A new nameand a new look

Stud

ent H

andb

ook

2014

-15

For students enrolled on coursesvalidated by Coventry University

Nic Kirkham, BSc Horticulturestudent, celebrating the success of theDiamond Inspiration garden design.

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2014/15

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The garden – Diamond Inspiration - was designed by Nic Kirkham, a second year BSc Horticulture student, to celebrate 60 years of the college.

Nic, 25, from Stokenchurch, said: “I was so chuffed to have won the gold medal but to win Best in Show is fantastic. I thought we deserved it as we put so much effort in and I’m really proud of the garden and how it has turned out. It was also a real honour to show Princess Anne around the garden.

“We spoke to a lot of past students who gave us a real insight into the history of

Pershore College and the significance that it has had on the horticulture industry. Wherever we go people know about Pershore and its students that have made a huge impact on the horticulture industry worldwide.

Tamsin Jones, Acting Principal of Pershore College added: “What a fantastic achievement for all our talented students and staff – I am so proud of them and all the hard work they have put in, it has been a real team effort.”

MEDAL RUSHWarwickshire College Group students have been picking up medals andawards at local, regional and national competitions.

GOLD MEDAL AND BESTIN SHOW FOR PERSHORE

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS

Welcome to STREAMand the new look forWarwickshire CollegeGroup. Find out more on p5.

The garden – Diamond Inspiration - was designed by Nic Kirkham, a second year BSc Horticulture student, to celebrate 60 years of the college.

Nic, 25, from Stokenchurch, said: “I was so chuffed to have won the gold medal but to win Best in Show is fantastic. I thought we deserved it as we put so much effort in and I’m

really proud of the garden and how it has turned out. It was also a real honour to show Princess Anne around the garden.

“We spoke to a lot of past students who gave us a real insight into the history of Pershore College and the significance that it has had on the horticulture industry. Wherever we go people know about Pershore and

its students that have made a huge impact on the horticulture industry worldwide.

Tamsin Jones, Acting Principal of Pershore College said: “What a fantastic achievement for all our talented students and staff – I am so proud of them and all the hard work they have put in, it has been a real team effort.

GOLD MEDAL AND BEST IN SHOW FOR PERSHOREPershore College was awarded a Gold Medal and Best in Show at the prestigious RHS Malvern Spring Festival for a trade stand and show garden created by students and staff. HRH The Princess Royal also visited the garden to give it the royal seal of approval.

LIKE OURNEW LOOK?Find out more about the Warwickshire College Group update on page 5.

STREAM

Pershore College was awarded a Gold Medal and Best in Show at the prestigious RHS Malvern Spring Festival for a trade stand and show garden created by students and staff. HRH The Princess Royal also visited the garden to give it the royal seal of approval.

S- Student success- WCG Update- New look Leamington- Zara Phillips visit- Students mean business- A-level record-breakers

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

Jan, 27, from Birmingham was recognised for his outstanding work towards his Level 3 Furniture Design and Making at Royal Leamington Spa College. City & Guilds Group has awarded Medals for Excellence for over 100 years to celebrate exceptional talent amongst both individuals and tutors. This year just 101 medals were awarded. Jan is now studying for a degree at Rycotewood Furniture Centre in Oxfordshire. During his time at the

college, he also designed a spectacular 10 metre “squid bench” for Coombe Country Park near Coventry, and won the college’s Andrew Varah Award for the outstanding furniture-making student. Speaking about his success, Jan said: “It’s really fantastic to be presented with this Medal for Excellence – a real honour. I can’t imagine doing the degree course I am now, without the experience and support I had at college.”

Furniture crafts student Jan Waterston has been awarded a Medal for Excellence from the City & Guilds Group in recognition of his exceptional talents.

Warwickshire College Group news Warwickshire College Group news

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

JAN WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Seven Level 4 Floristry students, supported by tutors Jane Benefield and Tina Aram, created a display on a carnival theme as part of the RHS Floristry College of the Year competition.

The students had to create five floral pieces – a mask, arrangement, wired bouquet, wall hanging and a planted arrangement - and inspiration ranged from the 18th Century Goose Fairs to travelling shows.

Tutor Jane Benefield said, “I am so proud of all the students – they created an outstanding display and put in so many hours of hard work in college and at home.

“The judges gave us really good feedback, saying the display showed amazing floristry work so to achieve a silver medal is fantastic recognition for our students.”

Floristry students from Moreton Morrell College have showcased their talent at the prestigious RHS Tatton Park Show and won a coveted Silver Medal.

FLORISTRY STUDENTSWIN SILVER MEDAL

STUDENT SUCCESS

Rugby College student Max Thompson is officially the best at bricklaying in the West Midlands after winning the regional Guild of Bricklayers junior competition.

MAX BEATSTHE REST ATBRICKLAYING

Joe Dolman, a recent graduate of the Music Performance course at Royal Leamington Spa College, will be rubbing shoulders with pop and rock royalty such as Blondie and Paloma Faith when he performs at Radio 2’s Live in Hyde Park.

Joe is one of only six new acts chosen to appear on the BBC Introducing stage.

HYDE PARKGIG FOR JOE

STUDENT SUCCESS

NATIONAL WIN FOR KATE

Motor vehicle students at Warwick Trident College saw their bio-diesel car win at the Alternative Energy event at Santa Pod Raceway. Alternative Energy Racing is run to promote the development being made in vehicles using non–fossil fuels and the college took along a car which has been adapted to use alternative fuels. The car covered the quarter-mile course in 16.66 seconds at a speed of 72.30mph.

VEGETABLEOIL-POWEREDCAR WINS

AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS

Max, 18, from Hillmorton, is currently studying for his Level 2 Brickwork at college and is an apprentice at NH Construction in Rugby. He beat off competitors from other West Midlands colleges to lift the trophy at the competition, which took place at Walsall College. For winning the competition, Max received a trophy and shield, as well as equipment. He said, “There were around 20 competitors taking part so I was really shocked when I found out I had won, but obviously it felt great. Everyone’s really proud of me, and my employer has even hinted I might get a pay rise! I would really like to return and compete in the senior competition next year.”

Mick Clarke, Max’s course tutor said, “Working under pressure in the competition environment can be really tough, but Max obviously coped extremely well. Everyone at the college is really proud of his efforts in this prestigious competition.”

The competition celebrates the excellence of fitness instructors and personal trainers educated by training providers across the UK.

Mum of three Kate, 37, from Southam competed in the final after winning the West Midlands regional heat. She has just completed the Level 2 Fitness Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer Diploma.

She said, “I’d been a stay-at-home mum looking after my three children, but when my youngest started school last September I wanted to get back into the workplace. Previously I’d worked in insurance, but didn’t want another office job. I’d always enjoyed running and competed in a few races, and enjoyed teaching which

I’d done through Riding for the Disabled, so thought personal training would be a good move, and something which I could fit around my family life.

“I was absolutely gobsmacked when I found out I had won – it was so tense waiting to hear the results but when I heard my name called I couldn’t believe it!”

Henley-in-Arden College fitness student Kate Ingles is celebrating after winning the national CYQ Gym Instructor Competition at St George’s Park, the new FA National Football Centre.

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

Jan, 27, from Birmingham was recognised for his outstanding work towards his Level 3 Furniture Design and Making at Royal Leamington Spa College. City & Guilds Group has awarded Medals for Excellence for over 100 years to celebrate exceptional talent amongst both individuals and tutors. This year just 101 medals were awarded. Jan is now studying for a degree at Rycotewood Furniture Centre in Oxfordshire. During his time at the

college, he also designed a spectacular 10 metre “squid bench” for Coombe Country Park near Coventry, and won the college’s Andrew Varah Award for the outstanding furniture-making student. Speaking about his success, Jan said: “It’s really fantastic to be presented with this Medal for Excellence – a real honour. I can’t imagine doing the degree course I am now, without the experience and support I had at college.”

Furniture crafts student Jan Waterston has been awarded a Medal for Excellence from the City & Guilds Group in recognition of his exceptional talents.

Warwickshire College Group news Warwickshire College Group news

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

JAN WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Seven Level 4 Floristry students, supported by tutors Jane Benefield and Tina Aram, created a display on a carnival theme as part of the RHS Floristry College of the Year competition.

The students had to create five floral pieces – a mask, arrangement, wired bouquet, wall hanging and a planted arrangement - and inspiration ranged from the 18th Century Goose Fairs to travelling shows.

Tutor Jane Benefield said, “I am so proud of all the students – they created an outstanding display and put in so many hours of hard work in college and at home.

“The judges gave us really good feedback, saying the display showed amazing floristry work so to achieve a silver medal is fantastic recognition for our students.”

Floristry students from Moreton Morrell College have showcased their talent at the prestigious RHS Tatton Park Show and won a coveted Silver Medal.

FLORISTRY STUDENTSWIN SILVER MEDAL

STUDENT SUCCESS

Rugby College student Max Thompson is officially the best at bricklaying in the West Midlands after winning the regional Guild of Bricklayers junior competition.

MAX BEATSTHE REST ATBRICKLAYING

Joe Dolman, a recent graduate of the Music Performance course at Royal Leamington Spa College, will be rubbing shoulders with pop and rock royalty such as Blondie and Paloma Faith when he performs at Radio 2’s Live in Hyde Park.

Joe is one of only six new acts chosen to appear on the BBC Introducing stage.

HYDE PARKGIG FOR JOE

STUDENT SUCCESS

NATIONAL WIN FOR KATE

Motor vehicle students at Warwick Trident College saw their bio-diesel car win at the Alternative Energy event at Santa Pod Raceway. Alternative Energy Racing is run to promote the development being made in vehicles using non–fossil fuels and the college took along a car which has been adapted to use alternative fuels. The car covered the quarter-mile course in 16.66 seconds at a speed of 72.30mph.

VEGETABLEOIL-POWEREDCAR WINS

AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS

Max, 18, from Hillmorton, is currently studying for his Level 2 Brickwork at college and is an apprentice at NH Construction in Rugby. He beat off competitors from other West Midlands colleges to lift the trophy at the competition, which took place at Walsall College. For winning the competition, Max received a trophy and shield, as well as equipment. He said, “There were around 20 competitors taking part so I was really shocked when I found out I had won, but obviously it felt great. Everyone’s really proud of me, and my employer has even hinted I might get a pay rise! I would really like to return and compete in the senior competition next year.”

Mick Clarke, Max’s course tutor said, “Working under pressure in the competition environment can be really tough, but Max obviously coped extremely well. Everyone at the college is really proud of his efforts in this prestigious competition.”

The competition celebrates the excellence of fitness instructors and personal trainers educated by training providers across the UK.

Mum of three Kate, 37, from Southam competed in the final after winning the West Midlands regional heat. She has just completed the Level 2 Fitness Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer Diploma.

She said, “I’d been a stay-at-home mum looking after my three children, but when my youngest started school last September I wanted to get back into the workplace. Previously I’d worked in insurance, but didn’t want another office job. I’d always enjoyed running and competed in a few races, and enjoyed teaching which

I’d done through Riding for the Disabled, so thought personal training would be a good move, and something which I could fit around my family life.

“I was absolutely gobsmacked when I found out I had won – it was so tense waiting to hear the results but when I heard my name called I couldn’t believe it!”

Henley-in-Arden College fitness student Kate Ingles is celebrating after winning the national CYQ Gym Instructor Competition at St George’s Park, the new FA National Football Centre.

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

Sam, 19 from Welford was selected by his tutors as the highest achieving student on the course and his prize also included a £500 cheque, framed certificate signed by MD Andy Cowell, and a guaranteed place at their assessment centre for new apprentices in Spring 2015.

Rugby College engineering student Sam Boneham had a summer to remember after picking up a prize of work experience and a guaranteed job interview with Formula 1 manufacturer Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP) – home of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.

Warwickshire College Group news AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS Warwickshire College Group news AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

SAM WINS PLACEMENT ATFORMULA 1 MANUFACTURER

STUDENT SUCCESS

Art student James Reeves has picked up the prestigious Foundation Award from the Royal Leamington Spa Decorative and Fine Arts Society - the prize for the most outstanding Foundation student at Royal Leamington Spa College. James received a bursary for his three-year degree at Edinburgh College of Art.

FUTUREFASHION STARJAMES WINSTOP AWARD

Three students will be demonstrating their skills on a national stage after making it to the finals of WorldSkills UK.

WORLDSKILLSUK FINALISTS

EQUINERESEARCHMAKES A BIGIMPACT

Henley-in-Arden College students Rosie Marlow and Will Kitching are the best at badminton, winning the British Colleges Sports national mixed doubles competition at a tournament at Bath University.

NATIONALCHAMPIONS

Equine degree student Richard Mott has presented his dissertation research at the 10th International Equitation Science Conference 2014 at Vejle in Denmark.

The dissertation The unshod horse: A competitive disadvantage in dressage? was part of Richard’s BA (Hons) in Equine Studies which he has just completed via distance learning at Moreton Morrell College. He currently owns and manages a professional event yardin Northern Ireland.

Kiah Matthews and Phoebe Bushnell will be showing off their creative flair in Media Make-up and Rachel Quinney will be competing for the second year running in the hairdressing final.

As one of the most successful and forward-thinking colleges in the country, you’ll notice that we have also launched a fresh new identity, which supports our new vision for

the college group. The family brand includes the Warwickshire College Group and individual college brands to connect us at a local level.

Sue Georgious has been appointed as interim principal at Warwickshire College Group while a new principal is recruited. Sue knows the college well and brings extensive experience in the FE sector in a variety of senior management roles.

LEARNING TO CHANGE

WCG UPDATEThe key features of the project include a contemporary glass building to house a new science and technology centre, a new Collections house, new teaching rooms and project spaces and extensive research and development facilities.

The redevelopment, which replaces old and now unused facilities, will also provide a stunning new reception area for the college and a viewing gallery over the Collections house below.

The redevelopment will be complete by September 2015.

Zara Phillips officially opens new equine therapy centreOlympic eventing medallist Zara Phillips MBE officially opened the new Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre at Moreton Morrell College.

Ms Phillips was at the college to compete in British Eventing’s Horse Trials - a combination of dressage, show-jumping and cross country. The new centre includes: • Equine water treadmill – the only one of its kind in the UK • Equine hydrotherapy spa • Treatment bays • Stabling for resident horses Zara said, “We all love our horses and are always striving to keep them healthy for as long as possible and this centre is a fantastic place to be able to do that. Moreton Morrell students are hugely lucky to be able to work with these amazing facilities.”

www.warwickshire.ac.uk/equinetherapy

College first to deliver new TechBacc qualification [no pic!]Rugby College has been chosen by the government as one of the only five colleges to offer students the new TechBacc qualification.

The TechBacc is gained when 16- to 19-year-olds achieve real-life technical skills, firmly grasp mathematics and complete an in-depth industry research project. Peter Husband, Vice Principal at Warwickshire College said, “This builds on work that already happens within the college, where Level 3 students produce individual projects which allow them to demonstrate the knowledge and skills developed throughout the course. “This new qualification will allow the students to develop these projects further whilst working directly with the industry, creating a network of contacts and support early in their career.”

Partner of the Year Award [can be dropped]Warwickshire College was announced as Further Education Partner of the year at the annual Birmingham County Football Association Awards, 2013/14.

Birmingham County FA said that they were particularly impressed with the way Warwickshire College has developed an excellent relationship with them to expand the recreational football programme for students including introducing regular tournaments, “just play” sessions and women’s football.

Find out more at www.warwickshire.ac.uk/group

NEW LOOKLEAMINGTONThe £12m development which is nearing completion at Royal Leamington Spa College, gives our students improved, modern, creative facilities where they can work and think in completely different ways.

The revamp includes a new floor exclusively dedicated to our Higher Education students, refurbished construction centre and new showpiece hair and beauty salons.

Pershore College is currently undergoing a £5.8m transformation.

The key features of the project include a contemporary glass building to house a new science and technology centre, a new Collections house, new teaching rooms and project spaces and

extensive research and development facilities.

The redevelopment, which replaces old and now unused facilities, will also provide a stunning new reception area for the college and a viewing gallery over the Collections house below.

Pershore College is currently undergoing a £5.8m transformation.

£5.8M INVESTMENT IN PERSHORE

The redevelopment will be complete by September 2015. Find out moreat www.warwickshire.ac.uk/pershore

ZARA PHILLIPS OPENS EQUINE THERAPY CENTRE

NEW LOOKLEAMINGTON

Olympic eventing medallist Zara Phillips MBE officially opened the new Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre at Moreton Morrell College. Ms Phillips was at the college to compete in British Eventing’s Horse Trials - a combination of dressage, show-jumping and cross country.

Zara said, “We all love our horses and are always striving to keep them healthy for as long as possible and this centre is a fantastic place to be able to do that. Moreton Morrell students are hugely lucky to be able to work with these amazing facilities.”

The new centre includes an equine water treadmill – the only one of its kind in the UK, equine hydrotherapy spa, treatment bays and stabling for

Find out more at www.warwickshire.ac.uk/equinetherapy

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

Sam, 19 from Welford was selected by his tutors as the highest achieving student on the course and his prize also included a £500 cheque, framed certificate signed by MD Andy Cowell, and a guaranteed place at their assessment centre for new apprentices in Spring 2015.

Rugby College engineering student Sam Boneham had a summer to remember after picking up a prize of work experience and a guaranteed job interview with Formula 1 manufacturer Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP) – home of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.

Warwickshire College Group news AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS Warwickshire College Group news AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

SAM WINS PLACEMENT ATFORMULA 1 MANUFACTURER

STUDENT SUCCESS

Art student James Reeves has picked up the prestigious Foundation Award from the Royal Leamington Spa Decorative and Fine Arts Society - the prize for the most outstanding Foundation student at Royal Leamington Spa College. James received a bursary for his three-year degree at Edinburgh College of Art.

FUTUREFASHION STARJAMES WINSTOP AWARD

Three students will be demonstrating their skills on a national stage after making it to the finals of WorldSkills UK.

WORLDSKILLSUK FINALISTS

EQUINERESEARCHMAKES A BIGIMPACT

Henley-in-Arden College students Rosie Marlow and Will Kitching are the best at badminton, winning the British Colleges Sports national mixed doubles competition at a tournament at Bath University.

NATIONALCHAMPIONS

Equine degree student Richard Mott has presented his dissertation research at the 10th International Equitation Science Conference 2014 at Vejle in Denmark.

The dissertation The unshod horse: A competitive disadvantage in dressage? was part of Richard’s BA (Hons) in Equine Studies which he has just completed via distance learning at Moreton Morrell College. He currently owns and manages a professional event yardin Northern Ireland.

Kiah Matthews and Phoebe Bushnell will be showing off their creative flair in Media Make-up and Rachel Quinney will be competing for the second year running in the hairdressing final.

As one of the most successful and forward-thinking colleges in the country, you’ll notice that we have also launched a fresh new identity, which supports our new vision for

the college group. The family brand includes the Warwickshire College Group and individual college brands to connect us at a local level.

Sue Georgious has been appointed as interim principal at Warwickshire College Group while a new principal is recruited. Sue knows the college well and brings extensive experience in the FE sector in a variety of senior management roles.

LEARNING TO CHANGE

WCG UPDATEThe key features of the project include a contemporary glass building to house a new science and technology centre, a new Collections house, new teaching rooms and project spaces and extensive research and development facilities.

The redevelopment, which replaces old and now unused facilities, will also provide a stunning new reception area for the college and a viewing gallery over the Collections house below.

The redevelopment will be complete by September 2015.

Zara Phillips officially opens new equine therapy centreOlympic eventing medallist Zara Phillips MBE officially opened the new Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre at Moreton Morrell College.

Ms Phillips was at the college to compete in British Eventing’s Horse Trials - a combination of dressage, show-jumping and cross country. The new centre includes: • Equine water treadmill – the only one of its kind in the UK • Equine hydrotherapy spa • Treatment bays • Stabling for resident horses Zara said, “We all love our horses and are always striving to keep them healthy for as long as possible and this centre is a fantastic place to be able to do that. Moreton Morrell students are hugely lucky to be able to work with these amazing facilities.”

www.warwickshire.ac.uk/equinetherapy

College first to deliver new TechBacc qualification [no pic!]Rugby College has been chosen by the government as one of the only five colleges to offer students the new TechBacc qualification.

The TechBacc is gained when 16- to 19-year-olds achieve real-life technical skills, firmly grasp mathematics and complete an in-depth industry research project. Peter Husband, Vice Principal at Warwickshire College said, “This builds on work that already happens within the college, where Level 3 students produce individual projects which allow them to demonstrate the knowledge and skills developed throughout the course. “This new qualification will allow the students to develop these projects further whilst working directly with the industry, creating a network of contacts and support early in their career.”

Partner of the Year Award [can be dropped]Warwickshire College was announced as Further Education Partner of the year at the annual Birmingham County Football Association Awards, 2013/14.

Birmingham County FA said that they were particularly impressed with the way Warwickshire College has developed an excellent relationship with them to expand the recreational football programme for students including introducing regular tournaments, “just play” sessions and women’s football.

Find out more at www.warwickshire.ac.uk/group

NEW LOOKLEAMINGTONThe £12m development which is nearing completion at Royal Leamington Spa College, gives our students improved, modern, creative facilities where they can work and think in completely different ways.

The revamp includes a new floor exclusively dedicated to our Higher Education students, refurbished construction centre and new showpiece hair and beauty salons.

Pershore College is currently undergoing a £5.8m transformation.

The key features of the project include a contemporary glass building to house a new science and technology centre, a new Collections house, new teaching rooms and project spaces and

extensive research and development facilities.

The redevelopment, which replaces old and now unused facilities, will also provide a stunning new reception area for the college and a viewing gallery over the Collections house below.

Pershore College is currently undergoing a £5.8m transformation.

£5.8M INVESTMENT IN PERSHORE

The redevelopment will be complete by September 2015. Find out moreat www.warwickshire.ac.uk/pershore

ZARA PHILLIPS OPENS EQUINE THERAPY CENTRE

NEW LOOKLEAMINGTON

Olympic eventing medallist Zara Phillips MBE officially opened the new Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre at Moreton Morrell College. Ms Phillips was at the college to compete in British Eventing’s Horse Trials - a combination of dressage, show-jumping and cross country.

Zara said, “We all love our horses and are always striving to keep them healthy for as long as possible and this centre is a fantastic place to be able to do that. Moreton Morrell students are hugely lucky to be able to work with these amazing facilities.”

The new centre includes an equine water treadmill – the only one of its kind in the UK, equine hydrotherapy spa, treatment bays and stabling for

Find out more at www.warwickshire.ac.uk/equinetherapy

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

The Community Link bus scheme aims to help residents of any age who are stuck for transport to get to local destinations and, following a decision to relaunch the service, the council partnered with the college to give the students the opportunity to brand the buses.

Second year students from the BTEC Visual Communication course

were given the brief and after submitting the concept, the council chose Iona Tiffen’s design and the name ‘Ubus’ which Amy Woon came up with. The two students then worked together to unify their ideas into one final design.

The buses can now be seen on the roads and lanes of rural Warwickshire.

Community transport in Warwickshire has a brand new look after two Royal Leamington Spa College students won a design competition run by Stratford District Council.

Warwickshire College Group news Warwickshire College Group news

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

EN ROUTE TO SUCCESS WITH WINNING DESIGN

Four enterprising students from Warwickshire College Group have successfully bid for a share of £15,000 funding to develop business ideas which will benefit their local communities.

UNLTD SUCCESS FOR SOCIALENTREPRENEUR STUDENTS

STUDENTS MEAN BUSINESS STUDENTS MEAN BUSINESS

AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS AUTUMN 2014 | NEWS

The Student of the Year Award is nominated by fellow students who believe the candidate demonstrates key entrepreneurial qualities and acts as a role model to the team.

Entrepreneur and star of Dragons’ Den Peter Jones CBE presented Bethany with her award in front of hundreds of guests during the annual graduation ceremony at Freemasons Hall in London.

Bethany said; “I wasn't expecting to win, even though I knew that I had been nominated by my peers and tutors. When they called my name to say that I had won I was in shock because I didn't think that out of all of the other colleges it would be me.

“It means more because it was voted for by my peers and tutors and this has shown me that they

have confidence in me and made me realise what I have achieved over the last year.”

Bethany is returning to Rugby College to complete year two of the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy course which will help develop her business idea of a boutique selling evening and prom dresses with accessories for the different occasions.

Bethany Taylor from Rugby College has beaten off competition from across the company to win the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy Student of the Year Award.

PETER JONES CBE REVEALSAWARD SUCCESS FOR BETHANY

STUDENTSMAKE A SPLASH

Residents at Bilton House residential home are enjoying a new outlook after art students from Rugby College created a mural for the home.

Bilton House wanted the theme of the mural to be the history of Rugby, so following this brief, the students all designed their own individual mural, using different techniques and media and these designs were then presented to staff and residents at Bilton House, who chose the elements for the final artwork.

Delia Myers, Home Manager, said, “We’re absolutely delighted with the mural which the students have created – it’s a real talking point, and the residents say that each time they walk past, they see something different.”

ART BRINGSRUGBY TO LIFE

Pupils at a Worcester primary school have a new pond to explore thanks to Pershore College horticulture students. College tutor Paul Bearcroft and students have rebuilt the pond at St George’s CofE Primary School with the help of children from the school’s Gardening Club and school gardener Zorah Cholmondeley.

Headteacher Steve Mills said, “The students from Pershore College have done a fantastic job to transform the pond and its surroundings. The children couldn’t access the area before, but now they will get a lot of use out of it for curriculum activities such as pond-dipping.”

The four students - Harry Bowen, Faith Matthews, Alice Stewardson and Josh Turner - had to complete an application process to bid for the funding needed to get their business idea off the ground. The funding is part of the FE Pioneers Programme, supported by UnLtd, the leading provider of support to social entrepreneurs in the UK. The four student social entrepreneurs were able to clearly articulate a solution to an identified social need, such as the isolation of older people in the case of Faith Matthews’ mobile beauty business, aiming to make a clear social impact in their community.

As well as receiving funding to develop their businesses, the students will also get the benefit of mentoring from UnLtd. The successful students have now started work on investing their additional funding into their social enterprises.

Harry Bowen, 17, from Warwick, is currently studying A Levels at Royal Leamington Spa College. His venture, Scratch & Sniff Pet Services, will provide pet sitting and care services to help those who may not be able to afford a cattery or a boarding centre, or older people who love the company of animals but may find it difficult to regularly walk their dogs.

Faith Matthews, 18, from Coventry, has a Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy and has just completed the L3 Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy at Rugby

College. Faith’s Beauty Box is a mobile beauty service for elderly people who either live in care homes or rural areas where they cannot get out much due to transport issues.

Alice Stewardson, 18, from Rugby, has just completed the Level 3 Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy at Rugby College. Oozy Smoothie is a business where customers can create their own healthy personalised smoothies. Customers can also mix their own smoothies using the smoothie bikes, promoting healthy living and eating.

Josh Turner, 19, from Kenilworth, has just completed his Level 3 BTEC in Child Care. Along with five other students Josh runs Makers and Creators, a social enterprise venture focusing on providing resources and theme days to educational establishments.

Team England’s Commonwealth gold medallist weightlifter, Zoe Smith, regularly trains at Henley-in-Arden College, using the excellent gym facilities on offer.

DID YOUKNOW…

LEARNING TO CHANGE. www.warwickshire.ac.uk

The Community Link bus scheme aims to help residents of any age who are stuck for transport to get to local destinations and, following a decision to relaunch the service, the council partnered with the college to give the students the opportunity to brand the buses.

Second year students from the BTEC Visual Communication course

were given the brief and after submitting the concept, the council chose Iona Tiffen’s design and the name ‘Ubus’ which Amy Woon came up with. The two students then worked together to unify their ideas into one final design.

The buses can now be seen on the roads and lanes of rural Warwickshire.

Community transport in Warwickshire has a brand new look after two Royal Leamington Spa College students won a design competition run by Stratford District Council.

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EN ROUTE TO SUCCESS WITH WINNING DESIGN

Four enterprising students from Warwickshire College Group have successfully bid for a share of £15,000 funding to develop business ideas which will benefit their local communities.

UNLTD SUCCESS FOR SOCIALENTREPRENEUR STUDENTS

STUDENTS MEAN BUSINESS STUDENTS MEAN BUSINESS

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The Student of the Year Award is nominated by fellow students who believe the candidate demonstrates key entrepreneurial qualities and acts as a role model to the team.

Entrepreneur and star of Dragons’ Den Peter Jones CBE presented Bethany with her award in front of hundreds of guests during the annual graduation ceremony at Freemasons Hall in London.

Bethany said; “I wasn't expecting to win, even though I knew that I had been nominated by my peers and tutors. When they called my name to say that I had won I was in shock because I didn't think that out of all of the other colleges it would be me.

“It means more because it was voted for by my peers and tutors and this has shown me that they

have confidence in me and made me realise what I have achieved over the last year.”

Bethany is returning to Rugby College to complete year two of the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy course which will help develop her business idea of a boutique selling evening and prom dresses with accessories for the different occasions.

Bethany Taylor from Rugby College has beaten off competition from across the company to win the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy Student of the Year Award.

PETER JONES CBE REVEALSAWARD SUCCESS FOR BETHANY

STUDENTSMAKE A SPLASH

Residents at Bilton House residential home are enjoying a new outlook after art students from Rugby College created a mural for the home.

Bilton House wanted the theme of the mural to be the history of Rugby, so following this brief, the students all designed their own individual mural, using different techniques and media and these designs were then presented to staff and residents at Bilton House, who chose the elements for the final artwork.

Delia Myers, Home Manager, said, “We’re absolutely delighted with the mural which the students have created – it’s a real talking point, and the residents say that each time they walk past, they see something different.”

ART BRINGSRUGBY TO LIFE

Pupils at a Worcester primary school have a new pond to explore thanks to Pershore College horticulture students. College tutor Paul Bearcroft and students have rebuilt the pond at St George’s CofE Primary School with the help of children from the school’s Gardening Club and school gardener Zorah Cholmondeley.

Headteacher Steve Mills said, “The students from Pershore College have done a fantastic job to transform the pond and its surroundings. The children couldn’t access the area before, but now they will get a lot of use out of it for curriculum activities such as pond-dipping.”

The four students - Harry Bowen, Faith Matthews, Alice Stewardson and Josh Turner - had to complete an application process to bid for the funding needed to get their business idea off the ground. The funding is part of the FE Pioneers Programme, supported by UnLtd, the leading provider of support to social entrepreneurs in the UK. The four student social entrepreneurs were able to clearly articulate a solution to an identified social need, such as the isolation of older people in the case of Faith Matthews’ mobile beauty business, aiming to make a clear social impact in their community.

As well as receiving funding to develop their businesses, the students will also get the benefit of mentoring from UnLtd. The successful students have now started work on investing their additional funding into their social enterprises.

Harry Bowen, 17, from Warwick, is currently studying A Levels at Royal Leamington Spa College. His venture, Scratch & Sniff Pet Services, will provide pet sitting and care services to help those who may not be able to afford a cattery or a boarding centre, or older people who love the company of animals but may find it difficult to regularly walk their dogs.

Faith Matthews, 18, from Coventry, has a Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy and has just completed the L3 Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy at Rugby

College. Faith’s Beauty Box is a mobile beauty service for elderly people who either live in care homes or rural areas where they cannot get out much due to transport issues.

Alice Stewardson, 18, from Rugby, has just completed the Level 3 Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy at Rugby College. Oozy Smoothie is a business where customers can create their own healthy personalised smoothies. Customers can also mix their own smoothies using the smoothie bikes, promoting healthy living and eating.

Josh Turner, 19, from Kenilworth, has just completed his Level 3 BTEC in Child Care. Along with five other students Josh runs Makers and Creators, a social enterprise venture focusing on providing resources and theme days to educational establishments.

Team England’s Commonwealth gold medallist weightlifter, Zoe Smith, regularly trains at Henley-in-Arden College, using the excellent gym facilities on offer.

DID YOUKNOW…

LEARNING TO CHANGE.

RECORD-BREAKING A-LEVEL SUCCESS Students at Royal Leamington Spa and Rugby Colleges have picked up another outstanding set of A-level results, improving on last year with a 98.4% pass rate –with Rugby students achieving 100%.

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Students across the two colleges achieved a 100% pass rate in 16 A-level subjects including English, Physics, Accounting and Economics.

Martin McKenzie, 20 from Daventry achieved a stunning A*AA in Maths, Biology and Chemistry and has a place at university to study Chemical Engineering.

He said, “I’m really happy but it’s a relief at the same time. I didn’t expect to do so well so I’m looking at all my options now.”

Alex Neumann, 18 from Warwick achieved A*AB in Maths, Physics and Chemistry, and is off to the University of Leicester to study Physics.

He said, “I’m pleased as I’ve done better than I thought, and relieved

that I’ve got the place at the university where I wanted to go.

“I came to college to do my A-levels as I felt that I would be treated more as an adult and get more independence. College is more relaxed and you get morefreedom – and I got the results I needed as well!”

Connie Bowry, 19 from Stratford, achieved the A* in Biology she needed to take up her place to study Biomedical Science at York University.

She said, “I’m so pleased to have got my place at uni – I’m a bit nervous but looking forward to it as well. I regretted not doing A-level Biology at school, so came to college and everyone was really supportive.”

Peter Harris, 19 from Rugby is going on to study English Literature and History at the University of East Anglia after achieving As in English Literature and Religious Studies and a B in History. Peter came to Rugby College after doing one year at a local sixth form.

He explains: “I hated it at sixth form. I really wanted to go to university though so I started looking at other options and decided to come to Rugby for an open day to see what it was like. The teaching staff were really nice and they did the courses that I wanted to do so I enrolled.

“I’ve had a great time here and I was really excited to get my results and I can’t wait to start my course at East Anglia.”

John Rees, Deputy Principal at Warwickshire College said,“We are absolutely delighted with our outstanding A-level results this year – it is a real testament to the talent, hard work and dedication of our students and staff along with the high quality teaching and learning environment here at Warwickshire College Group.

“Congratulations to the students who have achieved this fantastic success with the college, and we wish them all the very best for the future, whatever they choose to do. They should be extremely proud of their achievements.”

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