BUCKINGHAMSHIRE COLLEGE GROUP
NEWSLETTER
StudentSpotlight
Shammah Rugwete’s journey from T Level placement to career success highlights the value of industry experience at Buckinghamshire College Group. During her studies in Laboratory Science, she completed a placement with Arla Foods as a Laboratory Assistant, where she impressed the team with her technical skills and dedication. Following a rigorous selection process, Shammah secured a Level 5 Degree Apprenticeship in Dairy Technology, marking an exciting step into her career.
Her employer commented, “She brings energy, positivity, and a strong team spirit, making her a valued member of the team.”
An amazing achievement! We wish Shammah the very best in her future career with Arla.
StudentAwards2026
To celebrate our students’ hard work, dedication, and success over the past year, we proudly hosted the 2026 Student Awards Ceremony at the Crowne Plaza, Marlow. This special evening was filled with celebration and recognition across a wide range of achievements. From academic excellence to personal growth and exceptional efforts, students were recognised for their commitment and perseverance throughout the year.
Many of the awards were generously sponsored by our valued employer partners demonstrating their continued support and investment in our students’ futures. The event brought together staff, families, and peers to share these proud moments. With a diverse range of awards presented, the evening truly showcased the talent, ambition, and achievements of our student community, making it a memorable and inspiring occasion for everyone involved.
KeyDates
Term
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Friday 3 July - Friday 4 September 2026
Level3ResultsDay
Thursday 13 August 2026 th
Level2&GCSEResultsDay
Thursday 20 August 2026 th
Resultswillbeavailablefor collectiononcampusfrom9–11am andsenttostudentsviaemailfrom 12pm.
ThankaTeacherDay
To celebrate Thank a Teacher Day, we recognised staff across the college who have been acknowledged at national level through prestigious Pearson Teaching Awards, alongside nominations in the Quality Professionals Awards and AAT Teacher of the Year. From innovation to inclusion, teamwork to lifelong dedication, our staff continue to transform lives through education. Their passion, commitment and expertise inspire our learners every day, helping them to achieve their goals and realise their potential. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and grateful for the positive impact they make within our college community and beyond.
Parent’sGuideto ExamResults
ThisTerminPictures
Made Here 2026 transformed Aylesbury campus into a vibrant celebration of creativity, showcasing outstanding student work across a range of Art disciplines.
Public Service students developed teamwork, leadership, and tactical skills during a live airsoft assessment at Skirmish Wycombe, testing strategy and communication.
Our Level 2 Creative Media students achieved a clean sweep in the senior category, securing first, second and third places and showcasing exceptional filmmaking talent.
With support from six industry employers, Construction and Motor Vehicle students sharpened their interview techniques through mock interviews and gained valuable career-focused feedback.
Resultsdayisslowlyapproachingandthis canbeanemotionaltimeforyoungpeople andtheirfamilies.Whetheryourchildis feelingexcited,relievedoruncertainabout theirresults,yoursupportand encouragementcanmakearealdifference. Encourageopenconversations,listen withoutjudgementandreassurethemthat examresultsdonotdefinetheirfuture.If resultsarenotasexpected,helpthemfocus ontheoptionsavailable,includingfurther education,training,apprenticeshipsand alternativecareerpathways.
Givethemtimetoconsidertheirnextsteps andsupporttheminexploringopportunities thatmatchtheirinterests,strengthsand goals.Formoreadviceonresultsday,visit theNationalCareersServicewebsite.
AlumniSuccess
We are proud to celebrate our alumna, Benedicta Duhoe. Benedicta studied Art & Design at our Amersham Campus, where she developed her creativity. She progressed to university, achieving a first-class degree and gaining valuable experience along the way. Benedicta has since returned to Buckinghamshire College Group as a Youth Worker, where she plays a vital role in supporting students’ wellbeing and personal development. Her journey is a fantastic example of dedication and success, and we are delighted to have her back as part of our college community, inspiring the next generation of learners.
We asked Benedicta what advice she would give to current students:
"Believeinyourabilitytosucceed evenifyoufacechallengesor limitationsalongtheway.Stay consistent,makethemostofthe supportavailabletoyouanddon'tbe afraidtostepoutsideyourcomfort zone.Yourjourneymaynotalwaysbe straightforwardbutwith determinationandhardwork,you canachieveyourgoals."
Did you study here too?
We’d love to hear your story! Scan the QR code and share it with us.
ApprenticeoftheTerm
Well done to Buddy Walker who is currently completing his Level 2 Bricklaying Apprenticeship! Buddy was nominated by his assessor, James Walters, in recognition of the exceptional progress, commitment, and personal growth he has demonstrated since starting his course. James highlights that Buddy has modelled exactly what Bucks College Group looks for in apprentices: independence.
Buddy has taken personal responsibility for his own learning and engaged fully with every opportunity available to him, voluntarily attending additional sessions (night school) and putting himself forward to become the Mental Health Champion for his curriculum area. James notes that he has never heard a single complaint from Buddy when things go wrong; instead, he consistently demonstrates maturity beyond his years by asking, "Why did this go wrong?" and "How can I do it better next time?" Buddy holds himself to a high standard, attending sessions punctually and arriving fully prepared with the necessary equipment. He works exceptionally well with his classmates and is not afraid to speak up, ask questions, or bring humour to the group, demonstrating his growing confidence. Based on Buddy's achievements, commitment, and continued development throughout the programme, James believes he is fully ready to progress onto Level 3 and continue building on the strong foundations he has established.
"IhavehadmultipleapprenticesofvaryingagesandBuddyisbyfarthe bestoneIhavehad.Hewantstolearnandhewantstobecompetent.He cares.Ihavehadladsaged30askingtoborrowmyhammerwhereas Buddyhasgoneoutoffhisownbackfromhiswagesandboughtallhisown toolsalready.Hereallyhasgotstuckinandismakingthemostofevery opportunitythatcomeshisway.Hehasrapidlyprogressedsince Septemberandisalwaysshowingmepicturesofhiscollegeprojects.Heis agreatladwhoisreliable,hasafantasticattitudeandworkethic.Iamvery proudofhimforhowfarhehascomeandforgettingnominated"
- Buddy's employer: David Pomroy, DJP Builders ltd
"BuddylooksforwardtogoingtocollegewhichissomethingIneverthought possible.DuetoBuddy'sneeds(EHCP),hehasstruggledwithschooland neverreallyengagedwithformaleducation,however,heoftencomeshome 'buzzing'andexcitedtotellmeabouthisday.Heshows/tellsmewhathehas builtorlearnedandIcanseethatheisexcitedtolearnandprogress.Itisso nicetoseehimbeingpassionateabouthiseducation".
- Buddy's Mum: Sally Walker
Constructionbeginson ‘transformational’newHighWycombe Campus
Construction has officially begun on Buckinghamshire College Group’s new High Wycombe Campus, marking an important milestone for local education! A groundbreaking ceremony took place on Friday 15 May 2026, attended by community leaders, college staff and project partners.
The new campus, located across Oxford Road and Brook Street, will bring together the Amersham and Flackwell Heath sites into one modern, accessible location. It will provide industry-standard facilities for over 1,300 students studying vocational, technical and professional courses.
Plans include a construction and engineering skills centre, alongside a seven-storey building with classrooms, workshops, creative studios and digital learning spaces.
Funded by the Department for Education, the project represents a significant investment in Buckinghamshire’s future. It aims to enhance student opportunities, strengthen links with employers, and support young people in developing the skills needed for future careers.
JennyCraig,CEOofBuckinghamshireCollegeGroup,said:
“TodaymarksahugelyexcitingmilestoneforBuckinghamshire CollegeGroup,ourstudents,staffandthewidercommunity.
Thisnewcampusrepresentsambition,opportunityand investmentinthefutureofBuckinghamshire.Wearecreatinga modernlearningenvironmentthatwillinspirestudents, strengthenlinkswithemployersandprovidetheskillsour regionneedsforyearstocome.
Weareproudtobebuildingacampusthatreflectsthe aspirationsofourcommunityandgiveseverylearnerthe opportunitytosucceed.”
SENDSpotlight
At Inclusive Practice Pathways to Supported Employment, we believe every student has something valuable to share. Recently, students took on the challenge of delivering a lesson to their peers. With support from their tutor, they planned clear objectives, structured the session, and created accessible materials, including worksheets and a presentation. On the day, they introduced the topic clearly, led activities with confidence, and fostered an inclusive learning environment where peers engaged and supported one another. This experience developed confidence, independence, communication, and social skills, while giving the student ownership of their learning. Inspired by this, others are eager to lead, as we continue creating opportunities for students to grow, succeed, and shine.
UniversityHighlight
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Student grants, bursaries and scholarships
If you watch one video on social media today...
By her own admission, Dr Katrina Skerratt-Love was terrible at maths and flunked her A-Levels, partly due to undiagnosed dyslexia and autism. She now studies how to make glass that can withstand radiation in space and potentially enable humans to live on Mars. She speaks brilliantly about her passion - this is one video you really need to watch!
Student loans can put some people off going to university, but there’s lots of types of funding available depending on your circumstances to help you through your degree. If you’re weighing up the pros and cons of going to uni, read about your funding options before you decide.
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CLASSROOM TO CAREERS
Open events for Year 11 students
If you’re finishing your GCSEs this summer, discover what Buckinghamshire College Group can offer by visiting an open event, touring the campus, meeting the tutors, and getting a feel for what it would be like to study there. See the dates coming up.
Have you considered working in Health and Social Care?
The Health and Social Care sector is a big local employer, so we asked an award-winning company - Ashridge Home Care - a few questions about what they look for in the people they hire. Read what they had to say.
Find a space to grow and belong
Seedsof Change is a hands-on outdoor programme in Wendover for people aged 6–25. It offers a supportive and engaging environment where people can explore food growing, cooking, creativity, and community involvement. Learn all about this great opportunity.
The A-Z of possible careers
Visit our Career Profiles Hub to find information on jobs for (almost) every letter of the alphabet. Happy searching - and good luck!
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CLASSROOM TO CAREERS
Apprenticeships at your fingertips
Explore nearly 1,000 apprenticeship opportunities in the summer 2026 edition of the Higher & Degree Vacancy listing from Amazing Apprenticeships. Download the list of vacancies here.
Explore your creative energy this summer
Meet lots of employers at the MK Job Show
The MK Job Show is a FREE event for anyone looking for a new job or training opportunity, including school leavers looking for an apprenticeship and graduates seeking their first big role. Check out the dates and times here.
Write on Art is a national writing programme for people aged 13-19 who are invited to write a short piece about an artwork of their choice. The prize is a writers’ workshop at the Royal College of Art. Click here to get creative!
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