In May, two senior students had the great honour of attending the May Court Dinner of the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers at the Tallow Chandlers Hall in central London.

Travelling by train with two members of NCW staff it was a wonderful experience for students Mustafa and Martha to attend a formal dinner. It was a black-tie event so a chance to get dressed up in their finery and represent the College at this prestigious event.

The evening started with a champagne reception and was followed by a wonderful four course dinner and speeches as the Court welcomed a new Liveryman and five new Freemen to their Company.

The Lightmongers Livery Company is a modern Livery company with all of the members being involved in, or linked to, the lighting industry. The membership represents all sections of the lighting and electrical industry, including lamp and luminaire manufacturers, electrical contractors, electrical wholesalers, public lighting engineers, consulting engineers, lighting designers and architects.

As well as fostering the art and science of lighting and promoting fellowship in the industry, the Company also invests in its future by encouraging the development of education and training programmes, and, via the Lightmongers Charitable Trust also provides support to charities helping those who suffer from sensory deprivation of sight or hearing.

NCW, along with Mary Hare School for deaf children, is fortunate to be one of the educational settings which benefits from ongoing support from the Charitable Trust. At May’s Court dinner each year, two students from each school receive an Exceptional Achievement Award sponsored by Past Master Hugh Ogus MBE.

Mustafa was presented with an award from Master Margaret Fitzsimons, for his commitment as Head Student for 2021/22. Unfortunately, fellow Head Student for this year, Asriel, was unable to attend the dinner but Martha, who was Head Student in 2020/21 and last year’s winner accepted the award on their behalf.

Mustafa said: “My favourite thing was the dessert!”

Martha said: “People were really welcoming”

During the whirlwind trip the students also managed some sightseeing around the Tower of London, and the obligatory photographs with Paddington Bear at the station!