Curtis Hawes, Computing lecturer at East Sussex College, said, “Thank you to the College for funding the booth at EGX 2023, it was an amazing and busy four days in which loads of industry professionals, content creators and press spoke to the students and myself about the College and the game and was a huge success!

When Steven studied Internet Computing at Hastings , he learned not just how to write code but how to understand the whole system - programming, networks, data architecture, and design.

George Hedges, Head of Curriculum for Computing at East Sussex College Lewes, said, “Esports is booming right now, and we’re really excited to be one of the only colleges offering this qualification anywhere in the South East.

Nick Wood, Deputy Head of Curriculum for Construction, Computing, Engineering, Motor Vehicle, Electrical, & Access, said, “The Motor Vehicle Industry has become an extremely technical environment. Our students learn about all aspects of light vehicles ranging from basic maintenance through to advanced diagnostics, MOT testing, Electric and Hybrid Vehicles and Advanced Drives Assistance Systems (self-driving cars). The demands of our courses are high and to achieve top students is no small feat, which these students should be extremely proud of.”

Understand the basics of code - If you’re new to computing or want an extra string to your bow, then this short course will teach you the basics in coding.

A range of part-time courses in the arts and computing, as well as a special hair and beauty prom evening, will be available to help people re-discover a hidden talent or passion.

Brand new T-Level courses launched this month, with Construction-based subject Design, Surveying and Planning, Computing-based subject Digital Production, Design and Development, and Childcare-based subject Education & Childcare offered at the Eastbourne, Station Plaza, and Ore Valley campuses.

At Station Plaza in Hastings on 25th June, people can find out more about Business, Childcare and Healthcare, Computing, Creative Media, Music, Teacher Training and tour around the end of year show featuring work from graduates on the Animation, Designer Maker, Fine Art, Graphics, Illustration, and Photography courses - Sign up now.

East Sussex College’s Digital Skills and Collaborative Classroom is in demand! Serving a range of courses, including HND Game Development, HND Film Production, HND Computing & Systems Development and T-Level Digital/Computing, this innovative space has already hosted several high-profile events focused on employability and industry insights, including:

The ceremony celebrated their hard work and dedication in earning degrees in BA (Hons) Music & Production, BA (Hons) Fine Art, BA (Hons) Business, BSc Complementary Healthcare, BA (Hons) Designer Maker, BA (Hons) Photography, BA (Hons) Illustration, and Computing!

"Going back to college felt terrifying - it had been nearly 40 years since I last sat in a classroom,” Peter admitted. “What were these ‘assignments’ the tutor was talking about? The tutors and IT department were amazingly patient and supportive. Don't let fear of studying or computing be a barrier to enrolling on the course, it's all doable. The support is there for you."

During the Open Event at the Ore Valley campus in Hastings, prospective students were able to get hands-on with a range of construction activities that included building brick walls, connecting electrical circuits, and creating decorative effects with the college logo. The students were also able to immerse themselves in the virtual world as computing students demonstrated their Virtual Reality gaming technology.

“Our young people are being short-changed compared with their counterparts in other countries and compared with previous generations. The hours of teaching and support, the choice they have, and the enrichment they are offered have all reduced as funding cuts have bitten. It is also a real challenge for us to pay competitive enough salaries to recruit staff in key subjects such as maths, science, engineering, and computing. This cannot continue if we are to secure the future of our nation.”

Jess McCann has been competing alongside over 200 Halfords apprentices nationwide.

Kaiya excelled in the UK Skills competitions, competing in the National Finals at Level 3. She was then selected to compete for a coveted spot on the UK Squad. Kaiya made the squad spent two years training in the competition. In November 2016, the UK Squad was whittled down to two competitors: Kaiya and a Beauty Therapist in Glasgow. In March 2017, it was announced that Kaiya would represent the UK in Abu Dhabi this autumn.

“There are 20,000 international student athletes studying and competing on college teams each year at American universities. In 2021 alone, US Colleges offered $3.5 billion in sport scholarships. Skiltek now bridges the gap for UK students wishing to study and compete at the college level in the USA.”

In 2021, Finley made his mark on the international stage, competing at the Europeans in Valencia and finishing fifth. He celebrated his first major win in Alhandra just a month later and earned a top-10 finish at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi. Most recently, Finley’s hard work and consistency saw him secure seven podium finishes in nine events leading up to the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where he represented Great Britain with pride.

“This competition is very special and we look forward to competing in it each year because it provides a fantastic creative outlet for our Art & Design students. They’re able to put their talents, skills, and work ethic to the test on a real client brief, set by the Royal Opera House. I’m really proud of their achievements.”

“Congratulations and best of luck to all of the apprentices and students competing in the national finals this year and showcasing their exceptional talents in a diverse range of skill disciplines, from manufacturing and engineering to health and social care.

Jess, who studies in the Motor Vehicle department at the college, has been competing against more than 200 Halfords apprentices from all over the UK, aiming for recognition from some of the biggest names in the automotive industry - and now she’s done it.

Tommy won this prestigious title at the Foodservice Australia exhibition, the country’s top hospitality trade show. Competing against some of the best chefs, Tommy’s skills and creativity stood out, earning him this incredible honour. His journey started at East Sussex College, where he developed his passion and talent for cooking.

“The four days of competition were tough. I was up at 4.30am and sometimes didn’t finish competing until 10 at night. I then had to wait two days for the result. The closing ceremony was held in a huge stadium, with tens of thousands of people, including competitors, judges, spectators, training managers, and friends and family.”

One of Marcus’ most impressive accolades is winning the San Pellegrino Young Chef of the Year UK 2022 and competing in the world final in 2023. The talented alumnus is now making a name for himself with ‘Spoons by Clayton’, a pop up and private dining project, championing unique vegetable focused cookery.

The first was the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, a fast-paced, feel-good musical comedy about a group of quirky students competing in a spelling bee like no other.

Team UK, made up of the country’s top young students and apprentices, flew home on Wednesday (28th August) in a cloud of gold and glory after competing in the WorldSkills Finals in Kazan, Russia. Among them, bringing home the gold for Team UK, was East Sussex College Lewes alumni, Rebecca West.

Marcus reached the UK finals of the competition following an impressive performance in front of an international judging panel. Marcus was one of ten young chefs competing in the competition held earlier this month. Each had to provide a signature dish to a panel of judges. Marcus’ winning signature dish was celeriac, apple and mushroom.

The all-day competition consisted of five qualifying heats, with the winners and best runner-up going through to Final A, and the remaining fastest athletes competing in Final B.

On 20 June, students from the two campuses travelled together to Birmingham and collaborated in preparation for the WorldSkills regional competition. Alongside Beauty Therapy students, there were also four Eastbourne Hairdressing students competing.

In October, Marcus, 26, from Broad Oak, Rye, reached the UK finals of the competition following an impressive performance in front of an international judging panel. Marcus was one of ten young chefs competing in the competition held earlier this month. Each had to provide a signature dish to a panel of judges. Marcus’ winning signature dish was celeriac, apple and mushroom.

The four of us went ‘back to basics’ which is exactly how it sounds, we went back to basics with our beauty treatments and had to complete them perfectly. Not only were we competing against each other skill-wise, but we were also competing to see who was able to handle pressure and had the mentality to cope with intense competition.

“The experience it has given both of the lads is invaluable, but perhaps even more so for Aaron. Throughout the competition he was outstanding, and you don’t often get year 1 students in the senior competitions. He’s had experience of competing under pressure and will give it his best shot at the SkillBuild competition coming up later this year.”

The competitors performed with the utmost professionalism. Nothing was amiss, attention to the smallest of details were thoroughly checked. The national competition is awarded on a points based system, so our college’s finalists will now wait to see if they will be competing in the national finals at the NEC in Birmingham.

Getting organised is crucial for a stress-free start to college. Take some time to sort out the basics like pens, pencils, and notepads, as well as any course-specific equipment or uniforms you might need. Also, familiarise yourself with the campus area and plan your travel routes if you'll be commuting by bus or train. Check timetables, locate your nearest stops, and plan your route in advance. If you're taking the train, consider getting a 16-17 saver railcard for a 50% discount on rail fares, costing only £30 a year: www.16-17saver.co.uk.

“it was a great experience taking part in the competition, it gave me the opportunity to test my skills under pressure and demonstrate all the techniques that I have learnt this year against other students from around the county, winning gold has given me a huge confidence boost and I am already looking forward to competing in more competitions”.

After completing his course, Laurence progressed to Anglia Ruskin University, where he explored subjects including Physiology, Biomechanics, Psychology, Nutrition, and Sports Medicine. He thrived in the university environment, developing both academically and personally, and graduated with a First-Class Honours degree.

Since completing my HND in Health & Social Care at the Hastings campus last year I’ve been studying a top-up degree in Health Studies at Brighton University and got a job as a Deputy Care Home Manager. This summer I won the bronze medal in the BTEC Awards 2019 for Child and Social Care Student of the Year! Oh, and I have also just had baby number four!

After completing the Creative Media Production course at East Sussex College, Joe used the knowledge he gained in video production and social media to create and grow his personal YouTube channel, which served as his primary portfolio.

After completing her Care Certificate and Level 2/Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care with ESC, Lois continued working for West Sussex-based Elite Choice Home Care and has progressed through a variety of established roles. Lois has recently been promoted to an Assistant Care Manager!

After completing her Care Certificate, and Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care with us, she started working for West Sussex-based Elite Choice Home Care.

After completing Level 3 UPS, I decided to carry on studying at the college and boosted my skills and qualifications with a Level 3 in Preventing Injuries in Sport and Active Leisure, and a Level 2 in Gym Based Exercise. I ended up working at the college gym, Plaza Fitness, and before I left college, gained a Level 4 in Sports Massage Therapy.

Are currently completing a degree/want a career change or are retired;

The learners are readily completing their products as they prepare to sell them to the public. Their first day of selling will be in Newhaven at both the Hillcrest Centre and in Newhaven Town Centre on Thursday 20th July.

Within a short time of completing his apprenticeship, Asad was promoted to a Business Account Manager within Certas.

Within a short time of completing his apprenticeship, Asad was promoted to a Business Account Manager within Certas.

Lucas, originally from Spain and currently completing his A-Levels at the Newhaven/Lewes campus, will join the 2025 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race as a circumnavigator – one of a select few crew members completing the entire 40,000-nautical-mile route across six oceans and more than a dozen countries.

Issy Laureles has been recognised after completing the prestigious Rising Leaders programme with AoC Sport.

“We're aiming to raise £1,900 by completing 1,900 miles which is essentially a virtual lap around the UK. We’d love to smash both of those targets and we're asking the local community to come together and help us do it.

“I left college in spring 2017 after completing the Tag Magazine project and being an executive editor for the annual publication,” said Mollie. “This project was so fun to work on and definitely primed me for a career in journalism. After obtaining a D*D*D* (the highest possible grade), I received an unconditional offer from Uni of Brighton for their Journalism degree. I had originally wanted to go into fashion journalism, and this was my aim throughout uni, but things changed after the pandemic and I believe they changed for the better

How good does it feel when you complete something? Completing one of our courses is exactly the same. You might achieve a qualification, take home a piece of art, or have new skills to show off - whatever it is; it will make you proud.

After studying Performing Arts at East Sussex College and completing a BA (Hons) at Bird College, Alex returned to share her knowledge as a guest lecturer. Some of Alex’s previous credits include starring in Starlight Express (Bochum) and The Wizard of Oz (UK Tour).

As an apprentice, Archie is employed by The Crown whilst completing a Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship with East Sussex College. The apprenticeship course is for 18 months and is for those preparing, cooking and finishing a range of food items in every section of a kitchen, under the supervision of a Senior Chef.

Archie White became ESC’s oldest ever graduate at 96 years old after completing a Fine Art degree at the College. Archie is a prime example that it’s never too late to educate at ESC.

After the presentation, candidates headed to the workshop for a practical task — completing a basic vehicle check — before ending the day with interviews.

Edward spent last year honing his skills in the College’s Body Repair Shop, completing his paint course with flying colours. His exceptional skills, attitude, and work ethic quickly caught the attention of local employers, and he has since secured a fantastic role at Californian Classics, a business renowned for restoring and customising classic vehicles.

Neither Bryan nor Julie had much experience with coffee-making before enrolling. However, after completing the five-week course, they gained practical, hands-on skills and knowledge, achieving a Level 2 qualification in barista training.

If you really can’t wait for your salon to reopen, remember this when you’re comparing boxes of hair dye in your local Boots: the shade on the box is not something to rely on, neither is the name. It’s the numbers of the colours that mirror the science behind the hair colour and determine the end result. A quick tutorial: the first number refers to the flat base colour, which is 1 for black, through to 5 for brown and 10 for the lightest blonde. Some brands even identify 11 and 12 on a colour chart to depict ultra light shades - platinum and bleached blonde.The second number - if there is one, such as 3 and 5, corresponds to the tones added. Pick a 5.1 and you’re getting an ash brown. Choose a 5.3 and you’re getting golden brown. If you’re seeking a blonde shade and have brassy/orange tones, chances are you picked a box with .3 or .5 in it. Learn more about the numbers.

An awards event took place at East Sussex College Eastbourne last week to celebrate students completing a pilot industry placement programme within the NHS

East Sussex College has launched two significant tree-planting initiatives in Uganda and Bangladesh aimed at combating climate change and mitigating natural disasters.

Three young people are on the road to successful careers with an established Lewes firm after completing their apprenticeships via Sussex Downs College.

After graduating from the course last year, Sophie worked hard to secure her place at British Airways, completing an intensive training programme. “Once I completed the course, I had started the task of applying to different airlines, via the recruitment pages advertised,” said Sophie.

At 28, Mia Ambridge decided it was time to pursue her passion. Now, just weeks away from completing the Level 3 Professional Cookery course at East Sussex College, she’s reflecting on a journey that’s sharpened her culinary skills, boosted her confidence and opened the door to new opportunities.

For more information on how to donate please get in touch with us and if you are interested in completing a Motor Vehicle course visit www.escg.ac.uk.

Jo owns and works full-time in her salon, and returned to study at the College 22 years after completing her NVQ Level 1 and 2 course in Hair and Beauty. She told us, “I received one of your flyers advertising the Level 4 course through my salon door.

Rosemary has been working at East Sussex College for a year and a half, and is in the process of completing a Level 3 Business Administration course.

East Sussex College Eastbourne students studying Level 3 Travel & Tourism spent two days at JARE Airline Training Centre in Bournemouth completing their Cabin Crew SEP training at the start of March.

Hannah’s career has taken her from the seas to the skies, offering her a unique perspective on different aspects of the travel industry. Comparing her experiences, she explained, "Working at the airport and on the cruise ships was very different in the sense you always had somewhere to go if you needed a minute to yourself or even just a small breather. Working in a cabin on board an aircraft (especially on short haul) you don’t have that. You are continuously in the public eye."

Following her studies at ESC, Chloe is now working as a Health Care Assistant in a busy A&E department and is working on completing her Care Certificate, and local A&E skills and competencies. Her ultimate ambition is to work as a Paramedic.

Additionally, East Sussex College welcomed back one of their former Level 3 Uniformed Public Services students, Samuel Battrum, who left the College in 2013 after completing his course.

“These guys tackled a half marathon renowned for its difficult terrain and unpredictable weather. These were the people who pushed themselves hardest, and congratulations to all of them for completing a distance that many people wouldn’t dare to tackle!”

Joy attributes much of her success to her time at East Sussex College, where she completed the Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design course. "I definitely owe that in huge part to completing the Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design course at ESC Eastbourne, and to the amazing tutors who bring it alive. Thank you!"

“I have a busy schedule with College and training but I’m excited to play and represent GB in the Finals,” says Ralph. “My teacher, Hayley (Funnell) has been so supportive. I’m also completing my Coaching CSLA award. After College, I hope to get an apprenticeship with a leisure centre or somewhere else in the sports industry.”

Following her studies at East Sussex College, Bethany accepted a job with Westridge Construction as a Main Contractor. This job followed on from her successful work placement with Westridge, and Bethany is now completing a training programme with the company that includes studying for an HNC at the College.

Towards the end of the course, I applied for jobs and positions at a number of 5-star hotels in London. I successfully got a management training apprenticeship at the amazing Ritz Hotel when I was 18. After completing my apprenticeship, I worked in France for a couple of years, then worked onboard the Queen Elizabeth II cruise ship. After that, I worked at the Cadogan Hotel in Knightsbridge, where I served the Queen Mother for her 99th and 100th birthday - which was quite a career highlight.

As part of their experience, students will respond to an industry brief set by Charleston in Lewes, gaining valuable hands-on experience while developing key employability and soft skills. Projects will span a range of creative disciplines, including podcast production, exhibition design, and composing original music for social media content.

“As well as learning the practicalities of the job through the employer, they’re learning knowledge and experience of what makes up the whole of their job role through their qualification. I’ve been an assessor here at the hotel for over 10 years. We’ve had many learners completing Level 2 to Level 3 qualifications, from the kitchen restaurant to front of house at reception. Michelle [the hotel manager] is a really good ambassador for apprenticeships and progression through her team.”

“As well as learning the practicalities of the job through the employer, they’re learning knowledge and experience of what makes up the whole of their job role through their qualification. I’ve been an assessor here at the hotel for over 10 years. We’ve had many learners completing Level 2 to Level 3 qualifications, from the kitchen restaurant to front of house at reception.”

“Having my Travel and Tourism diploma and cabin crew training at ESC helped massively when applying to airlines. It really shows the employers how much you want a job in the aviation industry and gives you a real insight into what the job entails. Whilst going through my training at British Airways and completing exams, I found that all I had learnt at college made it easier and a lot less stressful as I had gained some of the knowledge I needed from the courses I had completed.”

Pani’s time at East Sussex College has given her more than just academic skills - it has renewed her sense of self-worth and shown her that she is capable of great achievements. As she reflected on her Access course, she felt optimistic about her future, even though her career path may still be unfolding. "Completing my Access course has significantly enriched my life both academically and personally… My success in achieving nearly full distinctions throughout the course - 42 credits at distinction and just three merits - speaks volumes about the skills and knowledge I've gained, and it has undeniably opened many doors for me in the future."

The competition took place during lockdown at the beginning of June. The students had to sit a 60-miinute exam which contained about 70 questions. They prepared by working through the syllabus outside of college time. Like a lot of learners, Highly Commended student, Sarah Lancaster, 17, has been juggling work and studying, and an abrupt end to her academic year in class at college because of Covid-19. However, she worked hard, completing the competition while continuing her A-Level studies via online learning and working increased hours as a Host Volunteer for St Wilfrid’s Hospice, Eastbourne.

The visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau was one of the most powerful parts of the trip. Adam Nichols, Advanced Teaching Practitioner at East Sussex College, explained, “A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau was a powerful and emotional experience for the group. Students learned about the atrocities committed during the Holocaust through guided tours of the concentration camps, hearing survivor stories that brought history to life. This visit fostered critical discussions about the importance of remembering history, the significance of human rights, and the role individuals can play in combating prejudice and discrimination.”