United Colleges Group (UCG) is delighted to announce that, following a successful bid, it has been awarded the full sum of funding applied for through the UK Government’s Turing Scheme, marking a major milestone in the college’s commitment to global education and opportunity.
The Turing Scheme funding, which offers grant funding to education providers to support their students or apprentices to pursue study and work placements around the world, will enable 80 students to participate in international placements in Bali and Thailand in the upcoming academic year. The scheme is designed to offer students transformative experiences that enhance their education, broaden their horizons and develop their confidence, skills and global outlook.
To deliver this ambitious programme, UCG (City of Westminster College, College of North West London and the Cockpit Theatre), has partnered with Think Pacific and their in-country specialists to offer safe, structured and impactful international placements.
The Turing Scheme is the UK’s global programme for study and work abroad, providing funding for learners to gain international experience regardless of background. UCG’s successful application highlights the college’s ongoing commitment to equity, excellence and innovation in further education.
The trips will allow students from a wide range of vocational and academic programmes to engage in hands-on, culturally rich experiences, with opportunities to take part in community development, sustainability projects and global skills training. UCG’s participation in the scheme will prioritise students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds, aligning with the college’s mission to promote social mobility and inclusion through education.
The placements form part of a wider internationalisation strategy at United Colleges Group, designed to equip students with the tools and mindset they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal of United Colleges Group, said: “The Turing Scheme funding we have secured for our students clearly demonstrates our commitment to growth and international impact ─ it is about broadening horizons not just for the 80 young people who will travel to Bali and Thailand, but for our college community as a whole.
“Working with Think Pacific gives us confidence that these placements will be delivered with integrity and purpose. This partnership ensures that students will be supported throughout their journey and come away with meaningful experiences that align with their studies and aspirations.”
Nigel Scott, Director at Think Pacific, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with United Colleges Group on this exciting project. At Think Pacific, we’re passionate about creating transformative global experiences for students, and we’re proud to support UCG learners in developing their skills, confidence and global outlook through this collaboration.”
Are you a current student or new student joining us in September? Register your interest for the Bali and Thailand trips via MyDay.
“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.”
