11 November 2019
Career changers and islanders looking to develop their skills or study for a new qualification are being encouraged to attend a behind-the-scenes tour of Highlands College this week.
On Thursday evening, the college opens its doors to the public, who can explore the campus and find out more about the scores of courses available – from academic and vocational qualifications to apprenticeships and adult community education.
As well as courses that have proved popular over the years, such as Culinary Arts, Childcare and Performing Arts, there will be the opportunity to find out about some of the newer courses available, including Social Work, Digital Games – which features coding and app development – and the Higher National Diploma in Sport.
Tutors, lecturers and students will be on hand to explain more about the courses, and some departments will have interactive activities for people to get a flavour of what lessons, and ultimately careers, in those fields will be like.
The Assistant Minister for Education, Deputy Jeremy Maçon, is a former Highlands College student. He completed an honours degree in social sciences, a course that was run in association with Plymouth University.
“I would like to encourage parents and students to attend the open evening so they can gain a clear picture of the opportunities to study on island in vocational, higher and other educational courses,” he said. “I can say from experience that Highlands College has professional and supportive staff who work hard to ensure students achieve their potential. I would invite anyone interested in further study to go and see the opportunities that are available and see the great achievements of current and past students.”
Highlands College Principal, Jo Terry-Marchant, who will give a welcome talk at Thursday’s event, is urging islanders interested in further study to come along.
“Our Open Evening has been a highlight of the College calendar for many years, but historically has been focused on our sixth form offering,” she said. “Recently, we have been keen to give islanders an insight to the College as a whole. After all, Highlands is central to the community of Jersey, with more than half of the island’s population having been associated with the College at some point in their life and career. We are proud of our inclusive community where the diverse talents of our students, from the ages of 11 to 94, are celebrated, and we are looking forward to welcoming the public into our workshops and classrooms to share with them what makes this college so special”.
The open evening is from 4pm to 7pm, with refreshments provided at the 5pm welcome talk. Attendees can walk around the campus at their leisure or join a tour, additionally the Academy Restaurant will be open for dinner service that evening.
More information about Highlands College, and its courses, can be found online.
gov.je