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London Colleges and the games 2012
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LONDON COLLEGES AND THE GAMES 2012
Havering College of Further and Higher Education
A LEGACY of incredible Olympic and Paralympic memories is inspiring students and staff at Havering College of Further and Higher Education.
More than 500 young people, their tutors and support staff are lucky enough to be able to say ‘I was there’ after receiving free tickets to the Games under the Ticketshare scheme for Colleges and schools.
With Britain's glorious summer of sport having finally drawn to a close, the College is reflecting on its contribution to London 2012.
Whether it has been the opportunity to witness unforgettable world class sport or a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to entertain thousands of spectators at the Olympic venue, Havering College has enjoyed an amazing Games.
Talented performers from the College’s Olympic-themed show Inspiration staged a mini-version of the production on the Olympic Park Bandstand during the Paralympics.
Inspiration director/producer Peter Dayson, who lectures in Music at Havering College of Further and Higher Education, said: “The opportunity for our students, staff, technicians and partners from special needs schools to collaborate on a mini production in such a short space of time was something I will never forget.
“On that particular day there were over 400,000 people in the Park, and we were blessed with brilliant weather. After the performance, one of our special needs students, turned to her support career and said it was the best day of her life.”
LOCOG also invited College musicians to entertain visitors attending the show jumping competitions in Greenwich Park.
Other students are savouring their own special moments after receiving tickets to sporting events.
Vicky Luxford, 18, from Dagenham, and classmates from the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services course she recently completed, watched Montenegro take on France at Handball. She said: “The atmosphere was just amazing. We were in the Park for the rest of the day watching the massive live screens. I absolutely loved it.”
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Surat Pitchpichet, 17, from Bow, who is on an ESOL course, experienced the incredible buzz of the Olympic Stadium. Surat said: “I went to the Paralympic Athletics. I really enjoyed it. I saw the running and the long jump. It was a good day.”
Jade Davies, 23, from Gidea Park, who is on an adult learning Maths course, witnessed the GB women’s Hockey team beat Belgium. Jade said: “It was exciting and something I will never forget. It was fantastic to go with the College – I definitely wouldn’t have been able to go to the Games otherwise.”
BTEC Music Performance student Sam Loughlin, 17, from Romford, said: “I am really thankful that the College gave us tickets for the Volleyball at Earls Court. The atmosphere was great.”
For the millions of visitors who have strolled through the Olympic Park this summer, the landscaping with its wild flower meadows has been truly impressive. Havering College is proud to have played a part in the spectacular display having earlier worked with the Olympic Delivery Authority ((ODA) on a custom designed apprenticeship in Horticulture and Soft Landscaping/Hard Landscaping for the creation of the Park.
The College’s Olympic journey has also included success for its students in Film Nation Shorts - a London 2012 Cultural Olympiad competition designed to engage young people in the craft of film making and identify new talent. Another group of students had the unforgettable experience of making two commercial style films on apprenticeships for the ODA. Their project was recognised with a Silver award at the Podium Awards which celebrated the vital role Colleges and universities across the UK played in delivering the London 2012 Games.
Havering College principal Maria Thompson said: “We have just come to the end of six unforgettable weeks of sport and everyone will have their own golden memories. The College is proud that so many of our students were able to be a part of the Games in some way.
“Our legacy will be in continuing to build on the new friendships and partnerships made as a result of London 2012.”
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Barnet and Southgate College
Students Mingle with Olympic Royalty
Barnet and Southgate College Students enjoyed exclusive access to the London 2012 Games, as a lucky few from the Catering, Hairdressing and Beauty Departments actually worked inside the Olympic Village, throughout the 2012 Games and Paralympic Games. Hairdressing student Carolina Lopez worked inside the Athletes and Media Salon at the Olympic Village. The pictures attached show her with Dame Kelly Holmes MBE and TV presenter Reggie Yates, both of whom she styled.
Carolina Lopez said: "The number of famous athletes, TV presenters and celebrities I’ve met is amazing and I can’t believe I actually styled Dame Kelly Holmes’ hair! This was such a special opportunity and a real honour for me. I found the athletes so inspirational, and I think that by doing their hair before they competed or went on TV, I might have actually helped their performance. It really has been the best thing I’ve ever done as not only was it exciting to meet so many famous people but I’ve learnt so much from other talented Hairdressers from all over the world who were also working in the Salon. I couldn’t believe it when one of the professional stylists actually offered me a job to start once I’ve finished at College, which I accepted, the whole experience really has changed my life."
Also working in the Olympic Salon were Beauty students, Wazmha Amendy and Nil Adin; all three students were chosen from thousands of applications - Catering student, Debbie Grimmond, was also lucky enough to be selected for her role as a Chef inside the Olympic Village.
Debbie Grimmond said: "I helped plan and design menus for all the athletes and attending dignitaries, working in the British cuisine ‘pod’. The highlight has to have been when I served Usain Bolt and Team GB’s Tom Daley! They asked me lots of questions about the food we had made, and what was in each dish, I felt really proud that I helped prepare what they chose to
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eat. It’s been hard work, especially the day of the Opening Ceremony we were rushed off our feet, but I’ve loved every minute, it really has been a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget.”
Barnet and Southgate College Principal David Byrne said: “We’re very proud of all the students that worked at the Olympic Village, it was a fantastic opportunity for them to showcase their skills to the rest of the World! It just goes to show the types of opportunities that can open up to those students studying for vocational qualifications at Barnet and Southgate College.”
THE OLYMPIC TORCH COMES TO BARNET AND SOUTHGATE COLLEGE!
Barnet and Southgate College was proud to be part of the Olympic Torch Relay on Wednesday 25th July. The Olympic Torch entourage arrived on Campus with the Torch, and twenty torch bearers, they stopped at the College for a brief break and briefing session. Then the Torch was reignited and passed onto another torch bearer, right outside the College Reception. Staff brought their families along for an exciting and historic day, and for a glimpse of an Olympic Torch!
At 15.37 the Torch came onto the Southgate Campus and the Torch Bearer was 13 year old Lauren Englefield from Potters Bar. Then at 15.58 the Torch was re-lit from a lantern to a new Torch and the Bearer was 33 year old Kelly Nodding-Scott, from Enfield.
Continuing the Olympic theme, the College is also proud to announce that four talented Students from the Catering, Hairdressing and Beauty Departments, are all currently working in the Olympic Village, meeting the athletes and officials.
David Byrne, Principal of Barnet and Southgate College said:
“Barnet and Southgate College was honoured to host the Olympic Torch Relay at the Southgate Campus, it was a fantastic opportunity for the College to be part of such a historic event in London. We’re also extremely proud of all of our students that worked in the Olympic Village this summer. Their achievements are testament to the high quality of skills they have gained in catering, hairdressing and beauty, whilst studying at the College.”
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City and Islington College
Candi student Desiree Henry lights Olympic Cauldron
City and Islington College student Desiree Henry was one of seven young athletes to light the Olympic Cauldron at the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Desiree, 16, was nominated to light the cauldron by double Olympic decathlon champion Daley Thompson, beating out five-time Olympic champion Sir Steve Redgrave and four-minute mile record breaker Sir Roger Bannister to achieve the
honour.
The track star said: “When I was first told I was stunned – it was just amazing to me that Daley Thompson even knew who I was, let alone that he was nominating me to light the flame.”
The Centre for Applied Sciences student trains at the Enfield and Haringey Athletics Club and is the current World Youth 200M Champion, setting personal bests and a world-leading time on her way to winning the title in Lille last year.
Desiree, who competed in the 200M in the Olympic Trials and World Junior Championships in Barcelona earlier this summer, where she finished fourth, was highly commended at the Female Sports Student of the Year awards earlier this year in recognition of her efforts on the track. She was also tipped by World 800M bronze medalist Jenny Meadows to win a spot on the 4x100M relay team at this summer’s Olympic Games – however the GB Women’s team narrowly failed to qualify.
On lighting the cauldron Desiree said: “It was an out of body experience. I can’t even put it into words what it felt like, it didn’t seem real and it still doesn’t.”
“It’s an experience I wouldn’t forget in a million years – just to be in the stadium alone was special, but to be part of such a historic moment like that was just incredible."
“For Olympic champions to give up such an amazing moment and pass it up to seven people not many people have heard of, that sums up exactly what these Olympics are all about.”
The London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony was watched by more than a billion people worldwide.
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Uxbridge College
Olympic Roles for Uxbridge College
• Uxbridge College staff and students took up a number of Olympic roles this year.
• Production Arts Design students helped with costuming for the opening and closing ceremonies at the Olympics and Paralympics. Calista Ross, 20, assisted in making costumes and dressing the performers during the ceremonies. Calista and two other students, Amy Brian, 20, and Jessica Green, 19, also helped measure up some of the 3,000 performers for their outfits. Photos enclosed.
• Music lecturer Ivan Sanz was picked to play the drums in the opening ceremony. Photos enclosed.
• And two students were among the torchbearers in the London leg of the relay:
o Toby Dowling, 15, who enrolled on a performing arts course starting in September 2012 - Toby carried the torch past Hillingdon Hospital in the London Borough of Hillingdon where the College is located. Toby was born at the hospital and has been treated there for a series of health problems.
o Sam Jafar, 19, an engineering student, carried the torch through Westminster. Sam, who has coached young people in football, is the first Kurd ever to carry the torch in the history of the Olympics.
• The Olympic torch was also carried past the College on its way to the Olympic Stadium, with hundreds of local people lining the route.
• Olympic tickets issued to the College were awarded to a number of students who had good attendance.
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Lambeth College
Olympic Spirits
A large number of learners at Lambeth College have been raking in the benefits of the London 2012 Olympic Games this summer. Volunteering opportunities and free tickets to major events at the Olympic Park were offered to the College's most deserving and dedicated students.
Gift McLaren has just completed the Sport and Exercise Science - BTEC Level 3 Diploma course at our Clapham Centre and is now destined for Brunel University to study a BSc Hons Degree in Sports Science. During the Olympic games, Gift worked as a Games Maker at Horse Guards Parade for the Beach Volleyball competitions. Gift was responsible for raking and treating the sand courts before and during each match.
Gift said: “I have just had the best summer ever! I think the experience of taking part in one of the biggest sporting occasions in this country will live with me forever. It was through the College and my fantastic tutor, Michael that I got this opportunity and it has filled me with a renewed enthusiasm for sport and being part of the sports industry. I’ve also joined an athletics club and will be competing for the South London Harriers at Crystal Palace NSC over the new season.”
Besides work and volunteering opportunities, London Mayor Boris Johnson donated a large number of Olympic tickets to Lambeth College. One hundred and fifty students went to various events at the Olympics and Paralympics and one student, Carlene Harris, actually took part as a dancer in the opening and closing ceremonies.
Sports Coach, Rytis Kumpelis, runs the gym and a whole host of sports and enrichment activities at Lambeth College. He took a group of students to see Team GB’s Women’s basketballers in action against Brazil in their first round pool game at the Basketball Arena. He said: “This was a fabulous reward for the students. They saw the games, met athletes and got to look around the park. The atmosphere was amazing.”
Only students who had served the College or had fulfilled outstanding achievement criteria were eligible for tickets. This included students who volunteered as ambassadors, sports leaders, peer mentors or who took part in citizenship schemes. Other students who had
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exceptional punctuality, attendance and behavior records and those who had achieved amazing results whilst on course were also treated to free tickets.
An Olympic dream becomes reality as former radio production student begins an exciting career with the BBC.
A dramatic change of direction led Khadidija N’diaye to a career in radio broadcasting, her life-long passion, and has now landed her a dream job with the BBC World Service currently
covering the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Khadidija had studied for an HND in Management and Accounting and was heading in the direction of self-employment in her native France when she had a last minute change of heart. After a conversation with a close friend about her career direction, she chose to realise her dream in London, stopped worrying what others would think about
her new career path and followed her heart by enrolling on a radio production course at Lambeth College - something that she really enjoys.
“I love writing, watching and debating about films and documentaries and have always been fascinated by radio. I had never really considered it a career option until I came across a course that caught my eye in a Lambeth College prospectus.”
Lambeth College runs a one-year Radio Production - CG Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Media Techniques based at our Vauxhall Centre. The course offers hands-on experience creating content for the College radio station, Vox Radio, as well as developing skills in creating news bulletins, interviewing, audio editing, radio drama, comedy sketch writing, commercial production, voice training and presenting.
“Everything I have taken away with me from this course has been beneficial and has helped me to improve my strengths and weaknesses as an individual. My language skills and my understanding of the British culture and radio has improved too.”
Khadidija is now studying for a BA in Broadcasting at the University of West London and within six months of completing her radio course applied for work experience at the BBC securing a two week placement alongside the opportunity to meet and network with BBC producers and editors. This then led to a further three weeks work experience.
A few months later, Khadidija received a call and was offered a contract. She is now working as a Broadcast and Online Assistant for the BBC World Service.
“I’m using skills gained from the course in my current role including organisation and management, team work, working under pressure and meeting deadlines as well as various radio and broadcasting techniques.
Currently I work on the Olympic London 2012 coverage by helping online and sports journalists and the news team by organising the play list, checking the running order, editing
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audio, contributing ideas for reporting and programmes, and sometimes I play the role of a correspondent - my gateway to fame.
Thank you so much to Lambeth College for the opportunity you have given me and other young people. You have great facilities and provide opportunities to meet industry professionals who come in to talk to us at College. This was priceless. Your excellent and supportive tutors have enabled me to achieve my best and to my full potential. My dreams have come true!"
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Newham Sixth Form College
Former NewVIc student is the Opening Ceremony’s Prince Charming
Former NewVIc student Henrique Costa wowed London 2012 Opening Ceremony audiences as the boy in blue who won his girl’s heart, and a kiss.
In front of worldwide TV audiences of up to one billion people, Henrique was a modern day Prince Charming in the Cinderella-style story of a lost mobile phone uniting two young people.
Henrique, age 20, studied level 3 BTEC extended diploma in performing arts at NewVIc between 2008 and 2010 and continues to support the College and its students through his involvement in extra-curricular dance programmes. He has been part of the NewVIc Dance Company and as one of the NewVIc Lister street dance group competed in the TroolSkool break dancing competition, coming second in the country. Henrique was joined by 11 current NewVIc students who also starred in the Opening Ceremony.
Henrique said of this incredible moment: “I couldn’t have got this chance without the support of NewVIc, and it has led on to an amazing opportunity to work with an inspirational director like Danny Boyle. It feels like a dream.”
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NewVIc students volunteer at London 2012
Twenty-two NewVIc students volunteered at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in roles including wheelchair tennis ball boys/girls, athletics kit carrying and handball court sweepers.
The students have shown great enthusiasm and dedication over the past year in preparation for The Games. They have attended selection events, training sessions, and test events to get ready for their roles.
The best way to sum up their experience is to read about some of their most memorable moments:
“The best part about being a ball girl at the Paralympic Wheelchair Tennis was being able to see the passion and pride all the players have for the game and their country. The best thing about the experience was being able to play a key role within the game and also being thanked for doing a good job especially by the “Quadfather” Peter Norfolk.”
Ellie Daly - Young Games Maker Volunteer Wheelchair Tennis Ball Girl
“The most memorable moment for me at the Paralympic Games was seeing a one-legged athlete compete in the high jump – it was an inspiration.”
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Abideen Shobowale – Young Games Maker Volunteer Athletics Kit Carrier
“My most memorable moment from the Paralympics was the first time I went out into the stadium as well as standing behind three time champion Mohamed Farhat Chida from Tunisia and I had the pleasure of carrying his kit.”
Syed Shah – Young Games Maker Volunteer Athletics Kit Carrier
“My most memorable moment at the Paralympics as a Games Maker was being able to meet and greet some of the athletes and being able to help them.”
Rolando Macanas Jnr – Young Games Maker Athletics Kit Carrier
“My most memorable moment at the Paralympics was getting a handshake from Oscar Pistorius and being on TV. My other most memorable experience was getting a photograph from the Brazilian partially blind team.”
Mazwita Chaya – Young Games Maker Volunteer Athletics Kit Carrier
“My most memorable moment was hearing the different inspirational stories from athletes around the Olympic Park before my shift began; also helping out with the kit carrying during the Paralympics was a great experience especially in a full house stadium during an evening session.”
Jamal Abdallah – Young Games Maker Volunteer Athletics Kit Carrier.
Three students, Sheikh Sheikh, Samuel Berhanu and Hollie Clugston, were also chosen to be torchbearers for the London 2012 Olympic Games.
NewVIc student to carry Olympic Flame
NewVIc applied science student, Samuel Berhanu, was excited to discover that he has been selected to be one of the 8,000 torchbearers in the Olympic Torch Relay.
Samuel Berhanu, age 18, was chosen from thousands of people nominated to take part in the relay which will see the Flame carried through 1,019 communities in the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey.
He was nominated by Jodie Grant from the College’s Sports Academy who was impressed by his contribution to College life. As well as being captain of the basketball team Samuel played a key role in organising Get Active and Arty Week at the College, the event which was so successful it was awarded an Inspire Mark. You can see all that Samuel has been involved in on his profile on the London 2012 website.
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Samuel commented on his selection: “I am really excited to have been chosen to be a torchbearer. It is a privilege and a once in a lifetime opportunity.
I think the Olympics are really good for the area. More job opportunities and housing have been created and after the Games the facilities will be left for us to use. It has moved the focus from other parts of London to the east end and has helped to change the negative image about the area.”
Samuel will be carrying the Flame through Newham on 21 July.
See Samuel on the BBC news. (www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-17475292)
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Carshalton College
Carshalton College at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games As a member of the Get Set Network, Carshalton College’s Sport’s department was given tickets to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Tickets covered a variety of sports including basketball, gymnastics, athletics, hockey, wrestling, football and table tennis as well as a number of medal ceremonies. Carshalton College student, Jess Greenway attended the games
and said ‘The strength the athletes had was amazing. Throughout the evening each event got explained and some facts about it were given. It was a really great experience and I’m really glad I got to go and that I can say I was there.’ Student Shannon Bundy went ‘to the Paralympics to see athletics at the Olympic Park in Stratford. To be able to see an event like Athletics was amazing because it has so many different events going on so there was a lot to see. It was great to see that no matter what disability you have, you can still make a change in life and prove that you are no less able than people without disabilities.’ Student Ellie Potter found, ‘the experience amazing. It was so breath-taking to see such talent in person its nothing like it is on the TV to be in that atmosphere with other people who share your passion for the sport makes it ten times better than sitting at home shouting at your TV. For me I was beside myself at the opportunity because gymnastics is a passion of mine and I wanted to take it on as a career and it just goes to show how much time and effort goes into making such athletes it really does inspire you. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and to be able to go and witness it with my friends made it even better. If I had the chance I would go over and over again, it makes you wonder about your future in life and how you want to make a change, things such as the Olympics will inspire generations to come and promote being more active in schools clubs etc. Overall the experience was amazing and I’m grateful for the chance also I think it will make the nation more hands on and more physically active.’ ‘The College gave me a great opportunity to go and see an event at the Olympics which was the men’s gymnastics as well as an event at the Paralympics which was the athletics. This was amazing as this meant that not only did I get to see many Great Britain’s athletes at their best but I also got to see two different venues in London.’ Lauren Hewitt, Carshalton College Sports Student. IT Student, Thierno Diallo, worked as a volunteer at the Olympics and Paralympics and said ‘I feel proud to be part of London 2012 and it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life, I enjoyed every single second of it.’ Sports & Public Services Team Leader at Carshalton College, Jez Gray found it ‘a unique and unforgettable experience for our students. We have worked for the past few years now in encouraging our students to get involved in the games and sports in general. We were delighted our efforts were recognised and rewarded by the Get Set Network who provided us with the tickets. Having the Olympics in London was the perfect opportunity to get our students to the games and gave our students the opportunity to watch world-class athletes in action. We hope this will motivate our students to reach their potential.’
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Carshalton College joined the Get Set Network along with over 1,000 other members in the build up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Network offered interactive learning resources, ideas and opportunities to help schools and Colleges make the most of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. For learners aged 3 to 19 years there were a host of challenges, competitions, ambassador roles, volunteering opportunities and festivals to get involved with. The aims of the Get Set Network were to enhance young people’s learning in all subjects, support and drive existing educational priorities and agendas, involve as many children and young people as possible in the excitement of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and supporting children and young people. Carshalton College encouraged students and staff to get involved with the games and organised and participated in a number of related initiatives. For further information on the College and their Olympic activities please follow this link – http://www.carshalton.ac.uk/about/olympic_opportunities/.
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Brooke House Sixth Form College
London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games – We are Inspired!
The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been an amazing experience for students and staff at BSix Sixth Form College. Since the announcement of the Games coming to London, the preparations became visible from the outset. The vision for London 2012 was to connect young people with the inspirational power of the Games, so they are inspired to choose sport. As the stadium began to fill the Stratford skyline, Team GB athletes were busy training for the biggest competition of their lives. BSix students were able to get involved in the build-up of the Games through various projects and events. Students took part in tours of the Olympic Park, Q and A sessions with athletes and became Legacy Champions. A number of BSix students joined the Legacy Youth Panel and Hackney Youth Ambassadors. Some were part of a Radio Project with Reprezent, interviewing BBC Radio 1 DJ Trevor Nelson and the group So’Fly.
Professional opportunities for students came with the Games, and the College hosted Bridging the Gap training, an opportunity for students to gain security qualifications and an interview for games time security roles. There were a number of workshops from LOCOG and students began the application process for Games Maker roles as well as security and catering roles. Ex-students were also prominent during the games, Elizabeth Reid a member of the Team GB Volleyball team and Takashi Bailey carried the Olympic torch in Hackney.
On the 27th of July, the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony welcomed athletes and fans from all over the world. The stage was set and the ceremony reflected the hopes and themes for the Games- sport, inspiration, youth and urban transformation. BSix student Yunlu Li, took part in the Opening ceremony as one of the drummers in the Industrial revolution section of the show. She also took part in the Closing ceremony, marshalling athletes entering the stadium, whilst wearing the bright blue suit with a light hat.
Sports student, Chantel Elizabeth Gray was awarded the chance to be a kit carrier for athletes during the Games. Chantel is a member of the Newham and Essex Beagles Athletics Club and before the Games met Team GB athlete Perri Drakes Shayton. They spoke about their event, the 400 metres and Perri advised Chantel to continue to train hard. During the Games, Chantel was a kit carrier for Jamaican athlete Warren Weir in the 200 metre final. Before the race, Usain
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Bolt chatted and joked with Chantel at the starting line, asking her did she want to run the race for him. Chantel could not believe the fastest man in the world spoke to her, “to have a joke and a laugh with Usain Bolt takes my Olympic experience to a whole new level.”
Sonali Wijesinghe was a team supervisor in the Athlete’s Village. She had an amazing, once in a lifetime experience meeting athletes from all over the world and working with a wide range of people. Uzma Ravat was a ‘Last Mile’ Team Leader. The ‘Last Mile’ was the pedestrian route for spectators between each London 2012 competition venue and designated transport hubs. Uzma and her team were responsible for ensuring spectators arrived at and departed from the Olympic Park safely. Uzma could not choose one part of the Games as her favourite moment, saying she enjoyed the whole experience. Tannaee Thomas worked as part of the security team based at the Hilton Hotel. As a reward for her hard work she got tickets to goalball and the Paralympics closing ceremony. Jessica Long, American Paralympic swimmer and winner of eight London 2012 medals gave Tanaee a signed pair of trainers! Mergim Azemi also worked in security. He worked at a number of venues including Greenwich Park, the Athlete’s Village and the Stadium. Mergim said working at the Olympics gave him the chance to learn a lot about himself and how he works with others. He also enjoyed meeting the Turkish Paralympic team saying they were a lot of fun.
The College was awarded tickets to view various events during the Games, as part of the Get Set ticket initiative and in recognition of our work in promoting the Olympic and Paralympic values. We were also invited to take part in the Key Seat initiative, a group of lucky students and staff got two days in the park, viewing basketball, hockey and handball sitting in the accredited seating areas. Other events attended included volleyball, wrestling and Paralympic athletics.
For Sarah Kerrigan, BSix Sports Coordinator, tickets for students was an important aspect of the Games-
“Accompanying BSix students to the Olympic Park was an honour, the excitement and atmosphere each one of us experienced was unforgettable. The Paralympics really was amazing; our students met various athletes and teams and were so close to the action. The experience has inspired us to embrace the Legacy of London 2012 through sport and making positive contributions in the community.”
During the year, the College had links with a number of Team GB athletes including Natasha Baker, a Paralympic Dressage rider and Gemma Gibbons, Judo athlete and UEL Sport Scholar. Natasha won two gold medals and Gemma won a silver medal, congratulations from all at BSix and thank you for inspiring us.
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Kingston College Head of Section Plays Role in Olympic Torch Relay
A Kingston College employee recently played a role when the Olympic Torch passed through Windsor. Karen Wheatley, Head of Section for Service Industries was invited as she had trained around 200 ‘Ambassadors’ in WorldHost Customer Service for the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.
She said: “The atmosphere was brilliant and despite a deluge of rain while the torch was in the castle grounds (only invited guests allowed) by the time it reached the start of the Long Walk it had brightened up and stopped raining. I spent the day with the Communications teams from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead and Royal Parks – directing journalists and film crews to their respective ‘pens’. I had a superb view being based at the gate from the Castle into The Long Walk and the crowds gathered from 11am despite the torch not being scheduled until just after 3pm. I was thrilled to see some of the ambassadors on the day resplendent in their pink outfits controlling the crowds and offering advice and guidance where needed. Most of them will be working at Eton Dorney for the Olympic and Paralympic Rowing events.”
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Hackney Community College
The opportunities of the 2012 Games: Raising aspirations and maximising potential for our students and communities The Challenge
As soon as London won the bid for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Hackney Community College started to work in partnership with relevant organisations to use this great opportunity to inspire students and local community members to reassess aspirations and reach their potential. It was vitally important for us to make sure we were in the best position, to help our students to be “first in line” for the opportunities brought about by the Games. Where there are pockets of low aspiration and
high unemployment, we wanted to create opportunity. For example: • Catering training, for people to get qualified to work at the Games.. and beyond. • Apprenticeships on the Park’s development, for construction trainees to move into
secure jobs. • Security qualifications alongside students’ main qualification to secure temp work at the
Games leading to long-term job prospects • And across the College, using the values and excitement of the Games to shape activity
and motivate students to get involved, get qualified and get work. • Further, we worked with Hackney Council to train around 500 local unemployed
people for work opportunities at the Games. Our work is regarded as a model case-study within our sector. We have shared our good practice widely, with schools, Colleges and universities across the country. Our 2012 initiatives support achievement spanning across the curriculum. Students and staff celebrate and share good practice, raising awareness of further opportunities and inspiring each other. For example: • A student progressed from level 1 media to level 2 performing arts, and is now performing
in the London 2012 opening ceremony. Her new ambition is to progress to HE in performing arts.
• A joint ESOL and fashion project (a jacket made from flags of countries participating in the Games), inspired ESOL students to progress to fashion courses.
• Sports and travel students who have security qualifications to work at the Games now have job opportunities to support them through university.
• Our drive for female apprentices on the Olympic Park’s construction has supported more women into construction training and jobs.
• Students who had no aspiration to enter higher education now have personal contacts within London’s universities.
• Students from all curriculum areas have taken part in sporting activities. • Students worked with experts on a real design brief for the 2012 education logo
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• We supported performing arts students through audition and selection processes for the opening ceremony; giving confidence to perform and study at a higher level.
• Many students have skills, confidence and career opportunities through additional qualifications to work in security roles through the national Bridging the Gap partnership.
• A first paid job in catering and hospitality at the Games in partnership with employers in the industry, has inspired catering students to progress in the industry or to higher education.
• Paid construction apprenticeships on the Olympic Park in partnership with the Olympic Delivery Authority have boosted confidence and contacts for future employment.
• Student volunteering projects through our Legacy Champions scheme (in partnership with other Colleges, EDF Energy and Envision) have given skills and confidence of organising events and making things happen.
• Being involved in the national Personal Best partnership gave disengaged local people work skills to volunteer at the games.
• We have involved hundreds of local school children in themed activities, providing stimulating material for the schools and bringing young children onto our College campus, raising awareness of FE.
On a wider scale: HCC working with LOCOG – volunteer training and basketball camp Hackney Community College was the only FE College selected as a training venue for Games Maker volunteers. The College worked in partnership with LOCOG to make sure that almost 50,000 of the wonderful GamesMakers had a brilliant training experience at one of HCC’s venues. Hackney Community College was also a games-time training venue for Olympic and Paralympic basketball. This meant that any competing team could train or warm-up in the College’s sports centre. The result of these two significant contracts are a refurbished, Olympic-standard sports centre for use by students and the wider community, and refurbished accommodation and new It equipment and furniture across the College – our own local legacy of the 2012 Games. Some numbers:
• 50 catering students got work at the Games and in games-time venues • 9 students (and 2 staff) performed in the opening ceremony. • 106 students have achieved additional security qualifications and have been offered
work at the Games. • Around 500 local unemployed people got short training and work. • Countless construction students got work experience on the Olympic Park. • Over 50 media students have made films inspired by the Games and their values. • 2 students and one staff member were torch bearers. • Over 500 local school pupils have been engaged through 2012 activities led by our
students. • 70 students have been inspired by winning Olympic-themed awards at the College. • 30 students have taken part in the Legacy Champions scheme (and we played a key role
in setting up the project for the benefit of other host borough Colleges too). • 1000s of HCC students have participated in another Olympic-themed activity or event. • 1000+ people have attended Olympic awareness events and job fairs.
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• 300 students and staff got FREE tickets to an Olympic or Paralympic event, including a number of VIP ‘Key Seats’ groups.
The legacy We are committed to making sure that the momentum continues beyond 2012.
• The College is working strategically to secure legacy apprenticeships and jobs. • We are a partner in the iCITY legacy initiative of the press and broadcast centre on the
Park. The complex will house a digital academy of use by our students, and companies will be encouraged to take on work experience and apprenticeships – leading to employment.
• Our principal led a local Legacy Seminar with outcomes of real commitments of opportunity for local people.
• We have adopted the Olympic and Paralympic values as a College. • We will continue to use the model of cross-College working between departments. • The strengthened links made with schools through our 2012 work will continue. • We are planning an Olympic-themed sports event with the University of East London
for autumn 2012. • We have a legacy of a refurbished sports centre
Please also see the following website news stories:
HCC 2012 performer meets Prince Charles: http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/227/hackney-community-College-student-adilson-santos-represents-2012-performers-at-royal-reception/
HCC's involvement in the opening ceremony http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/224/student-and-staff-performers-and-our-resident-olympian-at-the-2012-olympic-opening-ceremony/
HCC nominated student Alpha Kamara to carry the torch through Hackney
http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/222/hccs-alpha-carries-the-torch-for-hackney/
HCC's second student torch bearer
http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/223/rhyanias-torch-moment-another-hackney-community-College-student-carries-the-torch/
HCC joins forces with icity for Olympic Legacy opportunities for local people http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/221/hackney-community-College-joins-forces-with-icity-for-a-digital-olympic-legacy/
HCC wins London Education Partnership award for celebrating opportunities of 2012 http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/216/hackney-community-College-awarded-for-celebrating-opportunities-of-2012/
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HCC is Volunteer training venue (figure was actually closer to 50,000) http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/209/hackney-community-College-venue-to-train-70-000-2012-games-volunteers/
HCC legacy champions http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/197/hcc-students-use-2012-games-as-inspiration-to-create-legacy-in-community/
HCC olympic guest speaker (just one example of many) http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/191/gb-olympian-swimmer-delivers-master-class-to-sports-students/
HCC engaging local school pupils in Olympic countdown http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/190/olympics-countdown-200-days-to-go-to-london-2012/
HCC hosts 2012 jobs fair http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/183/hundreds-sign-up-for-their-chance-to-get-a-job-at-the-2012-games/
HCC shares 2012 work with Weymouth College: http://www.hackney.ac.uk/news-events/news/185/weymouth-comes-to-hackney-for-the-olympics/
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Waltham Forest College
Opening Ceremony Three students from Waltham Forest College were amongst thousands of dancers who thrilled a global audience during the Olympics Opening Ceremony 2012 on Friday 27th July 2012. Wilza Mendez (Art and Design), Ieva Palujnskait (ESOL) and Kenzo Liwasa, (Business Studies), took part in the spectacular show which was the brainchild of esteemed award-winning director Danny Boyle. After rigorous auditions and months of rehearsing in secret they were elated to be part of such a magnificent event. Kenzo who lives in Leyton said: "This was once in life time experience and it was really great to meet people from all over the Country. Being involved in this event has made me realise that I would like to take my dancing further". Students received a certificate of appreciation from Danny Boyle thanking them for the time, energy and skills to participate in this great event. Catering students Catering students from Waltham Forest College were recruited to help feed the athletes competing at the Games in London. They worked on a round–the-clock rota basis providing breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for the athletes over an 11 week period catering for Olympian and Paralympian athletes. Sebnem Marasali, 19, helped to prepare breakfasts for the first group of athletes to arrive in the Olympic Village on Monday (July 16). "I worked as a prep chef and then as a commis chef, as it became busier,” she said. "For the first few weeks worked overnight shifts alongside chefs from all around the world. I had such a great time, and it was fantastic atmosphere. It really helped prepare me for the world of work."
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London Ambassadors Students from Waltham Forest College were recruited to be London Ambassadors during the Olympic and Paralympic games. Students had to take part in a vigorous selection process,
where they were assessed on a variety of skills such as communication and team-work, before being offered the role. As a London Ambassador, students were responsible for welcoming visitors from all over the world, providing help and assistance to the thousands of people supporting their nation during the Games. Public Services student Samantha Gibson was based at Spitalfield Market: “It was great fun, and the atmosphere was fantastic. I met so many people from all over the world. Being a London Ambassador has really helped build up my confidence, and be a part of this once in a life-time opportunity.” Travel and Tourism student Tammy Ketheeswaran impressed her manager
so much, that she was promoted to being a team leader and managed seven other members of staff at Stratford International Station. “I am so glad I had the opportunity to be a part of the Paralympic games. I was in charge of a team of seven and it was very busy and chaotic as it was the main route to the Olympic site. But we all worked well as part of a team, and we all had it under control to make sure visitors were shown the best of London.” Games-makers Staff at Waltham Forest College also volunteered to be Games Makers during the Paralympic and Olympic games. The thousands of Games Makers were a vital link in making the Games the success they were. Fashion lecturer Dawn Musharifie was a technical team leader during the Paralympic games and was based at the Excel Centre for the table-tennis tournament. “I was the print distribution team leader, and managed a team of eight people, to help keep spectators informed of the different medal ceremonies. I loved every part of it, the atmosphere was electric.” Similar to the thousands of other volunteers, Dawn also used her holiday leave from work to volunteer for the Games. “I worked six shifts in total, and loved every second of it.”
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Redbridge College
Games chef Ryan lands himself a job as Redbridge College learners impress at London 2012
A hearing-impaired learner from Redbridge College has impressed a top catering firm so much that they have offered him a job once he finishes studying at the College. Ryan Easton, 19, was among 52 Redbridge College learners who worked alongside the leading caterer as professional
chefs at the London 2012 Games. Learners served food for more than 13,000 athletes over a 10 week period at the Olympic Park this summer, including at the Olympic Games and Paralympics.
Ryan was initially supported by a member of the College’s Additional Learning Support staff while working at the Games. But, after gaining in confidence, Ryan was able to work unsupervised alongside experienced chefs – with his skills catching the eye of experienced colleagues. Ryan said: “It was very hard work each day
but if there were any problems we all helped each other – the people I was working with were all incredibly nice. I learnt new skills and techniques that I hadn’t seen before. The thing I will remember most is the respect I received and knowledge I gained from the experienced chefs who acted as my mentors.”
Since enrolling at Redbridge College in 2010 Ryan has been fully supported by the College’s Additional Learning Support team and he is now set to follow his dream of working in the catering industry. Curriculum Area Manager for Hospitality & Catering at the College, Sharon Sullivan, worked alongside learners as Chef Manager in the Main Production Kitchen at the Olympic Park. Sharon commented: “I am incredibly proud and overwhelmed by the dedication and motivation of the Redbridge College learners who took part in this once in a lifetime experience. The response of chefs from all over the world to working alongside our learners was also fantastic.”
Lecturers kitted out and ready for London 2012
Three Redbridge College lecturers are gearing up for their latest challenge – as volunteers at London 2012. Jenny Cass, Linda Frielich and Stephen Peacock are three of the thousands of Games Maker volunteers who will be hoping to make London 2012 a huge success. The trio were successful from more than 240,000 applicants for the limited number of volunteer positions, with mo re than 100,000 candidates interviewed across the UK.
In the buildup to the Games Jenny, Linda and Stephen have each attended up to three training sessions to ensure they are as prepared as possible for their respective roles. Jenny, a lecturer for Science, Access and Maths at the College located in Little Heath, Barley Lane, will be in amongst the action for events including boxing, judo and table tennis in her role as a Wayfinder at ExCel London. Jenny said: "To play a part in the greatest sporting event on earth is simply a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
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Volunteering is a fantastic way to give something back to the community and I feel tremendously proud to have been selected for this role"
Stephen, Curriculum Area Manager for Sport Studies, will be assisting boxing judges, timekeepers and referees at ExCel London. Stephen said: “I have got a lot out of Sport both while serving in the Army and working as a lecturer and I thought it was time to give something back. Being part of the London Olympics is going to be fantastic and I cannot wait to meet many people from around the world.”
Meanwhile Linda, a lecturer for English for Speakers of Other Languages who has worked at Redbridge College for more than 30 years, will be assisting press operations at the rebranded North Greenwich Arena (otherwise known as the O2) where gymnastics, trampoline and basketball will all be held. The official London 2012 uniforms include a jacket, polo shirt, trousers, trainers, socks, cap, bag, water bottle and an umbrella.
Organisers say the Games Maker outfit was inspired by the historic Grenadier Guards uniform, with influences from the 1948 Games, Wimbledon and Henley Regatta. Volunteers have been integral to the success of the Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games since they were used for the first time in the London 1948 Summer Games.
Learners take their Cultural Olympiad film to City Hall
A group of budding filmmakers at the College recently saw a documentary they produced exploring the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad have its premiere at City Hall.
The 17 learners, who all study BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Graphic Design, presented their film – titled ‘What’s in it for us?’– to an invited audience of important decision makers, special guests, parents and the Greater London Authority’s Peer Outreach Team on Friday 22 June 2012. The 20-minute documentary sees the learners visit the headquarters of some of the UK’s most influential organisations to find out about the cultural celebrations taking place around th e country this year.
Filming took place at the cultural partners of London 2012 including Arts Council England, Coca Cola, Create London and BT River of Music. Learners worked together at the heart of the decision making process throughout filming and production, deciding everything from the questions to ask to the background music of the finishing documentary. In addition to meeting and interviewing senior executives within the London 2012 cultural partners,
learners even had the opportunity to hold the Olympic Torch during filming.
Following the premiere of the documentary a panel of learners containing Jade Williams, 17, Jordan Browne, 20, and John Fawsitt, 19, participated in a question and answer session with the City Hall audience. Jade said: “During the making of the documentary I learnt how to speak to people more fluently and how to work as a team, not a group of individuals. My eyes have
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been opened to the fantastic facilities across London and I hope that the legacy of the Cultural Olympiad continues long after London 2012.”
Jordan said: “Before I started this project I didn’t know that there was more to the Olympics than sport, that there are all these fantastic cultural events and festivals taking place.”It’s been fantastic to learn about. Working on this project with my friends at College and with the Peer Outreach Team has been brilliant. It’s been an adventure and so much fun. The one thing I will take away most of all is learning how to work together as part of a successful team.”
The project was coordinated at Redbridge College by lecturer Tim Smith. Speaking at City Hall, he said: “It means a lot to our students and to me that so many people involved in the making of the project have come to see the finished documentary. "The way our students have reacted and participated has inspired me so much – I’m very proud of every student involved.”
The ‘What’s in it for us?’ documentary is now set to be published on the Arts in Parliament website. The Cultural Olympiad has featured programmes and projects inspired by London 2012 since 2008 and is funded by the principal sponsors of the Games. Organisers of the Cultural Olympiad estimate that more than 16 million people across the UK have attended or taken part in some form.
The ‘What’s in it for us?’ documentary is the third film produced by learners at Redbridge College in partnership with the GLA’s Peer Outreach Team. The previous documentaries are now used by the Peer Outreach Team in schools across London to generate interest and discussion amongst students.
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Lewisham College
London 2012: An Olympic effort from Lewisham College
The 2012 Summer Olympic Games were an unforgettable show. Few watching will forget Mo Farah, Jess Ennis, Michael Phelps, Usain Bolt and some of the many athletes who wowed London and the world for sixteen days. With the Paralympic Games already here, it’s time for In The Know to review what departments around the College have done for the Olympics and Paralympics.
The Skills People worked with security provider G4S on Bridging the Gap, which trained Lewisham College students as security officers for the 2012 Olympics. Over 140 Lewisham College students operated as paid security officers during the 2012 Olympics. Abiola King, who is a Student Ambassador for Bridging the Gap, was pleased. “It was once in a lifetime experience, and I really enjoyed working during the Olympics. I enjoyed training for the occasion, where I met people from all over the world and saw some really fantastic athletes,” she says.
In addition, Olympians who looked for a bite to eat at one of the four 24-hour restaurants open during the Olympics ate food cooked and served by our students in partnership with Aramark. Catering students prepared meals served by students from all areas of the College, and on their own breaks, they sat down and got to mingle with Olympic athletes.
Sports student Daniel Gee was an Olympic torchbearer, honoured for his leadership in Scouting and his chairmanship of the Lewisham Young Carers Association. “Carrying the torch was really exciting. I’d never done anything this big before,” Daniel says. He ran with the torch through Deptford along with other members of the community as one of the thousands of people carrying the Olympic flame on its route to Stratford.
Meanwhile, students from Level 2 Drama toured Lewisham and Greenwich schools in March with a play inspired by the Olympics. The young actors interviewed people in their communities about their Olympic memories stretching back to the London Olympics of 1948 as well as researching the stories of athletes who competed in this year’s Games.
Fashion also got into the act, with Work Related Learning students doing their Level 1 NVQ in Fashion created Olympic-themed t-shirts, which they displayed in the PDC. Lewisham College Dance, Music and Technical Theatre students showed off their skills in a video as part of the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural’s 2012 Olympic Map, which you can see here: http://bit.ly/KMyHoy.
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Travel and Tourism, which has run a 2012 blog on the Olympic Get Set Network, held the Olympic Rewind Tour in May, raising £425 for charity Children First. The Phoenix restaurant
was full as Level 3 students took the audience on a tour of Olympic host countries such as Greece, Italy, China, Spain, France, Canada and the United States. The students sang, danced, and reported on the culture and Olympic history of each country. The Mayor of Lewisham, Sir Steve Bullock, was in attendance and reminded the audience of the many ways the 2012 Olympic Games are impacting Lewisham.
Finally, Supported Learning students are working for Aramark during the Paralympic Games, the largest ever celebration of disability sport. “Despite some troubles, it was a delight to hear from our students about the positive experience they had, and for them to be offered
paid work is amazing,” said tutor Tish Joy.
Students and staff attended the Olympics and Paralympics with tickets from the Get Set Network. The Games are the biggest event to hit London in generations, and the College’s staff and students have been at the centre of it.
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Capel Manor College
Balloons for Olympic stadium opening
Capel Manor Colleges Balloon Artistry Coordinator Lucy Hennessy was given a once in a life time opportunity for providing the balloon release for the opening of the Olympic stadium. Lucy teaches at Capel’s east London centre and was chosen by the organisers for the special event, which was watched by millions around the world.
Lucy said “I grew up in East Ham in East London, close to Stratford. My first job after leaving school was based in Stratford so it meant a lot to me. There was so much pre event preparation to do; we had to have full police checks, risk assessments and our vehicle details. I was so nervous; I knew it was a prestigious event and televised across the world. With a small 3 member team of myself, fellow balloon tutor Wendy McKeown & ex student Kassandra Charles we inflated the balloons as the event took place. The
atmosphere was electric; it was nerve wracking but a totally incredible experience.
The balloons used during the event were made from Qualatex, which is a biodegradable form of latex. Lucy is a member of the trade association BAPIA which asks all of its members to follow a code of conduct which takes steps to minimise impact on the environment.
Lucy said “I didn’t use ribbons; the balloons were less than 12” and biodegradable. I had negative comments on my Facebook page from environmentalists showing pictures of balloons with plastic plugs and ribbons of which I did not use. I new I had to follow the code of conduct and the rules are very strict. I informed the Civil Aviation Authority as courtesy (you are meant to get permission when releasing 1000 balloons and over and the release was quite close to City Airport).
A lot of people watched the amazing event on TV, but I was there. Many stories to tell for many years, it was a piece of history”.
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Richmond upon Thames College Embraces Olympic Spirit
After the inspirational success stories of the London 2012 Games, Richmond upon Thames College (RuTC) can be proud of the contribution it made to help foster the Olympic spirit to learners of all ages, the local community and the next generation of Olympians. As a member of Get Set, the official London 2012 education network, the College demonstrated a commitment to the Olympic and Paralympic Values through a number of projects and activities.
In March, RuTC joined up with the Richmond School Sport Partnership (RSSP) to deliver the Future Olympians scheme, a group of young athletes from Richmond borough who are current elite and national level athletes with the potential to be future British Olympians. The group, which included RuTC students Molly Riglin (Middlesex distance runner), Bianca Williams (GB track sprinter) and Sophie Santillo (GB karate), all train or study locally and joined the RSSP to inspire young students in local schools.
In April, RuTC’s Richmond Sports Volunteer Programme (RSVP) won bronze at the UK-wide Podium Awards which recognises the vital role that Colleges and universities have played in delivering the London 2012 Games. RSVP received its medal in the ‘Invaluable Volunteering Project’ category as recognition that the programme has best used the ‘magic dust’ of the London 2012 games to inspire volunteering within the institution and the local community.
In June, Richmond upon Thames College organised an inter-school torch relay as part of London 2012’s World Sports Day. The event, which celebrated the Olympic value of friendship, was coordinated by Richmond School Sport Partnership and also saw students from ten secondary schools and two special schools take part. Friendship themed events including a dance performance from RuTC’s Supported Learning students were held across the College, before the torch, designed by RuTC Engineering students, was carried to a local school as part of the next leg of its journey.
In July, Richmond upon Thames College alumnus and LOCOG School Leaver Brooklyn Kerlin was nominated by her fellow Games Makers to carry the flag for the Independent Olympic Athletes in the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. Brooklyn joined LOCOG at 18 after finishing an International Baccalaureate at Richmond upon Thames College.
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As recognition of their hard work in engaging students during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Richmond upon Thames College was chosen as 1 of 30 Schools and Colleges in London to receive Key Seat tickets for the Olympics from Education 2012. Staff and students were honoured to be given the opportunity to attend the greatest games of all time.
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Barking and Dagenham College
Olympic Torchbearer Alex lights up Barking & Dagenham College
East Londoner Alex Loukos, 19, enjoyed a hero’s welcome when he returned to Barking & Dagenham College the day after being the first Brit to carry the Olympic Flame at The Lighting Ceremony in Ancient Olympia.
“Just incredible” was how the former A Level student described being chosen for the honour. “For the first time in my life I was lost for words. After the Ceremony I took my place to carry the Flame. I had to run about 350 meters to hand it to the next person and I was taking it slowly just so I could take it all in. It is good to be back at my old College,” added Alex, who studied A Levels in Politics, Economic and Psychology. Since leaving the College in July 2011, Alex has secured a job as an
apprentice Project Manager in the building services industry. Alex, whose father is Greek, was selected by LOCOG to carry the Olympic Flame in Olympia to represent the youth of London. His involvement goes all the way back to July 2005 when he was one of the youngest Bid representatives in Singapore, helping London to win the Olympic bid.
British-born Greek 10km swimming world champion Spyros Gianniotis, had the honour of starting the Olympic Flame’s journey across Greece, as he carried it from the Ancient Stadium via Pierre de Coubertin’s Grove, before handing the Flame on to Torchbearer Alex.
The Olympic Flame was lit at noon local Greek time (10:00am BST) on Thursday 10 May 2012 by the High Priestess using the sun’s rays at the Temple of Hera in Ancient Olympia. During the hour long Lighting Ceremony, the High Priestess makes use of a parabolic mirror to capture the sun’s rays to create the Olympic Flame which was then carried by 8,000 inspirational people in the UK from Saturday 19 May to Friday 27 July 2012.
From the Lighting Ceremony in Olympia, the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC) took the Olympic Flame on an 8-day relay around Greece, showcasing the beauty and history of the Greek mainland and islands, travelling to the island of Crete before going to Piraeus, Thessalonica, Xanthi and Larissa among many other communities before arriving at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens on the evening of Thursday 17 May 2012 for the Olympic Flame Handover Ceremony.
The Olympic Flame travelled to the UK from Athens on Friday 18 May, landing in the evening at RNAS Culdrose, ahead of the start of the Olympic Torch Relay on Saturday 19 May 2012.
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Barking & Dagenham College show their support for Adam Gemili in the Olympic stadium…and out
Adam Gemili, a Sports learner at Barking & Dagenham College qualified to compete in the 100m at the London 2012 Olympics at the end of June 2012, just six months after he started training. Adam, who had just completed a BTEC Extended Diploma in Sports at the College, ran the fastest time in the 100m Olympics qualifier semi-final with a time of 10.27, and sealed his place with Team GB when he finished second to Dwain Chambers in the qualifier final.
The 18 year old former footballer, who developed a passion for running as part of the fitness development element of his course at Barking & Dagenham College, was extremely proud to be representing his country. On hearing the news that he had qualified, Adam commented, “I was over the moon. I couldn’t believe it! I didn’t think the Olympics would be on the cards for me this year so when my name appeared I was jumping for joy!” He was so grateful for all the support from his tutors at Barking &
Dagenham College who inspired him and helped with the difficult task of balancing his course work with training – and he thanked them publicly, on You Tube, prior to his starring role at the Olympics: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cl9aV57yWQE
The College also ran a ‘Go Adam’ campaign throughout the Barking and Dagenham area. Plus, there was a huge banner featuring Adam across the front of the College, and all the staff and his fellow students were behind him 100%. Then, finally the day came and the packed Olympic stadium erupted with cheers as Adam ran a time of 10.11 seconds in round one of the 100m heats, qualifying him for a place in the semi-final. The noise from the crowd could be heard a few miles away at Adam’s ‘home ground’, Barking & Dagenham College.
Adam’s tutor at Barking & Dagenham College, Rachel Yates, watched him run in the heats at the Olympic stadium with a group of students from the College who were all there to show him their support. Commenting on the magical moment, Rachel said, “As Adam came out on to the track the crowd went wild and we all screamed his name. Watching him run at the Olympic stadium was the most incredible thing I have ever seen and it was so special to see one of my students excel in something that they love so much. It was one of the most emotional ten seconds of my life – I could hardly catch my breath - and I felt so proud when he crossed the finish line that I thought I was going to burst”
Adam finished second in his heat against one of the fastest men in the world, Jamaica’s Asafa Powell. Sadly he just missed out of a place in the 100m final when he powered in to third place
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in the semi-final with an incredible time of 10.06 - just outside of the qualifying times for the fastest losers.
Cathy Walsh, Barking & Dagenham College CEO/Principal said, ““We are all extremely proud of what Adam has achieved since exploding on to the athletics circuit earlier this year. He is a dedicated and motivated student who achieved a distinction in his Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports and he carries this enthusiasm and determination on to the track. We were all behind him 100% throughout the Olympics and will continue to support him wherever we can.”
College stars shine at London 2012
A group of 33 Performing Arts students from Barking & Dagenham College and their tutor Mark Civil, Head of Performing Arts, were been given key roles at the London 2012 games, beginning with the opening ceremony.
Mark beat around 800 applicants to be selected as one of the London Victory Ceremony Venue Producers who arranged the grand gold, silver and bronze medal presentations.
On top of this, Mark – who was on a six month secondment from the College – also chaperoned the large group of students from the Barking & Dagenham College’s School for the Performing Arts & Technical Theatre who were selected to perform in the Opening Ceremony. This group was the biggest contingent of students chosen from one College to perform at the games and having their tutor close at hand made it even more special.
The students spent months rehearsing for the £27 million opening ceremony which took on a Shakespeare-inspired theme, in celebration of British culture.
Mark, who worked in a team to produce ceremonies at three of the London 2012 venues, said: “I took on the role so I could be at the heart of the London Games. It is really nice to know that I helped to present Olympic medals to athletes who have been working most of their life to achieve at this high standard. I really enjoyed being part of this huge event; it has been great to see how such a big operation works from the inside.”
The 33 chosen dancers from the College worked with Oscar-winning Film Director Danny Boyle, who directed the well-known film Slumdog Millionaire, and directed the long awaited British themed Olympic Opening Ceremony.
Thomas Kirby, Performing Arts Student at Barking & Dagenham College, said: “We rehearsed the dance once a week for two months and were working with a large group of people which was a great team building exercise. This opportunity has given me lots of confidence; I am really into acting and had never danced until now. I now know I can dance and this will help
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with my future career. I feel like I have really achieved something big and enjoyed every moment of being in the Opening Ceremony.”
Mark Civil has many years of experience as a Producer/Director and led his students to deliver a showcase performance on the main stage at the largest ever international skills competition and careers event, WorldSkills 2011, which was held at London’s ExCel centre. However, that was nothing compared to the London Olympics which is the biggest audience that Mark, and the 33 performing arts students, have ever played to!
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College of North West London
Mature student carries Paralympic flame
It was an extremely proud moment for partially sighted College of North West London student, Roy Smith MBE, as he lit the way to the Paralympic Games by helping carry
the torch from Stoke Mandeville to the Olympic Park during a 24 hour relay.
Roy, 62, from Kingston, was nominated for the honour by the RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) due to his amazing charity work. At 21, when he began to lose his sight, Roy focused his free time championing sport and leisure for the blind and partially sighted. He was a founder of British Blind Sport as well as a London based charity Metro Blind Sport and, in 1991, Roy was recognized for his contribution to charity when he was awarded an MBE by the Queen.
Roy is no stranger to the Paralympics - in 1980, he represented Great Britain in the Paralympics as a high jumper and has also participated in two marathons and over thirty half marathons.
Roy joined the College of North West London in 2011 on an IT course after friends recommended the College for its specialist facilities, resources and experienced tutors. He’s become a bit of a local star at the College and is a true inspiration to all the staff and students. His tutor, Gladieth Walker, was bursting with pride when Roy was shortlisted to carry the Paralympic torch and felt that it was an honour that he truly deserved.
Roy is upgrading his IT skills at the College to help him pursue new employment opportunities. He is still very committed to increasing membership of his charities and promotes sports to as many partially sighted people as possible.
AoC London Region Members’ Bulletin, 28 September 2012
Page 38 of 38
Stanmore College
Students Soak up the Electricity of London 2012!
Some of us were lucky enough to get tickets to the London 2012 Games, some of us watched on TV…and some stayed away completely but we can all say that the magic and electricity of the Olympic and Paralympics has touched us all, in one way or another. The college was lucky enough to receive over 200 tickets as part of the London 2012 Get Set Ticketshare scheme that provided the opportunity for students to attend events such as diving, canoeing, volleyball, handball, football, wrestling,
hockey and athletics. The tickets became available on a free ballot via StudySpace through which all tickets were allocated, after a sluggish early take up!
The Games eventually got underway in London and our staff team including Mike Daisy, Carl Hiskey, Anthony Frayne, Ben Rawlings, Alastair Coward, Steve Stansfield and Mark Gillespie ferried the 175 students to and from the events witnessing sporting history and the atmosphere of the greatest show these shores have ever seen. Did London 2012 inspire a generation? There is no conclusive answer to that question and the legacy is yet to be seen but we can safely say that we brought the Olympic and Paralympic experience to Stanmore College students who thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Olympic Park and who will cherish the memories for life.
Jacqui Mace, Principal of the College was a London Ambassador during the Games.
