City of Westminster College, part of United Colleges Group, successfully hosted its Science Skills Forum last week at our Paddington Campus, bringing together students, staff, employers, and Higher Education providers to strengthen links between education and industry.

The event is just one example of how our college is strengthening employer partnerships and ensuring the curriculum continues to align with current workforce needs. Feedback gathered during the forum will help shape future course delivery and learner progression opportunities.

Students showed excellent engagement throughout the event, speaking directly with industry professionals about career pathways, workplace expectations, and the practical application of their studies.

Key organisations in attendance included representatives from Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (NHS Pathology Lab at St Mary’s Hospital), University of Westminster, and Brunel University London.

Employers and Higher Education partners highlighted the importance of technical laboratory skills, data analysis, communication, teamwork, and professional behaviours such as punctuality and adherence to workplace protocols. The discussions also reinforced the value of current BTEC and T Level units in preparing students for real-world scientific careers. The forum provided valuable insight into NHS and apprenticeship pathways, with industry representatives recognising T Level learners as particularly well positioned for future opportunities.