Industry Ready
From the Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX). Hear from our incredible learners, industry partners and get to know the people behind the scenes.
36: Meet George: Exploring Computer Science & the Future of AI
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet George, one of our Computer Science teachers, who gives students and parents/carers an insight into studying A Level Computer Science. George explains how the course combines coding and programming with computer systems, algorithms, data structures, and project-based coursework, helping students develop strong logical thinking and problem-solving skills. From understanding how computers work to...
35: Meet Alan: Coding the Future with Digital Software Development
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Alan, Head of Faculty for Digital, who gives learners and parents/carers an insight into the T Level in Digital Software Development. Alan explains how this two-year qualification combines academic learning with practical, hands-on experience, covering everything from Python programming, web development, and database design to cybersecurity, testing, and problem-solving. Learners also develop important...
34: Meet James: Bringing Digital Media to Life at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet James, Chief Technology Officer and Digital Media teacher, who gives learners and parents/carers an insight into the creative and fast-moving world of Digital Media. James explains how learners can turn their creative interests into professional skills through everything from graphic novels, posters, and video editing to user interface design, 3D modelling, and virtual...
33: Meet Famida: Engineering the Future with Robotics & Automation
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Famida, Subject Lead for Mechatronics and Robotics, who introduces learners and parents/carers to the exciting T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing. Famida explains how the course goes far beyond classroom theory, giving learners the chance to put their knowledge into practice through electronics, robotics, automation, circuit design, CAD, and...
32: Meet Rachael: Creating a Future in Upholstery
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Rachael, Upholstery Course Lead at the East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), who introduces learners and parents/carers to the creative, practical world of upholstery. Rachael explains how the T Level combines design knowledge with plenty of hands-on workshop experience, from transforming dining chairs and creating headboards and footstools to learning industrial sewing and working...
31: Meet Joel & Ramtin: Bringing Aviation to Life at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Joel and Ramtin from our Aviation team, who take us behind the scenes of one of the most exciting and fast-moving industries in the world. They explain why aviation is about so much more than aircraft, covering everything from airport operations, safety, and flight planning to technology, teamwork, and responding to real-world challenges. Learners...
30: Meet Shafina: Discover A Level Psychology at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Shafina, A Level Psychology teacher and Director of Creative Curriculum, who shares what makes studying Psychology at LDE UTC such an engaging and thought-provoking experience. Learners and parents/carers will discover that Psychology is about much more than “mind reading”! From memory, attachment and social influence to biopsychology, mental health, and research methods, Shafina expl...
29: Meet Andy: Discover A Level Physics at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Andy, Head of Science and Physics specialist, who gives learners and parents/carers an insight into what studying A Level Physics at LDE UTC is really like. From mechanics, waves, and quantum physics to stars, cosmology, and medical imaging, Andy explains how learners explore the world around them while developing practical, mathematical, and problem-solving...
28: Meet William: Designing Futures in Product Design and Construction
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet William Plange-Rhule, Head of Faculty for Design, who shares what learners can expect from studying A Level Product Design and T Level Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction at LDE UTC. Learners and parents/carers will hear how these courses combine creativity, technical thinking, and practical problem-solving, with hands-on projects in areas such as...
27: Meet Jonathan Marker: A Level Biology Teacher at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Jonathan, one of our Biology teachers, who gives learners and parents/carers an insight into what studying A Level Biology at LDE UTC is really like. From understanding cells, genetics, and the human body to exploring biodiversity, disease, and cutting-edge developments in science, Jonathan explains how learners combine classroom knowledge with practical experiments, dissections...
26: Meet Derek Jones: Lead Teacher for T Level Craft & Design (Furniture) at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Derek, our T-Level Craft and Design (Furniture) teacher, who shares what makes this creative, hands-on course such an exciting pathway for learners who love designing, making, and solving real-world problems. learners and parents/carers will discover how the course combines practical workshop skills with business knowledge, employer projects and industry placements, helping learners develop...
25: Meet Sharian Joseph-Bertrand: Business & Enterprise Teacher at LDE UTC
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Sharian, our Business and Enterprise teacher, who shares what makes studying Business and Enterprise at LDE UTC such an exciting and practical choice. Students and parents/carers will discover how learners develop real-world business knowledge through interactive lessons, employer-led projects, enterprise activities, and opportunities to build the confidence and transferable skills that employers are...
24: Meet Alex Palaghia: From A Levels to a Disney Apprenticeship
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
 In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Alex, one of our Year 13 learners, as he reflects on his journey through A Levels in Psychology, Computer Science, and Maths. Students and parents/carers will hear how Alex made the most of the college’s strong employer connections, taking part in exciting projects with organisations such as Google and applying classroom learning to rea...
23: Meet Isabella Bilewu Year 13 Learner In Aviation
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Isabella, one of our inspiring Year 13 learners, as she reflects on her journey studying Aviation at LDE UTC and shares how stepping outside of her comfort zone helped shape her confidence and future ambitions. Students and parents/carers will hear about the exciting industry-focused experiences that brought learning to life, from creating airline projects...
22: Meet Zainab Adesina Year 13 Learner Engineering Her Future
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Zainab, one of our inspiring Year 13 learners, who shares her exciting journey through Sixth Form and her passion for engineering. Students and parents/carers will hear how Zainab combined A-Level Maths, Physics and Mechanical Engineering with a huge range of extracurricular opportunities, volunteering, and industry projects — all while developing confidence, resilience, and a clear vi...
21: Meet Anas Mahmoodi Year 13 Learner Ready For Industry
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Anas, one of our inspiring Year 13 learners, who shares his incredible journey studying the T-Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing. Students and parents/carers will hear how Anas grew in confidence, discovered new strengths, and embraced opportunities that helped shape his future — from representing the college in the Royal Navy Junior Le...
20: Meet Anvya Bernard: Year 13 Learner in Engineering
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Anvya, one of our inspiring Year 13 learners, who shares her journey studying the T-Level Engineering course with an electronic specialism. Students and parents/carers will hear how Anvya embraced new opportunities, built confidence, and discovered her passion for engineering through hands-on learning, exciting industry placements, and even work experience abroad in Cyprus. From repairing...
19: Meet Ala'a Khamouch: Year 13 Learner In Craft & Design
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Ala’a, one of our inspiring Year 13 learners, who shares her journey studying the T-Level Craft & Design Furniture Making course at LDE UTC. Learners and parents/carers will hear how Ala’a stepped outside of her comfort zone, built confidence, and embraced exciting industry experiences — from working on real furniture-making projects to being recognised at the...
18: Meet Aadam Imtiaz: A Year 13 Learner Building His Future
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Aadam, one of our Year 13 learners, as he reflects on his journey through college and shares how studying a T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction has helped shape his future. Learners and parents/carers will hear about exciting industry experiences, including site visits with Mace, hands-on placements, and how practical learning...
17: Meet Bradley Ukwunna: A Year 13 Learner on Growth, Ambition and Being Intentional
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Bradley, one of our Year 13 learners, who reflects on his unique journey through LDE UTC. From joining in Year 9, exploring different interests, and later returning to complete his A Levels, Bradley shares how the college helped him grow in confidence, discover his strengths, and become more intentional about his future. Learners and parents/carers...
16: Meet Abbie Luthano: From LDE to Oxford Fine Art (and Turning Creativity into Opportunity)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Abbie, one of our inspiring alumni, who shares her journey from studying at LDE to now studying Fine Art at Oxford. Learners and parents/carers will hear how Abbie explored her creativity through Built Environment, Graphic Design and exciting real-world opportunities, from architecture competitions and mentoring programmes to having her artwork displayed through a...
15: Meet Opemipo Oyeneye - LDE UTC Alumni & UX Researcher Degree Apprentice (Barclays)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Opemipo (Ope), one of our inspiring alumni, who is now working as a UX Researcher at Barclays through a degree apprenticeship. Ope shares her journey from joining the college in Year 10 to discovering opportunities in design, technology, and research—showing how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to exciting and unexpected career paths. le...
14: Meet Matas Urbonavicius: Alumni & Light Vehicle Maintenance Student
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we catch up with Matas, one of our alumni, as he shares his journey from college to finding the right path for his future. From studying engineering and aviation to exploring university and then choosing a more hands-on route in light vehicle maintenance, Matas gives an honest and refreshing insight into what it really means to...
13: Meet Charlotte Hin: LDE UTC Alumni & Architecture Student (Kingston University)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we speak with Charlotte, one of our talented alumni, who is currently completing her Architecture degree at Kingston University. Charlotte reflects on her journey from joining the college in Year 12 to discovering her passion for architecture through courses in Built Environment, Art, and Graphics. Learners and parents/carers will hear how industry-focused projects, creative learning, and...
12: Meet Adeel Khaliq: From LDE Learner to Porsche
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we catch up with Adeel, one of our inspiring alumni, who has turned his passion for cars into a career in the automotive industry. Now working at Porsche after graduating in Automotive Engineering from the University of Hertfordshire, Adeel shares how his journey began at the college and how hands-on learning, industry-standard equipment, and real-world experiences...
11: Meet Huma Wasim: Aerospace Engineering Student & Alumni
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we catch up with Huma, one of our inspiring alumni, who is now studying Aerospace Engineering at City, St George’s University of London. Huma shares her journey from joining the college in Year 12 to discovering her passion for STEM subjects, and how the unique mix of academic study and industry experiences helped shape her next st...
10: Meet Rosie Scott: Alumni & Games Art Student (From Opportunities to Industry)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we catch up with Rosie, one of our inspiring alumni, to hear about her journey from college to studying Game Art at Escape Studios. Rosie shares how finding the right environment helped her grow in confidence, make meaningful friendships, and discover her passion for digital media. Learners and parents will gain a great insight into the o...
09: Meet Will Thompson: Chief Quality Officer for London Design & Engineering UTC (40 Years in Education)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Will, the college’s Chief Quality Officer, who brings a wealth of experience from nearly 40 years in education. From his journey as a teacher and headteacher to now supporting quality, leadership, and staff development at the college, Will shares what makes this learning environment so unique. Learners and parents will gain insight into how th...
08: Meet Sharna Rolle: Head of Apprenticeships for London Design & Engineering UTC (From Deli Counter to Leadership)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet Sharna, Head of Apprenticeships for the Engineering Skills College, and explore the exciting world of apprenticeships and career pathways. Sharna shares her journey from working in employment and training to leading apprenticeship programmes, supporting learners of all ages to develop real-world skills in areas like civil, digital, and landscape engineering. Learners and parents will...
07: Meet David Hughes: Chief Finance & Operations Officer (The Man Behind the College Operations)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust, the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we meet David, the college’s Chief Finance and Operating Officer, and discover the important role he plays behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. From managing budgets and IT systems to ensuring the college buildings are safe and ready for learning, David shares how all the different pieces come together to support students and st...
06: Meet Gloria Gold: LDEUTC Deputy Headteacher (Pastoral and Designated Safeguarding Lead)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
During this episode, you'll meet Gloria, Deputy Head (Pastoral and Designated Safeguarding Lead) at LDEUTC, who has been part of the College since the very beginning. Gloria talks about her role in supporting learners’ wellbeing, safeguarding, attendance, behaviour, and personal development, and why strong relationships with students and families are at the heart of her work.
She shares her own ed...
05: Meet James Culley Chief Technology Officer & Digital Media Teacher (Star Wars Superfan & Creator)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode of Industry Ready, we sit down with James, Chief Technology Officer and Digital Media teacher at the college, to explore his inspiring journey into education and technology. From playing a cinema organ at 12 to helping shape innovative learning experiences for learners today, James shares how creativity, curiosity, and a love of technology can open exciting career pathways. Learners and...
04: Meet Furnaz Ahmed: LDEUTC Deputy Headteacher (Teaching & Learning)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode, you'll meet Furnaz, Deputy Head (Teaching & Learning) at LDEUTC, who leads on the quality of education across the College. Furnaz shares her journey from training as an architect to finding a long-term passion in teaching and leadership, and explains how curriculum, creativity, and wellbeing all play a key role in supporting learners.
She reflects on the importance...
03: Meet Kenan Drugzani: LDEUTC Head of School for Years 9, 10 and 11
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode, you'll meet Kenan, LDEUTC Head of School for Years 9, 10 and 11. Kenan shares his journey into education, from studying biochemistry and working as a biomedical engineer to discovering a passion for teaching and leadership within the College.
He talks about the importance of challenge, belonging, and supporting young people to feel confident and secure in their learning. With...
02: Meet Victoria Webb: Head of School for the LDEUTC Sixth Form (and Biker Extraordinaire)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In this episode, you'll meet Victoria, Head of School for the LDEUT6 Form. Victoria shares her role in supporting learners’ wellbeing, leading curriculum across the College, and maintaining high standards that help learners succeed.
She reflects on her journey into education, the importance of encouragement and confidence, and why learners are at the heart of the College community.
Th...
01: Meet Geoffrey Fowler: CEO & Principal of London Design & Engineering UTC (and Tractor lover)
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
In the first episode of Industry Ready, you'll meet Geoffrey, CEO and Principal of the College. Through a relaxed and engaging conversation led by learners and hosted by Sonya, you'll hear quick-fire favourites to thoughtful reflections.
Geoffrey shares his journey into education, his role in creating the College, and what drives his passion for providing young people with the best...
Industry Ready : Season 1 Trailer
This is the official podcast from Technical Education Skills Trust; the operator of London Design & Engineering UTC, LDE UT6th Form, Engineering Skills College, East London Furniture Institute (ELFI), and the Industry & Educators Exchange (IndEX).
Industry Ready is launching very soon, and over the coming episodes, you’re going to hear from our incredible learners, our industry partners……and you’ll get to know the people behind the scenes, our staff!
Our "Exceptional" Ofsted results speak for themselves, but what truly sets us apart is the atmosphere in our buildings. It’s a culture built on care, i...