College Blog - 16.1.26
Enterprise Update
We are ‘WONDER’, a student company run by the students of the digital pathway at New Bridge College. We would like your help to win the Young Enterprise competition against other student companies across the country.
We at WONDER make books of all kinds that have been written and illustrated by the students and sell them to the public. We currently have four books completed and ready to buy on our store on the links below. We Have at least another four in the pipeline, and they will be ready soon so follow us on Instagram to keep up to date with our activity and like and share our content. Below is a picture of the four students and their books.
The link and QR code below link to a website where you can order our products. This website was made by the company that arranges the competition.
It's a bit of an unusual process!! You buy the product and then we email you an invoice which includes our bank details, you transfer the money to the bank account and then we send out the product. Even pressing the heart on the product gives us points so please do both buy a product and like all our books and follow us on social media:
https://www.ye-tradingstation.org.uk/company/17980
We would like any help we can get to climb the leader board and win this competition and would appreciate if you could be that help. We are currently in 7th position so not too far to climb.
Thank you
WONDER Marketing Director - Nina Nisbet (student)
Girls Group Update
This week, the Girls Group’s ‘neurodiverse’ table pieces were showcased at the Governors’ Conference. The girls did a really good job of cutting out of the jigsaw pieces to represent the autism awareness symbol. The hardest part for them was using the glue gun, with glitter, ensuring that all of the cardboard was covered.
Mrs Nelson and the girls had to think long and hard how the pieces could be displayed so that they stood tall in the vase. The end products looked amazingly beautiful.
A neurodiverse word was placed on each vase, and water beads (with lights) were placed inside. The girls felt that it represented our New Bridge MAT family and it shows how we can promote neurodiversity.
The Girls and Mrs Nelson
Girls Group - 16.1.26
Student Voice Takes Centre Stage at New Bridge Parliament
The recent New Bridge Parliament meeting was an engaging and positive event, made even more special by a visit from Dr Martin Hanbury. Dr Hanbury is an author of various educating young people with SEND publications, a former Multi-Academy Trust leader and a former Ofsted Inspector. He joined students and staff to learn more about how student voice helps shape life at New Bridge College.
From the start, the atmosphere was warm and open, with a healthy dose of humor. Students confidently shared what they enjoy about college, what could be improved, and what matters most to them in their day-to-day experience.
Martin was particularly interested in how student voice is embedded within the college. Through surveys, discussion and Parliament meetings, it was clear that students are listened to and that their views influence real change. Topics ranged from learning spaces and enrichment opportunities to facilities and food, including a memorable discussion about sausages.
Kurt kept the room smiling with well-timed jokes, while still making thoughtful contributions. Andrew ensured sport remained firmly on the agenda, regularly bringing the conversation back to physical activity and fitness.
Students spoke positively about the freedom, opportunities and a strong sense of community at New Bridge College.
Suggestions for improvement were constructive and practical, including requests for lockers, healthier lunch options and more space for learning and enrichment.
Dr Hanbury praised the students for their confidence and honesty, commenting on how encouraging it was to see young people so empowered to share their views. Overall, the meeting highlighted the importance of student voice and demonstrated how effectively it is valued at New Bridge College.
NB Parliament - MH Visit
Pre-Internship Update
David Lloyd Clubs continues to be an exemplary and long-standing work experience partner for New Bridge College. Over many years, the organisation has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting our students, working collaboratively with both established and new staff members to ensure positive and meaningful outcomes. Supporting staff to understand and contribute to student outcomes and destinations within the Pre-Internship pathway remains a highly successful and rewarding partnership for all involved.
January 2026 marked a particularly busy period, reflecting the increased focus on health and wellbeing among club members at the start of the new year. In response to this demand, David Lloyd staff, in collaboration with their Job Coach, introduced a Buddy System. This approach enabled students to shadow and work closely alongside a designated staff member, providing structured support while promoting independence.
The Buddy System has played a key role in developing students’ employability skills, professionalism, and workplace confidence. It has also supported staff in identifying practical and meaningful ways for students to contribute as valued members of the team.
We extend our sincere thanks to all staff involved. Your ongoing commitment and support are greatly appreciated, and they continue to make a significant difference. Students from New Bridge College are recognised as valued contributors within the David Lloyd Clubs workforce.
We would like to congratulate Ellie, Amaan, Zakariya, and Reece for their continued hard work and positive engagement throughout this period. A special commendation is given to Reece, who received excellent feedback from Shauna, F&B Supervisor, highlighting his professionalism and contribution to the team.
Pre Internship
