sector over the last 10 years with an accolade of awards and kite marks to demonstrate the determination of the college to achieve outstanding provision and sustain its status for over 6 years.

It was a truly inspiring event and clearly demonstrated how excellent leadership will lead to innovation, creativity and ultimately results of success for all!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

23 November 2010 - Winning bid!

2010-11-26T04:45:00.000-08:00

We have just been informed that our application to LSIS – Flexiblity and Innovation Funding – has been successful! The project title of the bid is “Effective Support for the Journey from Worklessness to Sustained Employment in Sutton”. The project will start in January 2011 and continue until September 2011.
Delivery of high quality employment targeted support, embedding multiagency advice and training where participants will achieve personal goals. The Skills Profiles for workless participants will demonstrate, efficiently and effectively, to employers and training providers, the capabilities and learning needs of disadvantaged, unwaged clients using the collaborative network of the consortium.
The project has four main aims:

1. Promote effective cohesion between service providers in the consortium who are not currently formally linked, leading to a holistic, efficient service for unwaged clients ready to access work.
2. Provide the most appropriate service combination for clients with an Access to Work course including specialist advice, guidance and progression opportunities from the providers in the consortium at each stage - before, during and after the course. This would ensure each client is at the centre of a personalised learning opportunity with support from a wide range of specialist agencies working and communicating together
3. Develop a profile tool so clients will have their Functional Skills and key work skills assessed once by a provider as a start of a personal profile which all key providers in the Borough would use to avoid duplication of services and target better use of resources towards front line delivery.
4. Promote work preparation courses for disadvantaged clients seeking work opportunities based on realistic preparation including self-presentation and communication skills. The courses will contain a range of topics designed to promote long term well being and encourage clients to engage on their journey towards active citizenship

We look forward to working together with the consortium - EcoActif; Job Centre Plus; Sutton Mental Health Foundation; Sutton Citizen’s Advice Bureaux; Skills Centre Limited; Sutton & District Training and Sutton Centre for Independent Living & Learning (SCILL) - to ensure that the aims and objectives are met.

Well done!

Saboohi Famili – Principal

24 November 2010 - My visit to the prison!

2010-11-26T04:41:00.000-08:00

On 23 November 2010 I accompanied Julie Hills – Senior Lecturer – Skills for Life, English Language – to the Highdown Prison to attend the a graduation ceremony held at the prison. The Governor of the prison, Peter Dawson, recognises what it is means for his staff to undertake a courses like this and lays on this event where the learners can be presented with their certificates and enjoy a moment of celebration.
SCOLA has been delivering a PTLLS course to prison staff for just over 2 years – a total of 5 courses with 12 students on each one. These are staff who either deliver training to their colleagues or who are actually teaching the prisoners. The course is done extensively over 7 weeks which is a challenge to the learners as they juggle full time work, family and study, especially as many have not been in a classroom for many years. To achieve this qualification is a real accolade for them. All who are involved in this journey with them are delighted and proud of their commitment and perseverance to reach the goal!
It was wonderful to hear how Julie, who teaches the PTLLS course, is so highly thought of – well done Julie!
The lunch served to us at The Clink restaurant at the prison was cooked to perfection. The waiting staff and chefs are all prisoners who are working towards their NVQ Level 3 in hospitality and catering. The meal was truly scrumptious!
It was a wonderful occasion and a good opportunity to get the name of SCOLA heard in the restaurant packed with onlookers, many of whom were just there for a quiet lunch. This was a wonderful opportunity to extend our work with Highdown. On the day I had the opportunity of meeting Julie’s son, John, who is involved in an business relating to entertainment. SCOLA likes to engage with new businesses like his in order to bring new ideas to SCOLA – so watch this space!
Saboohi Famili – Principal

16 Nov 2010- Our Principal’s recognition of achievements

2010-11-19T07:40:00.000-08:00

At the AoC conference this year during the Network for Black Professionals Annual General Meeting , Robin Landman the Chief Executive of the Network for Black Professionals congratulated our Principal for her achievements over the past few years in the sector.“We are proud to see another member of the network reaching higher accolades. Those who know and worked with Saboohi know that this is well deserved and join me in congratulating this inspiring leader and wishing her the very best in her role as the Principal of SCOLA.”
Saboohi Famili started in her new post as Principal of SCOLA in May 2010. The first woman under the age of 40 to hold this post, she brought with her a reputation for energy, enthusiasm, entrepreneurship and a strong consultative and inclusive approach to her work. Saboohi came to England in 1999 after facing political difficulties in her country in Iran. She has worked in a variety of educational sectors and has been a member of the network of black professionals since 2005. With her engineering education, she has strong analytical skills and a good eye for detail. She has lead a variety of successful projects and teams during her career and proven an inspiration to many BMAE colleagues and students.”
Previous to her role as the Principal at SCOLA Saboohi worked at Thames Valley University where she set up and ran their FutureSkills programme, the strategic business arm of the university designed to create meaningful partnerships between Business and Education. With a budget of £8 million allocated for three years and employing a staff of 32 this new unit rapidly became known for its creative and forward thinking work. Saboohi took a high profile lead in this, meeting the Queen early in the development of the programme and, at one point, being despatched to China to take a lead role in a business conference involving government ministers and very influential business leaders.
Saboohi believes in an open door approach and will be seeking to consult staff and students in ways to expand, develop and improve the service that SCOLA offers.
Saboohi said: “Working at SCOLA has been one of the most rewarding career moves I have done to date. I am very impressed with the number of hard working dedicated tutors and support staff who deliver Education in Sutton. There is clearly a strong basis on which to develop the existing strengths whilst experimenting with new ideas.”
As funding regimes change and further and adult education struggles to finance its work, Saboohi will clearly face many challenges which she is familiar with, having previously worked at Carshalton and other FE colleges and HE institutions. She is already leading on a large consortium of colleges and businesses in South London where she pulled together to bid for government funding under the LDA-ESF Jobs Plus opportunity. If successful, this will bring in a £9.75m investment to 9 Boroughs in south London. She has a strong track record of working in partnership and an innate ability to think outside the box and implement innovative ideas.
As a resident of Sutton she is intent on ensuring that the Borough and neighboring communities have the best possible Education service that it can offer for its residents. She is keen to work in partnership with colleagues and to explore ways of improving the effectiveness and efficiency of services available. She is a keen promote of equality of opportunity and already made her mark in the borough by hosting a variety of cultural and awareness raising events at SCOLA.
Saboohi said “ I am proud to be a member of NBP and grateful for the support and encouragement I receive through the network. I have benefited from the Shadowing Scheme organised by NBP prior to my appointment as the Principal at SCOLA and rate the service provided outstanding.” She feels it’s the duty of every individual to promote equality and celebrate diversity and improve the chances of BME community to access higher level jobs. She is in the process of introducing a mentoring and coaching scheme at SCOLA to support succession planning and promotion at the College.
You can contact her on future@scola.ac.uk

18 November 2010 - Tom Brake MP visits SCOLA

2010-11-19T07:27:00.000-08:00

Tom Brake, Lib Dem MP for Carshalton and Wallington visited SCOLA on Thursday evening, 18th November. He had set himself the task of addressing the public on the impact of the Comprehensive Spending Review. He did this very ably demonstrating a sound grasp of all the issues on which he spoke.
Topics addressed included university fees and the related question of promises made on the campaign trail and how they relate to the reality of being in a coalition government. He spoke on tax, the magnitude of the debt and the debate about how fast it should be paid off; benefits including housing benefit, the education of young people and graduates, Europe and the EU; how far the experiences of Greece and Ireland impinged on decisions made; localism and the ‘Big Society’; civil liberties, libraries and legal aid. As you can imagine, the meeting ran slightly over the 1½ hours scheduled, but not so much as to leave anyone unduly concerned.
The well publicised meeting attracted about 50 people. Saboohi put two questions on behalf of SCOLA. A good percentage of people attending the meeting spoke and there was no sense of it being dominated by one or two people with an axe to grind. It is questionable if anyone changed their minds as a result of the meeting, but we were certainly all better informed.

Thanks go to Jan Koene for chairing the meeting and ensuring the smooth running of the session. Thanks also to SCOLA caretakers for setting up the arena and guiding participants as they arrived.

SCOLA endeavours to fulfil its duty as a platform for the community to engage in local and national issues that matter to them and we will be hosting future events where politicians and councillors will be invited to respond to the concerns of the community.

Wish you had been there!

7 November 2010- Sunday @ SCOLA!

2010-11-12T06:04:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful day it was. I registered for an Introduction to Egypcian Dance and persuaded mum to come along to an Intro to Pottery. Very enjoyable and definately worth going to. As well as learning I had muscles I never knew I had! I learnt a lot about various instruments that are used in eastern music, about the history of the dance and the various cultures in the arab world and how they manifest themselves in art forms such as dance. We all got individual attention and learnt the basic moves. It was a great success for the College and yet another example of excellent team work and effort. Well done!
I think mum might join the next pottery course! You never know!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

6 November 2010- Lilia's 1st Birthday!

2010-11-12T05:24:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that my little puppy is now a year old! Like a proud mum I invited her friends for a birthday bash at the Oaks Park cafe. I went through the hassel of making a doggie cake for them which disappeard in a flash!

Mad I might be! Fun it was definately. Anyone up for a dog walking club? It would be fun! Let me know if you are up for it and we can organise something. I am sure! Kasumi will be looking at putting on a summer fair - perhaps we can have a scruff show?! Views? Please let us know!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

5 November 2010- Submission of Jobs Plus Bid

2010-11-12T05:23:00.000-08:00

Some of you may have seen white smoke issuing from Saboohi‟s office this morning at about 11.00am. It was not a precursor for bonfire night, nor the election of a new pope. It was the completion of the drafting of a bid for an LDA ESF co-financed Jobs Plus programme that would bring an award £9.75M for delivery. SCOLA has been the lead body on the bid in the process securing and co-ordinating the input of partner organisations. To get to this level in the process SCOLA had to pass two initial exploratory stages. These narrowed the field to twenty. If SCOLA is successful at this level we will progress to the final 3. The final outcome will then be determined at interview.
To complete the bid involved responding to 40 questions. This produced some 65 pages of material that had been devised, revised and refined. The final bid document with attachments amounted to 2767k bytes when sent. Writing it involved long hours of intense concentration, imagination and creativity. We were not experts when we started but have learnt a great deal on the way. Any of you who have tackled bids will be able to understand what a gargantuan task this has been. Saboohi‟s fizz combined with Jan‟s calm and Barbara‟s ability to juggle with 20 things simultaneously keeping track of them all and still answering the phone with aplomb. Jenny Sims provided tremendous support as ever together with a judicious pinch of insanity when required. There were no raised voices, little panic, some discreet tearing of hair and a lot of mental forced marches. We were also very well supported by colleagues (former SCOLA employees) at Eco Actif and RACC. What has been significant is the total lack of ego. The focus has been on securing the bid and on how to support the unemployed through its outworking.
The programme would operate what we have styled a Regional Employment Consortium across 9 London boroughs: Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Kingston, Lewisham, Merton, Richmond, Sutton and Wandsworth. The objective is to steer 9000 people into the project with an expected outcome that 2000 will be in sustained employment for 6 months, and 1,650 of these for a total of at least 12 months. 550 will be expected to enjoy career progression to a higher status and/or better paid post. The target group is people who have been unemployed (not necessarily on benefits) for 12 months or longer. This includes lone parents, people on incapacity benefit, people who have been in reha-bilitation programmes or perhaps in prison for a while.
Whether we secure the bid or not has been the key focus. However, in the process SCOLA‟s profile has been raised immensely across the 9 boroughs. We have encountered some very interesting organisations which are doing very interesting work that could lead to future collaborative projects.
Statistics show that there are a large number of people who need help to return to employment or to find work for the first time. Even if we do not secure the bid, SCOLA has a role to play in their lives. We do not have to have been unemployed ourselves to understand their position, but we do need to do some real work in clarifying their needs and developing creative solutions. We need to develop our work with others in doing this. And we need to know that there are hard times ahead.

We will know by the end of the month if we have been shortlisted for interview...so watch this space.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

28th October 2010 - Steve Biko Memorial Lecture

2010-11-12T05:18:00.000-08:00

"Material want alone is bad enough but coupled with spiritual poverty it kills" - Steve Biko

This evening I attended the first Steve Biko Memorial Lecture that has been held in Europe. The Network for Black Professionals and the University of Greenwich hosted this unique event that was delivered at the university by Nkosinathi Biko, founder and CEO of the Steve Biko Foundation, whose theme was 'Challenges for Black Leadership: Time for New Leadership Models for the 21st Century'.
He reflected on the life and legacy of his late father, Steve Biko, the anti-apartheid activist who died in police custody 33 years ago. The leading proponent of Black Consciousness, Biko founded the South Africa Students’ Organisation (SASO) and the Black People's Convention (BPC) along with a number of community and educational organisations. After his death, the story of Steve Biko’s life and work reached a wider audience through Richard Attenborough’s 1987 feature film 'Cry Freedom' starring Denzel Washington.
The Steve Biko Memorial Lecture series has attracted a roll call of distinguished scholars, humanitarians and religious and political leaders since its establishment in 2000. Past speakers include two former South African Presidents, Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki and, most recently, the Pulitzer prize-winning novelist Alice Walker, author of 'The Color Purple'.
This was a facinating session with excellent networking opportunities and a very lively question and answer session afterwards. I was fortunate enought to talk to
Nkosinathi and discuss various topics around equality and diversity and the role that education can play in raising awareness. An excellent event which I will cherish and remember for a long while.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

27 October 2010- Opening of the Sutton Life Centre

2010-11-09T00:45:00.000-08:00

Bright and early I headed off to the Sutton Life Centre. The aim of the centre is to provide young people in Sutton with an unprecedented opportunity to learn a range of skills - such as safety scenarios and stree-awareness - in an interactive environment. The centre is designed to embrace all sectors of the community. The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, officially opened the centre, which was heaving with VIP guests as well as many members of the community who had helped one way or another with the set up. Jo Fowler, from SCOLA's coffee shop, has set out a splendid spread for breakfast and this gave a great opportunity for networking and an informal chat before the official opening.
It was great to hear the work of Sutton Council being acknowledge by the Deputy Prime Minister and listen to the Leader of the Council - Cllr. Sean Brennan-outlining the plans for the future of the Life Centre. Students and voluntary workers also spoke and shared how they envisaged the centre would add value to the community.
SCOLA is working closely with the Library and Heritage services in order to put a variety of programmes together that can be delivered from libraries across the borough. Watch this space for the exciting programmes we have planned for the Life Centre.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

Sunday at SCOLA!

2010-11-04T14:50:00.000-07:00

There are still some spaces left on the exciting taster courses this Sunday at SCOLA. The day runs from 10am-3pm and you can try things like composing music, drawing, creative Christmas cards, first aid and many more. Please see www.scola.ac.uk/courses/sundays for full details of these exciting opportunities!!

27 October 2010 - Horace : "The meaning of life"

2010-10-27T01:24:00.001-07:00

Horace found himself sitting in a chair trying to see over the edge of the desk. He had heard the voice say, "Can I help you?"
"Er...yes please," he had replied.
"Come in."
He had gone into the IAG office.
"Take a seat please. Tell me what you are looking for and we'll see how we can help you." He knew that this was what he was looking for. Not even 'if' we can help, but 'how' we can help. Excellent! It was not a Road to Damascus moment. There was no conversion, and he did not know where Damascus was. But he knew with a blinding certainty that this was where he needed to be. Here. On this day. At this time. At this precious moment in his life where all the cards and all the dice and all the shooting stars bursting above the firmament he'd wished on has shaped his fortunes to this chair in this office.
For one heart stopping moment he felt that the woman who had asked the question looked a bit intimidating. But he was only two and this was all new to him. So he screwed his courage to the sticking place, as we all sometimes do, and said boldly, "I'd like to know what to study."
"That," she replied, "depends upon what you want to learn."
He knew immediately that his instincts had been right and that he was where he needed to be. He had rehearsed the answer to this.
"Well," he said, "I'd like to know the meaning of life."
"Ah, the meaning of..."
She paused and leant forward. She sat for a while with such a faraway look that Horace felt as if he was before the oracle. In fact, she was reflecting on how to tactfully answer a two year old hedgehog who wants to know the meaning of life.
"Have you looked at our prospectus? What courses were you thinking of studying?"
"Well," he ventured, "I was thinking about clock repair and Pilates."
"Pilates will help you to get a balanced view of things," she said, "And clocks may help you to get to grips with time. Time is very interesting. We can't control it despite things like Carpe Diem - seize the time!" she added helpfully.
Horace had heard of this in his classical reading in the hedgerow school.
"But we can use it well or badly," she said.
He looked at her quizzically.
"Time. People speak of spending time and you might think that to spend it, you have to own it. But it is only borrowed. It may be the only loan we take that we never have to pay back."
Horace began to get excited. This was why he had come to a college of adult education, to have conversations like this! So different from talking about nests, and food and the mundane things whispered along the lawn.
"I had heard," he ventured, "that time is like a stream. Herodotus said that you can't put your foot in the same stream twice because every time that you put your foot in the stream it has changaed and so is a different stream. But then Lenin said that you can't put your foot in the same stream once because at the very moment you are putting your foot in it it is already changing and different. It's fascinating isn't it? You have to think dialectically don't you?"
The lady behind the desk was losing track of this conversation. This was no ordinary two year old. She had been going to ask if he needed a diagnostic assessment but now decided that she might leave that for another day. She'd let one of the tutors sort that out. But she put in a last valiant effort:
"But you can measure time. So clocks might be a good place to start." she offered.
"Yes, indeed." Horace said, and sighed gently. A subtle sigh of satisfaction. He'd come to the right place. Pilates and clock repair! A whole new way of life.

Jan Koene

Sundays are back!

2010-10-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

Sundays@SCOLA are back! These one day courses are a chance have a taste of subjects like pottery, flower arranging, learn about the Maya of Mexico, Dreamweaver or photography. First Sunday is 7th November from 10am - 3pm with an hour for lunch and they cost just £30 for the day!! For full details, see www.scola.ac.uk/courses/sundays - we hope to see you there!

20 October 2010 - Spending Review Key Announcements

2010-10-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

The Spending Review key announcements include the following:

Learning and Skills Sector/ BIS

Over the course of the Spending Review period, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) will reduce its resource budget by 25 per cent. Taking into account anticipated receipts, the cut to capital spending by 2014-15 will be 44 per cent. The Department’s Administration budget will be reduced by 40 per cent, including savings from abolition of the RDAs. The average annual savings will equal 7.1%, however, the decline in funding becomes steeper over the spending review period.

· The Further Education resource budget will be reduced by 25%, or £1.1billion, from £4.3 billion to £3.2 billion by 2014-15.
· BIS will increase adult apprenticeship funding by £250 million a year by 2014-15 creating 75,000 additional places.
· Raise the participation age to 18 by 2015.
· Provide additional places for participation in 16 to 19 learning.
· BIS will abolish Train to Gain and replace it with an SME focused training programme, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) funding for people not in settled communities will be abolished in 2012.
· Replace education maintenance allowances with ‘more targeted support’.
· Remove the entitlement to free training for a first full level 2 qualification for those over 25. Further education students aged 24 and over studying for a level 3 qualification (A-level equivalent) will be asked to pay fees. These students will be supported by the offer of a government-backed loan where repayments will be dependent on the learner’s income.
· Expect adult learners and employers to contribute more to the cost of further education.
· BIS will continue to support basic skills provision in basic numeracy and literacy skills; Adult and Community Learning and will ‘reduce the complexity and bureaucracy that hampers providers from responding to community needs’.
· BIS will manage the reductions in resource spending by reforming Higher and Further Education funding which will deliver broadly 65 per cent of BIS resource savings; driving efficiencies will deliver around a further 25 per cent and the remainder of resource savings, around 10 per cent, are from cancelling lower priority activities.
· BIS will reduce spending on administration by £400 million a year by 2014-15. The number of Arms Length Bodies will be reduced from 57 to 33, with 9 still under consideration.

Schools/ DfE
· Schools budget to rise from £35bn to £39bn.
· Overall resource savings in DfE’s non-schools budget of 12 per cent in real terms by 2014-15, contributing to overall DfE savings of 3 per cent in real terms.
· An extension from 2012-13 to 15 hours per week of free early education and care to all disadvantaged two year old children.
· A £2.5 billion pupil premium targeted on the educational development of disadvantaged pupils.
· 5 to 16 schools budget rising by 0.1 per cent in real terms each year.
· Capital funding for new schools.
· £15.8bn to rebuild or refurbish over 600 schools over the spending review period
· Real terms increases of 0.1 per cent in each year of the Spending Review for the 5 to 16s.
· Sure Start services will be maintained in cash terms, including new investment in Sure Start health visitors.
· Sure Start will be refocused on its original purpose of improving the life chances of disadvantaged children.

Higher Education
· Overall resource budget for Higher Education, excluding research funding, will reduce from £7.1 billion to £4.2 billion, a 40%, or £2.9 billion, reduction by 2014-15. The Department will continue to fund teaching for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
· A National Scholarship fund of £150 million a year by 2014‑15 for students on the lowest incomes.
· Reform of the higher education sector to shift a greater proportion of funding from the taxpayer to the individuals who benefit.

Local Government
· Overall savings in funding to councils of 7.1% a year for four years – except simplified school grants, and a public health grant.
· Ring-fencing of all local government revenue grants will end from April 2010.

Families
· Pension age to increase to 66 by 2020.
· Withdraw child benefit for families with a higher rate tax payer.
· Replace all working age benefits and tax credits with a single Universal Credit.
· Expand use of personal budgets for special education needs, children with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

Voluntary Sector
· Pay private and voluntary sector providers by results for delivering reductions in reoffending.
· £100 million transition found for the voluntary and community sector facing hardship.

Other
· Reduction in total public sector headcount of 490,000 over the Spending Review period – anticipated from natural turnover of approx. 8% and leaving posts unfilled as they become vacant and some inevitable redundancies.
· Green investment bank funding of £1bn, with an additional £0.5bn in the third year.
· Additional allocations to support Big Society, establish community organisers and launch the pilots for the National Citizen Service.
· DCLG overall resource budget to be reduced to £1.1bn.
Next steps:
· Each government department is to publish :
o vision and priorities to 2014-15;
o a structural reform plan, including actions and deadlines for implementing reforms over the next two years; and
o the key indicators against which it will publish data to show the cost and impact of public services and departmental activities. This section will be published for consultation to ensure that the Government agrees the most relevant and robust indicators in time for the beginning of the Spending Review period in April 2011.
· Government to publish a reform White Paper early in the New Year.

14 October 2010 - Adult Education discussed in Parliament

2010-10-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

It is almost the eve of the comprehensive spending review and it is encouraging to hear that Adult Education is being taken seriously in Parliament. The following is the exchange that took place in Parliament on 14th October 2010.

Eric Ollerenshaw (Lancaster and Fleetwood)(Con) asked what plans there were for the future of adult and community learning; and asked if Mr John Hayes would make a statement.

The Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning (Mr John Hayes): "Adult and community learning make a vital contribution to building a big society founded on social mobility, social justice and social cohesion. We will strive to reinvigorate adult and community learning to make it part of the wider learning continuum and and to enable providers to respond to the learning needs of their communities."

Eric Ollerenshaw: "I thank my hon. friend for that answer. Has he managed to see research from the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education that demonstrates that 28% of adult learners show an increased involvement in social, community and volunteering activity as a direct result of their learning? Does he agree that that demonstrates the vital role that adult education will have to play in contributing to the big society?"

Mr Hayes: "Yes, indeed. As it happens, I have with me the response to the study that he describes. The transformative power of adult learning is well understood by this Government. We know that adult learning changes lives by changing life chances. It gives some of the most disadvantaged people in our community their chance to gain learning. It is frequently progressive to further learning and takes them to the world of work. This Government unequivocally back adult learning."

Saboohi Famili - Principal

17 October 2010 - Family Fun Day at Hill House

2010-10-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

On the way to the coast on a sunny and glorious Sunday this week I paid a visit to SCOLA's family fun day. Sunday's event was jointly organised between SCOLA and Merton Adult Education as has happened for the past few years when the two boroughs work together to host a range of activities encouraging families to learn together. They are always very popular and it was great to see staff preparing for the day and to watch families come along for the variety of activities that were available.

Next week, during half term, there is an exciting range of activities for families, including mask making, pottery, glass painting and zumba dance. We are looking forward to hosting the events as part of our Free Family Fun week. There will also be a fun Fencing (as in sport!) class. The week culminates on Saturday 30th October with an open day event at SCOLA's North Cheam Centre, where a range of activities is on offer for families, including face painting, first aid, mask making, Splash and Grab computer art, playing with pottery, gardening and cookery/cake decorating.

Do come and join in the fun!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

08 October 2010 SCOLA fears that cuts will sink its adult education courses

2010-10-08T01:39:00.001-07:00

Some of our vulnerable students could have their courses cancelled if the government's expected cuts for the sector proves to be a reality after the spending review is announced later this month.
SCOLA provides a lifeline for single mothers, pensioners, people with mental health issues and those with learning difficulties - a chance to get qualifications they missed out on at school, while many of those at work access training and devleopment opportunities in the evening.
If these cuts go ahead there will be irretrievable damage to the colleges and forcing us to double fees and cancel cources that don't make money. Although we are prepared and understand the reasons for the cuts I fear that instead of weathering the storm, we are facing being sunk. Adult education is facing a 40% reduction in funding and if this happens it will be difficult to protect anything - the College will have no choice but to increase fees or close programmes to those who most need it. Please support us to save SCOLA and Adult Education. Please sign this online Petition and write to your MP. Tell them how SCOLA made a difference to you and your life. http://www.petitiononline.com/adulted/petition.html

Saboohi Famili - Principal

8 October 2010 - Principal out and about

2010-10-08T01:21:00.001-07:00

This week I have had the opportunity of visiting Gill Heath's Literacy with Computers class and thoroughly enjoyed observing part of the lesson and meeting the students. I also had the priviledge of presenting certificates to some of the students and I wish to congratulate them on their achievement. It is wonderful to see a class in action and I wish the students well in their studies.

This morning I had the privilege of going with Chris Jackson, Programme Manager - Skills for Life, English & Maths - to the Mental Health Foundation drop-in centre in Belmont. As it is World Mental Health Day on Sunday, the centre had an open day and I presented certificates to SCOLA students who completed their course in 09/10. These were Open College certificates for a variety of levels and units that the students had completed. SCOLA is pleased to be in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation. Congratulations to the students who received their certificates today!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

29 September 2010 - SCOLA praised!

2010-09-29T03:11:00.000-07:00

How wonderful it was to receive a letter from a student thanking the Head of ICT, John Faulkner, for his suggestions on how SCOLA may be able to help her continue with her IT studies - ".....just the thought that something might be possible has perked me up no end".

Hopefully we will soon have a programme in place for this student and she will be able to continue with her IT studies!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

28 September 2010 - 'Personal Best' at SCOLA

2010-09-28T03:13:00.000-07:00

The Principal of SCOLA recently visited a group of students finishing a 10-week 'Personal Best' course for adults looking to return to work through volunteering. As part of the course, the students completed units covering Public Safety Awareness, Customer Relations, Equality & Diversity, Conflict resolution in a Public Environment, developing Team & Interpersonal Skills, Undertaking and Reflecting on skills developed in Voluntary Placements.

In addition, the students also completed the Red Cross 'Basic First Aid' qualification and the Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering awarded by the Royal Society for Public Health.

Kevan Samwells - Programme Manager
Performance, Health, Fitness & Hospitality

24 September 2010- Help save our funding.

2010-09-23T16:22:00.000-07:00

You will all be aware of the Government’s decision to reduce the budget deficit. Many people agree that cuts are needed. However, the Treasury are not as convinced about the value of adult education as we are. There is a very real risk that colleges such as SCOLA will face a massive and disproportionate reduction in Government funding. The net effect could result in very large fee increases. A major cut would potentially jeopardise the future of SCOLA itself.
It is difficult to argue for no cuts at all, but we must do everything possible to present the strongest case for fair treatment so that we can continue to provide a wide range of affordable courses for our community. We believe that in these difficult times, adult education courses are more important than ever, both in terms of giving people new skills and in providing some respite from the hardships we may face.

We urgently need our learners’ voice and support as we try our hardest to persuade the Government of the importance of maintaining funding for adult education.

How can you help?

Your voice is vital, so is the voice of our learners. Please help us by writing to your local MP and encouraging your learners to do the same. The more correspondence they get the stronger our case will be.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

24 September 2010- New Town Centre

2010-09-23T16:18:00.000-07:00

Art of Suburbia launches the new high street in Sutton with the very best British and International street arts. A unique carnival atmosphere comes to Sutton High Street to celebrate the launch of our new look town centre on 24 & 25 September 2010. I am looking forward to the events and hope to see many of you there!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

22 September 2010- SFTRA Annual General Meeting

2010-09-23T16:12:00.000-07:00

This evening I attended the Annual General Meeting of the Sutton Federation of Tenant & Resident Associations. The Chair, Jean Corsby, was retiring and I felt it appropriate to be present to wish her farewell and good luck for a very long and happy retirement. A very emotional farewell from Jean was followed by many tributes from the members.

The AGM was well attended. Around 100 residents were present and a few were keen to talk to me about their experience of studying at SCOLA and how they valued what we offer. Rosemary Langley, an 80 year old lady, came to me after the event with and complimented me on one of our IT tutors, Derek Marshall, who had taught her IT from scratch. She is keen to come back to the college despite having had some health issues last year and was impressed to hear that we have now developed a much more improved TryIT centre. Yet another example of what SCOLA is all about.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

23 Sep 2010- Meeting and Greeting new Students

2010-09-23T16:04:00.001-07:00

This week I had the pleasure of meeting learners in some of our outreach centres. One in particular stands out - this was at Carshalton Boys School . Arriving just after 6.30pm I found the centre staff, Angela Basusi and Debbie Roberts, setting up and getting organised. Greeting students, guiding them to their classes, organising tutors and giving them the necessary paperwork and register all worked very smoothly. I specifically enjoyed the ritual "crossing the fingers" when Angela plugged in the laptop and all in attendance clinched their fingers in a prayer that all would be well! A sigh of relief was heard when everything worked and then it was time for me to say goodbye and leave them to prepare the tea for the upcoming break. Walking away to the car smiling to myself, I knew that SCOLA should be proud to have such good humoured and dedicated staff at the front line and that their main concern is to provide good customer service to our clients. I have been very impressed by what I have seen at our many centres from the begining of the term and immensely priviledged to lead our college. Well done to all!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

Exciting New Seminars!

2010-09-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

As part of the Lecture Series@SCOLA, we will be holding 2 exciting seminars in October at our North Cheam centre.

Effective Parenting: Dealing with Challenging Behaviour.

Monday 11th October, 7pm-9pm at SCOLA North Cheam, £10 per place

A talk by Clinical Psychologist Dr Angel Adams.

The workshop will offer strategies for:

• Dealing with challenging behaviours
• Promoting positive
• Enhancing your child’s self-esteem
• 5 top parenting tips to help children handle anger and anxiety

Genealogy: Who Do You Think They Are?

Thursday 14th October, 7pm-9pm at SCOLA North Cheam, £10 per place.

Learn how to catch up with your past and trace your ancestors.

To enrol, see www.scola.ac.uk or contact the enrolment centre on 0208 770 5566.

17 September 2010 - Horace (2) - Finding SCOLA

2010-09-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

Horace sat under the garden shed looking at the rain. He was undeterred. The rain was not heavy. It was actually quite musical bouncing off the garden sieve left hanging on the nail and the odd tin can. He thought about composing a tune to its accompaniment but then decided, "No! That would be a displacement activity." He'd read about them in the magazine someone had wrapped the tulip bulbs in. They were the things that you did when you wanted to do something else but didn't really want to do it and so you found lots of other things to do instead until you really had to get on with it, or you found something else to do, or you went off and made a cup of tea and forgot what it was you were doing in the first place! But of course, that never happens to you does it?

Today Horace was going to the SCOLA Information, Advice & Guidance Centre to see what course they thought he should study. "There must be really clever people there if they can give information and guidance," he thought. "All those different people coming in with their questions, and they know all the answers! Fantastic! That sounds like a really useful job." Horace had sometimes dreamed of being really useful. Most of the time he was content to be a two year old hedgehog finding his way in the world. But sometimes, the thought of people looking to him for advice; waiting with bated breath to see what he had to say....why, he might even decide to be a teacher one day. But not just yet.

The rain eased a little. It was what they called in Ireland a "Soft day." That meant you could just about see the wall at the end of the garden and would be soaked in ten minutes but that it wasn't really very cold with it. Just wet! He hunched his shoulders and set out.

He carefully avoided all the passing cars on his way. He'd heard about the dangers from them although he hadn't conducted a full risk assessment for his journey. When he reached the bottom of Sutton High Street he felt a little uncomfortable. It seemed a bit rough, especially near MacDonald's. But then the rich smells from the French Farmer's Market drew him on. The cheeses and the cakes and the biscuits were temptation incarnate. But he was a hedgehog with a purpose. He was not to be diverted.

When he asked people for directions they all seemed to have heard of SCOLA, but when he got as far as Waterstones on the corner he couldn't see any signs. "Hmm!" he thought, "I'll have to have a word about this. How is a poor hedgehog who is only two supposed to find Advice and Guidance if he doesn't know where to look?" That seemed almost a circular question but before he got stuck in trying to solve it a kindly old lady saw him revolving in confusion and pointed the way.

He set off, past the men with their mechanical diggers, past the pubs and the men standing in the doorways waiting for the rain to stop so that they could go and smoke their cigarettes. And there it was! In the distance! He saw the banner - 'Do something brilliant this year' 'Enrol at SCOLA.' The words, 'SCOLA', 'brilliant' and 'Enrol' shone out at him. He saw the blue sky and the signposts, and the birds circling! He had arrived! He was going to do something billiant!

Jan Koene - Author

Wallington Open Day - Sat 11th September 2010

2010-09-15T00:58:00.000-07:00

The Open Day at Wallington centre on Saturday was a huge success!

Leaflet drops, marketing in Wallington and visitors to the Farmers market all contributed to a busy morning, with prospectuses flying out the doors and happy students leaving after free ITEC treatments. The treatments on offer included manicures, reflexology and indian head massages.

Curriculum manager Kevan Samwells multi-tasked, giving free on-site massages as well as tutoring the free pilates taster courses we had on offer!

There were art and floristry demonstrations and wonderful displays of photography, pottery, stained glass and an array of beautiful quilts. Curriculum managers Caroline O'Reilly and Angela Williams were on hand to discuss languages and art, and the Drop in IT, advice and SFL support proved to be very popular too.

Many people did not know that we had our centre in Wallington and so the Open Day provided an opportunity for them to look around, ask questions and enrol!. Numerous enrolments were taken and a huge amount of queries were dealt with.

The Open Day was a success due to the hard work of Laurie Nicholls, her team and caretakers and also huge thanks go to Kevan Samwells, Jacqui McElwee, Angela Williams, Amanda Paul, Caroline O'Reilly, Frances Steinke, Jo Richardson, Kelly Cotton, Derek Marshall, David Talbot, the ITEC students and Debbie Sykes for their continued support and help that day.

Also thanks to Rob Springgay and Jan Koene who created all the promotional material, working to tight deadlines as ever!

There will be another Open Day in North Cheam on Saturday 30th October so watch the web for details!!

Kasumi Witty

Learner & Client Services Manager

14 September 2010 - SCOLA praised!

2010-09-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

How wonderful it was to receive a letter from a student thanking Jenny Sims - Strategic Director, Employment, Vocational & Work Skills; Fi Harvie - Tutor, NVQ3 Teaching Assistants and SCOLA in general for giving her the opportunity to attend the NVQ3 Teaching Assistants course which has enabled her to continue within the teaching assistant role that she performs and loves.

She has praised Fi's help, support and guidance which she says has been 'second to none'!

Thank you for your kind words, Jane - we wish you all the best for the future.

Saboohi Famili - Principal

13 September 2010 - Back to school!

2010-09-10T02:26:00.000-07:00

Last week saw many of our colleagues returning to college after a well deserved summer break. Some with suntans to the envy of others, some with great stories to tell of their adventures over the holiday period.

I was pleased to meet with many colleagues during the briefing sessions held this week for all staff. I welcomed the positive feedback from them which has encouraged me to continue with various plans knowing that I will have the support and unity we need to weather the storm we are to face. This academic year will be trying, but we are ready. Upwards and onwards!

Saboohi Famili - Principal

6 September 2010 - Stanley Park School

2010-09-10T02:13:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting with Alex Thomson, Deputy Headteacher, from Stanley Park School today. The school has been one of the pathfinder schools for the School of the Future Programme and has received support and funding to transform itself into one of the best schools in Sutton. Alex passionately shared with me their vision and plans for the future and explained how they have used the design and planning of the building to ensure it will have a direct impact on the way that the school is run. Innovative thinking, from designing of the space to state of the art technology that they have purchased, as well as staff development programmes that have been put together, all aid the school in reaching its ambition to be a community school of choice that provides a high quality learning experience that results in great success rates. It was encouraging meeting with an inspiring colleague. I wish the school, staff and students the very best of luck!

Saboohi Famili - Principal