City and Islington College’s rating averages at 3 out of 5, reflecting diverse opinions. Positive feedback highlights strong teacher connections, engaging subjects, and a supportive sixth-form environment.
Conversely, negative reviews mention administrative shortcomings, inadequate exam support, and communication issues, including delays in certificate processing. Prospective students should carefully weigh these perspectives, considering their priorities.
Further, conducting additional research and directly contacting the college can help address concerns. It’s crucial to remember that everyone’s experience varies, so take your time in assessing if the college aligns with your needs before making a decision.
What Is City and Islington College?
Established in 1993, City and Islington College (CANDI) stands as a prominent further education institution in the London Borough of Islington, England.
The college operates four major centers across the borough, strategically located. Each contributes to a diverse and vibrant learning environment with academic excellence.
Notably, it features a dedicated sixth-form center, emphasizing holistic educational offerings. CANDI, as part of the Capital City College Group, joined other colleges. Together, they nurtured over 25,000 students’ educational journeys in 2020.
What Is The History of City and Islington College?
In 1993, the City and Islington College emerged from a merger. It involved the City and East London College, among others. Initially spanning 13 sites in Islington, Hackney, and Tower Hamlets, the college underwent a £64 million building program in 2005. This marked the UK’s largest investment in further education accommodation.
Further, this period also saw a reorganization in teaching and learning management, resulting in the establishment of five distinct centers.
In 2016, the college merged with Westminster Kingsway College, forming the WKCIC Group. The College of Haringey, Enfield, and North East London joined in 2017.
Furthermore, this strategic growth positioned the group as the largest further education and training provider in London and one of the UK’s largest.
Islington’s Specialized College Facilities
The college, originally spanning 13 sites across three boroughs, has evolved into four specialized centers in Islington. These centers, equipped with state-of-the-art ICT facilities, cater to distinct subjects and provide both study and recreational spaces. Each center fosters a unique community of students, teachers, and support staff, focusing on specific courses and qualifications.
Centre for Applied Sciences
Located in Angel, Islington, this center, inaugurated in can 2005, boasts an outstanding science provision, recognized by Ofsted. The institution offers courses from Introductory Diplomas to Foundation Degrees. These prepare students for professions like forensics, optics, medicine, nursing, and fitness.
Moreover, the center has close connections with London universities and professional bodies. In 2008, it received the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for these contributions.
Centre for Business, Arts, and Technology
Positioned on Camden Road, the £15 million building, designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects, was opened in January 2006. Subject areas encompass ICT and Networking,
Business and Management, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Media, ranging from basic to Foundation Degree levels. Health, social, and childcare courses are also provided. This center replaced the Marlborough Building in 2020.
Centre for Lifelong Learning
Located on Blackstock Road, Finsbury Park, this center offers courses for adults with disabilities and beauty/complementary therapies.
Sixth Form College
The Sixth Form College boasts high A-level results. It offers academic courses, an enrichment program, and various extracurricular activities. Additionally, students can select from over 30 A-level subjects, including English, Media, Maths, Sciences, and Visual Arts. The college is conveniently located in Angel, accessible by tube or bus, ensuring a vibrant learning environment in central London.
Designed by Van Heyningen and Haward Architects, the Sixth Form Centre, completed in 2003, features flexible spaces and a clear circulation system. It won a design competition managed by RIBA Competitions in 1999.
Diverse Perspectives on City and Islington College
City and Islington College likely has a diverse student body and staff, leading to a range of perspectives on the college experience.
Positive Reviews
“Excellent working environment. Great opportunity for progression and development. Respect and value the employees.”
- Engineering Technician (Former Employee) – London – 18 June 2023
“Great place overall, great people to work with when I was doing my apprenticeship, learned a lot, and met a lot of interesting people.”
- Apprentice Facilities Manager (Former Employee) – Islington, Greater London – 8 November 2022
“It was an extremely laid-back job, I didn’t feel much stress or pressure when working nor did I get any sort of high-stress tasks during my time there.”
- Student Ambassador (Former Employee) – Islington – 15 March 2022
“Very good place to work, the management were very encouraging, kind, and explanatory. I enjoyed the short time I worked here, the work was enjoyable, and I like the aesthetics of the building.”
- Timetable assistant (Former Employee) – London – 14 July 2020
“The college is a nice place to work. All colleagues are friendly, and the atmosphere is very good.”
- Seasonal Administrator (Former Employee) – Angel Building – 23 can 2020
“Best years of my life! Amazing teacher that I’m still in touch with even after leaving. Fun and interesting subject. Students from younger years aren’t great so I feel bad for the wonderful staff.”
- Faustini (Local Guide) – 4 years ago
“Great teaching if you really intend to study. I met great staff.”
- Chika Ezeka (Local Guide) – a year ago
“The sixth form is lovely and so are all the teachers. I’m glad I picked this college.”
- ShafzKay (Local Guide) – 4 years ago
“I had a great
time at Candi from 2010-12. It shaped me as a person and my career significantly.”
- ThisCommentWasPosted – 4 years ago
Negative Reviews:
“This college should not exist! The tutors are good, but after a year, I am still waiting for my certificate. No one cares, as long as they take your money.”
- Ventsislava Ivanova – a year ago
“Unbelievable! Emailed daughter’s tutors for advice regarding her A’Level results. So disappointed with the total lack of support provided by this college at a time when it was so obviously needed.”
- CHARLIE-JULIE HUNT (Local Guide) – 3 years ago
“I’m in shock and disbelief with this school’s lack of organization. They made students in for sixth form wait up to 4 hours in a queue just to get in to be told a timetable if that doesn’t scream unorganized I don’t know.”
- Rgad Wagialla – 3 years ago
“This school just gives you mental health issues and expects way too much from you. Also, the teachers are not clear or ambitious.”
- Hamz – 2 years ago
“Since being taken over, the college has declined in management structure and support, equipment, and general support areas.”
- Lecturer (Current Employee) – London – 13 September 2019
“Management was out of touch with course demands and did not consider timetabling of inset days with important exam days.”
- Lecturer (Former Employee) – London, Greater London – 1 September 2019
“It has a bad culture in different sites. Management is poor and lots of office politics. High turnover of staff.”
- Learning Support Assistant (Former Employee) – Holloway Rd – 13 September 2018
Top Reasons to Choose City and Islington College (CANDI)
At City and Islington College, choosing your education comes with a myriad of compelling reasons
Prime Location in London
Located in Angel, their Sixth Form College offers easy access via tube or bus, ensuring a vibrant learning environment in London’s heart.
Extensive Industry Connections
Benefit from their strong links with numerous employers across London, including MedicLink and Lloyds. These connections pave the way for valuable work experience opportunities, enhancing your academic journey.
Celebrated Alumni
Join famous alumni like Paloma Faith, David Oyelowo, Zawe Ashton, and Reggie Yates from CANDI. They found success, and you can too!
Diverse Pathways
Whether your aspirations lead you to university, employment, apprenticeships, or further study, CANDI provides comprehensive pathways to support your goals and ambitions.
Industry-Experienced Educators
Learn from teachers with practical industry experience who have honed their teaching skills to empower you for success in your chosen area of study.
Rich Extracurricular Offerings
Immerse yourself in our vibrant community with a diverse array of extracurricular clubs and societies. From chess and debate to electronics, FemSoc, LGBTQ+, life drawing, and the Duke of Edinburgh program, enrich your college experience.
FAQ’s
Does City and Islington College have a dress code?
No, City and Islington College doesn’t have a dress code. Students are encouraged to express their individuality in their attire, with the only restriction being avoiding offensive slogans or statements on clothing.
What is the success rate of the City and Islington College?
In 2017, City and Islington College achieved an overall A Level pass rate of 96.3%, with 65% of students securing grades from A*-C. Notably, a 100% pass rate was attained in 10 subjects.
What is the fee of Islington College?
The prices for courses at Islington College range from 8-15 lakhs.
What grades do you need to get into City and Islington College?
For most subjects, you will need five or more GCSEs at grade 4 or higher, including English Language, or a level 2 qualification.
Is City College public or private?
In the United States, community colleges sometimes referred to as city colleges, are primarily public institutions providing tertiary education.
Final Words
City and Islington College has a mix of positive and negative reviews from former students. Some praise the supportive environment, meaningful connections with teachers, and positive atmosphere.
However, concerns have been raised about administrative issues, lack of support during crucial times, and organizational challenges. Before deciding on a college, students should think about what’s important to them, look at different viewpoints, and do more research. This helps them choose the right college that suits their needs.