Working and Living in Bristol

Every time I arrive at South Bristol Skills Academy (SBSA), part of City of Bristol College I think 'wow'.

Being new to Bristol, I am loving the contrast between the city and the countryside. There is so much to do and, with more being open, adventures can finally start. Clifton Downs, Ashton Court and Hengrove Park are all favourites for running and Wapping Wharf is a true delight. Then there are the famous coloured houses and the spectacular Clifton Bridge.

As always, I have got immersed into local life. We have joined Bristol Empire Dragons, the local Dragon Boating Club. We never thought that we would be able to pick this great interest up again but on a drive to Bath we saw the Club and within days we were paddling on the river Avon. We have joined the local gym and have signed up for the Bristol Tough Runner 10k. We are certainly not going to be short of activities to do. We have started to visit the local restaurants and luckily the weather has been lovely, so outdoor dinning is no problem. I am looking forward to the College training restaurant opening, I have heard great reports. Bristol certainly has a great community spirit and I am delighted to be a part of it.

Since arriving in January, the last few months have been busy and productive. Understanding the College structure, systems and processes, alongside evaluating what we need to focus on in Marketing, developing a relationship with my new team and colleagues, and managing activities, has been great.

All of the Centres of City of Bristol College are impressive, and the facilities are outstanding. South Bristol Skills Academy, one of City of Bristol College's centres, is stunning inside and out. It is bright and vibrant and spacious. The outdoor space, where there are allotment plots, is idyllic to match the views over the lovely countryside . Just a few months at this College is enough to know that this is a great place where great things happen. The learning, the fundraising, the spirit, the engagement, the supportive and welcoming staff are what make it great. Each time I go to a different centre, I have a new favourite! The estates are amazing, and visitors are frequently surprised at what each centre offers. Students are very happy to be back in class learning on-site, as are the staff. For me, working at home has some advantages, but I enjoy working directly with the team and speaking to students.

National Apprenticeship Week was my first large event at the College and it was clear that I was working with a great team who were passionate about the College and working with local employers. Since then we have held our Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair and two Open Events, all of which have been digital.

South Bristol Skills Academy is having a new building on-site, the Advanced Construction Skills Centre. The state-of-the-art ￡9m centre is looking superb. It will see a vast array of construction provision, including green and sustainable provision. The ongoing growth of apprenticeship provision will be accommodated, together with adult and young learner courses. Based in the heart of the Hengrove Park development, the College is central to the new housing, hospital, retail and sport facilities in the vicinity. A tour of the Centre highlighted the great spaces that have been created including a 6-ramp motor vehicle unit. We are already working with employers on new provision, sponsorship opportunities and our grand opening. You can read more about the new Centre here.

This photo is of the impressive atrium at South Bristol Skills Academy. Having recently completed an assignment at another great College, Strode College, makes me realise how great it is working in a College, but there is nothing like a full buzzing college and soon that great atmosphere shall return.

But back to the College, the main reason I am here. It has so much to offer and I am super proud to talk about that and share it with anyone I can. The offer is so broad it is incredible and provides a challenge at the same time to ensure that it is all promoted in the right way. The extended government initiative to increase apprentices has been well-received as is the Kick Start programme. Celebrations of the College's 25th birthday (as City of Bristol College) are also underway as are plans for new courses starting later in the year.

The #WeAreBristol campaign across the city is very positive. At the College we teach, train and support thousands of people each year. We are a significant contributor to the city’s ambitions and we are lucky to work with such great talent. You can read about the campaign here.

The Marketing Team is busy promoting the College and its offer and considering how the return of attended events will run alongside the now successful and popular on-line events. We are increasing our advertising to ensure we deliver our key messages to the local community. Of course, it is always great to see your College advertised and to develop a sense of pride.

So, with plenty of plans and lots to do, it is an exciting time. We have a new Web Editor/Copy Writer and School Liaison Officer joining the team. Having our team in place will ensure we can deliver our ambitious plans for the College Marketing Team.