We are experiencing technical issues with Apprenticeship applications. If you receive an error message please email apprenticeships@nescot.ac.uk
We are experiencing technical issues with Apprenticeship applications. If you receive an error message please email apprenticeships@nescot.ac.uk
Nescot marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday, 08 2025 with commemorations at the college and student involvement at the borough's commemoration at the Beacon Lighting event at Epsom Downs Racecourse.
Our Level 2 Uniformed Public Services students led the flag raising ceremony at the college along with Ben Trevan, our Foundation Learning team member and British Army Reservist. Staff and students observed a two-minute silence and Deputy Principal, Andy Cowan reflected on the significance of coming together to honour and pay tribute to the courage and resilience of those who served.
Uniformed Public Services students, Isabella, Jorja and Francesca, said that it was really special being part of the commemoration, as they felt it’s important to keep memories alive, lest we forget.
Speaking at the flag raising ceremony, Nescot Deputy Principal Andy Cowan said: "Our college was founded as a product of the post-war era of freedom and the distribution of wealth for a fairer society. As students and staff, we have a role to play in carrying these lessons forward. Let us celebrate the courage of those came before us, reflect on the world we want to create, and move forward positively together, to build a future rooted in understanding, compassion, and co-operation.”
The college community celebrated VE Day 80 with a themed lunch in the Refectory which was decorated with commemorative bunting.
Our Foundation Learning Entry Level 3 Computing students enjoyed a VE Day ‘street party’ picnic in the sunshine. They designed their own celebratory flags, worked in teams to decorate their picnic area with bunding and made egg, jam and cheese finger sandwiches and even homemade lemonade.
The college’s Learning Resources Centre created an interesting and informative display on World War II history and stories of resilience featuring books, documentaries and archive materials for students and staff to explore.
Principal and CEO, Julie Kapsalis accompanied our Level 3 Public Services students and tutors, Liam and Chris for an Army Leadership Challenge Day in Kent. Students had the opportunity to take part in a series of team challenges delivered by the Army to build confidence, self-esteem and resilience, and develop teamwork and leadership skills, through exciting and interactive activities.
Later in the day, our Performing Arts students, one of our Foundation Diploma Art and Digital Design students and our HND Creative Media students represented the college at the national Beacon Lighting event, part of the borough's commemorations, hosted by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council in partnership with Go Epsom BID and the Jockey Club at Epsom Downs Racecourse.
Three Performing Arts students dressed as Land Girls, performed iconic songs by The Andrews Sisters and Dame Vera Lynn. Our Hairdressing and Beauty students helped with their hair and make-up. Foundation Diploma Art and Digital Design student Tilly, did minute sketches of veterans in collaboration with Age Concern Epsom and Ewell.
A short emotive documentary film, ‘VE Day 80 Echoes of Victory’ created by our HND Creative Media students in association with Bourne Hall Museum and Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, was showcased on the screens throughout the evening. The film features archive VE Day footage including of the borough and war time memories, highlighting the significance and importance of VE Day. To view the film, visit our YouTube channel here. Thanks to Go Epsom BID and The Jockey Club for inviting Nescot to be part of the borough’s commemorative event.
Thursday 8 May 2025 marks 80 years since VE (Victory in Europe) Day when the Second World War came to an end in Europe. Find out more here: https://ve80.com/