United Colleges Group (UCG) has been admitted as a member of the Chartered Institution for Further Education (CIFE) ─ the only chartered body for technical and professional education in the UK.
Membership of the institution is reserved for organisations with a sustained record of excellence.
UCG’s admission follows careful consideration by the CIFE Appointments Board and Council, which commended the college group’s strong leadership, teaching quality and positive contribution to London’s diverse learning community.
As a member, UCG ─ formed of City of Westminster College (CWC), the College of North West London (CNWL) and the Cockpit Theatre ─ joins a national network of the country’s most respected Further Education providers, gaining opportunities to collaborate, share best practice, and help shape the skills agenda for the future workforce. The Chartered Institution for Further Education exists to appraise, recognise and celebrate institutions that demonstrate high achievement, effective practice and exemplary leadership and governance.
Its members represent the foremost providers of technical and vocational training, all of whom share a commitment to delivering the skills needed in modern Britain, promoting collaboration, and strengthening local communities and economies.
UCG’s formal admission was celebrated on December 11, 2025, at a ceremony at Apothecaries’ Hall, London, where the college was presented with its Charter.
Franklin Asante, Chair of the Corporation, United Colleges Group, said: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to the entire United Colleges Group community for the exemplary standards being set in our sector. Recognition such as this one from the Chartered Institution for Further Education are a testament to everything our college stands for. Everyone in the organisation should be extremely proud of their contributions, and the difference they are making for our learners and the communities we serve.”
Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal, United Colleges Group, said: “This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our staff, students and partners. Becoming a member of the Chartered Institution for Further Education underscores our college’s commitment to providing outstanding opportunities that ensure our learners thrive and contribute to London’s economic growth and reputation for innovation.”
“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.”
