College hosts annual Student Conference with focus on leadership and diversity

Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet) recently brought together students for a day of inspiration, leadership and dialogue at the annual Student Conference, held at Sutton Coldfield College.

Centred on the theme “Empowering Voices, Shaping Futures: Building Leadership, Community and Global Citizenship”, the 2025 conference showcased the strength of student voice and its vital role in shaping the future of education across the college group.

The day opened with an energising introduction from keynote speaker and compère Kheron Gilpin, a motivational leader known for his work across education and youth empowerment.

He was followed by Anna Jackson, Deputy Principal of BMet, who formally welcomed students and reaffirmed the college’s commitment to ensuring every learner thrives.

Throughout the day, a diverse line-up of speakers tackled topics ranging from global citizenship to wellbeing and inclusion.

Stephen Belling, BMet’s company secretary, highlighted the impact of student leadership by launching the 2025-26 Student Election hustings, while Josh Smith and Jill Appleton of The Feast led engaging discussions about diversity, identity and community cohesion.

The afternoon included dynamic carousel discussions, with students rotating through themed tables covering digital innovation, student voice, and mental health—led by BMet staff and youth workers.

The conference concluded with a session on diversity and self-care delivered by social entrepreneur Candice Atterton, founder of Tenderness Skincare.

Students played an active role in delivering the conference, from performing arts contributions and facilitation by student governors, to event support from Sutton Coldfield’s Level 3 Business students.

Attendees included student representatives from initiatives such as the Racial Justice Board, UK Feminista, and UOK Ambassadors.