Student activities http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/student-activitiesCollege returns to Romania for a fifth year/news/college-returns-to-romania-for-a-fifth-year A group of 23 BTEC health and childcare students are set to embark on Redcar & Cleveland College’s fifth trip to Romania to assist in the care of a number of vulnerable groups. The 23 students, who are all studying for qualifications in Childcare or Health & Social Care at the college, along with three members of staff are making their annual trip to the Caminul Felix Project in Oradea, Romania as part of their courses. The Christian charity provides a home for abandoned and neglected children in two purpose-built villages under the care of adults who act as their ‘family’. Children are provided with basic needs such as food, love and shelter which they wouldn’t have ordinarily received. Claire Barwick, a tutor on the college’s Health and Social Care courses, leads the organisation of the week long trip, said: “For our Health and Child Care students to get the opportunity to see first hand different standards of care and offer support to those with often very difficult issues that in some cases include extreme mental and physical disabilities is really important. “I’ve been involved in all the previous trips and although some of the conditions are sometimes difficult for the students to see, the human contact and applied learning opportunities provide a very positive experience for everyone involved. “This year we will be visiting an elderly care home for the first time, as well as the psychiatric hospital in Nucet, a primary age school at Casa Minunata and a Romany community. I’m hoping by including this new element to the trip we will find out more about the huge issue of caring for the elderly in Romania; an area that is not commonly known about or publicised.” A number of the students are returning again after finding previous visits with the college a very rewarding experience. They will also be able to see how 12-year-old Mihaela, one of the charity’s children who the college decided to sponsor last year, is getting along. The students and staff decided to sponsorship after spending time with her and the family who look after her as part of the long term links and commitment they have to Caminul Felix. “We’re all looking forward to getting an update on Mihaela’s life and seeing how things are improving for her. She was one of the eldest children we met in her situation of being abandoned, which is why we chose her to be sponsored,” said Clare. Jennifer Cartwright, 18, from New Marske is a doing the BTEC extended national diploma in Health and Social Care and is hoping to go to university to study a Foundation Degree in Radiotherapy. She said: “This will be my second trip to Romania and although the first time I went I was very nervous, now I’ve been before and know what to expect I’m really excited. “It was such a rewarding experience, at the Nucet psychiatric hospital we met with many people suffering from all kinds of disabilities ranging from quite mild learning disabilities to those suffering severe mental and physical problems. “We played games and gave them a lot of human contact, which I think is the single biggest thing they are lacking. It was really amazing to see them improve in their general well being, despite us only being there for a short time.” Rachel Lillystone, 18, from Normanby, studied for her BTEC National Diploma in Childcare and progressed to studying a Foundation Degree in Redcar & Cleveland College’s Higher Education Centre. She said: “I’m the only student this year going back to Romania for a third time. I’ve found it a real eye opener in terms of some of the conditions, but it has always been great to return and be remembered by the people, both adults and children, I’ve met on previous visits. “We visited a school comprised of children without disability together with those suffering from learning disabilities. We visited a Romany camp which had very poor living conditions and a psychiatric hospital. We brought toys, clothes and played games which included blowing bubbles and using a parachute to stimulate senses. “I really feel that we have made a positive impact and the experience has inspired me to be less selfish and take a more mature approach to my own life; I’m really looking forward to going back.” Supporters of the Romania trips and those wanting to sponsor Mihaela can contact Claire Barwick or Gillian Morgan at the college on 01642 473132.   Photo Caption:  Redcar & Cleveland College students Jennifer Cartwright,18, from New Marske, Gemma Elders, 19, from Ingleby Barwick, Loren Butler, 17, from New Marske and Melissa Ambrose, 18, from Redcar. They are all returning to Romania for a second time. Tue, 08 May 2012 11:25:01 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-returns-to-romania-for-a-fifth-yearCollege students get a taster of money management /news/college-students-get-a-taster-of-money-management Students at the College were sampling the delights of financial independence recently as part of Barclays Money Skills Week, a programme that has been teaching college students nationwide about the importance of saving their money. College students have took part in tutorials and workshops at the college that were designed to encourage them to be more responsible with their money in fun and creative ways. These included taste tests, a money savings competition and case study sessions about saving. Some of the college’s Student Ambassadors organised a blind taste test comparing branded and non-branded drinks. Ashleigh Harvey, a student at the college, said: “I couldn’t taste the difference between the cheaper drink and the more expensive one, it just goes to show that I can still enjoy my favourite things on a lower budget.” The week also included a workshop where students learned about the costs associated with living independently, in preparation for when they leave college to study at university, or to start work. Ashleigh added: “The session was a real eye opener for me as I didn’t realise that living away from home could cost so much. I learnt about how I can manage my finances to make sure that I’m making the most of my money.” Fun activities and competitions were also included throughout the week, where students shared their money savings tips and discovered how making good financial decisions are important in today’s tough economic climate. Research from Barclays showed that young people felt that they were not given enough advice about finances and budgeting, therefore in order to improve this, schools and colleges across the country were taking part in a week-long series of activities to boost their students’ confidence and knowledge about money. Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, said: “Barclays Money Skills Week has made our students aware about the importance of looking after their money, which is essential for their futures. “The engaging activities and tutorials have provided them with the tools that they need when it comes to managing their finances, the programme has been a great success.” The project was part of Barclays Money Skills project, delivered by Barclays in partnership with other leading UK charities including the National Skills Academy for Financial Services,Action for Children and the National Youth Agency. Redcar & Cleveland were one of the lucky colleges that got involved to try and inform students about responsible financial control.   Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:43:57 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-students-get-a-taster-of-money-managementAmbitious apprentices given permanent jobs at care home/news/ambitious-apprentices-given-permanent-jobs-at-care-homeTwo young apprentices have secured permanent jobs at a Teesside care home after they showed passion and ambition to help others. Amber Smallwood, 17, and Kaylie Milburn, 18, both from Redcar, are being taken on as full time carers at a Redcar residential home after spending a successful year working there as part of a Health and Social Care Apprenticeship with Redcar & Cleveland College. Ann Palmer, the manager of Germania House is delighted with how far Amber and Kaylie have come. Ann said: “When the girls first came in as part of their course they were a little nervous but they showed a lot of willing and soon got into the mix of things and we couldn’t have asked for two better apprentices. “After seeing them work hard every day to help look after the residents as well as bringing fresh ideas into the home, we are delighted to be able to give Amber and Kaylie full time permanent jobs working at Germania House, as we know how difficult it is for young people to find jobs at the moment.” Germania House, which is based on St. Vincent Terrace in Redcar, is the town’s longest established residential home. It has 18 residents and currently employs 20 people. When Amber and Kaylie found out that they would both be given a permanent job at the care home after finishing their Apprenticeships they were shocked and excited. Amber said: “I’ve really enjoyed the past year working at Germania House as an apprentice and I am really pleased to be joining the team on a full-time basis.” Kaylie added: “I couldn’t quite believe it when Ann told us she would be taking us on. I’m so grateful to her for giving us this amazing opportunity.” Di Pearson, Assessor at Redcar & Cleveland College said: “It’s fantastic for Amber and Kaylie to be taken on as permanent staff members at the care home as soon as they finish their apprenticeships. I’m very proud of both of them and I know they will work very hard and do extremely well.” The home is now working with Redcar & Cleveland College to take on two additional apprentices.  Fri, 30 Mar 2012 16:13:42 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/ambitious-apprentices-given-permanent-jobs-at-care-homeStudents bring festive cheer to sick children/news/students-bring-festive-cheer-to-sick-children A group of talented college students have pulled out all the stops to ensure that sick children who are spending the festive period in hospital get a Christmas visit they’ll never forget.   With Santa due to make a visit to the new Redcar Primary Care Hospital, the students from Redcar & Cleveland College’s Carpentry, Painting & Decorating and Art & Design courses worked together to construct a sleigh to transport the man himself around the wards.   Carpentry and joinery students led by tutor Keith Smith, set about constructing a sleigh that would enable Santa to make his way around the wards delivering presents, whilst students in the college’s Art and Design department held a competition to design the shape and colour scheme for the finished sleigh.   Working in partnership, they managed to complete the sleigh in time for Santa’s visit during the official opening of the hospital on Friday 9th December.   Amongst the students who took part in the project were Painting and Decorating students Nikki Boutell, Laurie White and Robert Sharkey; Art & Design student Emiley Jones; Decorating apprentices Craig Goodall and Gary Langer; and Joinery students Mathew Whitehead and Derek Harland.   Painting and decorating student, Laurie, said:   “This has been a fantastic project to take part in and we’ve all got a great sense of achievement seeing the finished sleigh.   “We hope that the kids enjoy seeing it as much as we enjoyed building it.”  Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:39:49 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-bring-festive-cheer-to-sick-childrenStudents cook up a storm in enterprise challenge /news/students-cook-up-a-storm-in-enterprise-challenge A group of college students have flexed their entrepreneurial muscles to come up with a solution to the huge amounts of food waste created at Christmas time and, at the same time, raise money for charity. The group of five students, who are studying on the Public Services course at Redcar & Cleveland College, came up with the idea of a cook book giving recipes for turning people’s Christmas dinner leftovers into tasty treats instead of going in the bin.   The team, who came up with the company name ‘Wham’, was made up of 17 year old Bethany Goodman from Dormanstown; Adam Goodman, 16, from Grangetown; Jack Birch, 16, from Normanby; Aaron Bell, 17, from Teesville; and Louis Jinx, 17, from Teesville.   They were the winners of the college’s annual Enterprise Challenge which saw over 200 students work in teams to develop a business idea right from the initial product idea through to taking it to market.    During the two day event they worked with experts from local business to help set out their financial, manufacturing and marketing plans, before pitching their idea to a ‘dragon’s den’ of local business people.   Speaking about the book, called the ‘Recipe’s of Christ’MASS’ Destruction’, Bethany, who was chosen as the team’s Leader, said:   “There has been a lot of talk in the media recently about the amount of food that goes to waste which is perfectly good and we thought that it would be a particular problem around Christmas, so we tried to come up with a simple solution that would stop people putting so much in the bin.   “We settled on the idea of a cook book with recipes for recycling the leftovers from Christmas dinner as we thought this is one of the meals where the most leftovers are created and we could see that there was a potential market out there for recipes that allowed people to make them go a little further.”   The group produced a prototype cookbook, featuring recipes including Christmas Pudding Sundae and Festive Bubble and Squeak and, after speaking to the business experts, decided that they would donate a proportion of the profits which the book generated to homeless charity Shelter.   Their pitch to the business experts was so impressive that they landed the title of overall Enterprise Challenge winners, with the judges commenting on the enthusiasm and professionalism of their approach.   Lynda Sandick, one of the business experts judging the teams, said:   “The team’s pitch to us stood out despite some very strong competition from the other students taking part. They had thought about every aspect of the business process and had considered the bigger picture of how their product would fit into the marketplace. Speaking about winning the title, Louis, who was one of the groups active members, said:   “We worked really hard to develop the idea, and we put everything into our pitch, but it was still a surprise when our name was called out as winners.   “It’s made me realise that it’s not beyond me to think about starting a business of my own once I’ve finished my course.”   College Principal Gary Groom presented the team with their prize. He said:   “We’re immensely proud of the achievements of all of the students who have taken part in the Enterprise Challenge. I know that the judges deliberated long and hard before choosing the winning team.   “This programme really does give our students ‘the edge’ which we know makes them more attractive to employers.    “The event is made possible by the many business experts who give their time freely to support our students, every year the number of experts coming forward to take part just keeps on growing as the word is out that Redcar & Cleveland College is delivering this exciting enterprise experience.   “This is the sixth year that we have staged our enterprise event and without a doubt this has been the most inspiring and successful to date.  Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:08:55 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-cook-up-a-storm-in-enterprise-challengeRedcar & Cleveland College selected to shine on global stage/news/redcar-amp-cleveland-college-selected-to-shine-on-globa A team from Redcar & Cleveland College will showcase their skills expertise to a global audience later this week, when the UK plays host to the world’s greatest skills competition, WorldSkills London 2011.   The group, consisting of staff and students from the college’s plastering and dry-lining department, will travel to London to deliver a master class demonstration of their skills as part of the international competition, which will see teams from across the globe compete in a variety of skills disciplines.   Over 150,000 visitors are expected at the competition, including members of the public and some of the world’s most highly respected skills experts.   The team’s demonstration will focus on decorative fibrous plastering, which is one of the most difficult and complex areas of plastering and involves the production and installation of ornate moulded cornices and coving.   Josh Wallis, who is one of the students making the trip said, "We're really excited to have been chosen to showcase our skills at WorldSkills London 2011.    “As a student, it's great to be part of something this big and gain recognition for all the hard work we've put in as part of our course at the college.    “Our display is going to wow the audience and I can’t wait for October!”   The WorldSkills London 2011 Competition will take place at London’s ExCel Centre over four days, from 5 – 8 October. It will see over 1,000 of the most skilled young people from all corners of the globe battling it out in 46 different disciplines, competing to be crowned the best of the best in their chosen skill. Showcase colleges and training providers will help to inspire the audience and help them to look at the endless possibilities for their future jobs and careers.   College principle Gary Groom sees this as a chance for young people from the Tees Valley area to have a place in history:   “The last time a WorldSkills competition was held in the UK was over two decades ago – this really is a once in a generation opportunity for our students and we’re delighted that the excellent standards our students achieve will be recognised to such a prestigious national and international audience.    “To be part of an event which recognises skills at the very highest level is truly aspirational and I have every faith that our students will rise to the occasion and help to put on a truly spectacular show.”  Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:24:37 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/redcar-amp-cleveland-college-selected-to-shine-on-globaHearing challenge doesn’t curb success for ambitious Nathan/news/hearing-challenge-doesnt-curb-success-for-ambitious-nat A Redcar student has not let the challenge of being profoundly deaf stop him achieving success after successfully completing a college course and gaining a university place. 18-year-old Nathan Falcon from Dormanstown has landed a place on the Creative Digital Media course at Teesside University after completing a Level 3 course in Art and Design at Redcar and Cleveland College and is hoping this will lead to a career in graphic design. After contracting meningitis aged two, Nathan was left profoundly deaf and now communicates using speech, sign language and lip-reading. Although he has been faced with a difficult challenge, he has not let this stop him from making the most of his course and his time at college.. “My tutors and friends at college have been really supportive, which has helped me to gain a lot of confidence in myself and my ability to carry out my studies,” says Nathan. “Studying at college has been a lot different to being at school. I’ve been able to develop as a person and have gained a lot more independence which will hopefully help me progress through a successful career.” Nathan is aided in his studies by a sign language assistant, who assists him in lessons and helps to clarify information from his tutors. He has also been aided by his friends on the art and design course. Colin Cook, Nathan’s tutor on the Art and Design Course, said: “Nathan has really excelled during his time on the art and design course and getting a place on the course at Teesside University is a just reward for all of his efforts. “He hasn’t let his disability get in his way and has worked hard, along with the other students on the course, to develop his work to the highest possible standard. “His work shows a great attention to detail and he has a particular flair for digital design which will give him a great grounding when he starts at university in September.” Nathan was one of over 30 students who were showing off their work at the college’s end of year exhibition which was held last week. Many of the students exhibiting are progressing on to university courses along with Nathan.   “Showing my work, along with my friends, at the end of year exhibition is a great way to bring my time at Redcar & Cleveland College to an end. “I’m really excited to be going on to university in September and I’m already looking forward to graduating from my degree and starting my career in the graphic design industry.Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:22:36 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/hearing-challenge-doesnt-curb-success-for-ambitious-natYou 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 15:39:53 +0100http://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 13:02:33 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/redcar-students-prove-that-theyre-worth-itSuper Sonic experience for students/news/super-sonic-experience-for-students Young people from across the north east had a super sonic experience today (Wednesday 23rd March) when they met the team challenging to break the World Land-Speed Record. Over 200 school and college students took part in the Bloodhound Experience at Redcar & Cleveland College as part of a two day conference focussing on Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teaching and learning. After hearing from members of the project team, the students got to take part in activities including building their own balloon powered version of the Bloodhound car, having a go at driving at 1,000mph in the Bloodhound Driving Experience and taking a look around the car itself. Andrew Lowe, aged 19 is studying for a National Diploma in Engineering at Redcar & Cleveland College and took part in one of the sessions. He said: “It’s been a fantastic experience to hear from the Bloodhound team about how the skills that we learn in the classroom are being used to put together this massive project. “When you’re sat in the classroom it’s not easy to imagine how what you’re learning can all add up to make something like the Bloodhound car, it’s amazing and it really makes you think about how what you learn can lead to a really exciting career” Thanks to Bloodhound sponsor and FE partner, Protocol National, the conference is the first time that the Bloodhound car has visited the north east in its role as a tool to promote the teaching of STEM subjects to young people. As well as taking part in activities on the day, students and teachers are provided with learning materials that they can use before and after the experience to find out more about the role of STEM subjects in the record attempt. John Dickinson, aged 14 and a pupil at Freebrough Academy said: “Attending the event today and hearing about how Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths have all been used as part of the development of the Bloodhound project has really inspired me to think about a career in a STEM subject. “It was really interesting to see how the same design issues we had to solve when making our balloon powered cars are being faced by the team developing the Bloodhound car.” As well as the activities with school and college students, the two-day STEM conference, which was backed by the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS), saw teaching professionals and businesses from across the region gather to discuss the role of STEM and share best practice in its teaching and learning. Redcar & Cleveland College lecturer and Regional STEM Champion, Dr Stephen Hill helped to organise the conference. He said: “The LSIS STEM conference was not only about those involved in the teaching of these subjects getting together to hear about the latest developments in the sector, but also about inspiring young people to think about how the qualifications they are taking in science, technology, engineering or maths can lead to much bigger things both in terms of their education and their future careers.” Redcar & Cleveland College Principal and Further Education representative for the North East STEM Board, Gary Groom, said: “Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics will play a massive role in the futures of many of this region’s young people. “It is vitally important that we equip learners with the skills they need to do the jobs that will be available right across the north east. We are delighted to have hosted the first Regional STEM conference for the Learning & Skills Improvement Service in Redcar and having the Bloodhound Super Sonic Car right here has made this a truly momentous occasion.” Jonathan Ellis, from Bloodhound and key presenter at the event said: “It’s been great to get the car up to the North East from its base in Bristol and FE colleges like Redcar and Cleveland are a great venue for us to share the project with local school and college students alike, as well as inspiring the local teaching community at this STEM conference.” You can view more photos from the event here. Thu, 24 Mar 2011 09:30:46 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/super-sonic-experience-for-studentsStudents prove they are no robots during USA visit/news/students-prove-they-are-no-robots-during-usa-visit Programming a robot and witnessing the technology behind how the world’s most popular drink is bottled were just some of the highlights of a trip to the USA by students from Redcar & Cleveland College. For the 13th year running, engineering students from Redcar & Cleveland recently visited Cleveland State Community College in Tennessee. During their ten-day visit the young people, who were hosted by local families, undertook a number of activities linked to their college course. These activities included robotics, where they were tasked with programming a robot, and manual handling course, which involved a visit to the local Coca-Cola factory to see how the bottling is automated. Another part of their visit saw them touring a home that uses alternative energy, in this case ground heat, to power the property. It was not all work for the students though. In the last few days of their trip they visited local places of interest and went hiking and mountain biking in the Smoky Mountains, where they stayed in a log cabin. Engineering Course Leader Neil Walker said: “The students all found the trip very worthwhile and they were so well received that their host families have already invited them back. “We have excellent relationships with Cleveland State Community College and the 13 years of visits have proved very beneficial to students, both in terms of their academic programme and the social and cultural experience it gives them. Unfortunately, in recent years, students from the USA have not been able to visit Redcar & Cleveland. However, when we were at the college we discussed resurrecting these trips and we are hopeful of being able to reciprocate the kind hospitality we always receive in Tennessee.” The visit was made possible thanks to generous sponsorship from the Sir William Turner Foundation, GlaxoSmithKline, Sabik, TTE, and Redcar & Cleveland College’s Aim Higher Fund.  Fri, 23 Apr 2010 09:14:44 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-prove-they-are-no-robots-during-usa-visitNintendo Wii on menu for Sport Relief events/news/nintendo-wii-on-menu-for-sport-relief-events Redcar & Cleveland College has come up with a novel way of getting students involved in Sport Relief this week – by installing a Nintendo Wii. Students on the college’s sports and public services courses have organised a week-long programme of events to mark Sport Relief 2010, and the Nintendo Wii - along with the popular Wii Fit – has been just one of the many activities on offer. The Nintendo has been located in the college’s main atrium and in return for playing one of the many sports-related games, students have been making a small donation to the charity. For those who prefer the real thing, a host of other activities have been on offer, including an army style assault course in the college gym.   Students Jamie Brook, 24, and Paul Elliot, 17, who are studying Level 3 Fitness Instruction were amongst those who tried out the activities on offer. Jamie, who tried his hand at Wii Golf, before tackling the assault course, said: “The activities have been great fun, but what has made it even better for us is that we have been raising money for good causes while taking part.” Paul added: “We’re hoping to raise as much money as possible and the response we’ve had from other students at the college who’ve been wanting to take each other on playing on the Wii has meant it’s been a really successful event.”Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:02:29 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/nintendo-wii-on-menu-for-sport-relief-eventsStudents get into Christmas spirit with festive hair competition/news/students-get-into-christmas-spirit-with-festive-hair-co Students from a Tees Valley college have been getting into the Christmas spirit by holding a special event themed around the holiday season. Hair and beauty students at Redcar & Cleveland College held their annual Christmas competition and competed against each other in a range of categories that highlighted the bit of the festive period that everyone most enjoys. Level 1, 2 and 3 students studying hairdressing competed against each other to create dramatic hairstyles themed around the concepts of The Nightmare Before Christmas and Pantomime, whilst Beauty Therapy students carried out Christmas themed treatments in the college’s TS10 salon. Hairdressing student Emma Gidney, whose team were the overall winners of the competition with their ‘Scary Santa’ theme said: “The competition has been really good fun, and has given us the opportunity to express our creativity in weird and wonderful ways. “It’s also made me more aware of the options available to me as a hairdresser once I finish my course. I now not only think about working in a salon, but perhaps as a stylist in the theatre or television too. ” Head of the Hair and Beauty and Holistics Division at Redcar & Cleveland College, Delia Leadbitter, said of the event: “Through the programmes that our students study at the college we aim to give them as much experience as possible of what it is like to work as a qualified professional.” “The Hair and Beauty Competition mirrors a professional level competition in terms of the standards they have to work to and time limits they have to complete the tasks within.” Entries for the competition included pantomime characters, elves, and fairies 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. Delia went on to say: “The standard produced by the students in this year’s competition was extremely high and choosing a winners for each category was a difficult job for the judging panel.” You can view more photos from the competition here. Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:52:14 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-get-into-christmas-spirit-with-festive-hair-coCollege celebrates year of success in new campus/news/college-celebrates-year-of-success-in-new-campus Students and staff at a Tees Valley college were giving themselves three cheers following a highly successful first year in their new campus. Twelve months ago Redcar & Cleveland College opened the doors of its £26m new campus on Corporation Road in Redcar and what followed has been a year of fantastic achievement for staff and students alike. In February the new campus received a Royal seal of approval when it was officially opened by HRH the Duke of York and in June it was recognised as being an officially ‘Good’ college by Ofsted inspectors. College Principal, Gary Groom, was joined by student Grant Davies, who celebrates his birthday with the college, to share a slice of special college birthday cake. Mr Groom said: “It hardly seems like yesterday that we were stood here with the Right Honourable Vera Baird MP watching the first students come through the doors, twelve months on and with an Ofsted report that identifies our building as ‘outstanding’ and our provision as ‘Good’ we are looking to the future with our phase 2 development programme already well underway. “We are determined not to stand still and we want to continue to grow and improve the range of courses and facilities available to our students, we are already on the journey to becoming an outstanding college. Student Grant Davies, who celebrated his birthday on the same day as the college, only recently started on a BTEC Diploma in Information Technology at the college. He said: ““The new college is really successful and this was a big reason for me choosing to come and study here, but I didn’t realise that I shared a birthday with it. “I’m really looking forward to my time here at the college and hope that I can do well on my course and develop a career in IT.” Timeline: It’s been a busy year at Redcar & Cleveland College. Below are just some of the highlights: September 2008 – The new Redcar & Cleveland College opens its doors to its first students November 2008 – Staff, students and former pupils gather for the rededication of the college’s war memorial, which was repositioned as part of the new development. November 2008 – Olympic Pentathlete, Katy Livingstone, visits the college to present a sporting masterclass to students. December 2008 – The college is visited by teachers from a Polish primary school as part of a cultural exchange programme. January 2009 – Students from the college’s Public Services Preparation course take part in a residential course with the armed forces at Barnard Castle. February 2009 – The new college campus gets the Royal seal of approval at an official opening by HRH the Duke of York. March 2009 – The college hosts the regional finals of the UK Apprentice Plumber of the Year competition. April 2009 – The college launches a new Foundation Degree qualification in Chemical Science aimed at boosting the skills of local people working in the chemical and process industry. April 2009 – The seeds are sown for the college’s new state of the art sports pitches with the help of students from the college football team. May 2009 – The achievements of students on the college’s Curriculum Enhancement Programme June 2009 – Students from the college’s Art and Design course show off their work at a special exhibition. June 2009 – An Ofsted report grades the college as being officially ‘Good’ July 2009 – College students from the CACHE Childcare course visit Romania. July 2009 – Students John Atkinson and James Brownless scoop gold medals at the regional SkillBuild competition. August 2009 – Student Heather McLeod celebrates after landing a place at university following a course at the college.  Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:07:41 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-celebrates-year-of-success-in-new-campusMoving experience for Redcar students/news/moving-experience-for-redcar-studentsStudents at a Tees Valley college were so moved during a trip to a Romanian orphanage – they decided to present the young people with a most prized gift. The 15 students from Redcar & Cleveland College, who were overseas as part of their Children’s Care, Learning and Development programme, donated Racco the cow to the Bratca orphanage, in the hope it would provide much-needed milk and interest. The teenagers spent seven days in Oradea, meeting and working with disadvantaged and abandoned children. However, when they visited the Bratca orphanage, which cared for young people with mental and physical disabilities, they felt so touched by what they saw, they decided to do something extra to help. First of all, the students went to the local market and bought 27 new pairs of shoes for the orphans, before turning their attention to how they could help out in the long-term. After a frenetic exchange of communications with staff back at the college, the group got the OK to spend £200 of their funds from the Sir William Turner Foundation Trust to buy the cow, which, it is hoped, will provide milk for many years to come. The cow, aptly named Racco (Redcar & Cleveland College Overseas), was presented to the staff and residents of the orphanage before the students returned home last weekend. The orphanage will use Racco not only to provide milk, but also to produce other dairy products, such as cheese, which they would not otherwise be able to afford. Liam Cowan, 18, who is studying Level 3 Childcare, said: “The trip has been the best experience of my life so far and the experiences I have had while in Romania will stay with me for the rest of my life. “Visiting the orphanage was the highlight of the trip for me and what I saw and learnt there will prove to be invaluable when I go to university to study childcare next year. “The conditions that the children live in out there really make you appreciate the life we have in the UK and it was so rewarding that we were able to make a contribution by purchasing Racco for the orphanage.” This is the second year that the college has been invited by the Caminul Felix charity to help out at its two family villages for abandoned and neglected children at Oradea. While on the visit, the students also had the opportunity to visit the Universitatea Din Oradea to experience how students studying similar courses to themselves are taught in Romania. Angela McLean, the college’s Head of Health and Wellbeing, said: “The idea behind the international visits is to improve our students’ employability skills and help them to become more rounded individuals by taking them away from the environments they now take for granted. “During our experience in Romania, we saw our students bond with each other and Romanian people. Their time there was full of laughter, joy and tears.” Early Years lecturer Irene Walker said: “We all experienced a complete change of culture and lifestyle. Students grew in maturity quickly and brought back new skills and experiences that will stay with them for ever.” The students now hope to pass on some of the lessons and experiences from their Romanian visit to children at nurseries and schools in the area. And planning is already underway for next year’s visit, with the team actively seeking local businesses and organisations to provide sponsorship. Staff and students at the college would like to thank the Sir William Turner Trust Foundation, Aimhigher North East, Arriva North East, Hollywood Bowl, the Saltburn Rotary Club and Morrison’s Redcar, who gave students the opportunity to bag-pack to raise funds for the visit. More photos from the student's trip can be found here.  Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:01:08 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/moving-experience-for-redcar-studentsCarpentry students produce model of Victorian pier/news/carpentry-students-produce-model-of-victorian-pierProud carpentry and joinery students have seen their handiwork go on public display after reproducing a scaled model of Saltburn pier. The replica of the Victorian landmark has been built from recycled materials by the craft students at Redcar & Cleveland College. Jackie Taylor, chairwoman of Saltburn in Bloom, asked the college to help out after the first model of the pier, produced in 2000 to commemorate the refurbishment of the real thing, fell into disrepair. The college took away the old model and has spent weeks working on a new version, which is exactly the same as the historic pier, right down to the dark red Tudor cladding. “The college produced the original model for us in 2000, which was fantastic, but, of course, it was made of wood, and it suffered some vandalism, so it was in need of repairing,” said Jackie. “The college very kindly said it would make us a whole new model, and we were extremely grateful. We knew it would be just as brilliant as the first one. “It is used as part of our floral display on Marske Road for Saltburn in Bloom, and we are very proud of it.” Carpentry student Jamie King, 16, from Dormanstown, Redcar, said: “We have all really enjoyed making the model, and it has involved us in things we wouldn’t normally do, such as drilling through steelwork. It’s been a lot of fun and it’s great to see it on display.” Lecturer Alan Hodgson said the project also demonstrated to students how old materials could be used again for new projects. He said he was very proud to see it on display in Saltburn. “It has been hard work, but enjoyable, and the students have got a lot out of it,” he said. “It’s involved them working with the community, which is nice. We were very happy to help.”  Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:31:11 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/carpentry-students-produce-model-of-victorian-pierStudents have designs on a bright future/news/students-have-designs-on-a-bright-futureCrafty and creative individuals from a Tees Valley college have been painting the town red by showing off their work to family and friends. The talented students from Redcar & Cleveland College’s BTEC National Diploma Art & Design course showcased their work at a special exhibition for parents, staff and local people held at the college last week.  The first and second year students exhibited digital work, drawings, painting, ceramics and textiles that they have produced over the course of the last year. Having attained excellent results, many of them are now going on to further study within the field at higher and university levels. Rachel Holmes, 17 from Eston is planning to go on and study graphic design at the University of Teesside. She said: “The art and design course here at the college has been excellent. There is a really good mix of students and the tutors are very easy to get on with and talk to. I would really recommend the college and the course to anyone who is looking to study art and design. “My personal favourite pieces from show are the picture of Golden Gate Bridge made from glue and water and the dress I designed, which was inspired by the 80s mixed with the elegance of salsa – I wanted it to swish!” 18-year old Rebecca Dickinson, from Grangetown, is hoping to become a costume designer after securing a place on a costume-making course following completion of the course at Redcar. She said: “I have really enjoyed studying at Redcar & Cleveland College and I have even been to visit schools in the area to talk about the course and the great facilities that the college has to offer. “I think my best pieces of work are a dress that I created, which was inspired by the classic tragedy Romeo and Juliet – with a 60s twist!” Students from the course go on to work in a wide range of careers, and not all of them would be what you might expect from an art and design qualification. Declan Hill, 18 from Skelton, is very much looking forward to studying to become an architect, after applying to universities in Sheffield and Newcastle. He says: “I would happily recommend the course and the college to any students. The quality of the course and the support of the tutors will help me to achieve a career in architecture.” Colin Cook, BTEC National Diploma Art & Design course leader at the college said: “Since we move into the college’s new purpose-built building last September the Art & Design courses have gone from strength to strength. The new facilities are allowing us to fulfil the creative potential that our students have and mean that we have been able to significantly improve and expand the curriculum. “The work on show from the students demonstrates what can be achieved with a little application and the fact that many of them are now going on to study further, more advanced, art and design related courses speaks volumes for the hard work they have put in over the last year.” View more photos from the event here. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:18:21 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-have-designs-on-a-bright-futureCollege lecturer becomes world skills expert in plastering/news/college-lecturer-becomes-world-skills-expert-in-plasterLecturer Peter Moore is going global after being appointed as a World Skills expert in plastering and drywall systems. The Redcar & Cleveland College tutor has been appointed to the role of UK Training Manager in plastering and drywall systems for UK Skills. The role involves taking selected young trades people and training them to international standards in order to participate in the World Skills competition in London 2011. The next competition is taking place in Calgary, Canada, in September, where Peter will be one of the experts for the plastering final, where the winner will be chosen from the 40 competing countries.  Peter, who worked in the plastering industry for 25 years before becoming a college tutor, said he was thrilled to have been selected for UK Skills. However, his appointment was made even sweeter when Redcar & Cleveland College was selected as one of UK Skills’ training centres, where nationally- selected competitors are trained by specialist training managers in order to make the British team for Calgary. He said: “I was absolutely thrilled to be given the role of Training Manager, and from that I will be involved in the World Skills competition in Canada. “I’m really looking forward to going to Calgary to see what other countries are doing in terms of plastering and dry wall systems, because not every country does traditional wet plastering, like us. “It will give me an opportunity to talk to other experts in the field, and hopefully bring some useful things back that we can include in UK competitions.” Peter said it was great to have the week-long UK Skills training workshop at Redcar & Cleveland College in the spring, just after his appointment.  “I am so proud that the college has been named as a training centre for UK Skills, which confirms our position as a leader in this field, and recognises the excellent facilities and equipment we have to offer,” he added.  UK Skills recently visited the college to prepare for their visit to the World Skills Competition in Calgary, Canada. Find out what they thought of the college's facilities and staff in the video below.       Wed, 10 Jun 2009 16:13:23 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-lecturer-becomes-world-skills-expert-in-plasterStudents raise Cash for Kids at charity event/news/students-raise-cash-for-kids-at-charity-eventChildren in difficult circumstances across the North East will benefit from the hard work of a group of students who have raised money to help them. Students from Redcar & Cleveland College joined forces with local businesses recently to stage a charity fashion show in aid of the Cash for Kids charity. From the stage, which was constructed by students from the college’s Built Environment faculty, through to the finishing touches for models which were done by students studying hair and beauty courses, students from all curriculum areas were involved in staging the show which took place in the atrium of the new £28m campus. Local businesses showcased their latest collections alongside the creations of students studying art & design and graphics at the college. Over £200 was raised on the night, which will be donated directly to the Cash For Kids charity which supports local children of Tees Valley, North Yorkshire & County Durham who are either sick or under-privileged.  College Principal Gary Groom, said:   “The evening was a fantastic showcase of talents from all the staff and students involved who gave up their own time to arrange and put on the fashion show. “Our thanks also go to the local businesses from Redcar and across the Tees Valley who helped us to put on what was a very entertaining evening. “We’re delighted that such a significant amount of money has been raised and that it will go to such an worthy cause.”Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:40:53 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-raise-cash-for-kids-at-charity-eventStudent flying high in charity fundraiser/news/student-flying-high-in-charity-fundraiser-1 A student from a Tees Valley college made one giant leap on Sunday (19th April) to raise money to fight against and care for those suffering from cancer. Hannah Calvert, aged 23 and a student at Redcar & Cleveland College, jumped from a plane at over 10,000 feet above the north east countryside as part of a fundraising drive for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Hannah, who is studying an Access to Health course at Redcar & Cleveland College, found out about the work of the Marie Curie charity through her studies and decided that she wanted to do something personally to raise awareness about it in her hometown. She was spurred on in her endeavours by her friends, family and work colleagues who worked tirelessly to help her fundraise in preparation for the day. She is going on to begin a course in Nursing at Northumbria University next March and one of the career routes she is considering is becoming a Marie Curie nurse. Speaking about the event, Hannah said: “I wanted to do something a bit different from the usual kinds of fundraising activities you see and when I found out about the opportunity to skydive it seemed the perfect way to raise money and awareness. “The Marie Curie charity does such fantastic work not only in caring for those who are suffering from cancer, but also in working towards finding improved methods of treatment for it and hopefully one day even a cure. “If I’m honest I’m a little scared of heights, but the support that I’ve had from my family, friends, tutors and local businesses has been amazing and it was a fantastic experience which I’d love to repeat.” So far Hannah has raised over £1000, but is hoping that this figure will increase significantly as people can still donate to her appeal. Amongst those who have already donated are: ·      Staff and management from Consteel, Saltburn ·      Customers, managment and staff from The Fox & Hounds, Slapewath ·      Staff and customers from Steve Windross Buchers ·      Staff from Stoneacre, Durham  Anyone wishing to sponsor her in her efforts can do so by calling into Redcar & Cleveland College and completing the sponsor form at reception. Tue, 21 Apr 2009 06:57:02 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/student-flying-high-in-charity-fundraiser-1Student flying high in charity fundraiser/news/student-flying-high-in-charity-fundraiserA student from a Tees Valley college made one giant leap on Sunday (19th April) to raise money to fight against and care for those suffering from cancer. Hannah Calvert, aged 23 and a student at Redcar & Cleveland College, jumped from a plane at over 10,000 feet above the north east countryside as part of a fundraising drive for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Hannah, who is studying an Access to Health course at Redcar & Cleveland College, found out about the work of the Marie Curie charity through her studies and decided that she wanted to do something personally to raise awareness about it in her hometown. She was spurred on in her endeavours by her friends, family and work colleagues who worked tirelessly to help her fundraise in preparation for the day. She is going on to begin a course in Nursing at Northumbria University next March and one of the career routes she is considering is becoming a Marie Curie nurse. Speaking about the event, Hannah said: “I wanted to do something a bit different from the usual kinds of fundraising activities you see and when I found out about the opportunity to skydive it seemed the perfect way to raise money and awareness. “The Marie Curie charity does such fantastic work not only in caring for those who are suffering from cancer, but also in working towards finding improved methods of treatment for it and hopefully one day even a cure. “If I’m honest I’m a little scared of heights, but the support that I’ve had from my family, friends, tutors and local businesses has been amazing and it was a fantastic experience which I’d love to repeat.” So far Hannah has raised over £1000, but is hoping that this figure will increase significantly as people can still donate to her appeal. Amongst those who have already donated are: Staff and management from Consteel, Saltburn Customers, managment and staff from The Fox & Hounds, Slapewath Staff and customers from Steve Windross Buchers Staff from Stoneacre, Durham Anyone wishing to sponsor her in her efforts can do so by calling into Redcar & Cleveland College and completing the sponsor form at reception.Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:52:31 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/student-flying-high-in-charity-fundraiserStudents get into Christmas spirit with festive fundraiser/news/students-get-into-christmas-spirit-with-festive-fundraiA group of Redcar & Cleveland College students have spread some Christmas cheer this week by raising money for a charity that helps children with developmental difficulties.   Nicola Smith and Rachel Cush, both aged 16, are studying hairdressing at the college. They were inspired to raise cash for the Brainwave charity when they read about the work that it does with children who suffer from a range of disorders ranging from Cerebral Palsy to Autism.   They enlisted the support of students across the college to collect cash from their fellow students and staff, raising a grand total of over £100.   Nichola, who along with Rachel, got dressed up in festive outfits for the day said:   “It’s important to remember that there are people out there less fortunate than ourselves and we wanted to do something to put a smile on their faces this Christmas."  Tue, 23 Dec 2008 13:38:34 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-get-into-christmas-spirit-with-festive-fundraiStudents 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-competitionKids visit Santa down ironstone mine/news/kids-visit-santa-down-ironstone-mineSanta swapped the cold of Lapland for the East Cleveland hills yesterday (15th December) when he made a trip to depths of Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum for a special festive event.   Children from Handale Primary School in Loftus paid a visit to a specially created grotto 20 metres from the drift entrance, where Father Christmas was waiting to hear what they had on their Christmas lists ahead of the big day.   As well as getting to meet the man himself, the children also took part in a special festive storytelling session with Redcar & Cleveland College’s Community Animateurs who regaled kids with tales of Christmas past.   The session was part of a weekend of activities organised by Redcar & Cleveland College and the Big Lottery Fund at the museum which saw over 200 children take part in a range of activities.   Michael Kinder, External Projects Coordinator at Redcar & Cleveland College, helped to organise the event. He said:   “The session today was great fun for all involved and as well as getting to meet Santa, the kids also got the opportunity to learn some valuable lessons about the history of Christmas through the sessions that were held with the Community Animateurs.   “Redcar & Cleveland College places great importance in getting involved with events taking place in our local community. Our Community Animateurs will be working hard in East Cleveland’s libraries and community centres during the run up to Christmas and in the new year.”Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:09:27 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/kids-visit-santa-down-ironstone-mineStudents 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-businessPublic invited to remember fallen heroes/news/public-invited-to-remember-fallen-heroesVeterans, former students and members of the public are being invited to attend the annual Remembrance Day Service at Redcar & Cleveland College next Friday (7th November).   Details of the service are as follows:   Date:          Friday 7th November Time:         10.20am – 11.40am   (Refreshments will be served after the ceremony in the college atrium)   Location:    Redcar & Cleveland College, Corporation Road, Redcar   The service is a tradition maintained by the college dating back to the days of Sir William Turner’s school in the early 20th century and this year’s ceremony will see the re-dedication of the war memorial in its new home on the corner of Corporation Road and Locke Road.   The ceremony will be attended by current staff and students of the college, along with the Bishop of Whitby, the Right Reverend Robert Ladds, who will carry out the re-dedication of the memorial. An Honour Guard from the Royal British Legion will also lead a march past of the memorial.   Peter Chester of Redcar and Cleveland College, who is a member of the Sir William Turner Trust and who is leading the organisation of this year’s ceremony, said:   “Anyone who feels that they would like to come and show their respects is welcome to come and attend the ceremony.   “Whilst the college has moved to its fantastic new home for the future, it is vitally important that we do not forget the past sacrifices that have been made by many young men from Redcar and across the country, who have sacrificed their lives in order that we can be here today.”   Anyone who wishes to attend the service should contact Peter Chester at Redcar & Cleveland College on 01642 473132 or email pchester@cleveland.ac.uk  Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:33:44 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/public-invited-to-remember-fallen-heroesCollege gets ‘In The Pink’ to raise charity cash/news/college-gets-in-the-pink-to-raise-charity-cashStudents and staff at Redcar & Cleveland College were in the pink today (Wednesday 22 October) after baking a giant cake to raise money for breast cancer research.   In the run up to Breast Cancer Awareness Day next week the college has been holding a variety of activities to raise awareness of breast cancer and to raise money towards research – the culmination of which was the production of a giant pink cake almost 20 metres long.   The cake was baked by staff from the college’s catering contractor Aramark who sponsored the event by providing the ingredients free of charge. Over 40 kilos of flour and 140 eggs were used to make the 44 sponges – representing the 44,000 people who are diagnosed with breast cancer every year.   Students from the college’s art and design courses then added the finishing touches by icing individual designs onto the cake.   Francois Erasmus, who works for Aramark as the college’s catering manager oversaw the whole process. He said:   “The staff and students have worked really hard to produce the cake which we’re now going to sell to raise money for breast cancer research. The college’s kitchens have been a hive of activity getting all of this prepared, but it has been well worth it looking at the finished result.”   Chelsie Beard, aged 17, is an Art and Design student at the college. She iced a design of pink hearts onto her section of the cake. She said:   “Icing the cake has been really fun and it’s good to know that the money we raise from selling it is going to a really good cause. We’ve had lots of people coming over and looking at the cake all morning and I’m really looking forward to trying a slice myself!”  Wed, 22 Oct 2008 18:00:43 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-gets-in-the-pink-to-raise-charity-cashChance to see behind the scenes at new college/news/chance-to-see-behind-the-scenes-at-new-collegeProspective students will get a chance to see behind the scenes at Redcar & Cleveland College new £26m campus when doors are opened next week for an open evening.  Details are as follows:   Date:              Wednesday 22nd October Time:             16:30 – 18:30 Location:      Redcar & Cleveland College, Corporation Road, Redcar   The open evening is a chance for anyone thinking of developing their skills to come along and find out first hand how the range of courses on offer at the college can give a boost to their confidence and improve their employability prospects.   Visitors will get the chance to try out course taster sessions and take a tour of the new campus and careers advisors and lecturers will be on hand to offer advice on opportunities and career progression.   The college will also be launching its 2009/2010 Full Time prospectus, giving anyone thinking of studying a full time course at the college comprehensive details of what is on offer.   Gary Groom, Principal Redcar & Cleveland College, said:   “We’re looking forward to welcoming prospective students to our fantastic new home and showing them how the new learning environment and courses at Redcar & Cleveland College can give them a real edge when it comes to improving skills and gaining employment.”Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:04:56 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/chance-to-see-behind-the-scenes-at-new-collegeStory-telling comes alive through Animateurs/news/corporate/corporate-news-articleStory-telling using toys, instruments and props by trained Community Animateurs from Redcar & Cleveland College will take in everything from Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum to Whitby Abbey in the coming weeks. Working with the Redcar & Cleveland Borough Library Service, and the council, the College’s team of three animateurs will enthral children and their parents. Different sessions from Rhyme Time to Holiday Fun for audiences including under-fives, seven plus and children up to 12 years in age will feature in August.   Special events include taking part on 6-7th September in the 150th anniversary celebrations of Cleveland ironstone mining at the museum. The animateurs will be entertaining adults and children on the 1949 United single decker bus coming to the museum.   Michael Kinder, who is the Big Lottery Fund co-ordinator at Redcar & Cleveland College said, “The Big Lottery sponsorship of the community animateurs means that more and more children and their parents are learning that reading is fantastic fun. “The animateurs working their magic on the weekend of the 6/7 will dazzle the passengers with their tales of ‘Tommy the Trappy Lad’, ‘The Skinningrove Merman’ and ‘Sarkless Kitty’.   “A special animateur event has also been planned for 23 August at Redcar Central Library which involves the talented local harpist Sarah Paterson performing harp story telling sessions at 10.00am and 11.15am. This is a truly magical experience for children and their parents.”   Information on the library sessions is available at the following libraries: Brotton, Ormesby, Saltburn, Laburnum, Roseberry, South Bank, Guisborough, Grangetown, Dormanstown and Redcar.   At all the events, details on Redcar & Cleveland College courses will be available and parents will be able to pick up a £5 book token at the new college when they enquire about courses.   Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Sheelagh Clarke said: “Being able to show some of our heritage through the animations is a wonderful way to educate children and their families. These are fantastic events and really give everyone something to enjoy.”    Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:58:35 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/corporate/corporate-news-articleStudents go with the flow in boat race/news/students-go-with-the-flow-in-boat-raceStudents with a special interest in health and social care put their backs into supporting the recent bell boat race at Stockton Riverside, raising money for the Daisy Chain autism and special needs care project.   Three teams of students aged from 16–19 years old from the BTEC National Diploma Health and Social Care at Redcar & Cleveland College took part and raised around £1100.   Nichola Garside, lecturer in Health and Social Care at the College said, “The teams had been practicing hard for the event and from their faces and the effort they put in I know they were very keen to support Daisy Chain. My students have been working with the Daisy Chain project to gain an understanding of how services and support for families are delivered. This part of their course and boat race has also helped them to understand how charities are funded.”   Liam Bailey, student on the Health and Social Care course said, “We’ve been doing as much as possible to back the charity and its aim of supporting families who have children with autism and special needs. Getting stuck into the boat race challenge on the River Tees was loads of fun and we got to meet others with similar aims of helping children and families develop and get the most from life.”Mon, 07 Jul 2008 13:50:06 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-go-with-the-flow-in-boat-raceRomanian experience brings laughter and tears for Redcar students/news/press-release-july-2008Students and staff from Redcar & Cleveland College have been on a life-changing learning experience to childcare projects in Romania.   The 22 Students and four staff from the BTEC National Diploma in Early Years and the Children’s Care, Learning and Development courses at Redcar & Cleveland College spent six days in Oradea in western Romania.   Invited by the Caminul Felix charity to help out at their two family villages for abandoned and neglected children at Oradea, the students had the opportunity to put their child development knowledge and care skills into practice in challenging environments. The group worked with local gypsy families and their children, who have limited access to support and education, to promote child development.   Angela McLean, Head of the Health and Wellbeing Division at Redcar & Cleveland College explained more, “The idea behind the international visits is to improve our students’ employability skills, and help them to become more rounded individuals by bringing them away from the environments they take for granted. During our experience in Romania we saw our students bond with each other and Romanian people. Their time there was full of laughter, joy and tears.”   Irene Walker, Lecturer in Early Years said, “We all experienced a complete change of culture and lifestyle, students grew in maturity quickly and brought back new skills and experiences that will stay with them for ever.”   Emma Stephenson, Lecturer in Early Years said, “The trip widened students life experiences giving them the opportunity to travel abroad for the first time.”   Claire Barwick, Lecturer in Health and Social Care said, “The trip was an emotional, life-changing experience for the students.”   The students hope to pass on some of the lessons and experiences from their Romanian visit to children at nurseries and schools in the area. Their plan is to talk to children about what they did in Romania, and future visits, through photo diaries using teddy bears purchased for them by the College from the Daisy Chain Special Needs Charity in Norton.   The visit to Romania ties into the College’s plans to extend links to other learning centres and projects around the world that will expand and enrich the learning experience for students and staff.   Future visits are currently being explored for the childcare and health students at Redcar & Cleveland College that include China, Poland and Argentina. Fundraising activities will support these events. The team would value any sponsorship or donations to support these exciting and valuable events for students.   The Staff and students at the College would like to thank the following for their sponsorship of the visit to Romania: Sir William Turner Trust, Aimhigher North East, Rowley’s Tyres Middlesbrough; the Freemasons: Saltscar Lodge and Redcar Mark Lodge; Corus (Redcar and Scunthorpe) who provided goody bags for the Romanian children; and Tesco, Morrison and Asda who all gave students the opportunity to bag pack to raise funds for their visit to Romania.   The students organised events such as tombolas, raffles and sports activities on the beach at Redcar to raise additional funds to finance their trip.  Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:13:52 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/press-release-july-2008Horse sense students give money to Saltburn animal charity/news/horse-sense-students-give-money-to-saltburn-animal-charStudents from Redcar & Cleveland College’s Horse Management Diploma course have raised £150 to support the work of Saltburn Animal Rescue Association (SARA). Handing over the fundraising cheque at Eston Equestrian Centre, where the College teaches the students advanced skills in horse management, student Sam Gray said, “We have been raising money by doing gymkhanas and dressage events and wanted to help support SARA in some way. As part of our course we learn a lot about animal welfare and wanted to give something back to a local charity that works closely with animals.” The Horse Management course leader at the College, Maria Parker, was impressed by the student’s initiative and determination to make the gesture to SARA and said, “The students did all the fund raising themselves and they deserve a big thank you, although I am slightly biased towards SARA having found the best dog and great companion in Harry there. The course teaches students how to care for horses and helps them to understand and respect the need for animal welfare as well as learning about aspects of business management, different breeds and animal science.” SARA was founded in 1995 by local animal lovers in the Saltburn area and since that time has earned charity status and rescued over 2000 cats and dogs in the area.Sun, 01 Jun 2008 13:48:32 +0100http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/horse-sense-students-give-money-to-saltburn-animal-char

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