New Business Centre Opens for Future Professionals

Shooters Hill Sixth Form College proudly marked a major milestone this week with the official launch of its brand‑new Business Centre, unveiled on Tuesday 24th March during a celebratory event attended by alumni, local leaders, staff, and students.

The purpose‑built facility has been designed to inspire innovation, nurture professional skills, and create stronger pathways for students progressing into business, finance, and entrepreneurial careers.

A Project Years in the Making

During the event, College Principal Geoff Osborne spoke about the journey from the initial concept to the completed Business Centre. He praised the perseverance and passion across the college, highlighting the outstanding contribution of both the Facilities Team, who worked tirelessly to bring the project to life, and the exceptional Business teaching team, whose dedication, expertise, and commitment to student success have been instrumental in shaping the vision for this new space. Geoff said:

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved with this new Business Centre. It represents not just a building, but a commitment to our young people and their futures.”

Cllr Linda Bird Applauds the College Team

The ribbon‑cutting ceremony was attended by Councillor Linda Bird, who echoed Geoff’s praise. She said:

“Today’s opening is a testament to the extraordinary tenacity of Shooters Hill Sixth Form College. This project was not without its challenges, but the college’s unwavering belief in its vision never faltered. They kept going, they pushed forward, and they made it happen. The result is a Business Centre that will transform opportunities for young people across our borough, and I could not be more proud to stand here and celebrate this achievement with them.”

Exceptional Alumni Take Centre Stage

The ribbon was officially cut by our outstanding alumni, each representing the diverse progression routes made possible through the college’s Business programmes:

Ziyana Thomas – Citi Bank Apprentice
Began at Level 2 Business → progressed to Level 3 Business & Finance → now thriving in a prestigious Citi Bank apprenticeship.

Jin Kasso – Accounting & Finance Undergraduate
Progressed from Level 2 to Level 3; now studying Accountancy & Finance at university with strong professional aspirations.

Alejandro Vazquez Garcia – Self‑employed Barber
Completed Level 3 Business & Finance before successfully establishing himself as an independent barber and young entrepreneur.

All alumni expressed their excitement about how the new Business Centre will support current learners, helping them develop the professional skills, confidence, and industry awareness needed to thrive in the business world.

A Space Designed for Industry‑Ready Learning

After the ribbon‑cutting, guests were given a guided tour of the Business Centre, with staff showcasing:

• collaborative work zones
• presentation and pitching areas
• modern IT suites
• flexible learning spaces
• resources to support enterprise and professional development

Visitors noted how the new environment will help raise aspirations, support employer engagement, and empower students to experience the world of business more authentically.

A Proud Moment for the College Community

The launch marks a significant step forward in Shooters Hill Sixth Form College’s commitment to delivering high‑quality, future‑focused education.

The college team expressed gratitude to everyone involved, and excitement for the generations of students who will benefit from the new space.