Employers http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/employersCollege course inspires Ryan to follow in father’s footsteps. /news/college-course-inspires-ryan-to-follow-in-fathers-foots A young Teessider has been inspired to follow in his father’s footsteps following his experiences on an innovative college course. Ryan Cooke, 16, from North Skelton, found it difficult in mainstream education and enrolled on the Training and Skills for Work course at Redcar & Cleveland College in a bid to boost his employability prospects. “I really enjoy the Training and Skills for Work course as I’ve met new friends and have learnt a lot of new skills which will help me in the future” said Ryan. “Every week we do maths, English, and employability skills where we build CVs and go over interview techniques, but one day a week we take part in a vocational course. I’m doing joinery at the minute and I’m really enjoying it as I like hands on work and I want to follow in my dad’s footsteps and become a joiner. “I’ve found something I’m passionate about and I’m going to move onto a full time joinery and carpentry course in September,” added Ryan. Angela McLean is the Head of Division for Education and Wellbeing and runs the Training and Skills for Work course. She said: “The Training and Skills for Work programme at Redcar & Cleveland College helps learners take a gentle stepping stone back into education and equips them with a range of skills which will boost their employability prospects. “For students who are not sure what career they want to take, the course provides the opportunity for them to participate one day a week on a range of vocational pathways which help provide them with the skills for future career options.” After the learners have completed this course they can move onto a certificate or diploma at the college or go straight into the work place with their new skills. Angela adds: “In addition to academic study, students will be involved in Marketing and Enterprise events providing opportunities to develop relationships with local employers to increase confidence and self esteem. “We want to get our students working for local employers or carrying on in education at the college and by giving them a fully supportive environment and high quality teaching we are giving them all they need to achieve this.” To find out more information about the Training and Skills for Work course contact Student Services at Redcar & Cleveland college on 01642 473132.   Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:56 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-course-inspires-ryan-to-follow-in-fathers-footsCollege awards celebrate top students/news/college-awards-celebrate-top-students Top performing students from a Tees Valley college's Further and Higher Education courses had their achievements celebrated at its annual award ceremony recently.   The Celebration of Achievement Awards at Redcar & Cleveland College saw students studying courses across all of the subject areas on offer awarded for their achievements and endeavours whilst at college.   Amongst awards were handed out were the prestigious Further Education Student of the Year, Higher Education Student of the Year and Work Based Learning Student of the Year, which were awarded to sports student Nicky Askew, Early Years student Diane Baird and Advanced Apprentice Rachael Robinson respectively.    Nicky, who took the decision to return to college after some time out of education to further his career, successfully completed his course before spending time in the USA working as a soccer coach.   He is now studying on the BSc in Sport and Exercise (Applied Science) at Teesside University and continuing his work as a coach in football development classes in Middlesbrough.   During his time at college he balanced the needs of his studies alongside a part time job to fund his course and he is now hoping to develop a career in the industry as a coach. He said:   “I’ve always had a passion for sport, but an injury meant that I stopped playing football and took a job in an unrelated area. After doing this for a while, I realised how much I wanted to work in sport and took the decision to go back to college to get the qualifications that I needed to do this.   “Coming back to college was daunting at first, but having had some time away from education made me realise how important it is to work hard and gain good grades, which was something I tried to pass on to my fellow students.   “Taking the course at Redcar & Cleveland College has opened up so many opportunities for me and it’s fantastic to be recognised for my achievements.”   Diane, who completed a Foundation Degree at the college played an active roll in college life throughout her studies, acting as a course representative and Development Working in addition to completing her course. She is now studying for a BA (Hons) at the college and hopes to land a job at the college on completion of her studies. She said:   “I can’t praise the staff at the college enough for all of the help and support that they have given me whilst I’ve been here. There’s no doubt that I wouldn’t have won this award without their contribution as well as the support of my family.   “Being recognised in this way is a real honour and has spurred me on to challenge myself further and in new ways which I hope will eventually give me the opportunity to return to the college as a lecturer or assessor and be able to give something back to future students.   Winner of the Work Based Learning Student of the Year was Rachael Robinson. Rachael has worked her way through college, having started on a Level 1, course to eventually complete an Advanced Apprenticeship with Coast & Country Housing and has now landed a full time permanent position with the company.   Speaking after her win, Rachael said:   “I feel very privileged and overjoyed to have won the Work-Based Learning Student of The Year Award.   “It came as a surprise and, although I would never have made it if it hadn’t been for my family, the tutors at Redcar & Cleveland College and colleagues at Coast & Country.   “I have gained numerous amounts of qualifications, skills and confidence over the past 4 years that I never expected, but I have achieved.   “Ever since joining Coast & Country on the Apprenticeship programme not only did I gain my NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration, I also gained respect, confidence, communication skills and a permanent job, which I hope will prove to bring bigger accomplishments.”   Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, presented the winners with their awards. He said:    "The students here tonight have all worked extremely hard to make it into the nominations and the winners who we have recognised have proved themselves to be outstanding in their chosen subject areas.    "The college works hard to inspire all of our students and we are extremely proud of the achievements of all our winners and nominees."      Other winners on the night were:   Beauty & Holistics Student of the Year: Nikki Harrison and Faye Robinson Hairdressing Student of the Year: Paul Lane Sport Student of the Year: Nicky Askew Art & Design and Travel & Tourism Student of the Year: Liam Wiles Business, Management, Administration & Accounting Student of the Year: Jessica Taberner Computing, IT & Media Student of the Year: Craig Cockerill Engineering & Science Student of the Year: James Pickersgill Public Services Student of the Year: Ashleigh Harvey The Paul Stott Memorial Trophy First Prize: Jack Moody The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors Shield: Robert Hansen Built Environment Student of the Year: Lisa Gardener The Cliff Houlding Memorial Trophy Level 1: Robert Pearson The Cliff Houlding Memorial Trophy Level 2: Jack Brignall Wellbeing & Education Student of the Year: Emma Dobie and Rachel Lillystone Achievement Over Adversity Award: Kirsty Dearnley Enthusiasm and Contribution to College Award: Ashleigh Harvey The Sir William Turner Foundation Vicki Lawrence Memorial Award: Hannah Measey        Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:12:12 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-awards-celebrate-top-studentsLaunch of new eco house enables professionals to stay ahead of the green technologies game/news/launch-of-new-eco-house-at-redcar-amp-cleveland-college Businesses in the north east have a golden opportunity to upskill their staff in emerging renewable technologies with the launch of a fully-operational eco house at Redcar & Cleveland College.   The eco house, named The Greenhouse, is a leading light in the design, installation and maintenance of the most commonly used equipment in the sustainable technologies market, including solar panels, heat pump installers, and rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems.   The residential property, which is based on the Corporation Road campus, will enable students and skilled trades people who are undertaking one of the college’s eco skills courses to see how the latest equipment can be used in domestic situations, and the benefits they bring.   With sponsorship from leading supplier Viessmann, The Greenhouse and the college’s Renewable Energy Centre have been equipped with a range of power-saving equipment, which showcase how the latest technologies can be utilised in sustainable living.   They will enable plumbers and people from the building services engineering sector to enhance their qualifications and skills through a range of new two and three-day courses.      Businesses from around the region were recently invited to view The Greenhouse and Renewable Energy Centre at a special launch event at the college, which was also attended by Redcar MP Ian Swales.   The opening also marked the launch of the National Skills Academy north east hub for environmental technologies, which brings together Narec, Redcar & Cleveland College, Hartlepool College of FE and City of Sunderland College.   Together they will transform the ability of businesses to access key training skills in the design, installation and maintenance of environmental technologies.    College principal Gary Groom said: “Renewable industries are a vitally-important sector for future development and job creation in the north east, and beyond, as a part of the Government’s carbon reduction strategy and we’re delighted that Redcar & Cleveland College is involved as part of the north east hub.   “As a part of our involvement we have developed our new eco skills portfolio and The Greenhouse, which is packed with the latest renewable technologies offering opportunities for the delivery of the very best training for the domestic market to Microgeneration Certification Scheme standards.”   Student John Rooney went to Redcar & Cleveland College to retrain as a plumber after being made redundant. He offered to assist the eco skills team in fitting out The Greenhouse and Renewable Energy Centre in order to gain additional experience.   He said: “This unique classroom is unlike anywhere else and has given me an invaluable insight into the workings of these systems, right from the preparation work to the finished product. Having witnessed the benefits of renewable energy, I am aiming to branch out into this field and plan to return to the college to gain further qualifications.”   Nigel Jefferson, Head of UK Commercial Sales for Viessmann, said: “Viessmann trains more than 100,000 installers across the world every year, so our investment in both Redcar & Cleveland College and its students continues our commitment to education in the energy sector.   “Redcar & Cleveland College now features a full range of equipment to ensure students and tradesmen are given a full training programme on the latest materials available and we will continue to develop the college’s Renewable Energy Centre even further.   “We are extremely proud to be associated with Redcar & Cleveland College and look forward to a long and healthy relationship, delivering training in a dynamic sector of high efficiency and renewable heating products.”   MP Ian Swales said: ‘’I am really pleased to be involved in the launch of The Greenhouse.  It is great to see Redcar & Cleveland College embracing sustainable living and running courses to train future generations in the new technologies. ‘’   For more information about the new eco skills courses, call 01642 777216.    Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:37:17 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/launch-of-new-eco-house-at-redcar-amp-cleveland-collegeYou Beauty! College students taste success at competition/news/you-beauty-college-students-taste-success-at-competitio A group of students from Redcar & Cleveland College’s Hair and Beauty Division have tasted success after taking part in a regional competition that pitted them up against some of the most talented students in the country. Students from the college’s Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy courses travelled to Gateshead for the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) competition recently, which saw students from across the region compete against each other in a series of challenges that tested their skills to the full. Amongst those taking part from the college was Level 1 Beauty Therapy student Aynslie Robinson who was competing for the first time in the Body Art category of the competition. Up against students on Level 2 and Level 3 courses, Aynslie, a former pupil at Nunthorpe School exceeded all expectations to finish in 3rd place. Speaking after the competition, Aynslie who is 16 and from Ormesby said: “Taking part in the competition was a great experience and was really fun as well. I can’t believe that I managed to come third when it was the first event I’ve taken part in. “I’m already looking forward the next competition in Blackpool where I’m going to try and do even better!” Aynslie’s tutor, Rebecca Hadman, was delighted with the way the students approached the competition and with their performance across the board. She said: “We try to give our students as much experience of what it’s like in the real world while they are with us and taking part in competitions like this gives them a chance to find out what it’s like to work under pressure and produce work of a very high standard. “I’m delighted that Aynslie has done so well and earned a place in the next round of the competition and we’re all hoping that she’ll repeat her performance in Blackpool. “We’re already planning to attend more competitions next year and are aiming for even more success through these.”  Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:39:53 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/you-beauty-college-students-taste-success-at-competitioRedcar students prove that they’re ‘Worth It’/news/redcar-students-prove-that-theyre-worth-it Hairdressing students from Redcar & Cleveland College have proved they’re a cut above the rest by helping out a team of top stylists. Students from the college’s Level 2 NVQ Hairdressing course got the opportunity to assist members of the L’Oreal Creative team when they visited the college to give a demonstration to local hairdressers of the latest trends and fashions. The students worked alongside the team, who helped to demonstrate the latest cutting and colouring techniques, to develop styles based on the Autumn/Winter and transition into Spring colour palettes. Amongst the students who helped out was 18 year old Toni Worton who worked with an L’Oreal stylist to produce a style based on a jungle catwalk theme. Talking about the experience, she said: “To work with the L’Oreal Creative team has been a fantastic opportunity for us to develop our skills and find out what it takes to be a stylist at the top level. “It’s really helped me to focus on what I want to do in my future career and see how the skills I’m learning at college are going to help me when I’m at work.” College tutor Emma Ogelby arranged the visit of the team, she added: “The L’Oreal Creative team are some of the most talented hairdressers in the country and the fact that they have taken the time to work alongside our students is a real coup for the college. “The experience our students get from this kind of partnership is highly sought after and will mean that they have an extra edge when they qualify and start applying for jobs.”    Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:02:33 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/redcar-students-prove-that-theyre-worth-itOpen evening gives prospective students a taste of college life/news/open-evening-gives-prospective-students-a-taste-of-collRedcar & Cleveland College is opening its doors to prospective students tonight (Wednesday 16th February) for a chance to find out how gaining new qualifications could help them take the next steps to a rewarding career. The event is a chance for anyone thinking of developing their skills, including young people who will be leaving school this summer, to come along and find out how a new qualification from the college could improve their employability and career prospects. Details are as follows: Date: Wednesday 16 February 2011 Time: 5:00pm – 8:00pm Location: Redcar & Cleveland College, Corporation Road, Redcar The college has places available on courses in all subject areas. There is still time to apply for those who are leaving school this summer, people looking to boost their skills or those looking for a change of career. Staff will be on hand to give advice on the full range of full-time and part-time courses on offer and careers advisors will provide information on opportunities and career progression. Current college students will also be there to talk about their experiences of college life and exhibit their work as part of a Skills Showcase. There’s also a chance to view the college’s new Higher Education Centre, which opened in September last year. Boasting the latest in cutting edge technology, the Centre offers prospective students across the borough and beyond the chance to gain degree level qualifications. Gary Groom, Principal Redcar & Cleveland College, said: “We’re inviting prospective students to come along to the open evening where they can learn about the wide range of subjects and courses on offer, and tour the campus to see how our facilities can give them a fantastic student experience and provide the best opportunities for learning.” Further details of the range of courses available to students can be found in the college’s Full-Time Prospectus which is available to download from www.cleveland.ac.uk or by calling 01642 473132.  Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:14:36 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/open-evening-gives-prospective-students-a-taste-of-collNew Course Launched For Budding Entrepreneurs //new-course-launched-for-budding-entrepreneursRedcar & Cleveland College is launching a new course this January aimed at giving budding entrepreneurs the skills they need to start their own business. The Certificate in Preparing for Business Enterprise, which is backed by the Institute of Leadership and Management, is delivered over 12 weeks and results in an accredited Level 2 qualification. The course sees students complete five units covering legal and regulatory requirements for starting a business, marketing and sales, finance, how to start a business and an assessment of the students own suitability for enterprise. There are no formal entry requirements for the course and it is open to anyone who is considering self-employment or has a business idea they wish to develop. More information can be found in the January prospectus or by calling 01642 473132.  Tue, 25 Jan 2011 11:58:37 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk//new-course-launched-for-budding-entrepreneursCollege launches new Apprenticeship courses/news/college-launches-new-apprenticeship-coursesStudents and employers can now benefit from an even wider choice of Apprenticeships as Redcar & Cleveland College adds a further 12 courses to its programme. As part of the newly-created Services and Creative Industries Faculty, ten more courses have been added to the programme, including: • Spa Therapy • Beauty Therapy • Nail Services • Hairdressing • Health and Social Care • Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Leisure Management • Instructing Physical Activity and Exercise - Gym • Instructing Exercise and Fitness Also among the new Apprenticeship programmes is Local Environmental Services, which includes a mixture of horticulture and cleaning. Redcar and Cleveland Council has agreed to employ apprentices on this course. There will also be Sport and Leisure programmes, which will see students working in locations such as sports and leisure centres, while gaining their qualifications at the College. Delia Leadbitter, Head of Division for Hair, Beauty, Business Administration and Management, said: “These new courses have been created in response to local demand. They are designed to suit employers in all sizes of business, perhaps even helping to create a few entrepreneurs. “We are always keen to hear from employers who want to take on people on Apprenticeship programmes and will do what we can to support them. “We are delighted to be able to offer even more opportunities to people in the Tees Valley, who are looking to make that next step in their career, or even a complete change of direction.” Philip Fawcett, owner of Patterdale Plumbing Service said: “As an employer looking for a college that can offer a high standard of training to match our high standard of workmanship, I have been more than happy for my two apprentices to attend Redcar & Cleveland College. “I know they are being taught by competent tutors who have worked in the plumbing and gas industries themselves. I had the pleasure of attending the College myself, and will be returning in future to ensure that I continue to meet the industry standards and have the specified qualifications.”  Tue, 25 Jan 2011 11:43:39 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-launches-new-apprenticeship-coursesCollege successfully hosts regional heats for UK Apprentice Plumber of the Year/news/college-successfully-hosts-regional-heats-for-uk-apprenIn a tight contest, 20-year-old Jack Hall was just pipped for first place in the north east heat of the HIP! Magazine UK Apprentice Plumber of the Year award. The competition was held in the college for the second year running (on 1st March), with the organisers praising the “fantastic” facilities at Redcar & Cleveland College. Jack was among 11 apprentices from colleges around the north east taking part in a four-hour challenge that put their plumbing skills to the test, including installing a radiator. Jack, who works for ALCO Plumbing, said: “The competition has been a really good experience and I feel more confident and motivated to do more.   “Although I didn’t win I know I tried my hardest, and the highlight was finishing the task because it was very challenging. I really enjoy plumbing because when I have fixed something I know that I’ve done a good job.    “Studying at Redcar & Cleveland College is great because the tutors are really good and the facilities are second to none.” As well as hosting the plumbing competition, for the first time this year the college also staged the competition for the Sparks! Magazine Apprentice Electrician of the Year award. The awards, sponsored by Plumbfix and Electrofix respectively, are a UK-wide competition which tests Level 2 and 3 Plumbing and Electrical NVQ apprentices on core practical elements of their course. Head of Plumbing & Gas Division at Redcar & Cleveland College, Harry Teasdale, said: “The standard this year was excellent. Competitions like this are really good for boosting morale and it’s an experience the participants can benefit from in their future careers.   “We’re obviously really pleased that this is the second year we hosted the plumbing event and the first for the electrician competition. The college has excellent facilities so this is a brilliant way of showcasing what we have to offer.” Harry’s comments were echoed by Celia Matthews, organiser of the competition, who said: “The standard of apprentices in the north east is among the highest in the UK and this is matched by the quality of the venue, which is fantastic.”     Thu, 04 Mar 2010 16:04:17 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-successfully-hosts-regional-heats-for-uk-appren“Text a bath” idea wins students top prize/news/text-a-bath-idea-wins-students-top-prize A bath which pours itself to the right depth and temperature at just the right time – that's the business brainwave which this week won a team of Redcar & Cleveland College students top prize in a competition aimed at developing budding entrepreneurs. The four strong team, calling their company “The Bath People”, devised the idea of an electronically-controlled bath which could be preset to pour itself ready for its owners return from work – adding bubbles if needed. The owner could even text on the way home, ordering the bath to start pouring. The winners were just one team from the 200-plus students who took part in the college’s ‘Ride the Wave’ programme, an innovative three-day event aimed at boosting their enterprise skills and improving their employability prospects. They were one of six teams which won their group competitions, with the winners all receiving cash prizes. The students engaged in a number of hands-on group activities to develop a business plan, in such areas as sales and finance, with the help of experts from local business. The experts advised them on their ideas before the teams came back to pitch to them in a Dragon’s Den style meeting. Student Daniel Hunter of The Bath People said: “I wasn’t very enthusiastic at first but by the end I really enjoyed it. I know I am shy but by day three I took on more of a leading role and I now know I can be successful”. One of the experts, Sue Pattison of Mouchel, said: “We were all impressed with the quality of the ideas and the enthusiasm of the students. The overall winners, The Bath People, were especially impressive with the team having a good product idea, working well as a team and thinking on their feet when it came to answering difficult questions from the experts.” The programme, which is entering its fifth year, aims to give students a taste of what it is like to set up their own business. David Wilson from PD Ports, who has been involved in the event on the panel of business experts, said: “I have been involved with ‘Ride the Wave’ from the outset and the experience is always rewarding. Importantly it provides an opportunity for local businesses to engage with students to give them the benefit of our experience and improve their prospects for gaining employment – an outcome which proves beneficial for all parties.” As well as helping students develop commercial awareness, business language skills, negotiation and presentation skills and improving their self-confidence, which all boost their employability, everyone who goes through the programme can receive a formal recognition by achieving either a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification such as ‘Working With Others’ Wider Key Skill or the Communication Key Skill. Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College said: “In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever to ensure that our students are instilled with the spirit of enterprise that will help give them that extra edge when they enter the world of work. “Every full-time student at Redcar & Cleveland College experiences ‘Ride the wave’ and students who went through the programme last year are already seeing the benefits with employers seeking out some of the more innovative students and offering sponsorships for business ideas.”Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:35:25 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/text-a-bath-idea-wins-students-top-prizeLocal business scoops top award with help from college course/news/local-business-scoops-top-award-with-help-from-college A local business has been recognised as an outstanding example in its class at a recent prestigious awards ceremony, with help from a Tees Valley college. Marton Pharmacy won the Community Pharmacist of the Year award and was named runner up in the Clinical Service award at the Chemist and Druggist Awards in London following the launch of a holistic therapy centre to complement the traditional medicines offered. Following initial success, staff from the pharmacy undertook a Holistic Therapy course at Redcar & Cleveland College, allowing them to expand the range of treatments it offers to include holistic facials, body massage and stone therapy massage. With the course, which is studied one evening a week, students cover a range of areas including anatomy of the face and body, health and safety relating to holistic therapies and knowledge of holistic therapy products as well as carrying out of treatments on real clients in the college’s TS10 salon. On completing the required assessments, students qualify for a nationally and internationally recognised qualification within the beauty and holistics industry. Practice Manager Michelle Myers, said: “Holistic therapy isn’t the first thing you would expect to be on offer at a pharmacy, but we are increasingly looking to launch new services that build upon the traditional areas that people would visit a pharmacy for. “The holistic centre has been a real hit with customers and we’re already looking at further courses we can undertake to increase the number of treatments we can offer.” The Holistic Therapy course is just one of a range of beauty and holistic therapy courses offered by the college. Delia Leadbitter, Head of Division for Beauty and Holistic Therapies at Redcar & Cleveland College said of the college’s offer: “Redcar & Cleveland College’s range of hair, beauty and holistic therapy courses offer both individuals and businesses the opportunity to study in a flexible manner within facilities at the college which are outstanding. “We are increasingly working with local businesses, such as Marton Pharmacy, to help them develop new and existing skills within their staff and we are already seeing a growth in inquiries for similar courses starting this September.” Details of all the part-time and business training courses at Redcar & Cleveland College can be found by logging onto www.cleveland.ac.uk or by calling 01642 473132.Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:28:05 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/local-business-scoops-top-award-with-help-from-collegeOfsted inspectors grade Redcar & Cleveland College as ‘good’/news/ofsted-inspectors-grade-redcar-amp-cleveland-college-asStudents and staff at a Tees Valley college are celebrating after Ofsted inspectors praised its effectiveness and graded it as a ‘good’ learning establishment. Redcar & Cleveland College Principal Gary Groom said he was thrilled with the inspector’s report, which praised the wide range of courses available, the effectiveness of the college, and the new state-of-the-art facilities. He said it was testament to the hard work put in by every member of staff and student during the past few years, who have worked to further improve all aspects of college life. “We are delighted that the college has now been recognised for the large number of improvements we have made since the last inspection in 2004, when we were then graded as ‘satisfactory’,” said Mr Groom. “Previously, the college was not meeting its full potential and needed to improve both standards and the facilities. “We are now officially graded as being a good college, which is fantastic news for everyone in Redcar and Cleveland – knowing that not only is there a terrific new £26m college building in the borough, but there is also continued improvements in both success rates and student retention.” Inspectors rated the new college building and facilities, which opened in September last year, as outstanding. Safety of students and staff was also graded as outstanding, and the inspectors also commented that students were well behaved and respectful to each other. They said the overall effectiveness of the college was good, and stated that its capacity to improve further was also good. The report stated: “Over the last three years, success rates have significantly improved. Success rates for learners aged 16 to 18 are above national average. “The quality of provision is good, as are teaching and learning. Lessons are well planned and teachers effectively link theory to practice. The college is highly responsive to the needs of students, employers, local and national priorities. The curriculum is very accessible and progression routes are increasingly well-used.” It added: “The principal provides strong direction to raise standards. Quality improvement strategies are very effective. Success rates have improved year-on-year. “The college has made good progress since the last inspection. Strengths identified then have been maintained and areas for improvement addressed.” Mr Groom said everyone at the college was very proud of what they had achieved. “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the college, because without their hard work and dedication, this great Ofsted report would not have been possible,” he said. “We set out on a long journey to improvement when I arrived here four years ago and, while we are extremely pleased with our achievements so far, we still have a distance to travel and are very focussed. “We will continue to strive for excellence in the hope that we achieve the highest grade possible at our next inspection – that of ‘outstanding’.”  Chairman of Governors Dr Graham Hillier said: “This is an excellent achievement for the college. We are all extremely pleased that the inspectors recognised the many improvements that have been made since the last inspection, and saw the college as we do – a good learning establishment. “Everyone has worked very hard and will continue to do so to ensure that our students get the best education possible.” View the newsletterTue, 23 Jun 2009 15:12:59 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/ofsted-inspectors-grade-redcar-amp-cleveland-college-asRedcar & Cleveland College ignites interest//redcar-amp-cleveland-college-ignites-interestLocal members of the Teesside branch of The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), the UK's professional and technical body for all plumbing and heating professionals recently visited Redcar & Cleveland College’s new £28 million pound campus. The visitors were given a guided tour around the College’s Gas Centre facilities by John Jordan (Head of Faculty for Built Environment). Andrew Scrafton, Branch Secretary said "I would like to thank the College for the informative tour you gave us of the new facilities" Anyone wanting further information on any of the gas centre courses offered at the Redcar & Cleveland College gas centre can contact Tracy Park on 01642 777216.Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:08:07 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk//redcar-amp-cleveland-college-ignites-interestNew college funds to help unemployed back to work/news/new-college-funds-to-help-unemployed-back-to-workUnemployed people are to get extra help to re-skill and re-train with the help of Redcar & Cleveland College.   The college has been awarded extra funds as part of an £83m allocation in the north east to help train people who have been unemployed for over six months and help them back into work. This is in addition to the existing range of support options available to people through the college.   There will be plenty of new short courses to get people back into work as quickly as possible. Springboard courses will get those coming out of work into further training and new jobs to meet opportunities for employment in the region.   In addition to this scheme the college also offers a range of other vocational training options for anyone who is looking to boost their skills or learn a new profession.   Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, said:   “This new funding will benefit hundreds of people in the area who are looking to get back into work.   “The job losses resulting from the recession have meant that the employment market has become constricted and there is much more competition to get the jobs that are out there.   “Redcar & Cleveland College is here to help anyone who wants to improve their opportunities for gaining employment by boosting their existing skills or learning a new set of skills.”Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:58:04 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/new-college-funds-to-help-unemployed-back-to-workSpring into action with Redcar & Cleveland College/news/spring-into-action-with-redcar-amp-cleveland-collegePeople across the Tees Valley are being urged to Spring into action this month and look at furthering their career by going back to college.   Redcar & Cleveland College has launched a range of new offers on part-time courses starting in April, May and June aimed at anyone who is looking at refreshing their skills or considering a change of career.   With discounts of up to 50% available on some courses, including IT for Beginners, Nail Technology and Teaching in Lifelong Learning, there has never been a better time to be studying.   Alongside these courses are a range of business oriented offerings such as Level 3 and Level 4 Management, Legionella Risk Assessment and a National Certificate qualification for Door Supervisors and Security Guards. If you do not see the course in which you are interested, please contact the college.   Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, said:   “In the current climate, more and more people are choosing to boost their skill levels or change their career by studying a part-time course and with our fantastic new facilities Redcar & Cleveland College is ideally placed to help with this.   “It’s not only individuals we are seeing enrol on our courses, many businesses are seeing the benefits and efficiency savings they can achieve through investing in training their workforce.”   Full details of the courses starting this Spring, including those eligible for discounted fees, can be found on the Redcar & Cleveland College website at www.cleveland.ac.uk or by calling 01642 473132.Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:01:36 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/spring-into-action-with-redcar-amp-cleveland-collegeSABIC staff go back to college/news/sabic-staff-go-back-to-collegeWorkers from a Tees Valley petrochemicals manufacturer have gone back to college to improve their job skills and knowledge.   Staff at SABIC Petrochemicals, based at the Wilton Centre, have been studying for Higher National qualifications in Mechanical Engineering at Redcar & Cleveland College with the aim of gaining qualifications and progressing their careers.   Over 20 employees have been through the specially developed programme, which was delivered on site and allowed students to study flexibly around their working patterns.   Students were taught using a combination of targeted lectures, self-study and tutorial support enabling them to continue with their main jobs throughout the length of the course.   This approach meant that students were only required to be released for a fraction of the time it would normally take to study a course of this kind and also allowed additional members of staff from SABIC to join in on relevant modules.   Mark Loughran, ESS Inspection Manager at SABIC UK Petrochemicals said:   “The tailored HNC programme provided by the college has enabled us to develop our people, first by giving them the under-pinning academic requirements around their current roles and secondly to prepare them for further internationally accredited technical training.”   Chris Coupland, Head of the Engineering Faculty at Redcar & Cleveland College, said:   “Redcar & Cleveland College have been working with SABIC for over 2 years now and our flexible approach to course delivery has really paid dividends for the staff, both in terms of their academic achievement and also their ongoing job roles.   “We are already working with a number of other companies on the Wilton site and beyond, including ABB, to deliver similar programmes of training for their staff.”   Organisations interested in further information on this course or other professional training please contact Patricia Oswald on 01642 513200.Tue, 03 Mar 2009 16:25:13 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/sabic-staff-go-back-to-collegeDaniel receives top honour at student awards ceremony/news/daniel-receives-top-honour-at-student-awards-ceremonyA carpentry student has topped off an outstanding year by being named Redcar & Cleveland College’s Further Education Student of the Year at a recent ceremony held at the college.   Daniel Ferguson, aged 19, who has been studying an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship in carpentry within the college’s Built Environment faculty was one of over 20 winners at the Celebration of Achievement held earlier this month at the new £28m campus on Corporation Road.   Daniel has already tasted success as part of his course after coming out on top in the regional heats of the national Skillbuild competition, which aims to find the top students studying disciplines in the built environment across the UK.   Speaking after his award win Daniel said:   “This is a huge shock and something I really didn’t expect, but it rounds off what has been a really enjoyable and rewarding year for me at the college.   “I’ve had a fantastic time at Redcar & Cleveland College and getting to take part in events like the Skillbuild competition have meant that I’ve been able to build upon the skills that I have learnt on my course and improve my employability prospects in the future.”   Other winners on the night included:   Simon Armistead won Higher Education Student of the Year Lee Smee and Simon Armistead in the Built Environment category Fraser Ross won in the Engineering category Josh Jackson and Wayne Jackson for Business, Administration, Medical and Equine Laurie Lacson in the Business and Management category Kendra Sleightholm for Computing, IT and Digital Arts Ariel McCarron in the Engineering category Karen Hart-Hirst for Hair, Beauty and Holistics Sheridhan Cave and Gemma Doe in the Health & Social Care, Early Years, Learning Support category Caroline Atkinson for Sport, Public Services & Travel & Tourism Amanda Wellburn in the Teaching Education, Teaching Assistants category Grant Horton was named Work Based Learning Student of the Year David Parsons was named Pre-16 Student of the Year Sheridhan Sullivan and Jo McGowan awards for Achievement Over Adversity Kevin McNally won the award for Enthusiasm and Contribution to the College Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, said:   “The Celebration of Achievement is all about recognising the efforts and hard work that all of our students have made in their studies at the college.   “All of our award winners have shown that they are willing to go the extra mile in their studies to ensure that they fully achieve their career aspirations.”   You can view more photos from the event here.Fri, 27 Feb 2009 10:57:12 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/daniel-receives-top-honour-at-student-awards-ceremonyCollege centre leads the way with gas training/news/college-centre-leads-the-way-with-gas-trainingTradesmen are receiving world-class training and assessment in gas installation and assessment at a north east college. Redcar & Cleveland College’s gas centre has been hailed as a national centre of excellence for training and assessment for gas professionals.   At a recent inspection by accreditation authority BPEC, the inspector praised the college’s facilities which have been upgraded to industry leading standards as part of the move to its new £26m campus.   The BPEC assessment is required for the college to offer Corgi certified training and certification and looks at all aspects of the work carried out in the college’s gas centre from the facilities themselves to the quality of the training on offer.   In his assessment report the inspector said that “BPEC is proud to be associated with a progressive college with such excellent, modern facilities in the Gas Centre.”   Peter Marshall, Head of the Gas Centre at Redcar & Cleveland College said:   “We have worked extremely hard to establish the college as a centre for excellence in gas training in the north east and it is absolutely fantastic that we have received this recognition on a national level.   "The gas centre is also launching a new CPA1 Gas Analyser course which is required by anyone who will be fitting or working on modern condensing boilers.   "The 5 hour short course can be completed in a single day and provides Corgi certification after carrying out a short assessment included in the course."   Peter added:   “Moving to the new campus last September has allowed us to expand the range of courses that we offer. We have introduced the Combustion Performance Analysis course, have re-launched the Reassessment of Unvented Hot Water Systems course and are looking at the delivery of a course on Solar Water to complement the course on the Installing and Testing Domestic Photovoltaic Systems.   “The CPA course is proving to be extremely popular and we have already had staff from several large local companies enrol to go through the course.”   Anyone wanting further information on the CPA1 course or the other courses offered at the Redcar & Cleveland College gas centre can contact Peter Marshall on 01642 777218 or visit www.cleveland.ac.ukTue, 24 Feb 2009 15:15:08 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-centre-leads-the-way-with-gas-trainingStudents sparkle in festive hair competition/news/students-sparkle-in-festive-hair-competitionHair and beauty students at Redcar & Cleveland College have tasted what it’s like to take part in a professional hair competition today (Wednesday 17th December) when they competed against each other to produce a variety of spectacular styles.   The competition marked the launch of a range of new short courses which start in January including Nail Treatments, Massage, and much more within Hair, Beauty and Holistics and also the new Junior Hairdressing and Beauty School, aimed specifically at teenagers aged 13-16.   Level 1 and 2 students studying hairdressing competed against each other in a range of categories, creating dramatic hairstyles themed around the concept of Sparkle and Snow.   Entries for the competition included ice queens, elves, and festive characters whose hair was expertly styled by the students under the watchful eye of the college’s staff and industry professionals who were judging the event.   Prizes were awarded to the winning students from each category, as well as an overall prize for the most dramatic style produced on the day.   Winners of the prestigious team event were Sharon Simms and Rebecca Whatmore who gave their model an elf themed style. Other winners on the day included Judith Stephenson, Laura Husband, Sammy Currie who are all studying Level 1 or Level 2 hairdressing.   She said:   “I really enjoyed taking part in the competition and putting the skill I have been learning on my course into practice. The hairdressing course has been really challenging at times, but when you take part in something like this it makes you realise how relevant what you are learning is to real-life work.   “It was just like taking part in a real professional competition and experiences like this, as well as working in the TS10 salon at the college, will really help when I finish my course and start looking to get a job.”   The TS10 salon at Redcar & Cleveland College is a commercial salon which is open to the public, where students studying hair and beauty courses have the opportunity to get real life experience of what it is like to work in a busy salon dealing with members of the public.   Since opening in September this year the salon has seen over 3,500 customers pass through its doors, receiving treatments ranging from hair cuts and colours through to manicures and Indian head massage – all from students who are studying at the college.   Paul Taylor, Head of the Hair and Beauty Faculty at Redcar & Cleveland College, said:   “The students set a really high standard at today’s competition, but we would expect nothing less than that from them. Everyone who took part really excelled themselves and no doubt we’ll see many of them go on to compete in regional competitions in the near future.”  Tue, 23 Dec 2008 10:41:04 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-sparkle-in-festive-hair-competitionStudents get straight to the point of business/news/students-get-straight-to-the-point-of-businessStudents taking part in an innovative business and enterprise training programme have been commended by local business experts after impressing them with the quality of their ideas.   The Plunge, which was taking place for the fourth year running, took place from the 3rd to the 7th November. Students from Redcar & Cleveland College were put through their paces developing a business plan right from coming up with an initial idea for their business through to financial, sales and operational plans for their company.   Developed in partnership with The Working Knowledge Group, the programme aims to give students experience of setting up their own business through every stage of the process.   The groups held a series of meetings with expert volunteers from local businesses who advised them on their ideas and offered guidance for further developing their plan, before coming back to pitch to them in a Dragon’s Den style meeting.   Over the course of the week over 200 students took part in the programme in three streams. The winners of each of these streams were invited back on the final day of the event on Friday, where an overall winner for the week was chosen.   Taking the overall accolade for the week was the company ‘Stars R Golden’ whose planning and presentation of their idea for an all in one hair styling and straightening tool impressed the judges to such a degree that one member of the group (Rachel Harston) was offered mentoring with one of the business experts.   The group was made up of sports and fitness students Rachel Harston, aged 17, Scott Martin,19, Nathan Buckley, 18, Danny Harland,18 and Josh Young,16. As well as taking home the winner’s trophy, the group also won £200 in cash to share between them.   Rachel Harston, who was the company secretary and administrator, said:   “After some initial trepidation I ended up really enjoying the whole three days of The Plunge and to win the overall prize was the icing on the cake.   “The final day, when we met with, and then pitched our ideas to, the experts gave us a real idea of what it is like to be involved with running a business and I’m now looking forward to getting more experience of what it’s like to be involved in business through the mentoring I have been offered.”   Simon Brown, Managing Director at Calm Asylum and one of the business experts, said:   "I found the day extremely intense and was overwhelmed by the amount of effort and passion being displayed by the students.   “Although it was a team competition there were one or two individuals who really stood out and I believe if they continue with the same drive and enthusiasm then they will become successful."   Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, presented the winning groups with their awards. Commenting on the week’s activities he said:   “The standard set by the students who took part in ‘The Plunge’ this year has really raised the bar in terms of the quality of their ideas and their flare for enterprise and business development.   “I have been really impressed by all of the entries that we have seen this week. I know that it was a hard decision for the judges to pick an overall winner, but the winning group showed that they had what it takes to be a real success in business and having developed so fast in just three days.   “Most importantly though, all the feedback we have received shows that the students have really enjoyed themselves and now have a clear insight into business start-up processes.   “We have worked hard with our partner, The Working Knowledge Group, to develop a programme of exciting enterprise activities. Many of the employers involved have expressed their willingness to mentor and in some cases employ our students as a result of the programme. The programme, initially developed at Redcar and Cleveland College is also now being demanded by colleges nationally.”   Andrew Hatcher, Managing Director of The Working Knowledge Group, said:   “Programmes like Ride the Wave have a huge part to play in raising the aspirations and skills of our young people, while simultaneously highlighting the fantastic talent available to employers that exists in our colleges. Our belief is that bringing employers together with young people in a professional and business-like way, rapidly bridges the skills gap as cultural and inter-generational barriers fall away.”Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:27:57 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-get-straight-to-the-point-of-businessQuality as standard at Redcar & Cleveland College/news/quality-as-standard-at-redcar-amp-cleveland-collegeRedcar & Cleveland College is well on the way to earning the new national Training Quality Standard that will signpost employers and students to the learning and training they require. The standard has been developed by employers, through the Learning and Skills Council, to make sure they can access the skills and courses they need to effectively develop their workforce and businesses. Redcar & Cleveland College is talking to companies and individual business sector organisations, particularly with regard to construction and engineering to provide the quality and type of learning that employers in the region must have to grow.   The College’s Gas Centre has had an outstanding year and we have responded to employer demand by introducing Energy Efficiency courses, Legionella Risk Assessment and Legionella Disinfection courses. The College is also planning to expand its programme linked to renewable energies, building on the popularity of the course it offers for training in the installation of solar panels on roofs. Patricia Oswald, Customer Relations Manager at Redcar & Cleveland College, said: “The new Training Quality Standard will replace our CoVE status for Engineering, but will also increase recognition of our expertise in the areas of Construction, Management, and Early Years in the future and strengthen our ties with business and industry across the North East. “Part of the new accreditation will also cover our standards in the services and learning experience that we deliver to employees.  This is especially important as we are about to move into our brand new campus in September. It will offer the very latest services and facilities to employers, public and students, for example in our wonderful TS10 Health and Beauty Spa, new fitness suite and Gate 9 Travel Agency. The Training Quality Standard will say to people in Teesside, and beyond, that Redcar & Cleveland College has outstanding courses, facilities and, of course, customer service.” ENDMon, 08 Sep 2008 13:56:45 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/quality-as-standard-at-redcar-amp-cleveland-college

View archived news

Go back