Earlier this week, BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts students visited London South Bank University to take part in a Creative Industries Experience Day. The event sought to help prepare students with their university and drama school applications, the interview and audition process they’ll undertake and experience what life is like on a university campus.
Alongside other London College students, the group took part in a number of workshops covering a wide range of topics including drama and performance, film practice, tips on writing a personal statement, student life and arts administration. Students were also given the opportunity to explore the LSBU campus and speak to students about studying at university, student loans and additional funding.
“It was wonderful to see the students exploring what campus life is like,” said Darren Mawdsley, a Lecturer in the Creative Industries at CWC. “The facilities at London South Bank are fantastic, particularly the arts hub, and the theatre has a real creative feel that inspired the students.”
London South Bank University is one of London’s largest and oldest universities and has over 25,000 students from over 120 countries. Students who attended the day found the experience incredibly enjoyable.
“While we were there we ran into an ex-student, Aaron Defoe, who completed his Extended Diploma in Performing Arts in 2015 and is in his second year at London South Bank. It gave our current students the chance to speak to someone who has been in their position and has done really well for himself,” added Darren. “They can’t wait to leave College and move on to the next step – it’s really exciting for them!”
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
