College Blog - 10.10.25
College Hello Yellow Day
This week the College’s Girls Group wanted to write an article to share mental health awareness... ‘Today, New Bridge College has been celebrating " Hello Yellow Day" supporting Mental Health Awareness Day. We walked around the college taking photos of students and staff wearing Yellow. We talked about what mental health is and ways to support our wellbeing.
Please enjoy viewing the lovely photos.
The Girls Group
College - Hello Yellow
BTG Update
A special shoutout my BTG student, Ethan who has now started his new placement. This is such an exciting step! Starting a new role can be both challenging and rewarding, and I have no doubt you’ll bring the same energy and determination to your placement as you do around our college.
Mrs Hughes
Well Done, Yunus!
We are delighted to inform you that Yunus has been awarded a Certificate of Recognition for his outstanding design in the Tameside SEND Youth Council Logo Competition. In addition to the certificate, Yunus will also receive a gift voucher in appreciation of his creative contribution.
BTG and New Bridge College are very proud of you, Yunus!
Employability Update
Across our Employability lessons our students have been making timely progress with their mandatory unit, Developing Own Interpersonal Skills. But what does that mean for our students?
Firstly, our students recognised their own strengths and qualities as well as their areas for growth and development. It was and is a deeply personal activity for our learners and helps them to identify the first steps needed for success in their chosen destinations.
Next, we have covered the importance of time management and how tasks, and activities need to be prioritised by order of importance. This then led onto learning about identifying the signs, symptoms and causes of stress. Including the impact stress can have on a person physically, mentally and in our personal and working relationships.
Then, we learnt about the several types of criticism and debated the questions; Is criticism a good thing or a bad thing? And how often do we ourselves use criticism every day?
For the last part of the unit, our learners demonstrated how to show confidence by showing assertiveness, clarity in expressing ideas, and managing nerves during presentations. They acted out different workplace or real-life scenarios with their peers to show how they can be assertive and confident without being aggressive or rude. By far, this was the students favourite lesson, and I would like to thank all the students who supported their peers with their role plays. Jayden, Harrison, Leon, Kyle N and Robyn. Thank you, you were all amazing!
Employability - 10.10.25
English Update
The first few weeks of English lessons have been full of energy, creativity, and purposeful learning. Students have kicked off the term by completing their initial assessments, including a past paper, to ensure everyone is working at the right level. This has helped set a strong foundation for the term ahead and given teachers valuable insight into each student’s progress.
One of the most exciting developments has been the start of preparations for the speaking and listening exam. Students have begun choosing topics that reflect their passions, curiosities, or future career pathways. Whether it's a hobby they love, a subject they want to explore further, or something that connects to their vocational goals. These choices are helping students take ownership of their learning and express themselves with confidence, whilst developing their communication skills.
Adding a sprinkle of magic to the week, students also celebrated National Harry Potter Book Day with themed activities inspired by J.K. Rowling’s iconic series. Students participated in a Harry Potter themed quiz and will continue to explore this next week through creative writing tasks and character-based hot seating.
It’s been a fantastic start to the term, and we’re excited to see how students continue to grow, explore, and express themselves in English.
College Enrichment
College - Enrichment
IT Update: Exploring 3D Design with Tinkercad
Our students have been diving into the world of 3D modelling using Tinkercad, bringing their creativity to life through digital design and physical prints. From imaginative structures to symbolic shapes, each model reflects a unique vision and growing technical skill.
A special mention goes to Nayem, who has truly mastered the art of 3D design. His models are not only highly detailed but also demonstrate a deep understanding of the software and a flair for innovation. Nayem’s work continues to inspire his peers and set a high standard for digital craftsmanship and he does this in his own time as he isn’t part of the IT lessons.
College - IT
Volunteering with Alexandra Hub – New Bridge Parliament
New Bridge Parliament has once again teamed up with Hannah Williams from Oldham Council, and we’re thrilled to be working with her and the amazing team at Alexandra Hub this term!
Every Friday during enrichment, five enthusiastic student volunteers roll up their sleeves to give back to the local community — and they’ve already been getting stuck into some fantastic projects!
This term, Hannah introduced our students to Oldham’s very first Fruit Route — a brilliant community initiative featuring a trail of mini-orchards, fruit bushes, and foraging spots along the Lees Linear, the beautiful greenway that follows the old railway line between Alexandra Park and Grotton.
Our volunteers had the exciting task of apple picking around Alexandra Park. Working together, they searched for the ripest apples and had an amazing time outdoors — teamwork, laughter, and community spirit all in one!
College - Volunteering
This week, the team will be getting involved in mulching the trees near Alexandra Park to help them stay healthy through the colder months. Be sure to check out next week’s blog to see how they get on!
Additionally, Isobel, who took it upon herself to do some litter picking outside the college campus — helping to keep our environment clean and tidy for everyone.
