91传媒 learners have helped shape a new road safety training programme designed to keep young motorbike and scooter riders safer on the roads.

The Ready Rider initiative, delivered in partnership with 2 Wheels Greater Manchester, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Greater Manchester Police, gives young riders the skills and knowledge they need to recognise hazards and stay safe while riding.

91传媒 became involved during the development stage of the national pilot, with students taking part in focus groups and testing sessions to help shape the training. Their feedback helped organisers create sessions that felt relevant, engaging and easy for young riders to connect with, rather than simply delivering traditional safety messages.

As part of the pilot, learners later took part in a dedicated Ready Rider workshop at 91传媒, where road safety specialists delivered interactive sessions focused on the realities of riding on today鈥檚 roads.

The training covered practical topics including protective clothing, bike maintenance, legal responsibilities and hazard awareness, alongside immersive virtual reality exercises that allowed learners to practise spotting risks in realistic road scenarios.

Students described the sessions as thought-provoking, with many saying the VR element helped them notice hazards they might previously have missed. Early feedback from the programme has been highly positive, with 92% of learners rating the training as Excellent or Very Good.

Partner organisations also praised the planning and delivery of the pilot, highlighting the professionalism, attention to detail and strong collaboration shown throughout the project.

Karen Westsmith, Vice Principal at 91传媒, said: 鈥淲e are very proud that our learners have been able to play such an important role in shaping this programme. It has been a privilege for 91传媒 to work alongside partners on a project that combines innovation, collaboration and meaningful learning, while helping address an important road safety issue for young people across Greater Manchester.

鈥淭he programme reflects our commitment to giving learners real-life knowledge that can make a genuine difference, while also supporting the Vision Zero strategy for Greater Manchester, which aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on our roads.鈥�

A particularly powerful part of the programme was the contribution of 91传媒 science lecturer Suzie Toole, who features in a case study video produced as part of the national pilot.

In the film, Suzie reflects on a serious leg injury she suffered when she was younger, after choosing not to wear full protective riding gear because she believed she was only going out for a short journey. Her

honesty added a real-life perspective to the training, helping learners connect road safety advice with the consequences of everyday decisions.

Suzie said: 鈥淚f sharing my own experience helps young people stop and think more carefully about road safety, then it is worth talking about. Sometimes hearing a real story can make people see the risks differently.鈥�

The final phase of the pilot will take place on at the end of March, when learners will attend a riding experience at Wigan Training Centre, putting into practice the knowledge and skills gained throughout the project in a controlled environment. The video can be viewed here: www.youtu.be/bQT4IwegyNc

The success of the pilot has already led to discussions about expanding the training further, giving more young people across Greater Manchester the opportunity to take part.

The post 91传媒 Learners Help Shape Road Safety Training for Young Riders appeared first on 91传媒.

91传媒 has welcomed the publication of its latest Ofsted inspection report following an inspection in January 2026, which confirms that safeguarding at the College is effective and that the College meets the expected standard across a number of key areas.

These include adult learning, apprenticeships, provision for learners with high needs, inclusion, and its contribution to local and regional skills needs.

Inspectors recognised the positive impact of recent leadership changes, significant investment in the college鈥檚 learning environments, and the introduction of a clear strategic plan focused on improving quality and learner outcomes.

Kate Flood, Chair of the Corporation at 91传媒, said: 鈥淭his report provides a fair and constructive assessment of the college at a point of significant transition. Governors are encouraged by the strength of our adult learning, apprenticeships and high-needs provision, and by confirmation that safeguarding is effective.

鈥淲e are confident that the strengthened leadership team and clear strategic direction now in place will continue to deliver the pace of improvement our learners and community expect.鈥�

The report highlights strong performance in adult learning programmes, apprenticeships, and provision for learners with high needs, with inspectors noting high-quality learner work, positive destinations, effective employer partnerships and inclusive support.

The report also identifies areas requiring further improvement, particularly within education programmes for young people, including teaching consistency, tutorial impact, attendance, and progress in GCSE English and mathematics. These priorities are already embedded within the college鈥檚 quality improvement plans.

Liam Sloan, Principal and Chief Executive of 91传媒, said: 鈥淭he findings in this report closely align with the priorities already driving our improvement work.

鈥淲e were clear before the inspection where we needed to accelerate progress, particularly for our 16 to 18 learners, and we are acting decisively. Our focus on teaching quality, tutorials, attendance and GCSE English and maths is unwavering, and the pace of improvement is increasing.鈥�

91传媒 has confirmed that a time-bound improvement plan is in place, aligned directly to Ofsted鈥檚 findings, and that progress will continue to be closely monitored by senior leaders and governors.

For further insight, a short video outlining the key highlights is available here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=REvecIt44_E. The full report can also be accessed at: https://bit.ly/ofsted-bolton-college

The post 91传媒 welcomes Ofsted report and confirms clear improvement priorities appeared first on 91传媒.

91传媒 has appointed experienced commercial leader Kate Flood as its new Chair of the Board of Governors, marking a significant step in the College鈥檚 continued strategic development.

Kate, who has served as a Governor since 2015, succeeds Dr Andrew Roberts following his appointment as Chair of the Board of Governors at the University of Greater Manchester. Her appointment brings substantial board-level and commercial expertise to 91传媒, one of the largest vocational education providers in Greater Manchester.

Until last year, Kate was Managing Director of The Bury Black Pudding Company and previously served as Chief Commercial Officer at Hill Biscuits Ltd, a 拢24m premium biscuit manufacturer operating across retail, wholesale and foodservice sectors. In that role, she led commercial strategy and operational performance. Her extensive experience in driving growth, managing resources and responding to employer needs will further strengthen the College鈥檚 strategic direction.

Working closely with the College over the past decade, Kate has developed a strong commitment to ensuring young people are fully prepared for employment and progression. She brings a clear employer-focused perspective to the Board at a time when alignment between education and industry remains critical.

The Board of Governors holds statutory responsibility for determining the College鈥檚 educational character and strategic direction, safeguarding financial sustainability, approving quality strategy and overseeing senior leadership accountability. It is advised by an independent Clerk to ensure robust and transparent governance.

On her appointment, Kate said: “I am honoured to have been appointed Chair of the Board and grateful to my fellow Board members for the trust they have placed in me. The College holds a special place in my heart, and I am passionate about the vital role it plays in shaping work ready, world ready and future ready learners in Bolton.

鈥淚 am committed to working collaboratively with the Board, and leadership team, to build on our strong foundations and guide the college confidently into its next stage of development. Together, we will continue to strengthen opportunities for our students and ensure they are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.”

Liam Sloan, Principal and Chief Executive of 91传媒, said: 鈥淚 am thrilled to have secured Kate in the role of Chair. I know she will continue to bring much needed challenge and support in order to ensure that we continuously improved for the benefit of all our stakeholders.鈥�

鈥淥ver the years Andy has been a huge advocate of the college, helping shape and steer us to where we are today. The college wishes him all the best in his new role as Chair of the university.鈥�

The post 91传媒 Appoints Business Leader Kate Flood as Chair of Governors appeared first on 91传媒.

Industry Insight Week connects learners with local employers

Industry Insight Week brought employers into the College to give learners real insight into careers across Construction, Health & Social Care, Digital, Engineering and Business.

Throughout the week, learners heard directly from industry professionals about real job roles, career pathways and what employers are looking for, helping to bridge the gap between study and the workplace.

The impact has already been seen, with work placements offered, apprenticeship routes opening up and further employer visits being planned.

Watch our video聽 to see Industry Insight Week in action:

The post Industry Insight Week appeared first on 91传媒.

These improvements have been shaped by learner feedback and focus on comfort, connectivity, wellbeing and access to support.

Recent upgrades include:

Student spaces and environment
鈥� New sofas, chairs and tables across social and study areas
鈥� Additional device charging points for everyday learning
鈥� Improved Wi-Fi across the College
鈥� Energy-efficient LED lighting and refreshed carpets for brighter, more welcoming spaces

Support services and first impressions
鈥� A fully transformed welcome reception, enrolments, admissions, Job Shop and Student Finance areas to make accessing support quicker and easier
鈥� New uniforms for Welcome Teams to ensure a professional, friendly first impression

Food, social and wellbeing spaces
鈥� A new Grab & Go outlet in partnership with Cars Plastics, offering quick, affordable food
鈥� A new food court concept with more seating and meal deals
鈥� A new Costa Coffee shop

Learning facilities
鈥� Investment in technology and equipment across classrooms and workshops
鈥� New learning spaces to support growing learner numbers

Campus look and feel
鈥� Refreshed exterior with bold new branding
鈥� Newly decorated foyer promoting the College鈥檚 purpose, vision and values
鈥� A new poster campaign championing attendance, success in English and maths, and pride in the College

These changes reflect the College鈥檚 commitment to listening to its learners and creating spaces everyone can be proud of.

Check out our short video that captures some of the latest developments across the campus:

The post Investing in our College appeared first on 91传媒.

This collective pledge acknowledges the distinct challenges faced by learners whose parents serve, or have previously served, in the Armed Forces. Frequent relocations, disrupted schooling and the pressures associated with service life can place additional strain on these young people. By signing the Covenant, the colleges have committed to ensuring that these learners are not disadvantaged and can access the support they need to thrive.

The event underscored the value of partnership, with all nine colleges agreeing to work collaboratively to share best practice, develop targeted support, and build greater understanding of the experiences of service families within their learning communities.

The signing represents an important step in strengthening inclusivity across Greater Manchester鈥檚 further education sector and reflects a shared dedication to providing equitable opportunities and support for every young person.

The post Greater Manchester Colleges Sign Armed Forces Covenant appeared first on 91传媒.

聽 聽

Charlotte Conway, one of our Foundation Studies Lecturers, recently took her Pre-Internship Pathway to Work group to ASDA for a behind-the-scenes experience. The visit gave students the chance to explore the warehouse, learn about stock management, waste processes, and more. Charlotte shared how impressed she was by the group鈥檚 professionalism, curiosity, and enthusiasm throughout the day – qualities that reflected the College鈥檚 values perfectly.

The ASDA team were equally impressed and have already invited the group back to take part in a litter pick, fundraising, mock interviews, and hands-on experience on the shop floor. Experiences like this help our learners build confidence, develop essential employability skills, and take steps towards becoming work ready, world ready and future ready.

The post Foundation Studies Learners Shine at ASDA appeared first on 91传媒.

World Smile Day at 91传媒

91传媒 celebrated World Smile Day with a series of wellbeing activities across campus, creating opportunities for students to pause, connect and enjoy a moment of positivity during a busy term.

The Wellbeing Team set up interactive stands where learners could pose with smile frames, pick up small goodies, and take part in simple activities designed to encourage reflection on what makes them smile. The stands were busy throughout the day, with students engaging, chatting and contributing to a genuinely uplifting atmosphere.

The event highlighted the College鈥檚 ongoing commitment to promoting wellbeing and supporting a positive learning environment. Small moments of connection can make a meaningful difference, and today鈥檚 smiles brought a welcome energy to campus.

Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make the day such a bright and positive one.

The post World Smile Day appeared first on 91传媒.

The meeting provided a structured space for students to reflect on the first half-term and raise points affecting teaching, learning and the wider student experience. Representatives discussed what is working well, highlighted areas that need attention, and offered practical suggestions to support improvements throughout the rest of the year. Topics covered included facilities, communication, learner support, enrichment opportunities and ideas for strengthening the sense of community across departments.

Learner Voice remains a central part of how the College gathers feedback and ensures that students play an active role in shaping the environment they study in. The insight collected during the forum will now inform ongoing discussions with curriculum areas and support teams as work continues to enhance the learner experience.

The College extends its thanks to all Departmental Representatives for their constructive approach and their commitment to contributing to positive change.

The post Learner Voice in Action appeared first on 91传媒.

The College came together to mark World Mental Health Day with a purposeful mix of activities centred on wellbeing, connection and creating space for people to pause amid the pace of term.

Staff and students wore yellow in support of the national campaign, turning corridors and classrooms into a visible show of solidarity. Throughout the day, our community took part in wellbeing walks, reflective check-ins, and a spin-the-wheel activity designed to spark conversations around self-care. We also welcomed alpacas to campus 鈥� an unexpected but very welcome addition that lifted the mood and encouraged people to step away from their desks, get outside and engage with others.

The day served as a timely reminder to prioritise mental health, but also highlighted something deeper: the strength of the connections within our College. Moments like these show the value of looking out for one another and reinforce the supportive culture that underpins daily life at 91传媒.

The post World Mental Health Day 2025 appeared first on 91传媒.

Genevieve O鈥橦ara, who studied Sport, English and Maths with us, has been selected to represent Great Britain in the Deaf Football Team at the upcoming Deaflympics in Tokyo 鈥� a huge achievement built on years of graft, not luck.

Since leaving College, Genevieve has gone on to work as a Wellbeing Ambassador at Deaf Village and as a Senior Support Worker, using her experience to support others and champion her community. Her impact is obvious: on the pitch, she鈥檚 heading to one of the world鈥檚 biggest stages; off the pitch, she鈥檚 invested in helping people live better, healthier lives.

Her journey is a reminder that progress isn鈥檛 accidental 鈥� it鈥檚 the result of resilience, consistency and ambition. We鈥檙e proud to count her among our alumni, and we鈥檒l be cheering her on as she competes in Tokyo.

The post Former Learner Represents Great Britain in the Deaflympics appeared first on 91传媒.

91传媒 has marked a momentous milestone with the official opening of our new 拢5 million Engineering & Digital Centre.

This innovative facility reflects our commitment to providing cutting-edge learning environments for our students and supporting the needs of the industries we serve. The Centre stands as a testament to the collaboration and shared vision of everyone involved in bringing this project to life.

We were privileged to welcome the Mayor of Bolton, who officially opened the Centre with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, along with our Chair of Governors, Andrew Roberts, and other governors who have been steadfast in their support. It was also a pleasure to have George Holmes, Vice Chancellor of the University of Greater Manchester, join us, alongside reporters from The Bolton News and some of our valued employers, who play a key role in shaping our curriculum and supporting our students’ success.

Following a tour, guests enjoyed refreshments and drinks prepared and served by our talented Hospitality, Catering & Event Management students, highlighting the breadth of skills being developed across our College.

A special thanks goes to our Deputy Principal, Mark Burgoyne, who has led this project from inception to completion, ensuring every detail aligns with our vision.

At the heart of this project are our students. This Centre will give them access to world-class facilities, enabling them to gain hands-on experience and develop the skills needed for thriving careers in digital and engineering industries.

The story has also been covered in the Bolton News – read more here:聽

The post Official opening of 91传媒’s Engineering & Digital Centre appeared first on 91传媒.