College refresh: catching up with City College Norwich

In 2018, City College Norwich won a £10,000 upgrade for its plumbing and heating facilities, courtesy of the College Refresh Scheme from Graham Plumbers’ Merchant. One year on, and vital refurbishment work has been completed, which has helped to enhance the quality of training for students and create an environment that lecturers can effectively teach within.

After nearly 80 applications were submitted from colleges around the country, City College Norwich was awarded the £10,000 due to its detailed and passionate submission, which involved a clear and precise plan for the success of all its students.

The prize money offered the college a wide range of possibilities – materials, labour and any other project costs associated with the refresh of the plumbing and heating training areas. So far, the prize money at City College Norwich has been spent on new and high-quality boilers, gas flue transfer blocks, wireless controls and other useful tools for the students to learn with.

Tony Sandon, lecturer at City College Norwich said: “A large part of the college’s success derives from having the very best facilities available for training. This gives the students a clear understanding and accurate insight once they enter into the plumbing industry. Winning the College Refresh Scheme with Graham has had a huge impact on the educational experience we are able to offer.”

Philip Barnard, a second-year level 3 Gas Engineering apprentice at City College Norwich, concluded: “It’s so important that we have the opportunity to learn and develop our skills with the latest technologies on the market. Graham is having an influence by providing apprentices with new products and opportunities through the College Refresh Scheme.”

For more information on Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, please visit www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk