Category: News

Nescot graduate on road to WorldSkills Shanghai

Melissa Barretto, a skilled Professional Cookery Diploma graduate from North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot), is setting out on a journey of a lifetime, in an intrepid bid to do the UK proud on the international stage at the next WorldSkills Competition.  Known as the ‘skills olympics’, it will be held in Shanghai from 22-27 September 2026.

Following Melissa’s success in its national Culinary Arts skills competitions, WorldSkills UK, in partnership with Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company has announced that Melisa will join its 18-month intensive training programme. Melissa will be aiming to be selected for the team that will represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai.

It is the first time China has hosted the prestigious WorldSkills competition. The event will see 1500 young people travel to Shanghai from over 80 counties to compete in technical skill disciplines from engineering, manufacturing and technology through to creative, digital and hospitality in front of an audience of 250,000.

The WorldSkills competition is considered by global experts as the ultimate test of a nation’s ability to meet future skills needs. It is attended by government representatives, educationalists and leading employers from across the globe.

WorldSkills UK uses its participation in the international WorldSkills competition to promote skills excellence across the UK, and by working with education, industry and UK governments it is embedding world class training standards throughout the skills sector.  This is helping to meet the demand for a highly skilled workforce in crucial sectors including engineering, digital, manufacturing and construction.

The UK will be competing in over 30 skills at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, including 3D Digital Game Art, Robot Systems Integration and Renewable Energy.

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “Congratulations to Melissa on being selected for our training programme for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Together with the other members on our programme, Melissa will be developing the right skills to fuel business growth across our economy. With WorldSkills being hosted in Shanghai next year, it provides a fantastic platform for us to work closely with China, where we know skills excellence is a priority, to collaborate, innovate and learn from the very best in the world.”

Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Pearson Qualifications said: “Pearson is proud to sponsor Team UK! Boosting the profile and prestige of technical and vocational education is incredibly important to us and I wish this talented group of 86 young people from across the country the best of luck as they begin their training programme towards competing in Shanghai.”

Melissa Barretto won the Silver Medal in the Culinary Arts category at WorldSkills UK in November. She was part of the first cohort of students on the Level 3 Advanced Professional Cookery Diploma course at Nescot, and the first year that the Catering and Hospitality department had entered the competition. She competed in the WorldSkills National finals along with fellow student, Iustin, a worthy finalist.

 

Karin Freestone, Catering and Hospitality Chef Lecturer at Nescot said: “Congratulations and well done to Melissa on this incredible achievement. We are immensely proud of Melissa and so thrilled that she has been selected for this prestigious training programme. Her skills and talent are exceptional and evident throughout her time at Nescot. It’s been an honour and privilege to mentor her and we wish Melissa the very best on her journey.”

 

NESCOTJulie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO at Nescot said: “We were thrilled when two of our Professional Cookery students competed in the finals with Melissa wining Silver. A remarkable achievement for our Catering and Hospitality department in their first year of entering the competition and a testament to the team’s exceptional training, guidance and support for all our learners. We are so proud and delighted for Melissa and we look forward to following her exciting training journey for WorldSkills Shanghai. Good luck and all the very best to her.”

Students from Nescot have participated in the finals of WorldSkills UK for the third year running, with Nescot’s Creative Media students wining Gold in 2023 and Bronze in 2022.

Pearson is the official partner of Team UK for WorldSkills Shanghai, following a successful partnership at WorldSkills Lyon in 2024.

For information on Squad UK for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 visit the WorldSkills UK website here.

For information on Nescot’s Catering and Hospitality courses visit our website here.

Citizens Advice takes energy advice out to the community

Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell takes energy advice out to the community Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell (CAEE) is reaching out to the community to inform residents in the borough how to manage energy in the home efficiently. Three locations have been secured where visitors can meet with CAEE advisers to discuss their own energy in the home issues. The free advice includes:
            • Reducing energy use in the home
            • Help applying for grants and benefits
            • Switching providers
            • Warm home discounts
            • Crisis support
            • Smart meters
image of Lisa Davis, CEO of CA Epsom and Ewell,Lisa Davis, CEO of CAEE, said: “We know people are worrying about their use of energy. The on-going cost of living crisis is still affecting us, but for some, it can be truly devastating. We can help – come and talk to us and we can support you with a way forward.” CAEE is still seeking more locations – schools, churches and social groups. It is targeting under-represented communities who need help with benefit checks, energy bills and debt, and also referring people in need to other areas where Citizens Advice can help. Some financial support is available from the Project Wenceslas fund for those with energy debts or need help to purchase energy efficient appliances. For further information, visit our webpage www.caee.org.uk/energy-advice/. Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell takes energy advice out to the community

Council Approves Proposed Local Government Reorganisation

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council approves joint interim proposal for local government reorganisation and votes in favour of three unitary councils for Surrey

The interim proposal outlines a shared vision for Surrey, with options to split Surrey into two or three unitary councils following reorganisation. Currently there is a two-tier system in place, with 11 district and borough councils, and one county council. As set out in the Government’s English Devolution white paper, the aim of dissolving all 12 current councils to create two or three unitary councils is to create more clarity for residents over decision-making and accountability, achieve greater financial resilience, and economies of scale to deliver services that improve outcomes for residents – particularly those in greatest need of support. Both two and three unitary options would offer savings; and both would unlock the opportunity for further devolution in Surrey.

Councillors discussed that three unitary authorities would provide stronger local connections and accountability between local government and the communities they serve, would be better placed to reflect the unique identities of their communities and better able to meet their needs. Three unitaries, which reflect existing economic geographies, would also enable a clearer economic strategy, greater ability to focus on an area’s specific strengths and would help maximise opportunities for strategic investment and growth.

The interim proposal will be submitted to Government on Friday 21 March. Over the coming weeks and months, Surrey councils will continue to work together to deliver the full proposal to Government by 9 May 2025. Questions remain, including around debt management, funding gaps associated with delivery of the local government reorganisation, and what form wider consultation on local government reorganisation will take.

Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Hannah Dalton, Chair of the Residents’ Association at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (Majority Group), said:

“Throughout this process, at the forefront of our minds is how best to serve our communities and preserve local democracy for the future.

“Our focus is on continuing to deliver the services our residents rely on, while representing the interests of all our communities across the borough to ensure a bright future, making the most of the opportunities that local government reorganisation and devolution has the potential to deliver for our residents.

“We will continue to work in partnership with councils across Surrey, our partners and residents, to achieve our shared vision for Surrey.”

For More Details CLICK HERE

Author and Zoologist Jane Wilson-Howarth returns to Nescot

North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot) welcomed Jane Wilson-Howarth, world renowned physician, author, zoologist and an authority on travel health to the college yesterday. Jane inspired and motivated our learners with two very special talks about her journey as a published writer, and her love for animals in her fascinating encounters with the wildlife in Madagascar.

Jane studied at the college in the early 1970s when it was known as Ewell Technical College, completing her Ordinary National Diploma in Sciences. She was delighted to return to her alma mater, now known as Nescot.

Jane’s first talk reflected on her career as an author and her time at the college. She spoke about how a letter-writing habit in childhood helped her writing abilities. She explained to students that writing is an essential and useful skill and emphasised the importance of finding your passion, “It doesn’t matter what it is, if you’re passionate about something, it will come across in your writing”, said Jane.

For her second talk, Jane spoke about her travels in Madagascar and her fascination and love for the wonderful wildlife on the island especially the lemurs. Our Animal Care students, some of whom have been to Madagascar on a college trip last year were fascinated to hear her experiences and reflections – including being bitten by a scorpion.

Jane was also given a tour of the college including the Learning Resources Centre (LRC) that featured an eye-catching and creative display of her fiction and non-fiction books, a selection of photographs from her travels and various newspaper articles. Students are able to borrow and browse Jane’s books from the LRC. At the end of her visit, Jane was delighted to be awarded with the Nescot Honorary Fellowship by Principal and CEO, Julie Kapsalis.

Julie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO said, “It’s been an absolute pleasure to welcome Jane back to her old college as one of our most illustrious alumni. A big thank you to Jane for sharing her extraordinary career as a writer and zoologist with our students and staff.

“It’s a privilege to award Jane with an Honorary Fellowship. We introduced the award in 2023 for the college’s 70th anniversary to recognise excellence of former students and members of the local community. It is the highest accolade the college can bestow.”

author and zoologist Jane Wilson-Howarth returns to NescotSpeaking about her visit, Jane said, “It’s a real pleasure to come back to Nescot. I was here from 1970 to 1972 and had a really good science education at the college and that gave me the confidence I needed. It’s been so wonderful meeting and speaking with students today. I was so touched by the time and effort that went into creating the wonderful display of my published work in the college’s Learning Resources Centre and the beautiful drawing I received of a leaf tailed Gecko by one of the students. I was especially thrilled to receive an Honorary Fellowship from Nescot. Thank you to everyone at the college for making me feel so welcome and for such a memorable day.”

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council submits Local Plan

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has submitted the borough’s Local Plan to Government for Public Examination by the Planning Inspectorate. Submission at this time ensures that the Local Plan will be inspected according to the December 2023 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Public examination of the Local Plan by an independent Planning Inspector will take place later this year, once an Inspector has been appointed. This is anticipated to take place this summer.

The plan has been written in consultation with residents and stakeholders and is informed by an extensive evidence base. Public consultations took place in February 2023 and December 2024.

The Local Plan is a critical document in shaping the future of the borough. It covers a wide range of issues; from the creation of jobs, environmental protection and leisure development to sites for new homes, including affordable homes, and much-needed infrastructure improvements.

The council’s Local Plan Examination Webpage contains more information on the Local Plan Examination, including the documents submitted and copies of responses to the Proposed Submission Local Plan.

Councillor Peter O’Donovan, chair of the Licensing and Planning Policy CommitteeCouncillor Peter O’Donovan, Chair of the Licensing and Planning Policy Committee, said “I am very grateful to EEBC officers who have worked diligently to reach this milestone, ensuring that the Local Plan is assessed against the framework to which it was developed. Overall, it has been a huge undertaking.

I also thank all the residents who took the time to tell us their views. I know that the plan will not please everyone. However, I believe it is a huge step forward for our borough and our communities, and if adopted it will help ensure that all Epsom & Ewell residents can enjoy the benefits that this strategic plan aims to deliver – whether their focus is on access to affordable homes, leisure facilities and green space, to jobs and economic growth.”

The public examination will include public hearings. Details on these will be published on the council’s website.

Darts legends visit Nescot to prove that maths matters

Nescot (North East Surrey College of Technology) College in Epsom, Surrey welcomed a trio of darts legends and MC, Paul Starr to the college today to inspire students and encourage them to develop their mental maths skills.  Paul ‘The Asset’ Nicholson, Devon ‘The African Warrior’ Petersen and three-time darts World Champion Mighty Michael Van Gerwen visited the college for the ‘Nescot Loves Darts & Maths’ event promoting arithmetic and numeracy, launching a college darts league and sharing their stories of determination and success.
 
Nescot hosted a full day of darts events, aimed at students re-taking their maths GCSEs. Nicholson and Petersen played a 5-leg match, then the players and Paul Starr held a Q&A and participated in a darts related maths quiz with students. Smaller groups of students later met the players in workshops on self-belief and inclusion.
 
The players also formally opened the newly branded Nescot Department of Maths. Each classroom now has a darts board and is named after a darts legend. In addition, Nescot launched a darts club and league, the first college in the country to do so. The inaugural Kapsalis Cup was contested between Nescot and East Sussex College Group, with plans to roll out a wider college league. During the sessions, all three players plus the MC were awarded a Nescot Honorary Fellowship and the day concluded with a ‘meet and greet’ for students.
 
The event was masterminded by Julie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO at Nescot (centre of picture below), and also a massive darts fan. Julie makes an annual pilgrimage to the Lakeside World Championships and loves watching the sport, live and on TV. Having previously worked in sports PR, she also has contacts in the world of darts and reached out to them with the seed of an idea.
 

urrey college hits the bullseye! Darts legends visit Nescot to prove that maths matters 

Julie said “Exciting and engaging students retaking their maths GCSEs was the challenge that made this day take shape. We regularly invite leaders from business, sport and the community to share their stories and when looking for a maths enthusiast, my mind turned to my own sporting passion – darts.

“The response from the darts community was incredible, after one phone call we were gifted boards, surrounds and darts, then the representatives of top players suggested an entire day of events at the college. We created a mini arena, and it was so exciting to see darts legends step up to the oche at Nescot.  We’re so grateful to the players, their management and everyone involved for taking the time to promote maths and inspire our students. Highlighting role models from all kinds of backgrounds and making learning fun are key at Nescot. I can’t wait to see our students’ playing darts in the classrooms. Game on!”

urrey college hits the bullseye! Darts legends visit Nescot to prove that maths mattersMichael van Gerwen said “It’s great to see first-hand how Nescot are using darts to inspire their students. It’s a brilliant way to improve mental maths, as the two go hand in hand. I love the fact the college is going to have a dartboard in every maths class too. It will be a fantastic addition, and I’m sure the students will love it.”

Devon Petersen said “It was a pleasure to visit Nescot College, and it’s so good to see them following core values and using darts to enhance their arithmetic. I have seen darts and maths work together in the work that I do for Bullseye Maths with young children, and Nescot will definitely see the benefits of using darts to enhance their education.”

urrey college hits the bullseye! Darts legends visit Nescot to prove that maths mattersPaul Nicholson said “Seeing young people like the ones at Nescot College enjoying the sport of darts today is so good to see, and I have no doubt that including darts as part of the student’s maths learning journey will only be a good thing. Darts is a sport for all, and it can be educational as well as fun, as proved with what Nescot are doing. Schools and colleges can only benefit from adding darts to their learning program.”

Darts is a sociable, inclusive sport, which almost anyone can access. It can improve mental health by enhancing cognitive function, reducing stress and boosting confidence. It also improves motor skills, hand-eye coordination and problem solving. Importantly for the maths department, the mental maths involved in darts can improve maths skills generally, especially around multiplication and subtraction.
 
Maths skills and mental maths are important for many employers. Nescot welcomes students who would like to retake their maths GCSEs and improve their employment prospects before they step into the world of work.
 
As well as functional skills courses in maths and English, Nescot offers a wide range of college courses for school leavers and adults, including Animal Care, Business, Computing and IT, Construction, Performing Arts, Childcare, Health & Social Care and Beauty Therapy. The college has an open event on May 15th, from 4.30 – 7.30pm, where prospective students can learn more about the courses, campus and facilities. To find out more about studying at Nescot call 020 8394 3038, visit www.nescot.ac.uk or email [email protected]

MP visits Stoneleigh Job Club

Helen Maguire, MP for Epsom & Ewell, Champions Local Free Job Coaching by volunteers during her Stoneleigh Job Club visit 

Stoneleigh Job Club was honoured to welcome Helen Maguire, MP for Epsom & Ewell, today. Her visit highlights our ongoing commitment to providing free and invaluable support to job seekers within the local community.

During the visit, Helen Maguire MP, met with job seekers, and volunteer staff members to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking employment.

“We are thrilled to have Helen Maguire MP  visit us and show her support for our mission,” said Peter Webb, founder and chair  of Stoneleigh Job Club. “Her presence and engagement with our clients and volunteer team highlight the importance of community-driven efforts to address unemployment and underemployment.”

Stoneleigh Job Club, established in 2015, has been a vital resource for job seekers in the local area, providing free workshops, one-on-one coaching, and networking opportunities. The dedicated team of ten volunteers from the local community work tirelessly to help individuals of all ages build their skills, confidence, and connections to secure meaningful employment. With welcome funding support from the National Lottery , Community Foundation and local councillors amongst others over the period , our ability to sustain appointments and drop in  sessions on Tuesdays at Stoneleigh Library has been much helped.

For more information about Stoneleigh Job Club and its services, please visit stoneleighjobclub.co.uk, email at [email protected], or call on 07900 489282.

Businesses Invited to Free Climate Action Event

Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) is inviting local businesses to a free “Introduction to Climate Change & Carbon Emissions” event designed to help them reduce costs, improve efficiency, and build a more sustainable future.

Taking place on Tuesday, 18 March, from 8.30am to 10.30am at the picturesque Hartsfield Manor, the event, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), will provide practical steps for businesses to lower their carbon footprint and save money. Hosted by Bioregional, a leading sustainability charity, the session will offer expert guidance on net zero strategies, cost-saving energy efficiencies, and decarbonisation planning.

Attending businesses will gain:

  • Cost-saving insights by identifying ways to cut energy and resource expenses
  • Clear guidance on net zero by demystifying the jargon and focusing on real-world benefits
  • Tools to calculate carbon footprint to help businesses track and reduce emissions
  • Practical steps for decarbonisation—tailored to businesses of all sizes
  • Access to MVDC assets—helping sustainable businesses to get started
  • Networking with like-minded businesses over a complimentary breakfast and refreshments

 Councillor Bridget Kendrick, Deputy Leader for MVDC and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Finance said: “Sustainability isn’t just good for the environment—it makes business sense too. By improving efficiency and reducing energy costs, businesses can strengthen their operations while playing a vital role in tackling climate change. We encourage all Mole Valley businesses to attend this free event and take advantage of expert advice on how to future-proof their business while saving money.

This is a must-attend event for businesses looking to stay competitive, reduce risks, and unlock financial benefits while contributing to a greener future. Spaces are limited, so please don’t wait too long to book your complementary space. Register now: Select tickets – Reduce Costs & Boost Your Brand with Climate Change Awareness for Businesses – Hartsfield Manor.”

3rd Anniversary of Ukraine War in Epsom Market Place Event

Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network (EERN) and Surrey Stands with Ukraine (SSWU) invite the community to a commemorative event marking the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. The gathering will take place on Saturday 22nd February 2025, at 11am in Epsom Market Place in the presence of The Worshipful The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell:  Councillor Steve Bridger and the Mayoress: Carol Bridger.

The ceremony will feature a rendition of the Ukrainian National Anthem, led by Ukrainian singer Helin Konyar and members of the Ukrainian choir, Renaissance. Helen Maguire MP has asked us to read out some words on her behalf as she is unable to attend. Ukrainian Constantin Ryzhikov, will share personal reflections, followed by a collective prayer for peace in Ukraine.

Ukraine

Helin Konyar, who was studying at the Kiev Municipal Academy of Circus and Variety Arts before relocating to the UK, has continued her musical journey by securing a three-year scholarship at Laine Theatre Arts College in Epsom.

EERN has been steadfast in supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the Epsom and Ewell area since 2015. In response to the Ukrainian crisis, the organization has intensified its efforts, offering assistance with housing, education, and integration into the local community.

SSWU has been instrumental in providing aid, raising awareness, and supporting Ukrainians both in Ukraine and within the local community. Their partnership with EERN in hosting this event highlights their ongoing commitment to standing in solidarity with those affected by the conflict and ensuring that the voices of Ukrainian refugees are heard and supported.

This event aims to honour those affected by the ongoing war and to foster solidarity within the local community. All are welcome to attend and show their support.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday 22nd February 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM
• Location: Epsom Market Place, Epsom (opposite Weatherspoons)
 

For more information about the event or to learn how to support EERN’s initiatives, please visit www.epsomrefugeenetwork.org or contact them at [email protected].

The Oracle Group Supporting CRY

As National Heart Month kicks off this February, Epsom-based property PR agency, The Oracle Group is making a powerful commitment—announcing Cardiac Risk in the Young(CRY) as its official charity of the year for 2025.

With a mission to prevent sudden cardiac deaths in young people through raising awareness, screening, and research, CRY also provides vital support to families affected by cardiac deaths. Known for leading the conversation in the property sector, The Oracle Group is ready to amplify CRY’s message, using its media connections to raise both awareness and essential funds to drive life-saving change for the Leatherhead-based charity.

Dr Steven Cox, CRY’s Chief Executive, comments; “I’d like to thank The Oracle Group for pledging to support CRY in 2025 – which also marks our 30th anniversary year!

“Our services receive no government support and therefore it’s only due to the fundraising efforts of families, communities and local businesses, that we’re able to deliver screening to young people across the UK at no cost to any individual who wishes to have their heart tested.

“Corporate donations and a commitment to giving valuable ‘volunteer-time’ also helps us to fund CRY’s specialist, ‘peer-to-peer’ bereavement network – a unique service for families and friends as they try to navigate their unimaginable grief. So, thank you again, Oracle – we really do appreciate everything you’re doing in support of CRY’s work.”

Over the course of the year, the team at The Oracle Group will be taking part in a number ofactivities to support CRY. These will include volunteering at the charity’s Heart of London Bridges Walk in June and something special to support CRY’s own Heart Week in November. More details will be revealed closer to the time – watch this space!

Caroline Coskry, Chair of The Oracle Group comments: “Every year we like to partner with a local charity and for 2025, our team voted to support Cardiac Risk in the Young. Being based in Epsom, we are very local to CRY’s Headquarters and to its National Cardiac Screening Centre in Leatherhead, and we are impressed by the incredible work that the charity does. We are looking forward to working with CRY throughout the year to help make a real difference to young people and their families.”

CRY estimates that 1 in 300 young people have a potentially life-threatening heart condition and report that every week in the UK 12 young people die from ‘hidden’ heart defects. Cardiac screenings are therefore vitally important for identifying and subsequently managing these underlying conditions.

Making screening more accessible for young people, CRY offers cardiac screening services at local venues across the country at no cost to the individual. To date, CRY has screened over 314,000 young people aged between 14 and 35 since launching its nationwide programme in 1995. The programme uses painless and non-invasive ECG machines to screen the heart for most cardiac abnormalities in just a few minutes. Where abnormal readings are detected, the CRY team refers young people on for further investigation.

Founded in 2011, The Oracle Group offers a comprehensive range of PR and marketingservices including event organisation, digital strategy and social media management. Specialising in driving meaningful change for clients in the property sector, Oracle has delivered creative campaigns rooted in expertise and industry knowledge to produce measurable results. Reflecting the changes in the way audiences consume information, The Oracle Group recently launched sister-brand, Influenced by Oracle, to connect brands and content creators in authentic partnerships.

For further information about CRY, please visit https://www.c-r-y.org.uk/.

To find out more about The Oracle Group’s services, visit https://theoraclegroup.co.uk/.