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Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) will be celebrating Colleges Week 2025 with a series of events and initiatives across its four campuses, to showcase the positive impact of further education.

This national awareness week, from Monday 3rd March to Friday 7th March is led by the Association of Colleges, and highlights the incredible impact that colleges have on students, communities, and the economy.

Using the government’s five missions as a framework, HoW College has planned an action-packed week across its campuses, to demonstrate its commitment to the UK government’s five key missions as part of the Association of Colleges ‘Mission Accepted’ campaign.

The five missions - economic growth, safer streets, clean energy, breaking barriers to opportunity, and future-ready NHS - demand combined efforts from colleges and organisations across the nation. HoW College recognises its responsibility to contribute to these goals.

Each day focuses on a key theme that showcases the important role colleges play in shaping the future:

Monday - Kickstart the Economy

HoW will host a Student Conference at the Redditch campus, providing a platform for students to share their experiences and ideas in discussions.

HoW College plays a critical role in addressing skills shortages, equipping students with technical and digital expertise to thrive in an evolving workplace. By fostering partnerships with local businesses, the college ensures that learners are prepared for high-demand industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and technology, which are vital to economic growth.

Tuesday - Become a Green Energy Superpower

The college will shine a spotlight on its sustainability efforts by showcasing eco projects and student-led initiatives that are driving change.

HoW College continues to prepare students for green jobs, including renewable energy and sustainable construction. The college ensures learners are equipped with skills for the transition to a net-zero economy.

Wednesday - Take Back Our Streets

HoW College will participate in the Skills Show in Worcester, an external event that highlights the essential skills needed to build safer and stronger communities.

HoW College is committed to supporting important community initiatives and working closely with the local police to address key issues affecting young people. The collaboration includes campaigns focused on anti-spiking, drug awareness, county lines, sexual harassment, and knife crime. The police regularly engage with HoW students by providing educational materials, hosting drop-in sessions, and sharing vital information about these critical topics.

Thursday - Break Down Barriers to Opportunity

This is a landmark day for HoW College as it officially launches its University Centre in Worcester. Alongside this, the college will host an Early Years Conference and hold another Student Conference at its Worcester campus, continuing to capture student voices for future initiatives.

HoW College provides pathways for disadvantaged and underrepresented groups, ensuring access to learning and career opportunities. The college remains committed to fostering inclusivity and removing barriers to success and is continuing its ongoing partnership with National Star offering specialist education to support young adults with disabilities in building independence and life skills.

Friday - Build an NHS Fit for the Future

HoW College will use the day to announce the launch of its new T Level Health, with the first intake of students set to begin in September.

The new course will offer not only vital industry placements with Worcestershire Acute Hospital NHS Trust, but, as a University Centre, HoW College will be able to offer all students on the programme an interview at the University of Worcester, to offer a pathway for progression.

Through its health and social care courses, HoW College is training the next generation of healthcare professionals to meet the challenges of an ageing population and a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. The  fully furnished ‘Smart Living’ apartments at the college are equipped with a range of assistive technology support aids meaning they can be used for teaching, training and demonstration purposes and provide an immersive learning experience for both students and professionals.

Michelle Dowse, Principal and CEO at HoW College, said: “At HoW College, we provide students with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to thrive in their chosen careers. Colleges Week is an incredible opportunity to showcase the impact that Further Education has on individuals, communities, and industries.

“The events planned this week reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. We have accepted and fully embraced the five key missions and are working with our community partners as an anchor institution for Worcestershire.

“Colleges are at the heart of economic growth, supporting local industries and ensuring a skilled workforce for the future. This week is a chance to celebrate the incredible talent, dedication, and ambition of our students and staff, while also reinforcing the need for continued investment in Further Education.

“We remain committed to providing high-quality education and training that meets the needs of employers, strengthens our local economy, and most importantly, enables individuals to achieve their aspirations.”

To find out more about HoW College, visit www.howcollege.ac.uk.