Bailey

“College was a new start, a new life and new people. It gave me the courage and strength I needed to create something that came from my heart.”

Publishing a book of poetry has long been an ambition for Bailey, but it was his time at New City College that gave him the confidence, inspiration and encouragement to turn that dream into reality.

Bailey, a student at Havering Sixth Form from 2024-2026, has published ‘Heart and Soulless – A 30 Poem Collection’, a deeply personal book inspired by the past three years of his life and the positive impact college has had on him.

Bailey studied A levels in Media Studies, Psychology and English Literature, finding a fresh start at college after a difficult time at school.

He said: “Joining New City College was like a breath of fresh air. School had often left me feeling anxious and sad, but college was a new start, a new life and new people. It gave me the courage and strength I needed to discover a different side of myself and create something that came from my heart.”

One of the central themes running through Bailey’s poetry is change, and how the way we respond to it can shape the people we become. He says his college experience helped him embrace this idea, ultimately inspiring him to put his thoughts and feelings into a published collection.

“Everything about being at college helped me learn to accept change and embrace it,” he explained. “I loved writing the book, and it feels special to have created something so personal from my experiences.”

Bailey is keen to recognise the role college staff and teachers played in helping him develop his ideas and bring his project to life. He says the support he received throughout the process was brilliant.

While studying at college, Bailey played an important role in the Havering Sixth Form community being a Student Ambassador and an active member of the Student Union and enrichment team. His commitment was recognised with the campus award for Outstanding Contribution to the College Community, followed by the same accolade at the New City College group Student Achievement Awards.

Bailey went on to volunteer at a local primary school, helping children who need additional support, while he looked for a full-time apprenticeship.

His journey is a reminder that college can be about much more than qualifications: it can provide the encouragement and confidence to discover new ambitions, develop personal talents and take the next step towards a brighter future.