Intercollege Competition Showdown
What happens when students from Grimsby Institute, Hull College, Doncaster College and our Colleges across the RNN Group (made up of Rotherham College, North Notts College, Dearne Valley College and University Centre Rotherham (UCR)) gather under one roof?
You get a high-octane day of professional rivalry, incredible craftsmanship, and a glimpse into the future of our industries!
Hosted at the Grimsby Institute’s amazing campus, this year’s Intercollege Competition was more than just a contest – it was a celebration of vocational excellence.
The energy at Grimsby was palpable from the moment we arrived. Every corner of the campus was buzzing with activity as students from a vast array of disciplines prepared to go head-to-head. The facilities provided the perfect backdrop for a professional-grade experience, pushing our learners to step up and treat the day like a true industry event.
Showcasing diverse talent
It wasn’t just about one trade; it was a total takeover. We saw a stunning variety of skills on display, including:
- Creative Arts: Photography, Media, Performance and Music students brought the stage and studios to life.
- Service and Care: Hair and Beauty, Nails, and Health and Social Care learners demonstrated precision and empathy under pressure. At the same time, our Catering and Hospitality students produced culinary excellence.
- Trade and Tech: Construction, Plumbing, Electrical, Engineering and Motor Vehicle students tackled complex technical builds.
- Modern Frontiers: Sports, Games Design and Esports competitors proved that strategy and physical prowess are equally vital in the modern world.
- Core Essentials: In a true test of logic and communication, students also competed in Maths and English challenges, proving that these fundamental skills are the backbone of every professional career.
Dedication under pressure
The rounds were far from easy. Judges set rigorous standards, mirroring the expectations of real-world professional environments. However, what truly stood out wasn’t just the final products, but the professionalism and dedication of the learners.
Even when faced with challenging briefs or tight deadlines our students remained focused, representing our College with pride. This competition serves as a powerful reminder of why we do what we do: to give learners the platform to prove they are ready for the workforce.
A massive shoutout to our Esports, Maths and English, Health and Social Care, and Motor Vehicle teams for dominating the field and taking home first place in their department competitions!
Why competitions matter
These events are a vital part of the learner journey. They offer:
- External Validation: By moving outside the comfort zone of their classrooms to be judged by industry standards.
- Networking: Building connections with peers and tutors within those subject areas from Grimsby, Hull and Doncaster.
- Confidence: Proving to themselves that their skills hold up against other peers from around the region.
‘It was a highly positive and productive day, with both students and staff gaining significant value from the experience and from collaborating with peers across three partner colleges. While we did not secure the overall trophy this year, achieving first place in five categories is a strong outcome and reflects the commitment, preparation, and talent demonstrated by our learners and teams.
Opportunities like these competitions provide learners with far more than a chance to showcase their talents. They build confidence, develop teamwork, strengthen communication skills, and inspire a healthy sense of achievement. Just as importantly, they foster collaboration across departments and colleges, creating a strong community spirit that benefits both students and staff alike.’
Katie Asgari – Curriculum Manager
We are incredibly proud of everyone who took the challenges head-on and showed the region exactly what our students are capable of!