A COLLEGE has been commended for the careers and progression support it provides to its students.

Eastleigh College was commended by the Association of Colleges by being shortlisted for this year's Beacon Awards.

The awards celebrate the best and most innovative practice among UK colleges each year and highlight the breadth and quality of education in the college sector.

The college’s career and work readiness team is said to have a proven history of successfully guiding and championing learners ensuring they are fully aware of the opportunities available to them.

It provides guidance for university and apprenticeship applications, but also 'sows the seeds regarding career options' that may not have otherwise considered.

Eastleigh College’s Vice Principal, Commercial & Customer Services, Darren Coventry, said: “The careers team goes above and beyond providing a host of workshops, talks and careers events, as well as dedicated one-to-one support for learners.

"As well as being experienced and extremely knowledgeable, their advice is impartial and always in the best interest of the learner.”

Eastleigh College is the only FE college in the county to have gained the Quality in Careers Standard, and has a dedicated SUN (Southern Universities Network) Progression Mentor raising students’ aspirations.

The college’s Careers Lead, Trudy McKenzie said: “Some learners know exactly what they want to do, while others may have no idea or have their plans thwarted, sadly something that has been unavoidable for some during the Covid pandemic.

“At Eastleigh College, the careers team works in tandem with lecturers, learning mentors, the apprenticeships team and a whole host of external parties to ensure every learner is supported.”