Docklands Archives - Wharf Life

February 3, 2026February 3, 2026

UCL School Of Management expands Canary Wharf presence

The university is growing its east London presence with more space at One Canada Square and new student accommodation close to the estate

UCL School Of Management is expanding its presence on the top levels of One Canada Square - image supplied by UCL — UCL School Of Management is expanding its presence on the top levels of One Canada Square – image supplied by UCL

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University College London’s School Of Management is a good example of one of the things people often get wrong about Canary Wharf.

While today financial services companies continue to play a major part in the life of the estate, its diversification that is driving it forward.

Alongside residential towers, space for construction firms, events companies and life sciences bodies, has been created.

Towers originally conceived to house trading floors have been retooled, done up and re-leased to all kinds of different organisations.

Even 10 years ago – when UCL’s school relocated to the 38th floor of One Canada Square, just one year after its creation – things were already changing.

The mixed development at Wood Wharf had won planning permission two years earlier and the estate was preparing to become a place to live as well as work and visit.

Having initially been attracted to the area’s status as a “major global business district”, UCL’s school has since grown into more space and developed its offering.

However, few – even today – might guess that the very highest floors of the Wharf’s landmark tower are occupied by academics and students rather than bankers.

The university announced earlier this month that, in addition to floors it already leases in One Canada Square – 38, 48, 49 and 50 – it would also be taking on 46 and 47 too, levelling up to a total of six.

UCL School Of Management's Professor Susan Smith - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — UCL School Of Management’s Professor Susan Smith – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

opening the spaces

“We’ll be opening up 48 this coming September and then the other two new floors the following year,” said Professor Susan Smith, a specialist in accountancy and deputy director for student experience at UCL School Of Management.

“Then we’ll have five floors all connected by a fantastic internal staircase.

“It’s really very exciting and we’re all going to get super fit.

“When we open level 47 we’ll also gain a terrace, which will act as one of our social spaces.”

When fully operational, the six floors together will accommodate the needs of some 4,000 students, all benefiting from the new facilities and spaces.

Susan said: “We’ll be adding a new Bloomberg room, extra classroom space and informal study facilities.

“We already have signs from the Tube to help people find their way here.

“We’ve worked with our architects and have managed to get what we want, in terms of additional teaching space, which is incredibly important for us.

“There will also be places for students to hang out between classes.

“That includes more fun additions like table tennis and a café so people can buy refreshments up here as well as using the kitchen facilities to make their own.

“Of course, there are many options downstairs in the malls too.”

The school's upper floors will all be connected by an internal staircase when work is completed - image supplied by UCL — The school’s upper floors will all be connected by an internal staircase when work is completed – image supplied by UCL

expanding opportunity

Susan said being a part of the wider estate was attractive to students, given its offering.

“Being in Canary Wharf offers a huge number of opportunities, both for us and our students,” she said.

“They are part of a thriving neighbourhood that provides everything they need.

“There are lots of things for them to do here – sports facilities and arts facilities, for example.

“A lot of our students also use our main campus in Bloomsbury too but, with the students’ union presence here and our expansion over the next few years, we’ll have a range of activities on-site, as any other campus would do.”

UCL is an increasingly potent presence in east London with two campuses in Stratford playing a major part in the East Bank cluster.

As well as benefiting from interplay with those, the School Of Management also stands to gain from the arrival of Urbanest, a complex of three towers built beside Trafalgar Way just off the Wharf’s eastern edge.

When they open later this year, the facility will be the largest student accommodation building in the capital with 1,672 student beds, 80 residential flats and a Drive-Thru McDonalds expected to open on its lower level in place of the restaurant that once occupied the site.

“This new accommodation means our students will be able to live and study in close proximity,” said Susan.

“As a university, we’ve consciously taken the decision to build around the locations we have in east London and, as we’re growing at Canary Wharf, it’s made sense to take more space in the tower too.”

The campus will be able to accommodate 4,000 students following the expansion - image supplied by UCL — The campus will be able to accommodate 4,000 students following the expansion – image supplied by UCL

shifting focus

The school offers a wide range of courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. In addition to degrees in such areas as Information Management In Business, Management Science and International Management, new undergrad courses for 2026 include Management For Social Change and Technology And Innovation.

“We have something to offer people whether they are starting out in their careers or looking to maybe shift the focus of what they’re doing,” said Susan.

“Typically, the latter might be looking at our MBA programmes or more specialist areas to take a different path.

“For example, we run a course in using data to improve leadership – our MSc in People Analytics And Human-Centric Management.

“We’re always horizon scanning – networking with the business community, other academics and thinkers in various fields – to ensure what we’re offering is relevant.

“One thing that remains constant is the foundational skill of adaptability – we want our students to be independent and critical thinkers, to be flexible, so they can thrive as the world changes.

“They will need to do that much more than we have had to as their careers will likely be very different from the ones we’ve experienced or can imagine.”

The new floors will offer students and staff more facilities including teaching spaces - image supplied by UCL — The new floors will offer students and staff more facilities including teaching spaces – image supplied by UCL

an attractive location for UCL

As one of the world’s top university’s, UCL attracts students from across the world.

“A large proportion of those studying with us in Canary Wharf are international and come from a diverse range of countries,” said Susan.

“I think they feel at home in the environment we’ve created here.

“We feel we provide an excellent student journey, but it’s not just about what happens in class.

“They have access to some amazing opportunities and a wonderful peer group, which will hopefully be with them for life.

“They also have the chance to work with businesses on the Wharf and we are engaged in projects with a number of local companies.

“We also run a summer school with Canary Wharf Group and I’m a trustee of the University Schools Trust which supports primary and secondary education in Tower Hamlets so we have links to the community here too.

“I’m most excited about the school having a critical mass here and becoming a fully fledged campus. It will be even more of a destination for staff and students.”

key details: UCL School Of Management

You can find out more about UCL School Of Management in Canary Wharf on the university’s website, which includes a full list of courses available.

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February 3, 2026February 3, 2026

Luminarium: Myriad set to arrive at Woolwich Works in riot of colour

Inflatable installation by Architects Of Air will arrive in south-east London with visitors able to experience its spaces from April 2-6, 2026

Visitors are invited to step into the interior of a giant inflatable - image supplied by Architects Of Air — Visitors are invited to step into the interior of a giant inflatable – image supplied by Architects Of Air

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Woolwich works is set to invite visitors to step out of the world and into a space of wonder, discovery and colour this spring.

Tickets recently went on sale to experience Luminarium: Myriad, the latest installation from Architects Of Air (AOA), which comes to the arts and events space in April.

Visitors enter the walk-through inflatable via an airlock to explore the structure’s winding pathways and vistas in stockinged feet as daylight shines through translucent panels.

The massive artwork is by AOA, a creative production company founded by artist and maker Alan Parkinson that has been creating inflatable installations since the 1990s.

The Nottingham-based organisation has its roots in a charitable project, which saw offenders tasked with building and repairing inflatable play equipment for kids.

Initially, Alan drove the minibus for the probation service and supervised part-time and then full-time.

Luminarium: Myriad looks quite different from the outside - image supplied by Architects Of Air — Luminarium: Myriad looks quite different from the outside – image supplied by Architects Of Air

going inside

He said: “The bouncy airbed we were using was quite tall – about six foot off the ground with a tube around it to break the children’s fall – and it was restrained by internal ropes.

“To fix it, I’d have to go inside it to carry out repairs.

“That wasn’t actually very healthy – working in a confined space with glue wasn’t great – but I survived.”

Aside from entering that inflatable structure, Alan drew inspiration from his “bible” – Sheet Metalwork For Welders – a book that dealt with the joining of different forms as well as other inflatable structures such as Colourscape on Clapham Common.

All these influences led to the construction of Alan’s first inflatable environment or Luminarium in 1986 and going on to experiment with more, still working under the auspices of the charity and culminating in the creation of Eggopolis.

This promenade performance space for mixed-ability actors toured the UK in 1990 and, while the charity was forced to close, Alan retained the structure and successfully toured it in Germany under the ownership of AOA.

Ever since, he and the now six-strong company, have been developing a lineage of installations and opening them to the public.

He said: “It typically takes about five months to build one and it’s, in some ways, a basic process.

“We make templates, cut out the PVC and glue the edges together.

“There’s a lot of teamwork involved and manual labour.

“Each new structure we create tries something different in the way we shape and construct them.

“Myriad, which is coming to Woolwich is quite a subtle structure.

“You don’t really know what you’re going to get until you blow it up and go inside.

“It’s lit principally from above with windows that let the light in too.

“We’ve punctuated some of the surfaces with translucent material to give them a star-like quality.

“When I first saw it, the main dome was a lovely surprise. We ask people to empty their minds.

“They might come with expectations but really we’re asking visitors to step inside and experience a sense of wonder, light and colour.

“Accompanying that, there may be a sense of inspiration and there’s always a wow factor when you first go in.

“Different people will take different things from the installation.

“Families and young children will have different experiences to an older person coming on their own, who may have a different kind of connection, for example.

“I think it’s often the children, rather than parents, who are enthused.

“It’s a good thing that they make adults come to something like this.”

Alan said he never knows how a structure will turn out until it's inflated for the first time - image supplied by Architects Of Air — Alan said he never knows how a structure will turn out until it’s inflated for the first time – image supplied by Architects Of Air

key details: Luminarium: Myriad

Luminarium: Myriad is set to open at Woolwich Works at Royal Arsenal Riverside on April 2 with visitors able to explore the installation until April 6, 2026.

Tickets cost £8 per person or £28 for groups of four.

The experience will be open from noon-4pm daily

Find out more about the installation and book tickets here

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February 3, 2026February 3, 2026

Sad Meli serves authentic flavours from Georgia in Royal Docks

Owner’s literal drive spans tourism in the country of his birth, wine with an 8,000-year lineage and now a restaurant and bar near Gallions Reach DLR

Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy And Raw Wines is located in Royal Docks - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy And Raw Wines is located in Royal Docks – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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Beka Kereselidze’s story is one of obsession and, literally, drive.

The Royal Docks resident, along with his wife, Tatia Bichashvili, opened Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy And Raw Wines close to Gallions Reach DLR a little over a year ago and it’s been quite the journey.

Born in Tbilisi, Beka initially came to the UK to visit friends in 2007 and decided to stay.

“At 23, I saw opportunities here for work and I wanted some fun in my life, but I was also going back to Georgia quite often,” he said.

“My family has a summer place in a small village called Sadmeli in the Racha region – it’s where my grandfather used to make wine.

“Georgia is the homeland of wine – we’ve been making it for 8,000 years. Georgian culture and wine come together.

“We have it in our blood, with the forest and the vineyards. It’s normal to have a family tradition of making it and everyone compares theirs with everyone else’s.”

Beka Kereselidze of Sad Meli restaurant and Sadmeli winery - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Beka Kereselidze of Sad Meli restaurant and Sadmeli winery – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

dreaming big

While Beka’s father had continued to make some wine on the site for family consumption, his son had bigger dreams.

After getting married in 2016, as is customary, the couple made a wine together using the traditional qvevri – massive clay pots buried in the ground as vessels for fermentation and ageing.

Buoyed by its reception at a wine festival, Beka was further enthused and began studying production in earnest.

He spent a decade working as a long-distance lorry driver for Sainsbury’s in the UK, raising money to build the Sadmeli property in Georgia into a proper winery with a terrace restaurant and a guest-house.

“My parents thought I was crazy at first, but when you want something, you do it,” said Beka.

“I was taking online courses on natural wine making.

“On the road I would listen to lessons and other drivers would make fun of me for reading about wine all the time.

“But I was really interested – it was quite an obsession.

“While I was studying I was building a wine cellar and starting to make wine.

“By 2019 I was starting to import the wine to the UK, selling it in restaurants and now wine shops and, by 2022, we finished building Sadmeli, ready to welcome guests.”

The venue has an open kitchen and also serves coffee - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The venue has an open kitchen and also serves coffee – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

building Sad Meli

Supported by his family and funded through long hours on the road and a loan from Lloyds bank, the business has since flourished.

However, having relocated to east London, Beka saw further opportunity.

“I’d noticed these mostly empty units close to where I lived, found out who owned them and made the offer,” he said.

“At first, they said no, but then they agreed. I was happy, but also a little bit scared because I didn’t have the money at that time.”

With cash from the Sadmeli operation, more support from Lloyds, contributions from family and help from friends, he overcame that hurdle and began fitting out what was initially supposed to be a wine shop and subsequently morphed into a restaurant and bar.

“Somehow we did it,” said Beka. “We opened on October 11, 2024 – a Friday and my god it was scary.

“I wasn’t really ready but we’d announced it and then we got a booking.

“A few minutes later we got another one. I don’t think I slept for the three or four days beforehand.

“Then, from that day, I haven’t had a day off. But people really like it.

“They enjoy the wine and we’ve made lots of friends. It’s very rewarding.”

Khinkali dumplings at Sad Meli - image by Sad Meli — Khinkali dumplings at Sad Meli – image by Sad Meli

Sad Meli in Royal Docks

Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy And Raw Wines serves up a selection of traditional dishes from Georgia such as Pkhali, Adjaruli Khachapuri, Kharcho soup alongside sides and imported soft drinks.

Providing the backbone of the menu, however, are Khinkali dumplings, filled with meat, cheese or mushrooms.

Beka said: “I’m cooking and I have all my mum’s recipes. It’s what we wanted for this place, that the experience comes directly from Georgia.

“There’s a large eastern European community here and they like Georgian food and wine.

“I try to make everything fresh, which takes time, but we have an open kitchen and people see me cooking and they love this kind of process.

“Guests might have to wait sometimes, but then they drink more wine, which is good for business.

“Our biggest seller is the Khinkali dumplings – they will always be on the menu – but other things I like to change to keep it fresh.

“We are very proud that we have customers who have never tried Georgian food before.

“It’s not just a restaurant, but it’s the country and culture and the wine as well.

“They’re happy because they’ve tried something new.”

The restaurant and bar offers a wide selection of wines to go with its food - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The restaurant and bar offers a wide selection of wines to go with its food – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

stocking the bottles

Having studied wine extensively at leading global centre of excellence, the Wine And Spirit Education Trust in Southwark, Beka is delighted to curate a wide range of bottles alongside the wines he’s produced at Sadmeli.

“We make six or seven types of wine ourselves including our signature Saparevi, a full-bodied red made with the most common grape in Georgia,” he said.

“It’s been popular and this year’s has now sold out.

“All the work at the winery is done by hand because my father isn’t used to mechanical processes and we don’t use chemicals on the vines or in production.

“The vineyards we get our grapes from are small. We make good quality wine in small quantities.

“We don’t add sulphites, for example, and we don’t add yeast through the fermentation.

“Since we opened Sad Meli in Royal Docks, once I’ve poured my wine for them, no-one asks for anything else or says they don’t like it.

“That’s a source of pride for me. People love it and it feels almost unreal.

“Sometimes I’m tired, but its that feedback from the customers that gives us the motivation to continue.

“Mine and my wife’s lives have completely changed.

“We had an aim together and we’ve achieved it.

“For me, I wanted to do something here instead of driving and now I do.”

Sadmeli Saparevi, Beka's signature wine - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Sadmeli Saparevi, Beka’s signature wine – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

key details: Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy And Raw Wines

Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy And Raw Wines is located on the eastern edge of Gallions Roundabout, south of the junction with Atlantis Avenue.

It’s within easy walking distance of Gallions Reach DLR station and is open daily from noon.

You can find out more about the venue here

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February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

Vertus’ 50-60 Charter Street offers next level living in Canary Wharf

Twin towers benefit from a full complement of amenities as built-to-rent operation learns and grows on the east London estate

50-60 Charter Street by Vertus, a pair of towers housing rental apartments at Wood Wharf - image supplied by Vertus — 50-60 Charter Street by Vertus, a pair of towers housing rental apartments at Wood Wharf – image supplied by Vertus

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Launched towards the end of last year, Vertus’ latest build-to-rent apartments in Canary Wharf may best be described as next-level.

The twin towers of 50-60 Charter Street are connected by communal spaces at their base, rising high on Wood Wharf to overlook South Dock and house some 756 apartments ranging in size from 463sq ft to 1,397sq ft.

Perhaps what really sets Grid architects’ structure apart from the rest of the now extensive Vertus portfolio – which includes nearby aparthotel Vertus Edit for shorter stays – however, is the 14,000sq ft of communal space.

The main lobby space at 50-60 Charter Street - image supplied by Vertus — The main lobby space at 50-60 Charter Street – image supplied by Vertus

Arranged over two lower floors, this includes informal co-working spaces, an evening lounge, a games room with arcade machines, shuffleboard and pool and a snug with one of the largest flatscreen TVs I’ve ever seen, allowing it to double as a screening room.

For fitness there’s a studio space kitted out with Reformer Pilates machines, a chunky free weights room and a large gymnasium with luxury health club-grade cardio and resistance machines.

Workers can also make use of a string of private pods to minimise distractions or book characterful meeting rooms.

Then, for relaxation, there are flexible, purpose-built dining rooms for social gatherings or larger parties.

That’s before you even mention the ground floor lobby, which boasts a grand piano, an honesty market and a bold feature staircase to take residents up to the main communal areas.

Vertus residential building manager, Sam Pickering - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Vertus residential building manager, Sam Pickering – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

smooth operation at 50-60 Charter Street

The person in charge of ensuring all of this operates smoothly is Vertus residential building manager Sam Pickering.

Born to Kiwi parents in the UK, he grew up in New Zealand, moving to Britain in 2015 “for a year”. His career has taken him through hospitality into looking after student accommodation before moving into build-to-rent and joining Vertus in 2024, initially to manage its 8 Water Street building.

“I remember at my interview saying that one of my goals was to manager a flagship site, although I didn’t expect it to be within a year,” said Sam, who is meticulous in his attention to detail, admitting he can’t resist rearranging coasters in the communal areas by colour when they’ve become disordered.

“We’ve got fantastic spaces – they’ve been very well thought out. Vertus has taken all the best parts from the other buildings they’ve opened.

“You enter via a very large reception foyer. It’s incredibly grand, with amazing gardens, high ceilings and open spaces.

Apartments range in size from studios to three-beds - image supplied by Vertus — Apartments range in size from studios to three-beds – image supplied by Vertus

“One of the benefits here is that our concierge team, who do a fantastic job, are truly here 24-hours.

“The residents build very strong relationships with them and it’s something that really sets us apart.

“With the design and facilities of 50-60 Charter Street, a lot of consideration has been put into what people want.

“The whole building has been designed around that.

“The dining rooms are flexible, for example – two of them can be separated or combined into one.

“Vertus offers very high-end living and with lots of services.

“Residents can bring their dry-cleaning down, and we can have that delivered and then brought back, for instance.

“We’re here to provide those experiences – we want the whole building to feel like a home.

“There are all these reasons to come down from your apartment and enjoy the other spaces, even if it’s just to get a coffee.

“That’s been very popular – we’re always having to top up the mugs.”

The evening lounge at the scheme can be divided into semi-private areas if desired - image supplied by Vertus — The evening lounge at the scheme can be divided into semi-private areas if desired – image supplied by Vertus

creating a community

Since the first residents moved into 10 George Street in 2020, not far from its latest building, Vertus has made a point of putting in place the architecture to bring residents together.

Its events team, Dor Rugira and Brogan Murray, hosted 197 gatherings in 2025 with an attendance rate of 81% across the Canary Wharf Group subsidiary’s buildings.

Sam said: “There is a real community on the estate.

“These events operate across the portfolio which is brilliant because it allows people who are living in such close proximity to meet each other and build friendships.

“That’s been really lovely for the staff to see.”

The Snug or screening room - image supplied by Vertus — The Snug or screening room – image supplied by Vertus

built for service

Sam’s role is to ensure the areas he looks after run smoothly, allowing the wider team to deliver the service that residents expect.

“On a day-to-day basis, it’s about the safety of the building – making sure the residents are taken care of, making sure all the safety checks for fire and water are done, that the place is safe to live in and that everyone is comfortable and their needs are met,” he said.

“We are very fortunate to have a very diverse team here.

“We’ve got the buildings managers and the property managers who deal directly with the apartments.

“Any initial concerns will go through them, and if there’s anything wrong, it will come to me.

“The concierge team do a fantastic job, liaising with the residents to make sure of that.

The Games Room at 50-60 Charter Street - image supplied by Vertus — The Games Room at 50-60 Charter Street – image supplied by Vertus

“The people who live here are an eclectic mix.

“We have students, lots of couples – many who are young professionals.

“We have groups of friends sharing, which is quite common in our two-beds and three-beds.

“It’s been very popular since launch and that’s because Canary Wharf is a developing area.

“Even if you’re not working on the estate, you’ve got the Elizabeth Line, the Tube and the DLR so you’re very well positioned to get around London quickly.

“Now we have residents living here, it really feels good to see the spaces being used.

“Managing it is a really lovely job to have and I’m really excited as we expect the numbers to grow over this year.

“For me, it’s been a tremendous opportunity and Vertus has been spectacular.

“It’s been such a place to learn and grow and develop, and I’m so grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had.

“Personally, I’m really looking forward to seeing how people take to the facilities we have here and to see them enjoying themselves.”

50-60 Charter Street boasts three fitness studios including one featuring cardio and weights machines - image supplied by Vertus — 50-60 Charter Street boasts three fitness studios including one featuring cardio and weights machines – image supplied by Vertus

key details: 50-60 Charter Street

Homes in the first phase of 50-60 Charter Street are available now, with more properties set for release in July.

Prices start at £2,600 per month for a studio, £3,000 for a one-bed, £4,100 for a two-bed and £5,200 for a three-bed. Properties come fully furnished.

You can find out more about Vertus’ homes here

A studio apartment at 50-60 Charter Street - image supplied by Vertus — A studio apartment at 50-60 Charter Street – image supplied by Vertus

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February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

Hill and Peabody unveil Penfold artwork at Dagenham Green

Artist’s installation celebrates east London site’s manufacturing history with brightly painted Ford Cortina as regeneration continues to progress

Dagenham Green has unveiled a brightly coloured Cortina, marking the site's former incarnation as part of Ford's enormous east London plant - image supplied by The Hill Group — Dagenham Green has unveiled a brightly coloured Cortina, marking the site’s former incarnation as part of Ford’s enormous east London plant – image supplied by The Hill Group

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Andy Hill is clear.

The group chief executive says the family-owned developer he founded is in the business of building communities, “not just homes” but places local people can live, work and engage with, which honour the history of the sites.

I have a personal connection myself.

My parents had Ford cars when I was growing up. Escorts, Fiestas (always red), a Focus, a Mondeo and even a Ka – the latter being the car I drove after passing my test.

Many, though not all, will have been built at or used parts from the company’s vast plant in Dagenham.

As I drive to The Hill Group’s Dagenham Green scheme, I’m in my late mother’s 2013 red Ford Fiesta – a descendant of the final passenger car to roll off the company’s east London production line.

Incidentally, it dates from the same year Ford ended all production in the UK.

But, while the assembly lines fell quiet, the physical and mental connections to a plant that produced nearly 11million vehicles between 1931 and 2002 are still very much alive.

As I park up at Hill’s site, I reflect that on it once stood buildings where hands made parts for vehicles I rode in as a child – an experience shared by millions across the country.

Artist Tim Gresham, known as Penfold - image supplied by The Hill Group — Artist Tim Gresham, known as Penfold – image supplied by The Hill Group

marked with art

Apt then that joint venture partners The Hill Group and housing association Peabody have chosen to celebrate that legacy by displaying a new automotive artwork beside the marketing suite for the 3,500-home Dagenham Green scheme.

Artist Tim Gresham, known as Penfold, was commissioned to create a visually striking piece and – working in partnership with specialist garage Type 2 Detectives – has repainted a 1966 Mk1 Ford Cortina.

One of around 3million built between the 1960s and 1980s at the site, the vehicle was officially unveiled atop a shipping container on January 22 and will remain in place for three months before transferring to Silverstone ahead of the British Grand Prix.

As well as the impact of the company’s products, there are the generations of people who worked in Ford’s factories – including Andy’s dad, who he said was once employed and then fired by the firm.

Connecting the site’s social history to the present at the launch was Tracy Goodman and her family.

Her mother, the late Dora Challingsworth, led the 1984 strikes at Ford’s plant as a shop steward, eventually winning female employees recognition as skilled workers and making good on industrial action in the late 1960s that paved the way for the Equal Pay Act in 1970.

The Hill Group's group chief executive, Andy Hill, presents Dora Challingsworth's grandson with a miniature replica of Penfold's Ford Cortina - image supplied by The Hill Group — The Hill Group’s group chief executive, Andy Hill, presents Dora Challingsworth’s grandson with a miniature replica of Penfold’s Ford Cortina – image supplied by The Hill Group

a connection to history at Dagenham Green

Tracy, whose grandson was gifted a miniature replica of Penfold’s artwork at the event, said: “It meant a great deal to attend with my family and share the story of courage and sacrifice shown by the women at Ford’s pressing plant in Dagenham.

“I hope our words resonated and that Dagenham Green will continues to honour and keep alive the memory of this important moment.”

Andy added: “The pressing plant that once stood on this site holds a long and influential place in the local community’s history, with its legacy deeply intertwined with the lives of future generations who will call this neighbourhood home.

“I would particularly like to thank Dora’s family for joining us and Penfold for his extraordinary creativity in reinvigorating the exterior of this old Ford Cortina on the site where it was originally made in the 1960s.

“We hope the artwork brings joy and inspiration to everyone who passes.”

Penfold is known for working across a variety of media from a studio in his native Bristol.

His pieces are often colourful and abstract and his work includes several large scale installations and murals.

The artwork is unveiled by Andy, Peabody's Angela Wood and Tracy Goodman - image supplied by The Hill Group — The artwork is unveiled by Andy, Peabody’s Angela Wood and Tracy Goodman – image supplied by The Hill Group

past, present and future

Peabody’s deputy executive director of development, Angela Wood, said: “Dagenham Green carries a deep and proud history, shaped by the people who worked here.

“They stood up for change and built a strong community around the site.

“This artwork is a celebration of that shared story and a reminder that the past still has a place in the neighbourhood we’re creating today.

“Art can stop people in their tracks, spark conversations and help places feel human and lived in.

“This piece helps connect new and existing residents to the character, identity and spirit of Dagenham as it continues to grow.”

An artist's impression showing part of the Dagenham Green development - image supplied by The Hill Group — An artist’s impression showing part of the Dagenham Green development – image supplied by The Hill Group

living locally

One, two and three-bedroom homes are currently available at Dagenham Green for private sale through The Hill Group, with prices starting at £300,000. The scheme is served by nearby Dagenham Dock station.

Shared ownership apartments, ranging in size from one to three bedrooms, are available through Peabody with prices starting at £81,000 for a 30% share of a one-bed based on a full market value of £270,000.

key details: Dagenham Green

Penfold’s artwork is currently on show at Dagenham Green near the junction of New Road and Kent Avenue and is free to visit.

You can find out more about the development and the homes on offer there on its website.

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January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

Creative Virtual on why the firm believes human-curated AI is better

Founder and CEO of the Canary Wharf-based business, Chris Ezekiel, explains how his firm’s approach is proving attractive to larger organisations

Creative Virtual founder and CEO, Chris Ezekiel – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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It feels like a big year for Chris Ezekiel.

Not only is he gearing up to become a father for the third time – a sibling is on the way for sons Matthew and Harry – but Creative Virtual, the company he founded on the Isle Of Dogs 22 years ago, recently went live with a hybrid human and AI system to help Australia’s largest mobile network better deal with its customers.

“We think it’s a world first,” said Chris, who still lives locally despite running the global business as its CEO.

“Our project with Telstra sees a large enterprise using conversational AI and chatbot technology in a public-facing way – a hybrid approach with all the appropriate guardrails in place.

“There are other companies doing this with AI, but only on a small scale.

“We spent the best part of 2025 building the system and linking it in to all their operations.

“It’s all about knowing when to give a generative answer, something more structured or a combination of the two.

“Our system also does things like summarising, classifying and making all these decisions in real time.

“I’m very proud that we’ve displaced two of the world’s largest companies in this field – IBM and Salesforce – to deliver this solution.

“As soon as Telstra switched it on they doubled their containment rate, which means twice as many interactions have been automated rather than going through to a human in their contact centre.

“Now we have a road map to do much more over the course of the next 12 months.

“Our system is going to be the central point of communication for all their interactions with existing clients and potential customers – all with a clear escalation path for more complex queries or situations.

“There’s always going to be a need for that.”

beyond ChatGPT

Chris said that, while the arrival of ChatGPT in 2022 and the subsequent proliferation of large language models that generate responses had been significant for the sector that Creative Virtual operates in, many firms had done little in the way of implementing the technology.

“People have this perception that computers have to be 100% accurate, or the job they do is not acceptable,” he said.

“If a human makes a mistake, it often doesn’t get the same level of attention as a machine failing or given an answer that’s wrong.

“As a result, many larger organisations were paralysed when it came to putting new systems in place.

“During this time, we stuck to our guns and did what we’ve always done – tune into what organisations really want.

“That’s what’s brought us success. We’ve kept humans in the system to curate answers, working alongside generative AI and other technologies, meaning we can combine their talents when communicating with customers – something that’s reassuring to large organisations such as banks or telecommunications firms.

“With these clients there’s a large number of processes that their customers need to go through – billing enquiries or applications for accounts and credit cards, for example.

“These need high levels of curation and can’t be left to AI.

“That’s why clients like our approach. They can have very tightly controlled parts of the process alongside the simpler enquiries that can be dealt with by AI.

“Our tagline remains completely relevant today – we’re about the science of conversation and finding the best ways to automate those interactions whether that’s via chatbots, texts, WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

“We’re still doing that, but using the latest techniques.

“Our project with Telstra – all that hard work – has resulted in a big global showcase for Creative Virtual.

“We have built some bespoke systems for the client, but many of our standard techniques are ready to scale for other organisations.

“One of the most important elements is the expertise to understand what this technology can and can’t do – what you can measure and how to set an organisation’s expectations.

“Having this blueprint as we go into 2026 is absolutely key for our business.”

designed to be flexible

Creative Virtual has built its approach to conversational interaction around the idea that it can rapidly and easily switch out AI systems to benefit its clients as the technology develops.

However, Chris believes that while the sector is showing advancement in several areas, it is important to recognise its limitations.

“There are some very clever people in the industry who claim that we’ll have artificial general intelligence very soon, that computers might even become sentient,” he said.

“But we don’t even understand human intelligence at this point.

“You have to take a step back and recognise all these new systems such as large language models are still based on silicon chips – ones and zeros – backed by incredible processing power, but a model that hasn’t changed since the invention of the computer.

“With quantum computing, biological systems or a combination of the two, it may be possible for AI to do a great deal more, but will it become self aware, will it be able to feel things?

“I think its impossible to say that our existing computer models will take over the world.

“I’m not arguing that we haven’t seen advances in systems that can predict the next word or phrase or that these engines can’t simulate intelligence or awareness.

“But that to have emotions the computers that run them will need more than ones and zeroes.

“I’m sceptical that artificial general intelligence is just around the corner, even if discussing it makes for a good story in the media.”

doing more and more jobs

One thing Chris is certain of is that AI technologies will be increasingly used to automate large parts of our lives.

“AI will do many of the jobs humans do today and robotics will come increasingly into play, such as self-driving cars,” he said.

“It is going to be an exciting area and AI is already being used to help doctors with diagnostics and to process large volumes of data in many different fields.

“That’s how we use the technology, for customer services, training virtual sales people and bringing our systems into the retail experience.

“There will be robots in stores capable of retaining far more information about products on sale than a human ever could, for example.”

That’s not to say AI is perfect or that the large companies involved in developing new models aren’t overly optimistic about the value of their creation.

“With all the billions being invested, there is, perhaps, a bubble – but AI is not going to go away as a tool, just as the end of the dot com boom wasn’t the end of the internet,” said Chris.

“This technology is very much with us and it will be used to automate many things that are not automated at the moment.

“Overall, I think it will enhance our lives and it will encourage us to be more creative as people.

“Who wants to sit in a contact centre answering the same mundane questions day-in, day-out? We have to evolve our technology so the workforce can do more involving things.

“One of the key issues for firms is that, with so much AI generated content, everything will start to feel very similar.

“That’s why I think our current approach is the correct one.

“Having humans work alongside AI has always felt to me like the perfect combination.

“We need human curation so that organisations are able to retain their voice and project their brand whether it’s an AI or a person talking to their customers.

“That’s one of the attributes of our project with Telstra. Its strength has been in the testing we’ve put the systems through against real-life conversations – a way for our client to see our systems work and that gives them confidence.

“We launched with them during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday periods and it was the best possible time to stress-test what we’d put in place.

“Organisations change their content all the time, so our system had to know Telstra’s products, offerings and sales information and deliver that to customers without error.

“It hasn’t been easy to achieve that, but the feedback from them is that this is the first product they’ve had in years that has been on time, on budget and on spec, which is pretty incredible.

“It’s already delivering real business results.”

key details: Creative Virtual

Creative Virtual is based in Canary Wharf’s Cabot Square and operates globally.

Find out more about its services here

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January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

Pink Pilates begins 2026 at Royal Wharf with 20% discount

Women-only fitness studio in Royal Docks offers Reformer Pilates classes for adults and teenagers as well as private sessions, massage and more…

Pink Pilates is offering a 20% discount to celebrate the start of the year - image supplied by Pink Pilates — Pink Pilates is offering a 20% discount to celebrate the start of the year – image supplied by Pink Pilates

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— Use code WHARF20 when booking for this offer —

In celebration of the New Year and the launch of business, a women-only Reformer Pilates studio in Royal Docks is offering readers a 20% discount on their next session in 2026.

Pink Pilates opened its doors at Royal Wharf in October, promising “a fresh and uplifting approach to movement and wellbeing” for its clients.

tell me more

Located in Royal Crest Avenue at the east London development, the studio has been designed to support both the physical and mental health of those coming through its doors.

Pink Pilates offers a wide range of classes designed to suit different needs and life stages, suitable for women of all ages and abilities.

It also offers one-on-one sessions tailored to individual goals and private group sessions for up to eight people, as well restorative massage aimed at releasing tension, soothing tired muscles and calming the mind.

why Pilates?

The studio says the system of movement is “widely recognised for its ability to improve core strength, posture, flexibility, balance, and mobility, while also offering powerful mental wellbeing benefits”.

It adds that: “Pilates practice can help reduce stress, improve mood, support recovery from injury and enhance overall quality of life.”

Pink Pilates’ focuses on wellness rather than perfection, based on a belief that movement should feel empowering rather than pressurised.

To that end, its classes are designed to help women “feel strong, confident, and energised, both physically and mentally, without unrealistic expectations or one size fits all approaches”.

The women-only studio offers a range of classes as well as private sessions - image supplied by Pink Pilates — The women-only studio offers a range of classes as well as private sessions – image supplied by Pink Pilates

why Pink?

The studio has embraced the colour throughout its workout spaces and branding, aiming to create a feminine, fun environment that provides an uplifting, inspiring atmosphere.

Intentionally different from more traditional fitness environments, Pink Pilates wants to offer women a joyful setting where they can feel “comfortable, confident and at ease”.

what’s on offer?

Classes include sessions for beginners, lymphatic core, rehabilitation, prenatal and mummy. There are also programmes for teenagers and slower-paced yin-inspired sessions.

The studio says: “Reformer Pilates is particularly beneficial for those recovering from injury or managing ongoing physical concerns, as exercises can be adapted and supported using spring-based resistance.

“Sessions are led by expert instructors who prioritise safe technique, individual support, and inclusive teaching.”

anything else?

Pink Pilates is also available for private hire whether for corporate wellbeing sessions, team bonding experiences or bespoke celebrations such as birthdays or special occasions. Full details are available online.

how do I get to Pink Pilates?

The studio is located within easy walking distance of Pontoon Dock DLR station and close to bus stops on North Woolwich Road.

Royal Wharf can also be accessed via Uber Boat By Thames Clippers river bus services using the development’s dedicated pier.

Pink Pilates' studio is located at Royal Wharf in Royal Docks - image supplied by Pink Pilates — Pink Pilates’ studio is located at Royal Wharf in Royal Docks – image supplied by Pink Pilates

what do classes normally cost

There are a variety of ways to access classes at Pink Pilates. One-off group sessions cost £26 with discounted packs of classes also available. The studio also offers monthly memberships starting at £90 for four classes.

Private sessions for one or two people start at £90, while classes for teenage girls aged 13-17 start at £20.

how do I access the discount?

New or existing customers should use code WHARF20 when booking to get 20% off their next session in 2026 at Pink Pilates.

The code can be used by new or existing clients at the studio and the offer applies to all reformer classes, class packs, private one-to-one sessions and massage treatments.

Check with the studio for full details.

key details: Pink Pilates

Pink Pilates – @pinkpilatesx on Insta and @officialpinkpilatesx on TikTok – is located in Royal Crest Avenue at Royal Wharf, E16.

Classes can be booked online here

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January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

Winter Lights returns in 2026, celebrating 10 years in Canary Wharf

Blockbuster annual art festival is set to welcome 16 installations from January 20-31, with many thousands of visitors expected to visit the estate

Visitors can find Trispheric Garden by Reelize Studio in Cabot Square - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group — Visitors can find *Trispheric Garden* by Reelize Studio in Cabot Square – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

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The biggest cultural event in Canary Wharf is set for an extra special return this month. Winter Lights 2026 will be the 10th time the estate has been filled with illuminated artworks and the latest festival features a bumper crop in celebration.

Running every day from January 20-31, with pieces switched on from 5pm-10pm, the latest Winter Lights extends across the whole of Canary Wharf, with highlights from Westferry Circus to Wood Wharf.

Attracting many thousands of people each year, the free festival is an enormous team effort, spearheaded by Canary Wharf Group’s Arts And Events team.

“Selecting which works to display is a tough process,” said Lowri Harries, associate curator of public art at CWG, who has chosen this year’s installations alongside Arts And Events manager Camilla McGregor.

“In response to our open call we had the most submissions we’ve ever received – 225.

“It probably takes about 10 hours to go through them because we want to make sure we’ve really considered the relevant ones in detail.”

Camilla added: “Not all festivals operate this way, but I think it’s very democratic because we really are open to all artists.

“At each festival, the majority of the pieces on show come from our open call.

“Each time we do it, we’ll know some of the artists but many will be new to us.”

Canary Wharf Group's Lowri Harries - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Canary Wharf Group’s Lowri Harries – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

a theme to mark a decade

Winter Lights 2026 has been shaped with a theme, aimed at inspiring creatives to respond with work.

Lowri said: “I’m really excited about this year’s because there are a few ways we’ve given it a different identity.

“The festival is already well established in London – lots of people know about it – but we’ve tried to give it a bit extra.

“The theme is Dreamscape, which we feel is open-ended enough to allow lots of different submissons but brings to mind the idea of dreams and landscapes.

“Our space is unique with the architecture familiar to so many people and it’s meant to spark imagination and curiosity.

“We’ve commissioned artist Anna Lomax to create an exhibition poster for us with a limited run, which will be on sale at Circle Collective in Jubilee Place during the event.

“We’ll stock about 500 of the prints, which people can buy during the festival and visitors can also get a printed brochure too.

“Anna has also created three installations for us, which will be in the malls, so we’re back inside for the first time in a while.”

Camilla added: “With the theme, we wanted something that would appeal to everyone.

“It’s evocative of a childlike interest in the world and artists were free to approach that in any way they liked.

“The intention is for Dreamscape to really tie everything together.”

InBloom by Kumquat Lab is set to be displayed in Wren Landing - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group — *InBloom* by Kumquat Lab is set to be displayed in Wren Landing – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

selecting some highlights

A full list of installations and their locations is available here, but Lowri and Camilla have picked out some highlights and works to look out for.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing Aether by Architecture Social Club in Montgomery Square,” said Camilla.

“The artist behind it is Max Cooper, who is very well known.

“It features light, a soundscape and music and is more of a performance than a sculpture.

“People will be able to walk under it and it’s always great to use space so visitors can get different perspectives on the pieces.”

Lowri said: “There are a number of new commissions specifically for this festival.

“East London artist Marcus Lyall is returning with Manifestation – a projection piece in Wood Wharf.

“We’ve also tried to include more interactive exhibits this year and it will be really interesting to see how audiences react to that.

“There’s Lacto-Reacto-Light by Jack Wimperis at Canary Riverside, which is a large wall made from recycled milk bottles that reflects the movements of its audience.

“There’s also InBloom by Kumquat Lab at Wren Landing – a work about the pollination of flowers with orbs that change colour when hands are moved over them, with sounds emitted during the process.”

Camilla added: “I’m also really excited to see how people interact with At The Hand by LaCroix at Harbour Quay Gardens.

“It’s a holographic hand controlled by the audience down beside the water.”

Canary Wharf Group's Camilla McGregor - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Canary Wharf Group’s Camilla McGregor – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

ones to watch at Winter Lights 2026

Another showstopper to look out for will be Amplitudes by Limbic Cinema. Projected onto mist in Eden Dock, the piece will be on a constant loop at the heart of the Wharf.

Camilla said: “We’re doing something new this year – for the first time ever, the public will be able to vote for their favourite installations, either via QR code where they are displayed or on our website.”

The winner will then be announced online and via social media to celebrate the top piece’s popularity.

Hulahoop by Scale is set to be displayed in Union Square on Wood Wharf - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group — *Hulahoop* by Scale is set to be displayed in Union Square on Wood Wharf – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

plan your visit

Regarding logistics, CWG’s advice is to visit the festival on a weekday, with weekends expected to be extremely busy.

“We’ve extended free parking for three hours to weekdays as well as weekends for those spending £10 in Waitrose to encourage people to come during the week,” said Lowri.

“We’ll be hosting Winter Lights Bites street food hubs at Jubilee Park, Montgomery Square and Union Square, curated by Karnival during the festival.

“These traders will be offering 20% off food Monday-Wednesday, so it’s a great time to visit.”

Restaurants and bars are also likely to be busy during the festival, so early booking is recommended.

Camilla said: “We can’t wait for people to see this year’s Winter Lights. It’s art that’s accessible and free to enjoy.

“The event brings an audience to the estate and that’s great for the businesses here but it’s also a real benefit to Canary Wharf in introducing people to our cultural offering.”

Flower Power by Aerosculpture, Jean-Pierre David and Christian Thellier will be on show at Westferry Circus - image supplied by Canary Wharf Group — *Flower Power* by Aerosculpture, Jean-Pierre David and Christian Thellier will be on show at Westferry Circus – image supplied by Canary Wharf Group

key details: Winter Lights 2026

Winter Lights 2026 runs from January 20-31 from 5pm-10pm and is free to attend.

There are 16 special installations to discover alongside nine from Canary Wharf’s permanent art collection.

For a map of the location of all the artworks follow this link.

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December 16, 2025December 16, 2025

JP Morgan Chase’s Canary Wharf tower is about the long term

Banking giant’s plans for the Riverside South site build on foundations laid 17 years ago beside the Thames in east London

An artist's impression of a roof terrace at JP Morgan Chase's forthcoming Riverside South plans - image by JP Morgan Chase / Foster + Partners — An artist’s impression of a roof terrace at JP Morgan Chase’s forthcoming Riverside South plans – image by JP Morgan Chase / Foster + Partners

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The London Standard recently published a piece entitled The Remarkable Story Of Canary Wharf’s Renaissance.

Amid a series of somewhat confused bird-based metaphors, it tells a tale of a district brought to the brink of disaster by the pandemic and the home working trend that followed it.

It’s boisterous copy is full of “shaky foundations” bonds in “junk territory” and “symbolically damaging” moves.

Scary stuff, but also – like a lot of the analysis that caused some to temporarily lose confidence in the Wharf – it fails to appreciate the silliness of short-termism when considering changes in the area.

This isn’t rebirth, it’s a constant process of reinvention and growth.

It’s nothing new, either.

The site as it stands today - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The site as it stands today – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

a big deal

It should come as absolutely no surprise whatsoever that JP Morgan Chase has decided Canary Wharf is the right place for it to build a £3billion tower, providing 3million sq ft of space for up to 12,000 employees.

In 2008, the banking giant completed the purchase of a 999-year lease on land beside the Thames for its Riverside South scheme.

The plans drawn up by architects RSHP (then Richard Rogers Partnership) were for two towers.

The size of the scheme? A little over 3million sq ft of space.

Serious work started on the site, adjacent to Westferry Circus, with foundations created and concrete poured for basement structures.

But work stopped in 2010 with JP Morgan opting instead to move into 25 Bank Street – Lehman Brothers’ former home in London.

Wharf watchers will have noted that the Riverside South site has since lain dormant, rebar carefully marked with little high-viz hats and voids protected with temporary roofing.

In 2015, having settled into its new home, JP Morgan nevertheless put plans to sell the land on hold, leaving the option open to develop it later.

A decade on and the bank’s need for space has grown beyond its current accommodation.

This has prompted it to let space at a refurbished building in nearby Cabot Square, which was vacated by Credit Suisse following its enforced takeover by UBS.

A more permanent solution was desired and options were considered.

The bank recently unveiled its new HQ in New York.

That megastructure was designed by Foster + Partners and the bank has now revealed that it has chosen the same architects to take forward plans for its new London office.

Where? On the land it’s kept on its books for the past 17 years.

The project is expected to contribute £9.9billion to the UK economy, with completion in around six years’ time.

Jamie Dimon, chairman and CEO of JP Morgan Chase, said: “London has been a trading and financial hub for more than a thousand years, and maintaining it as a vibrant place for finance and business is critical to the health of the UK economy.

“This building will represent our lasting commitment to the city, the UK, our clients and our people. The UK government’s priority of economic growth has been a critical factor in helping us make this decision.”

Shobi Khan, CEO of Canary Wharf Group, added: “We are delighted that JP Morgan Chase has once again chosen Canary Wharf as its primary UK location.

“The scale and ambition of this scheme – set to become the largest office building in London – demonstrates the continued momentum behind Canary Wharf’s evolution and the bank’s commitment to outstanding workplaces.

“2025 will be our best leasing year in over a decade. Five of the top global investment banks are located at Canary Wharf.”

In the context of a millennium, 17 years doesn’t really seem all that much time to wait…

An artist's impression of Richard Rogers Partnership's original scheme for the site - image by RSHP — An artist’s impression of Richard Rogers Partnership’s original scheme for the site – image by RSHP

words matter

CWG is spot-on when describing the way the Wharf has changed over the years.

The project to transform derelict docks into a hive of activity and prosperity has constantly twisted and turned.

Wood Wharf was originally conceived as an office-led expansion of the existing scheme, only for residential towers to rise instead.

The idea that the area has been reborn fails to recognise the granular diversification of an estate that now services the needs of workers, residents and visitors passing through for a multitude of reasons.

The financial services institutions sit alongside life sciences, government, parts of the NHS, digital banks, charities and educational organisations as well as an ever-growing retail and hospitality offering.

There’s even a whale made of ocean plastic and a theatre.

This isn’t coincidence. It’s an area unafraid to act on opportunity, to try new things but, crucially, to put in solid foundations to start with so that when the world needs it to be a different shape, it has something firm to build on.

recent successes

In some senses, Riverside South’s foundations are a decent metaphor for what’s happening to Canary Wharf right now.

Buildings have a shelf life and organisations’ needs evolve.

Challenger bank Revolut went from a handful of employees to hundreds and now thousands, recently landing on the upper floors of the YY London building, a structure extensively refurbished and renamed after the best part of three decades housing Thompson Reuters.

This process of renewal, reinvention and so evolution is going on across the Wharf, most obviously with Citi’s decision to retool its east London home and spending billions of pounds to do so.

There are many other projects in the pipeline, with the value evidenced by Blackstone’s decision to put its Cargo tower back on the market following a refurb and the upturn in perceived value with a slew of businesses opting to move to the Wharf.

The recent wins for the estate are too numerous to list fully but include challenger bank Zopa at Wood Wharf, which recently moved staff in, and the announcement that Visa will relocate its European headquarters from Paddington to One Canada Square.

With 76million people expected to have visited the estate in 2025 and a backdrop of surging demand, it’s little wonder the Qatar Investment Authority, which owns the tower HSBC is set to vacate in 2027, is considering retaining a higher proportion of office space in the structure when it tackles that refurbishment.

Having continued a relentless programme of growth and improvement across the estate, Canary Wharf is arguably better placed than ever before to welcome organisations looking for smart new homes, not least because of the Elizabeth line.

Suddenly, a new ferry with a bigger capacity between Canary Wharf Pier – next to Riverside South – and Rotherhithe looks like a very timely introduction from Uber Boat By Thames Clippers.

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December 15, 2025January 14, 2026

University offers practical, collaborative, career-driven care courses

How the University Of Sunderland In London’s Health And Social Care and Nursing departments offer qualifications focused on employment

Dr Banhishikha Ghosh, lecturer in health and social sciences at the University Of Sunderland In London - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Dr Banhishikha Ghosh, lecturer in health and social sciences at the University Of Sunderland In London – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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“We are very passionate about making sure our students are appropriately qualified and experienced when they go out into the market,” said Dr Banhishikha Ghosh of the University Of Sunderland In London (UOSiL).

“We have academics here who have real-world experience of the nursing and care sectors so they can equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical know-how.”

Banhishikha has a number of roles at the university, based on the Isle Of Dogs at Harbour Exchange.

She’s both academic champion for employability and enterprise and people, culture and environment lead for REF research in addition to her position as lecturer in health and social sciences.

This trio of jobs – located at the intersection between employment, research and academic study – means she’s well placed to showcase the institution’s offerings to individuals thinking of studying in its social care and nursing departments.

As well as a two-year foundation degree in Health And Social Care, the university offers one-year BSc top-up courses in Health And Social Care and Nursing Practice as well as postgrad courses in Public Health, Nursing Practice and Adult Nursing, the latter leading to eligibility to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council on successful completion.

a ‘fantastic employability team’

“Health And Social Care and Nursing are two departments that work together,” said Banhishikha.

“A student, for example, might start with the former and then move on to nursing.

“Many move on from our BSc programmes to postgraduate study.

“We are a young and vibrant campus with a mix of students from all over the world and Britain.

“Many already have degrees, with some qualified as doctors, nurses and pharmacists who come to us to get a UK qualification so they can work in this country.

“One of the reasons individuals should consider studying with us is that we have a fantastic employability team, which connects students with local organisations.

“We are looking at a very dynamic employment market, now including AI, so we hold events and workshops as well as an Employability Week once a year where we bring in people working in various industries to help inform students about what skills they need.

“We also feed the students information about internships so they can go out be a part of the healthcare industry.

“Some launch careers before they finish their degrees and I see them engaged in placements and volunteering.

“That means by the time they graduate they have enough experience to apply for jobs and it feels really lovely when you see them take up their first roles.

“We rely a lot on our alumni and our network as academics to help support our students and link them up with different opportunities and organisations.

“From the first day onwards, we let students know what they have to do to build that experience.

“We advise them to get internships before they come, so they can help us work out what would be the best direction for them.

“We have three pathways we encourage our students to follow.

“The first is the managerial pathway, which trains them to understand how leadership works.

“Then there is the mental health pathway for support workers in that sector.

“Finally, there’s the research pathway, which includes data gathering, report writing and primary and secondary analysis.”

Layla Hyda, head of innovation at Revolution AI - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Leyla Hyda, head of innovation at Revolution AI – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

working together with industry

Collaboration with outside organisations is key to the UOSiL’s offering.

The university works with many partners including near neighbour Verve Homecare and its sister company Revolution AI – both based at Harbour Exchange but primarily providing services in people’s residences.

“I’ve recently transitioned to the health tech side of the business,” said Leyla Hyda, head of innovation at Revolution AI.

“My mum has been a carer for more than 25 years and refuses to retire, so I learned a lot about the sector and healthcare in general from her.

“I started off in recruitment, placing nurses in NHS hospitals, but I realised there was so much more I could give.

“I then went to work as an internal auditor, analysing care workers and their checks, working my way up to management level where I was responsible for the complex needs of children and adults and the wellbeing of the staff looking after them.

“I absolutely loved it – I learnt so much more about the sector, even though at first it felt scary being thrown in the deep end.

“Now I have the opportunity to work in innovation and improve things for the benefit of some of the most vulnerable in our society – that’s my passion.

“Having met with the university, I found they needed placements for students and that I could facilitate that.

“I knew it would be a great opportunity for them to see what working in the sector is like.

“People forget that care is not just about hospitals and nursing homes – there’s also homecare where, in a nutshell, we provide staff to look after a person in the comfort of their home.

“There’s a lot to consider, but our number one priority is always making sure that person is safe.”

The aim of the collaboration is to offer students practical experience and valuable insights into jobs available in the sector.

Leyla said: “We give those coming on placements a complete induction so they understand the ins and outs of care and our company.

“If a student has an interest in complex care, for example, we put them in training sessions at no cost to them so that they can get that exposure to it and see if they want to follow that path.

“Someone interested in mental health might get similar training.

“Then students have an opportunity to sit with the operations team, dealing with rosters and recruitment and pre-employment checks.

“Depending on the student, they can go on visits with a care team in a shadowing role.

“Those not having that experience will be with us in the office, seeing everything that happens behind the scenes, and assist with that.

“That’s equally important because both operations work in conjunction with each other.”

Both the University Of Sunderland In London and Verve Homecare are based at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Both the University Of Sunderland In London and Verve Homecare are based at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

the key role of research

The university is also working with Verve and Revolution AI on a research project aimed at improving training for care workers and helping providers retain staff more effectively.

In a first for the London campus, the university has been awarded £211,000 of funding from Innovate UK for a project that aims to “generate vital insight into the lived experiences of frontline care workers, to enhance quality care, support workforce wellbeing, and embed equity into social care training and delivery”.

Banhishikha said: “It’s a project that is close to our hearts.

“When I first joined the university, we had lectures and workshops, and we gave students the opportunity to talk about the placements and their experience of working in the organisation.

“In these very small but very rich focus groups, the feelings that came out were that students were not equipped enough to take care of patients and they would like it if they had better training.

“When I met Leyla, I realised she had so much experience in the industry.

“Sometimes carers come and go in the industry – there’s a revolving door – and the reason could be that they do not have enough training.

“At the moment education is for carers, but not necessarily ‘by them’ or ‘with them’.

“The idea is that, in partnership with Verve and Revolution AI, we seek to enrich the training frameworks that are already there by tapping into the experience of care workers – especially those of women from migrant populations who are the backbone of the UK care system.

“We capture data from them that can be fed into the system to create robust training, which equips them better at work.

“We also want to work with others – we’d love to be connected with other organisations who are interested in this area and have information they want to share with us.”

Leyla added: “For us, person-centred care is an essential part of what we do. It’s about the holistic way we deliver services – the people not the bed numbers.

“Training in the sector can be reading slides on powerpoint presentations and tick-box exercises. It’s very easy to pass and could be improved.

“With this project, we are really excited to set the bar high – we want to stop that revolving door.

“Our goal is to equip our care staff with the right tools they need to give them the confidence to go out into the field and deliver the holistic care people deserve.”

key details: Health And Social Care and Nursing courses

The University Of Sunderland In London offers a range of courses in Health And Social Care and Nursing in its Isle Of Dogs campus at Harbour Exchange.

Full details of these can be found on its website here.

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