Under 16s http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/under-16-sCollege 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 course helps to engineer career choice for shining star Mellisa/news/college-course-helps-to-engineer-career-choice-for-shin Taking part in an innovative partnership between local secondary schools and a further education college has resulted in an unexpected career choice for a young student. Mellisa Haigh, aged 15 from Marske took part in the Curriculum Enhancement Programme at Redcar & Cleveland College where she studied for one day a week towards a Level 2 Diploma in Engineering alongside her GCSE studies. Her time at the college has led her to decide to take up a career in engineering and she has now enrolled on an engineering apprenticeship starting in September. Talking about her time on the curriculum enhancement programme Mellisa, who is a student at Bydales School, said: “Coming into college for one day a week and getting hands on experience of a subject has been a real help to me in deciding what I want to do as a career. “The course was really varied and has given me experience of lots of different aspects of engineering. It’s motivated me to look to go on to further studies and I’m eventually hoping to studying a qualification in engineering at Higher level.” Mellisa’s achievements during her time at Redcar & Cleveland College were recognised when she was awarded the title of Best Overall Student on the Higher Diploma in Engineering course at the college’s annual Shine Awards. Jeff Marsay, Mellisa’s tutor at Redcar & Cleveland College, said of Mellisa’s win: “Mellisa has worked hard throughout her time with the college and has developed a real interest in engineering over the course of the two years she has been with us. “She has coped with the intense work required for the course with minimal supervision from her tutors and has constantly delivered outstanding work. “We’re delighted that she has decided to take up a career in engineering and wish her every success in the future.” On her award win, Mellisa said: “To win the award has been a massive surprise and it’s a real boost for me ahead of starting my apprenticeship in September.” Principal of Redcar & Cleveland, Gary Groom, said of the winners: “We’re delighted to be recognising the achievements of all of the young people who have taken part in our Curriculum Enhancement Programme over the last year. “All of our winners tonight have shown real commitment and enthusiasm during their studies with the college and I’m sure that they will all go on to achieve great things in their future careers.” View and download photos from the awards ceremony.  Other winners and nominees on the night were: YAP Engineering NVQ Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations – Best Overall Student   Winner:    Charlie Brighton (Sacred Heart School)   Nominees:    Sean Dolan (Sacred Heart School) Tom Hill (Redcar Community College) Ryan Lund (Redcar Community College) Josh Thompson (Laurence Jackson School)   Foundation Diploma in Engineering – Best Overall Student   Winner:   Nathan Hall (Freebrough Academy)   Nominee:   Aidan Hicks (Freebrough Academy)   Higher Diploma in Engineering    Winner:   Mellisa Haigh (Bydales School)   Nominees:   Liam Ashurst (Freebrough Academy) Mark Harrison (Freebrough Academy)   Level 1 Certificate in Salon Services, Hairdressing- Best Overall Student   Winner:   Stephanie King (Laurence Jackson School)   Nominees:   Sophie Coonan (Laurence Jackson School) Megan Mason (Laurence Jackson School)     Jade Williams (Laurence Jackson School) Tara Jane Lance (Redcar Community College) Rebecca Place (Redcar Community College) Daniel Weatherson  (Redcar Community College)   Level 1 Certificate in Salon Services, Beauty- Best Overall Student   Winner:   Jenna Robson (Bydales School)   Nominees:   Jess Geldart (Bydales) Shannon Payne (Redcar Community College) Sammie Robinson (Laurence Jackson) Gemma Ward (Laurence Jackson)   Foundation Diploma in Hair and Beauty Studies- Best Overall Student   Winner:   Bethany Atherton (St Peters Catholic College of Maths and Computing)   Nominees:   Megan Bernascone (St Peters) Domenique Mondahl (St Peters)   Higher Diploma in Hair and Beauty Studies- Best Overall Student   Winner:   Megan Harris (St Peters)   Nominees:   Laura Beth Dawkins (Sacred Heart School) Laura Hodds (St Peters)   Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction, Brickwork- Most Outstanding Student   Winner:    Graham Brimble (Rye Hills)   Nominees   David Hodgson (Laurence Jackson) Kea Larder (Laurence Jackson) Ryan Vincent (Laurence Jackson) Joe Miller (Rye Hills School)   Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction, Joinery- Most Outstanding Student   Winner   Gareth McGowen (Bydales)   Nominees   Thomas Lee (Bydales) Luke Ramsay (Bydales)   Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction, Painting and Decorating- Most Outstanding Student   Winner:   Ben Butho (Redcar Community College)   Nominees   Aaron Cox (Redcar CC) Kieran Lucas (Redcar CC) Lewis Woolbar (Redcar CC)   BTEC First Diploma in Construction- Most Improved Student   Winner:   Anna Wood (Laurence Jackson)   Nominee:   Joe Easton (Laurence Jackson)   BTEC First Diploma in Horsecare- Best Overall Student   Winner:   Danielle Bullock (Rye Hills)   Nominee:   Emma Stubbs (Rye Hills) Laura Krerowicz (Redcar CC) Millie Parker (Sacred Heart School)      Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:48:32 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-course-helps-to-engineer-career-choice-for-shinYou 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-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-studentsOpen 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-collCollege competition aims to find ‘next Sir Alan’/news/college-competition-aims-to-find-next-sir-alan Budding ‘Apprentices’ from a Tees Valley College have taken part in an innovative programme aimed at developing their entrepreneurial talents – and along the way some future occupants of positions at Sir Alan Sugar’s Boardroom table might have emerged. Over 200 students from Redcar & Cleveland College were taking part in the annual ‘‘Plunge’ programme, an innovative two-day event aimed at boosting their enterprise skills and improving their employability prospects. 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. After a gruelling series of meetings, presentations and grillings from the business experts, one team emerged as clear overall winners with their business brainwave of developing a waterproof gadget case. Students Jenna Everitt, Katie Cooper, Simone Wye and Rebecca Tye who made up team Brand New took home the prestigious Plunge trophy as well as the plaudits of the business experts who judged their group. Speaking about the win Jenna, said: “We really enjoyed taking part in the Plunge and to win the overall prize is just fantastic. Everyone worked really hard over the two days and the whole process has really opened my eyes to what you need to do to become a success in business. Katie, added: “Before we took part in the Plunge, I don’t think any of us really understood what was involved in starting a business and making it a success. “I think taking part in The Plunge will be really useful for me as I’ve learnt skills that will be really beneficial to me in my chosen career.” The girls of Brand New were one of six teams which won their group competitions, with the winners all receiving cash prizes. Amongst the business experts taking part in the event was David Copus from Motassist. He said: “Taking part in The Plunge has been an incredible experience. Over the course of the event I’ve seen real progress and achievement from the students who have taken part in the event who have shown bags of ideas and creativity. The commitment they have shown has been phenomenal.” Also acting as an expert was Ian Gowland from Big Blue Interior Design. He said: “It has been fantastic to see the confidence and enthusiasm in the young people who have taken part. I’ve seen a number of people over the two days who I wouldn’t hesitate to offer a job to.” The programme, which is entering its fifth year, took place within the colleges new £3.5m Higher Education Centre. It aims to give students a taste of what it is like to set up their own business along with all of all the associated business functions required. 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 an accredited qualification. Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College said: "We have delivered The Plunge programme within the college for the last 5 years and have consistently found that it equips our Level 3 students with a range of highly relevant skills that are more important than ever in the current economic environment. “Every Level 3 student at Redcar & Cleveland College experiences The Plunge 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.”  Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:35:47 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-competition-aims-to-find-next-sir-alanStars shine bright at awards ceremony/news/stars-shine-bright-at-awards-ceremony An array of awards were handed out to high achieving students last week (Thursday 29th April), as pupils on Redcar & Cleveland college’s Curriculum Enhancement Programme were recognised for their achievements. The annual awards focus on the 500+ Year 11 students from local schools in Redcar and Cleveland who have come into the college to study vocational and work-based courses over the last 12 months. The programme aims to open up new opportunities and pathways for learning for young people, alongside their traditional school studies and many of them have already enrolled for further studies at the college next academic year. Over 30 shortlisted students and their families attended the awards along with local VIPs and college governors, as well as tutors and staff from the college. Amongst the winners on the night was Sacred Heart School pupil Céline Ducatillon who scooped the award for Most Outstanding Student in the NVQ Level 1 Beauty Therapy category. Céline initially overcame a major communications barrier to triumph in her award section and went on to impress her tutors to such a degree that they didn’t hesitate to nominate her for an award. Talking about her award win, Céline said: “I’m so surprised to win this award – it’s not something I was expecting at all. “I have loved coming into the college as part of my school studies as it gives you a really good idea of what it would be like to come here full time. The extra trust and responsibility that staff place in you at college is something I have really enjoyed taking on." The award win is not the end of the story for Céline who is returning to the college in September to study Level 2 Beauty Therapy with the ultimate aim of becoming a fully qualified beauty therapist. “I can’t wait to come back to the college next year and continue with my learning!” she added. Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, Gary Groom, presented the winners with their awards and certificates on the night. He said: “We’re immensely proud of all our winners and nominated students tonight. They have really shown what is capable of being achieved with determination, enthusiasm and hard work. “Our work with local secondary schools through the Curriculum Enhancement Programme brings tremendous value and opportunities to the area by giving students the chance to get a taste of vocational based learning and study for practical qualifications that they can use to progress their careers in the future.” Schools involved in the scheme include Bydales School, Redcar; Freeborough Specialist Engineering College, Saltburn; Gillbrook College, Southbank; Redcar Community College, Redcar; Laurence Jackson School, Guisborough; St Peter’s Catholic College of Maths and Computing, South Bank; Sacred Heart RC School, Redcar; Huntcliff School, Saltburn; and Rye Hills School, Redcar. Other winners on the night were: Grace Lee from Bydales School in the NVQ Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations category Dominic Atkinson from Rye Hills School for the BTEC First Diploma in Media award Gemma Harbinson from Redcar Community College won the NVQ Level 1 Hairdressing award Samantha Symon from Rye Hills School was named Art and Design Best Overall Student Katie Pearson from Sacred Heart School in the BTEC First Diploma in Horsecare category David Bell from Rye Hills School won in the Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction Skills: Joinery award James Davidson from Laurence Jackson School in the Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction Skills: Brickwork Luke Seaman from St Peter’s Catholic School of Maths & Computing won the award for Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction Skills: Painting and Decorating – Most Outstanding Student You can see photos of all the winners on the evening on the college Flickr photostream here.Fri, 07 May 2010 13:14:12 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/stars-shine-bright-at-awards-ceremonyInterest high for new Diploma courses/news/interest-high-for-new-diploma-coursesNew Diploma courses for 14 to 19 year olds are proving to be a hit with students enrolling at Redcar & Cleveland College this Summer. Over fifty students have already taken up places on courses in Hair & Beauty, Construction & the Built Environment and Engineering offered by the college, with more expected to join them over the coming days. The Diploma is a new Government backed qualification that combines theoretical study with practical experience aimed at equipping young people for the fast changing world they are growing up in. The Diploma requires students to achieve a minimum standard in English, Maths and ICT, complete a project and undertake a minimum of ten days’ work experience, as well as study a principal subject area. They are offered at three levels; Foundation, Higher and Advanced – equivalent to Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 study respectively. The courses are being delivered in conjunction with local secondary schools and give 14 to 19 year olds the opportunity to study vocational qualifications alongside more traditional academic qualifications. Due to the popularity of the Diplomas, Redcar & Cleveland College is already looking to expand the range it offers by adding additional Diploma courses in areas such as Retail Business and Travel & Tourism. Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, Gary Groom, said of the new qualifications: “Further Education is all about offering a choice in how people learn and progress in their education. “These new Diplomas expand the range of opportunities for our students and establish new pathways for progression onto higher level courses which can only be a good thing.” Anyone wanting to find out more about the new Diploma courses, or other opportunities for learning available to them, can contact the college on 01642 473132.Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:49:10 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/interest-high-for-new-diploma-coursesOfsted 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-asStudents shine at awards ceremony/news/students-shine-at-awards-ceremony A group of Tees Valley teenagers have had their hard work and dedication recognised at a special ceremony. Redcar & Cleveland College’s annual Shine Awards took place last night (Thursday 7th May) where students from the college’s Curriculum Enhancement Programme, which creates vocational and work based learning opportunities for 14 to 16 year olds, were honoured.  The event brought together students, their families and education professionals to celebrate achievement and see how the Curriculum Enhancement Programme is working to open up new opportunities for young people in Redcar and the wider Tees Valley. Pupils from schools across Redcar and Cleveland, have been working with the college to give their 14 to 16 year old students the opportunity to come into the college and study for vocational qualifications as part of their progression through secondary education.  Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College, Gary Groom, presented the winners with their awards and certificates on the night. He said: “Congratulations to all of our winners and nominated students. They have shown tremendous commitment over the course of their time with us.  “Our work with local secondary schools through the Curriculum Enhancement Programme brings tremendous value and opportunities to the area by giving students the chance to get a taste of vocational based learning and study for practical qualifications that they can use to progress their careers in the future.” Schools involved in the scheme include Bydales School, Redcar; Freeborough Specialist Engineering College, Saltburn; Gillbrook College, Southbank; Redcar Community College, Redcar; Laurence Jackson School, Guisborough; St Peter’s Catholic College of Maths and Computing, South Bank; Sacred Heart RC School, Redcar; Huntcliff School, Saltburn; and Rye Hills School, Redcar. Hamish Joyce, Head Teacher of Rye Hills School, said of the Curriculum Enhancement Programme: “The students from Rye Hills School have produced some excellent work whilst studying for vocational qualifications at Redcar & Cleveland College.  “As well as this, they have gained some great experience of studying in an institution other than school.” Amongst the winners on the night were a group of students who have been studying on the CACHE Foundation Award in Caring for Children. Jade Wright, Tanya Foxton, Katie McCutcheon, Rebecca McEwan, Flair Steyert, Molly Stevens, and Demi Phillips, who go to Sacred Heart RC School, were recognised for the tremendous commitment and teamwork skills over the last two years whilst studying the on the programme. Talking about the course and her award win, Molly Stevens from the group said: “I was really shocked when they announced that we had won an award tonight as we thought we were just here to do a presentation for the audience about our course. “I really enjoy coming to the college. The way that we learn here allows you to be a lot more independent and individual, but the staff are still there to help you out when you need them.  “All of us from the group are planning to come back to the college next year full time to study further childcare courses. I’m really looking forward to it.”  Sandra O’Rourke, Head of the Education, Management and Wellbeing Faculty, said of the group:  “Throughout their studies the group have been willing to go the extra mile and as a result they have become involved in projects with the University of Teesside and with local community projects to encourage improved literacy through the use of Story Sacks. “Every student on the programme has demonstrated a strong work ethic and as a result all of them are predicted to receive Merits or Distinctions as their final grades.  “All of this was only achievable due to the peer support and the respect the students have shown towards each other during their studies.  They are a credit to their school and college.”  Other winners on the night were: ·      Ben Henderson from Bydales School in the GCSE Engineering category  ·      John Michael French from Gillbrook College on the BTEC Introductory Certificate in Engineering programme ·      Shaun Gell from Freeborough Specialist Engineering College for NVQ 2 Performing Engineering Operations ·      Morcel Azizi from St Peter’s Catholic College in the IT @ Work category ·      Sophie Dixon Bydales School for NVQ 1 Hairdressing ·      Jessica Dunkerley from Laurence Jackson School for NVQ 1 Beauty Therapy ·      Bethany Weedall Rye Hills School in the GCSE Art and Design category ·      Jade Wright from Gillbrook College won the individual award for CACHE Foundation Award in Caring for Children ·      Becky Turnbull from Huntcliff School in the 1st Diploma in Horsecare ·       Anthony Melville from Redcar Community College won in the Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction Skills: Plastering category ·      Jay Bowie from Sacred Heart School won the award for Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction Skills: Brickwork ·      Reece Howes from Gillbrook College won in the Introductory Certificate in Basic Construction Skills: Paining and Decorating category  Further pictures from the ceremony can be found here.  Fri, 08 May 2009 09:40:17 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/students-shine-at-awards-ceremonyCollege opens doors for prospective students/news/college-opens-doors-for-prospective-studentsRedcar & Cleveland College will be opening its doors next week (Wednesday 11th February) to give prospective students a chance to see the range of courses on offer at the college’s £28m new campus.   The open evening takes place between 4:30pm to 6:30pm and visitors will be treated to demonstrations and taster sessions from across the curriculum areas offered by the college.   The college is still enrolling for part-time courses starting this Spring and careers advisors will also be on hand to offer guidance for students about to take their GCSE exams about what options are available to them for courses starting in September.   College Principal Gary Groom said:   “The open evening is a great opportunity for anyone thinking of enrolling on a course at the college to come along and see what it’s all about.   Further information on the courses available at Redcar & Cleveland College can be found at www.cleveland.ac.uk or by calling 01642 473132.    Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:20:02 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-opens-doors-for-prospective-studentsStudents 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-mineChance 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 09:04:56 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/chance-to-see-behind-the-scenes-at-new-collegeEnrolment underway for Redcar & Cleveland College’s new campus/news/enrolment-underway-for-redcar-amp-cleveland-colleges-neStudents celebrating their GCSE results will be able join other learners from across the area and sign up on a range of vocational courses when enrolment gets underway at Redcar & Cleveland College tomorrow (21st August). The College throws open the doors of its £26 million new campus this September and to mark the occasion the College is offering some fantastic course fee reductions for local residents. Students will be able to choose from a wide range of courses across a range of subject areas including Hair, Beauty and Holistics, Engineering and Care – many of which can offer accelerated access to university degree courses through the Expressways programme Enrolment for students will take place in the current college on Corporation Road.   Enrolment is taking place on the following dates:   Thursday 21st August 9.00am – 5.00pm   Friday 22nd August 9.00am – 4.00pm   Tuesday 26th August  9.00am – 8.00pm   Wednesday 27th August 9.00am – 8.00pm   Thursday 28th August 9.00am – 8.00pm   Gary Groom, Principal of Redcar & Cleveland College said:   “We’re looking forward to opening the doors of the new campus on 15th September.   “The new facilities will allow us to build on our already excellent course offering and provide students with a learning environment where students can really excel in their chosen subject.”   “Anyone coming along to enrol will still be able to access the College using the signposted diversion routes, but if anyone is in any doubt they can contact the College for further information.”  Wed, 20 Aug 2008 08:41:20 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/enrolment-underway-for-redcar-amp-cleveland-colleges-neCollege designs bright future for creative students/news/college-designs-bright-future-for-creative-studentsRedcar & Cleveland College has showcased the latest crop of creative and artistic talent to come from its respected Art & Design course for the last time at its old campus. New students and those beginning their second year will move into the new £26 million college building early in September. The first and second year BTEC National Diploma Art & Design students exhibited digital work, drawings, painting, ceramics and Antonio Gaudi inspired panels that will take them a step closer to university places and jobs. The second year students will follow hot on the heels of previous college students who have gone on to achieve career success from the Art & Design course at Redcar & Cleveland College. These include Craig Pinder, who is now the graphic designer at Middlesbrough Football Club and Amy Wilde, whose talent is employed by the Hallmark greeting card company. Amy designed a highly successful national Christmas campaign for Hallmark in Asda stores last year. From the final year students Sarah Hall, a former pupil at Rye Hills School, will go on to a degree course in graphics at the University of Teesside, Stephanie Weeding, a former Redcar Community College pupil demonstrated the ability to become an accomplished fine artist and Catherine Chung exhibited her command of digital art skills. Colin Cook, BTEC National Diploma Art & Design course leader at the college said, ”We work closely with our partner school, Rye Hills, to encourage 14 and 15 year olds who are creative and artistic to come to college. As part of an applied GCSE course they work on the basics, including photography and use of digital imaging software and drawing the people and places that inspire them. “We find these young people have skills and a work ethic that can be channelled to grow creatively and combine with learning and advice that start to shape commercial and business skills. Craig Pinder’s passion for graphic design and his love of Middlesbrough Football Club is a great example of what they can achieve. To go on and get a dream job with his football club and to then design their new club badge is amazing. “When we move into the College’s new purpose-built building in September, the Art & Design courses will go from strength to strength. There will be excellent new facilities, including 18 new computers with the latest graphic cards and software to offer the best creative and practical learning platforms, plus a significant investment in items like a band saw and mitre-forming equipment for work with plastics and wood.”  Mon, 16 Jun 2008 08:35:40 +0000http://www.cleveland.ac.uk/news/college-designs-bright-future-for-creative-students

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