SCHOOL LEAVERS’ PROSPECTUS 2020-2021
1 Do you want to see what college life is like? Then come along to an Open Evening!
Warrington & Winsford campuses 5.30PM - 8.00PM: Thursday 10th October 2019 Wednesday 13th November 2019 Thursday 5th December 2019 Wednesday 25th March 2020 OPEN EVENINGS OPEN
Open Evenings are a great way to explore our campuses. You will get to chat to current students and industry specialists, tour our top-quality facilities and discuss the best course for your chosen career.
Register now: wvr.ac.uk/openevenings
The information in this prospectus is correct at the time of publication (September 2019). Warrington & Vale Royal College will endeavour to inform applicants of any significant changes prior to enrolment in September 2020. 2 CONTENTS
Welcome 4 Why choose us? 6 Warrington campus 8 Winsford campus 12 Your route to success 18 Learning Resource Centre 20 Support for students 22
Support for students with 24 CONTENTS special educational needs Getting to college 26 Careers advice & guidance 28 Your Study Programme 34 Work placement 36 College life 38 Student voice 40 English & maths 42 Myth busting 44 Entry requirements 46 Foundation learning 48 Apprenticeships 52 Vocational courses 70 FAQs 164 How to apply 166 Higher education 168 The college offer at a glance 170 3 WELCOME TO WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE
College is an exciting step in any young person’s life. It is the beginning of a new chapter and a time to study a subject you really enjoy and want to pursue further as a career. Thousands of students choose to study with us each year. Join us in September 2020 and begin your journey towards a successful career, learn new skills and make new friends. Our prospectus will help you to find the course that best suits you, your future career and will give you an insight into student life at
VALE ROYAL COLLEGE ROYAL VALE Warrington & Vale Royal College.
& We look forward to seeing you at one of our Open Evenings!
In this prospectus, you will find... • Subjects you can study and careers this may lead to
WELCOME TO WARRINGTON WARRINGTON TO WELCOME • Student success • A glimpse of our incredible facilities • What sets us apart from other colleges …and lots more.
4 WELCOME TO WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE
5 WHY CHOOSE US?
We boast some of the highest pass rates in England, with the latest figures ranking us in the top 10 colleges nationally for the third year running!* • To date, we have secured unprecedented improvement for our 16-18 year old students, with our student achievement data now WHY CHOOSE US? CHOOSE WHY well above the national average • Over 90% of apprenticeships at Warrington & Vale Royal College lead to full-time permanent employment • Almost two thirds of students completing a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma achieved a Distinction grade or higher, and over a quarter of students achieved the highest grade possible of a Triple Distinction Star, worth the equivalent of 3 A*s at A Level • 96% of our students say they receive good support from their tutors. 96% say the teaching on their course is good and 94% say they would recommend the college to their friend • We are in the top quartile of colleges nationally for both English and maths GCSE.
*Further Education and Skills Agency (March 2019) 6 WHY CHOOSE US?
7 WARRINGTON CAMPUS
Our Warrington campus is located just outside the bustling town centre of Warrington and is easily accessible by car and public transport via a main route into Warrington, the A49. The largest of our campuses, Warrington has a university feel and houses a number of specialist industry facilities. The site boasts two blocks of engineering and construction facilities which each house custom-built workshops. In addition it also houses a large, fully-fitted mechanics garage with 8 built-in vehicle lifts, tyre fitting bay, snap on tools and a mock MOT bay. The on-site Sport and Public Services Centre offers student access to state-of-the-art fitness testing equipment, sports science laboratories, fitness suites and a fully equipped gym. Furthermore, open to the public, as well as staff and students, the Warrington campus offers hair and beauty treatments within the professional salons located in The Academy. Additionally, hungry diners can take advantage of our award-winning restaurant - Buckley’s, which regularly hosts lunch and dinner services providing students studying hospitality and catering with the opportunity to prepare and
WARRINGTON CAMPUS WARRINGTON serve restaurant quality meals within a commercial and real-life setting. The Warrington campus also boasts a 160-seat theatre which regularly hosts performances from our very talented performing arts students. Our Warrington campus offers students everything they need for the best possible college experience.
8 WARRINGTON CAMPUS
9 WARRINGTON CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS
Costa Coffee We are delighted to have Costa Coffee on campus tempting us with velvety flat-whites, frothy cappuccinos and intense espressos. The urge to resist may be futile!
Crescent Café Our student café serves a huge selection of hot and cold food including mouth-watering lunch choices and healthy snack options, alongside favourites such as home-made cakes and Christmas dinner!
Sport and Public Services Centre Sports and Public Services students have access to our new dedicated on-campus Sport and Public Services Centre, featuring modern classrooms and a fitness suite boasting a range of cardiovascular and resistance equipment, free weights and strength and conditioning machines. WARRINGTON CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS CAMPUS WARRINGTON
The Gym Our on-site gym provides a range of aerobic and resistance equipment including a free weights area. Once inducted, students can use the gym whenever they have free time.
10 Buckley’s Restaurant Buckley’s is our AA Rosette restaurant run by college students, providing a real working environment for those studying Hospitality & Culinary arts courses with us.
r e s t a u r a n t
The Academy WARRINGTON CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS Featuring hairdressing and beauty therapy salons, nail bars and spray tanning rooms, our students provide a range of treatments as part of their study programme.
Learning Resource Centre We have a dedicated Learning Resource Centre with expert library professionals on hand to help. Our students have access to over 200 PCs, laptops to loan for the day and support with their studies, plus Apple Macs, e-books and e-journals along with thousands of books specially selected by tutors to support your learning.
The Hilary Tucker Arts Centre Creative and Performing Arts students have access to art suites equipped with Apple Macs, purpose built art, dance and drama studios, and an 160 seat theatre with a backstage area and box office.
The Colin Daniels Construction and Engineering Skills Centre Our students study in fully simulated working environments, utilising the latest technologies, and are taught by tutors with years of industry experience.
11 WINSFORD CAMPUS
Our modern and contemporary Winsford campus has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere similar to that of a sixth form college. Situated within walking distance of Winsford town centre the campus can be easily accessed by car and is serviced by the local Arriva bus network which operates throughout Cheshire. The on-site facilities are tailored to the subjects offered at the campus, with dedicated art and design suites which not only offer students a creative atmosphere to study in, but also double up as an exhibition space to showcase their creative talents and work. Additionally, the ground floor houses engineering workshops equipped with state-of-the-art, industry equipment and tools to ensure our learners gain first-hand experience of a real life engineering environment. The first floor of our Winsford campus is home to a fully-equipped Learning Resource Centre and also houses the campuses exceptional technology facilities. There are a number of computer and Apple Mac suites primarily used by students studying computing, graphics, media, games design, but open to all college students. WINSFORD CAMPUS WINSFORD Between lessons students can relax in the Atrium cafe where they are provided with delicious choices for breakfast and lunch in addition to a selection of hot and cold beverages. To the rear of the college students can access the newly refurbished Winsford Town Park, which has seen a huge capital investment deliver an exceptional outdoor space for local residents. Our students regularly use the open grassed areas, multi-use sports court, picnic tables and fitness equipment. This light and airy campus situated in Winsford offers local students everything they need to make the most of their college experience.
12 WINSFORD CAMPUS
13 WINSFORD CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS
Art Studio Our Winsford campus art studio features creative art suites equipped with cutting edge Apple Macs, purpose-built arts studios and ceramic facilities including gas, electric, raku and glass firing kilns.
Specialist Workshops Our students utilise the latest technologies within fully equipped workshops and digital classrooms.
Learning Resource Centre We have a dedicated Learning Resource Centre with expert library professionals on hand to help. Our students have access to laptops to loan for the day and support with their studies, Apple Macs, PCs, e-books and e-journals along with thousands of books specially selected by subject tutors to support your learning.
Atrium Café Students can relax between classes in the Atrium and enjoy a coffee, or grab some lunch from the café, where a range of hot and cold food WINSFORD CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS CAMPUS WINSFORD and drinks are available.
Winsford Town Park Students can take advantage of our neighbouring Winsford Town Park, a recently refurbished multi-purpose outdoor space which features grassed areas for relaxing and a sports court.
14 WINSFORD CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS
15 16 “I’ve had so many opportunities at the college and gained a wealth of experience. As Student President I got to visit the Houses of Parliament in London, and as a Student Governor, I gained a fantastic insight into the work of the college.”
Jake Love General Engineering Level 3 Winsford campus
17 YOUR ROUTE TO SUCCESS
How do I choose the right course for me? At Warrington & Vale Royal College, we understand that selecting the right course can be a daunting task. We want to help you find the course that is the best fit for you, and best prepares you for your future career, whatever that might be.
Points to consider…
Do what you love Play to your strengths Look to the future You should choose subjects What’s your learning style? Have you thought about what that you think you will enjoy Do you prefer to work in a career path you would like to and do well at. classroom setting or do you follow in the future? If so, there prefer to learn by being may be some courses which What subjects do you enjoy hands-on and doing? open doors directly leading to currently at school? that career. Look closely at how you will What types of things do you study a course and how it is If you are thinking about enjoy doing in your spare assessed. For instance, does university, you can check the time? the course involve group work entry requirements for degree
YOUR ROUTE TO SUCCESS ROUTE TO YOUR Could any of your hobbies or and discussions, and will you courses using the search interests guide you towards a have to write long essays or facility at www.ucas.com particular course? do a lot of calculations? Be careful, if you find you are going to need to study a subject you don’t enjoy, you may need to reconsider your ambition!
If you remain undecided, don’t worry it is fine to apply for multiple courses and make your mind up later.
18 YOUR ROUTE TO SUCCESS
Explore your options The college has a wide range of vocational courses which provide an excellent route to employment, as well as university. We are also the largest local provider of apprenticeships. If you want to earn and learn, an apprenticeship may be for you.
Turn to page 52 to find out more about apprenticeships!
19 LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE
Our Learning Resource Centres have all the tools and resources you will need to reinforce, enrich and develop your knowledge and skills. Our experienced and friendly staff are on hand to help you, facilitating access to a growing catalogue of print and electronic resources that support the college’s study programmes. The resources have been specially selected by tutors and library staff to help you succeed in your studies. In the Learning Resource Centres you will find: • Over 200 PCs and laptops with internet access • Laptops available for day loans allowing flexible learning • Drop-in and bookable ICT facilities • Text books, journals and magazines • E-books, e-journals and other online resources • Fiction and graphic novels • Desks for group/individual study LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE RESOURCE LEARNING • Quiet study area • Private study rooms …and much more!
20 LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE
21 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS
At college you will have more freedom, more opportunities to become independent and lots of chances to meet new people, but you will also have lots of support. We want your experience at Warrington & Vale Royal College to be amazing and we are here to help you enjoy your time with us.
Pastoral support At Warrington & Vale Royal College, student support comes first. Every one of our students will be allocated a Progress Coach and a Senior Tutor who will offer advice and guidance during your time at college and help to steer you towards success. Supporting YOU Progress Coaches support students by: • Delivering one-to-one and group tutorials Developing • Monitoring attendance and progress on your course • Providing personalised interventions YOU • Preparing you for your next steps in education SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS FOR SUPPORT or towards your chosen career Employable All our students take part in the ‘You’ tutorial programme YOU where you will study a range of topics and attend guest talks from a variety of speakers to support your personal For and social development. Topics include mental health, careers, UCAS, drive safe, volunteering, PREVENT, YOU British Values and resilience to name but a few. Guest speakers include a range of universities and Being employers; Cheshire Police, NHS, Blesma, Kooth YOU and many more!
22 Welfare Team In addition to Progress Coaches and Senior Tutors, we have a Welfare Team consisting of highly trained and experienced Welfare Advisers. The Welfare Team work closely with Progress Coaches and Senior Tutors to assist you in overcoming any difficulty affecting your wellbeing or issues which might compromise your ability to study effectively, including health, welfare, financial or personal issues. There is a three way partnership between the college, you and parents through regular and planned contact with home. Parents' evenings and progress reviews help to monitor learning and, if attendance is at all problematic, the college will contact home in SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS an effort to help. Safeguarding Warrington & Vale Royal College has a safeguarding policy to ensure that all vulnerable adults, young people and children attending activities in the college do so in a safe and secure environment. It sets out the steps we take to protect vulnerable adults, children and young people, and the procedures we would use to deal with any issues. If you are concerned about your own safety or the safety of another student, please speak to your Progress Coach/Tutor, a Welfare Adviser in Learner Services or a college Safeguarding Officer. Bursary support You may be eligible to apply to the Learner Support Fund which is a pot of money available to students to help support you during your time at college. There are income guidelines which are in place, but the Welfare Team is available to chat to you about the support available, and also how we assess your household income. The fund could support you with the cost of transport (bus pass or a contribution towards petrol costs), childcare (including after school clubs), kit/equipment, course materials, educational visits, DBS checks, UCAS fees and travel to university interviews.
23 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS & DISABILITIES DISABILITIES &
You are encouraged to disclose any disability or learning difficulty prior to enrolment so we can make reasonable adjustments to support you with your studies. We will try to ensure that support is in place before you start your course. You may be referred to our Additional Learning Support Team through your school, Tutor, Progress Coach or Senior Tutor or you may self-refer.
Support may include: • A Learning Facilitator to provide in-class or group support • An English or maths specialist to support you in or out of lessons • An assessment for exam access arrangements • 1:1 specialist intervention/ teaching • Assistive technologies and software. We offer: • Pre-enrolment visits and opportunities to meet with tutors and support staff • Bespoke transition visits throughout the year to help students adjust to the college campuses • Taster days in the vocational subject areas • Autism friendly enrolment sessions.
Please contact our Additional Learning Support Team on 01925 494288 for more information.
SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS NEEDS EDUCATIONAL SPECIAL WITH STUDENTS FOR SUPPORT 24 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
Transition & Education Health Care Plans We have an Additional Learning Support and Transition Co-ordinator who attends annual reviews in school, if you are interested in progressing to our college. Support needs We support students with a range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities such as: • ADHD • Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) • Dyslexia • Dyspraxia • Sensory impairment Study support We have a study support area located in our Learning Resource Centres. Here, students are able to access quiet study areas in a supportive environment, drop in for advice regarding support and book in for study sessions. & DISABILITIES
25 GETTING TO COLLEGE FREE transport for Travelling to college couldn’t be easier! school leavers! We are well connected and that is just one of the reasons why our students travel from across Cheshire, Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside to study with us. Due to their central locations, our Warrington and Winsford campuses are serviced by excellent public transport links. You can get to college with a number of different bus companies or via national rail. GETTING TO COLLEGE GETTING TO
26 WARRINGTON CAMPUS FREE dedicated bus services:
Bedford Irlam Winsford
By bus: Leigh Cadishead Hartford
Due to popular demand we will be offering a number Lowton Glazebrook Northwich of FREE dedicated bus services to all our 16-18 year Bus Station Golborne Risley old students from September 2020. Ashton-in- Culcheth Our dedicated bus services will arrive at college Makerfield in time for students to access their free breakfast Birchwood Haydock before starting classes at 9AM. Fearnhead Newton-le- By train: Willows Orford TOGETTING COLLEGE
Our Warrington campus is a 15 minute walk away Winwick from Warrington Central Station on the Liverpool to Warrington campus Manchester Line.
By car or bike: Register your interest for our Our Warrington campus has ample free parking FREE college bus services at: spaces and bike racks for students. wvr.ac.uk/bus
WINSFORD CAMPUS FREE 24/7 ARRIVA BUS PASS! By bus: We offer a FREE 24/7 Arriva bus pass for students who choose STUDENT PASS to study at our Winsford campus and live more than one mile away. If you need an alternative pass to Arriva, please speak to the Welfare Team at our Winsford campus. By train: Our Winsford campus is a 20 minute walk away from Winsford Station on the West Coast Main Line. By car or bike:
Our Winsford campus has ample free parking spaces and bike racks for students. *Terms and conditions apply 27 CAREERS ADVICE & GUIDANCE
Do you have no idea where to start when looking for a future job or career? Are you just unsure of your next steps? Do you need help exploring career and progression options? If you need career or study advice, our dedicated, knowledgeable and friendly careers team are here to help you consider the options for your future. They offer free and impartial information, advice and guidance and can help you with: • One to one information, advice and guidance when GUIDANCE researching careers & • Tips and advice for creating CVs and cover letters, job searches, interview techniques, application forms • Sourcing and exploring labour market information • Understanding the employability skills that employers want and advising you on ways to develop them • Completing UCAS application forms when applying to higher education • What to include on your personal statement for UCAS, what admissions tutors want to see and how to write it CAREERS ADVICE ADVICE CAREERS • Course information, advice and guidance related to potential careers • A Careers Education Programme delivered in tutorial and specialist careers support in class.
To help you explore your career or study options,we encourage all our students to attend one-to-one appointments with our highly qualified careers advisors. We also host numerous careers events and activities throughout the year and are joined by a wide variety of employers and universities.
28 Meet the Employer Not your typical job fair. CAREERS ADVICE Our ‘Meet the Employer’ activities are college calendar highlights, giving students the opportunity to network with subject-specific employers and education providers. Activities have included: fairs presentations, Q&A sessions and mock interviews.
The Workshop & GUIDANCE Part-time jobs that will kick-start your career. To help our students develop their transferable employability skills we encourage students to have a part time job whilst at college. The Workshop is an online college service for students which advertises local part-time jobs suitable for students. We do the job search and put the vacancies all in one place. Employers also regularly contact us to advertise their vacancies through The Workshop and we often invite employers into college to promote their roles.
29 OUR CAREERS EDUCATION PROGRAMME
Warrington & Vale Royal College’s Careers Education Programme aims to raise your aspirations and make sure you fully understand your career options. It provides you with the information you need to plan your next steps towards achieving your dream career. Employability skill development is embedded throughout the curriculum in both vocational study and the tutorial programme alongside English, maths and digital skills development. In addition, we have a wide range of career opportunities that will develop your employability skills. These include: • Guest speakers • Industry visits • Participation in skills competitions • Volunteering and social events • Enterprise and innovation activities. Last year, we welcomed a host of guest speakers including the Department for Work and Pensions, Jobcentre Plus, Higher Horizons, Uni Taster Days, Siemens, ABB Group, All About Apprenticeships, OUR CAREERS EDUCATION PROGRAMME EDUCATION CAREERS OUR TEMOS Business Services, Cheshire NHS Career Hub, Exclusive Education and Morrisons to name but a few!
30 OUR CAREERS EDUCATION PROGRAMME
31 “I have made such good friends on the course, the Performing Arts department is like a huge family. The tutors are really welcoming and friendly, and made me feel at home straight away.”
Ebony Yeadon Performing Arts: Dance Level 3 Warrington campus
32 33 YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME
As a student at Warrington & Vale Royal College, you will follow a Study Programme based on your individual needs and interests. Your Study Programme includes your main qualification, personal development and other learning opportunities that will help you to develop and grow as an individual, so that you achieve your full potential. Your studies will include a tailored programme of employability skills development and a diverse range of enrichment activities that will give you the edge when entering the workplace or progressing to university.
Work placement Enrichment English & maths Having relevant work Taking part in enrichment It is vital that all students placement experience is activities will make your time achieve a minimum level of valuable to employers and at college more enjoyable, English and maths to ensure the skills and experience you increase your circle of friends success and progression. gain when on work placement and equip you with skills and If you do not manage to will help you stand out from experiences that will enhance achieve grade 4 or above the crowd. your CV or UCAS personal in your English or maths
YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME STUDY YOUR statement. Your Study Programme GCSE, you will continue to ensures that you have the The activities on offer range study towards it as part of opportunity to experience the from trips, visits and guest your Study Programme. We workplace first-hand, to help speakers to sporting and will work with you to further prepare you for your next step. recreational events. strengthen your English and maths skills. See page 36 and take a Get involved! See page look at the fantastic 38 for more information. See page 42 for employers we work with. more information.
34 YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME
35
WORK PLACEMENT & EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS EMPLOYABILITY &
Work experience will help you to stand out from the crowd when you’re applying for university, an apprenticeship or a job. As a student at Warrington & Vale Royal College, you won’t just spend your time in the classroom; you will be given the opportunity to work alongside high-profile employers, gaining valuable work experience. We are passionate about making sure you are ready for work when you leave us, which is why work placement and work-related activity are an important part of your time here. The benefits of work placement:
WORK PLACEMENT PLACEMENT WORK • Great for your CV and UCAS personal statement • Helps you to understand what will be expected of you when you start work • Enhances your skills and knowledge and will help you with your course understanding • Gives you an insight into the job and industry you dream of working in • It’s a great ‘foot in the door’ and puts you on the company’s radar when job opportunities come up – many of our students go on to secure employment with the companies with whom they have previously carried out work placements. 36 Our fantastic links with employers across the region means that 100% of our students have access to amazing work placements. All of our students are expected to complete a work placement, which can range from one day per week to a one week block or even longer. We have a dedicated Work Placement Team who are on hand to help you when it comes to finding an employer and organising your placement. If you have organised your own work placement or have your own employer, that's great! WORK PLACEMENT
Work placements lead to opportunities!
Corrina Taylor Level 2 Culinary Skills student Corrina Taylor was offered a part-time position at Walton Hall Garden’s Heritage Café, following her work placement. Corrina said: “I couldn’t believe it, I was so happy! I’ve wanted to be a chef since I was four years old. The hospitality and catering department at college is fantastic and really helped to prepare & EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS me for my work placement.”
Reece Snape Electrical Installation student Reece Snape completed a fourteen week placement with Whitfield & Brown, the principal contractor working on the new £3.25m Bewsey and Dallam Community Hub in Warrington. As part of his role as college ambassador for the community project, Reece was required to attend a press event and meet with local councillors.
Some of our employer links:
37 COLLEGE LIFE
It’s not all work and no play! When you become a student at Warrington & Vale Royal College, you’ll be starting a brand new journey towards the new you, so what better time to get involved, try new things and make new friends for life. You could even boost your chances of employment, gain a qualification or undertake activities which will look fantastic on your CV or UCAS application. There’s always something you can get involved with going on around our campuses.
COLLEGE LIFE COLLEGE Here’s a taster of some of the exciting things you can look forward to:
Enrichment Trips & travel Enrichment is one of the best parts of student We offer a range of trips in the UK and abroad life at Warrington & Vale Royal College. to enhance classroom study and broaden your Throughout the year, we plan a whole range of experience, knowledge and interest in the fun and course related activities for you to get subject you are studying and the wider world. involved with. You’ll have the opportunity to join Whether it’s adventuring in the great outdoors social, hobby or sports groups, and hear from on residential trips across the country, taking a motivational guest speakers who could inspire bite out of the Big Apple on a trip to New York, your next career move. or even visiting world-renowned art galleries in These experiences will give you new skills, help historic Berlin, our students have a whole host you to build your confidence and grow personally of inspiring trips at their fingertips. as well as professionally, becoming the best you can be during your time at college. 38 Activities & groups You will find a fantastic range of activities to try your hand at, groups to join and one-off events to explore at both of our campuses. Not only will you be having lots of fun, but you’ll also be developing some brilliant new skills and taking part in something you can be proud of. With so many activities to choose from, here’s some ideas of where to begin. Sports & recreation Clubs & societies We are passionate about fitness and wellbeing, If sports are not really your thing, do not worry. which is why you will find lots of different sporting We have a number of clubs and societies for sessions across our campuses, covering you to get involved in, whether you are new to everything from basketball to boogie bounce, the hobby or a passionate fan already. gaming to gym, and horse riding to handball. Guest speakers workshops If you are based at our Warrington campus you & will be able to use the on-site gym. Well equipped Hearing about the experiences of others and with a range of free weights and aerobic how they have overcome challenges is a great COLLEGE LIFE equipment, the gym is a safe environment to way to ignite a fire in yourself. Throughout the keep fit and healthy all year round. year we invite a number of guest speakers to share their stories and inspire students like you. Themed events Volunteering work placements Throughout the year, you will see the college & taken over every few weeks by a new theme, Working closely with a number of external cause or awareness event. We want to help you agencies, we are able to provide a number of understand and talk about a range of different volunteering opportunities to help you gain issues, so we arrange lots of different activities real-world experience and develop a number of to tie in with special themes. skills you will find invaluable. We can help you find a volunteering position you will love, whether that is working with the community in allotments, at food banks or supporting local sports clubs.
39 STUDENT VOICE
Student Council Each year our Student Council recruits a number of individuals who act as representatives for their fellow students. They get involved in a range of projects including organising charity events and working with college management, giving their input on important college decisions.
Student Ambassadors Every year we appoint talented students from across the college to become Student Ambassadors, who together with the college’s buzzing marketing department, help to deliver events on and off the college campuses. Student Ambassadors can be asked to help out with events such as open evenings, taster days and school careers events. STUDENT VOICE STUDENT
40 STUDENT VOICE
41 ENGLISH & MATHS
If you do not achieve your grade 4 in GCSE English and/or maths at school we can help you to achieve it at college. GCSE English and maths run alongside your vocational studies in a dedicated slot on your timetable. Our specialist tutors will direct their teaching to your specific needs and support you as you progress to achieve these important qualifications. English and maths are essential skills that will enable you to succeed in your studies and progress in your career or further studies at higher education.
GCSE English: GCSE English Language is assessed with two Functional Skills MATHS exams at the end of the year. Functional Skills is an alternative to & GCSE English and maths. The two exams consist of: Paper 1: 20th century reading and creative writing Functional Skills English: Paper 2: 19th and 21st century non-fiction reading Focuses on the functional elements of and transactional/persuasive writing reading, writing, speaking and listening. ENGLISH ENGLISH Both exams assess reading and writing skills. It prepares students for the world of work, exploring transactional writing, GCSE Maths: reading for purpose and information and GCSE maths is assessed with three exams communicating effectively with others. at the end of the year: Functional Skills Maths: Paper 1: Non-calculator Focuses on the functional elements Paper 2: Calculator of number, shape and space and Paper 3: Calculator data handling. Topics covered include: Number, ratio, It prepares students for the world of work proportion and rates of change, algebra, geometry and the mathematical problems they will and measures, probability, and statistics. be faced with including travelling to work, budgeting and problem solving.
42 ENGLISH & MATHS
Get Reading Ahead and see where it takes you! Did you know our students participate in a fabulous reading scheme called ‘Reading Ahead’? Our students work with their English tutors, reading and reviewing literature. Our students also participate in the Accelerated Reader scheme that promotes reading fiction for pleasure whilst improving spelling, grammar and punctuation.
43 MYTH BUSTING
It’s time to bust the top misconceptions surrounding vocational qualifications!
“Vocational qualifications are for people who don’t do well at school.” Broadly speaking, vocational qualifications start to prepare you for a specific career, whereas A Levels aim to give you a solid academic grounding in a given subject. However, some vocational qualifications can be quite academic too, depending upon the subject and the specific modules taught. Vocational qualifications revolve around coursework and – often – work experience, whereas A Levels are much more classroom-based and tend to be assessed largely via final exams. Choosing to study a vocational qualification or A Levels should not be dictated by your academic ability, but by your preferred style of learning and your career aspirations. “Vocational qualifications aren’t as good as A Levels.” Level 3 vocational qualifications are equivalent to A Levels. In fact, the Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A levels, and the top grade, Distinction* is treated as an equivalent to MYTH BUSTING an A* at A Level. “Vocational qualifications are easier than A Levels.” Do not choose a vocational qualification expecting an easy life.You will have to be organised and committed throughout your course due to the continuous assessment methods. Vocational qualifications certainly are not the lazy way to an equivalent grade in the same subject. “I cannot apply to university with a vocational qualification.” Many universities are happy to accept level 3 qualifications for entry onto a degree. In fact, a quarter of students starting at university will have studied a BTEC qualification at level 3 rather than studying A Levels. If you’re considering going to university, do some research into the entry requirements for individual degree courses you might want to apply for before finalising your course choice.
44 MYTH BUSTING MYTH
45 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
At Warrington & Vale Royal College you can study a wide range of courses at a level that suits you. We have courses from entry level to level 3, and we also offer a wide selection of higher education courses.
Entry No minimum grades required. Level Everyday skills in reading and writing, basic literacy and numeracy skills and a willingness to learn.
Level 1 Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 2 or above.
Level Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including maths and/or English, or successful 2 completion of a level 1 course. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ENTRY If you have a GCSE grade 3 or lower in English and/or maths and wish to study at level 2, you will have to resit English and/or maths as part of your level 2 qualification.
Level Minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths and/or English, or successful 3 completion of a level 2 course. If you have a GCSE grade 3 or lower in English and/or maths and wish to study at level 3, you will have to resit English and/or maths as part of your level 3 qualification.
46 GCSE grading structure Many of you will be aware of the grading structure for all your GCSEs. The table below is a conversion chart so you can easily understand your grades:
Current Grading Old Grading Structure Structure 9 A* 8 A
7 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
6 Good Pass (DofE)† B 5 and above = top of C and above 5 C Awarding 4 4 and above = bottom of C and above
3 D 2 E 1 F
†Department of Education 47 FOUNDATION LEARNING
Foundation learning gives all young people the opportunity to access college in a supported environment. We offer bespoke programmes of study to help you take the next step.
Foundation Pathway If you feel as though you need time and support to develop the Foundation Pathways: right skills either for college, an apprenticeship or for employment Art then this unique programme of study is for you. After you complete Hairdressing FOUNDATION LEARNING FOUNDATION this you will have the skills to progress onto a level 1 course. Health & Social Care This course will provide you with: Hospitality & Catering IT • Behaviours, attitudes, skills and experience (BASE skills) required for progression at college and throughout life Multi-skills • A qualification that will allow you to progress on to a level 1 course Public Services & Sport • English and maths qualifications • Valuable work experience • Skills and experiences required for studying towards higher level qualifications, an apprenticeship or employment.
48 Supported Learning Supported Internships Our supported learning provision is designed to Our supported internships are for you if you meet the specific needs some of our students have a learning disability or learning difficulty, have, regardless of their ability, skill set and but have a real willingness to work. The qualification level. internships are specially adapted to maximise your skills and abilities. It is our intention to identify your starting point and work with you and your families You will be supported by a Job Coach to help to determine your aspirations for the future, you in the workplace and provide you with the whether it is independent or supported living, support you need. Students interested in this further education or employment through a course will have an Education Health & Care supported internship. Plan (EHCP) in place.
Lifeskills – Pre-entry – Level 1 FOUNDATION LEARNING We will support educational needs and develop your personal and social skills. This course is tailored to meet your specific needs through a personalised individual learning plan and is designed to support you to become more independent. Numeracy and literacy skills are embedded and applied throughout the course and work placement. There is also a focus on developing personal skills, such as communication
(including speaking and listening), confidence The Novel and self-awareness. Bite What can I do next? Our students may progress to higher levels of foundation learning courses, other courses in The Novel Bite Café college or a supported internship. Our students gain valuable employability and life skills through running their very own Novel Bite Café in the heart of the Winsford community, situated in Winsford Library. Come along and say hello!
49 “I absolutely loved my time at college and am so grateful to my amazing tutors. Everything I have achieved I owe to them. My dream is to progress to university and one day work for Rolls-Royce”
Roekh Yousaf Motor Vehicle Level 3 Warrington campus
50 51 APPRENTICESHIPS
Work and study at the same time with an apprenticeship at Warrington & Vale Royal College. An apprenticeship gives you both by combining on-the-job training whilst studying in college (usually one day per week), so that you can earn while you learn.
Why study an apprenticeship through us? • More than 9 out of 10 of our apprentices continue in employment or receive a promotion once they have finished their apprenticeship • We have a dedicated matching service and match your skills to an employer • Our experienced team will work with you and guide you through your apprenticeship • We will closely monitor your progress and maintain good dialogue with your employer. What levels are these? All apprenticeships include elements of on the job and off the job training, leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. Some apprenticeships also require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess your ability and competence in your job role. APPRENTICESHIPS Level Equivalent educational level
Intermediate 2 5 GCSE passes at grade 9 - 4 Advanced 3 2 A level passes/Level 3 Diploma/International Baccalaureate Higher 4, 5, 6 and 7 Foundation degree or above Degree 6 and 7 Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
52 APPRENTICESHIPS: Page
Accountancy 54 Bricklaying 55 Business Administration 56 Carpentry & Joinery 57 Digital 58 Electrical Installation 59 Engineering 60 Hairdressing 61 APPRENTICESHIPS Health & Social Care 62 Hospitality 63 Human Resources 64 Motor Vehicle 65 Plumbing 66 Team Leading/Supervisory 67
53 ACCOUNTANCY
As an accounting assistant apprentice you will provide support to internal and external customers and will work predominately either as an assistant accountant, or within the finance function of an organisation. Part of your role will involve assisting in the day to day financial activities Meet George Dean: such as data entry to month end management accounts George Dean has risen and/or year-end financial statements. In addition, you may to success, working as an find yourself involved in regulatory financial requirements accounting apprentice within such as the completion of VAT returns or assisting in the Warrington & Vale Royal preparation of tax computations. College’s Finance department. The apprenticeship standard APPRENTICESHIP: requires students to attend an end point assessment Level 3 Accounting Assistant interview with an assessor
ACCOUNTANCY from the Association of What will I learn? Accounting Technicians, during which they must Knowledge: Skills: present their portfolio of work, • Business awareness • Analysis which George passed with • Ethical standards • Communication flying colours. • Financial accounting and • Problem solving George said: “I’m very proud to be one of the college’s reporting • Quality & accuracy first apprentices to pass the • IT systems and processes • Using systems and new accounting assistant • Management accounting processes. apprenticeship. The support I’ve received from the college has been fantastic and I’m looking forward to progressing on to my AAT level 4.”
APPRENTICESHIPS 54 BRICKLAYING
With the housing market continuing to grow, bricklaying apprentices are needed more than ever before. As a bricklaying apprentice you will gain a good insight into the construction sector, and take on a variety of hands-on tasks. You will set out basic structures, as well as building Meet John Tarpey: brick and block walling on construction sites. In addition Former St Gregory’s High you will place and finish concrete and rendering surfaces, School student John Tarpey BRICKLAYING along with laying domestic drainage. The tasks you carry originally planned to go to out during your apprenticeship will prepare you for full-time a competitor college, but employment and a career in this sector. after seeing the construction workshop at Warrington & Vale APPRENTICESHIP: Royal College, he knew he had to join us. John works with Level 2 Bricklaying a self-employed bricklayer and receives fantastic support from What will I learn? his Apprenticeship Assessor at college, who tracks his Knowledge: Skills: progress on site. • Building technology • Communicating technical “I really enjoy learning about • Construction methods, information the practical elements of insulation and sustainability • Customer service bricklaying and then backing it up with the theory behind it • Erecting masonry • Preparing materials all. It helps me to put what I’ve structures • Productive working learnt into practice and see how • Health, safety and welfare practices everything comes together.” in the workplace • Quality assurance After finishing his
• Moving, handling and • Self-motivation. apprenticeship, John would like APPRENTICESHIPS storing resources to continue as a bricklayer with his current employer, before eventually going on to start his own business.
55 BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Business administrators have a highly transferable set of knowledge, skills and behaviours that can be applied to lots of different careers. This includes small and large organisations; from the public, private and charitable sectors. As a business administrator apprentice, you Meet Jack Sherwood: will be responsible for a variety of tasks to ensure the Business administration smooth daily operation of the organisation. Duties include apprentice Jack Sherwood has supporting senior employees, maintaining records, been working at Today Team arranging meetings, typing up documents and liaising with Courier Services for just over internal and external stakeholders. a year, after finishing college with 3 A-Levels. APPRENTICESHIP: Jack said: “If you’re unsure about what to do when you Level 3 Business Administration finish school or college, do an apprenticeship. Unlike What will I learn? university, you’re not becoming tied to student loans or Knowledge: Skills: BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS narrowing your options. I’m • Business fundamentals • Communication currently studying for my • Managing information • Decision-making Business Administration Level & GDPR • Interpersonal skills 3 but I’ve also been given the opportunity to work closely • Managing stakeholders • IT skills within Today Team’s accounts • Policies • Project management. department, which has made • Processes me want to pursue my AAT • Production of a accounting qualification at business document college. I hope that’ll be my next step.” Jack was awarded with the Outstanding Apprentice Award at the college's 2019 Further Education Awards.
APPRENTICESHIPS 56 CARPENTRY & JOINERY
If you wish to pursue a career in an exciting and diverse industry, are good with practical work and have an eye for detail, carpentry & joinery could be a great career for you. Carpenters and joiners carry out skilled work, primarily using timber products to create and install building components. Meet Eddie Swinney: CARPENTRY This apprenticeship includes practical and theoretical After spending two weeks elements of carpentry & joinery, providing you with the on placement at Cruden’s underpinning skills and knowledge to succeed. Harrison Square site in Warrington, student Eddie APPRENTICESHIPS: Swinney was given the
news that he had been & Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery selected to join Cruden’s JOINERY apprenticeship programme Level 3 Advanced Carpentry & Joinery after demonstrating outstanding work in carpentry & joinery. What will I learn? Attributing his success to his Knowledge: Skills: tutors at the college, ex Lymm High School pupil Eddie said: • Calculating quantity, length, • Adaptability “I wouldn’t have been able area and wastage of • Effective communication to get this apprenticeship if it resources • Independent and team wasn’t for Warrington & Vale • Interpreting and using working Royal College.” relevant product information • Logical thinking and specifications • Working effectively • Measuring, marking out, and efficiently. fitting, cutting, splicing,
finishing, positioning and APPRENTICESHIPS securing resources • Quality, sustainability, limitations and defects of timber-based products • Techniques and methods used to move, handle and store materials 57 DIGITAL
Put your computer skills to the test as an infrastructure technician apprentice, and become immersed in the fast-moving digital world. This apprenticeship will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to adapt to new technologies as they progress. You will learn how to Meet Ryan Kenny: respond pro-actively to a variety of IT issues, and work When Ryan Kenny enrolled flexibly to manage and prioritise tasks. You will also gain on an apprenticeship at a working knowledge of business IT skills related to the Warrington & Vale Royal organisation you work for, allowing you to apply this College, he had no idea just learning throughout your career. how much his life was about to change. Now, the 18 year old APPRENTICESHIP: has the world at his feet and an
DIGITAL exciting career ahead of him with Stanley Black & Decker, Level 3 Infrastructure Technician after being named BTEC Apprentice of the Year. What will I learn? After high school, Ryan enrolled Knowledge: Skills: on a level 3 apprenticeship with Stanley. He went on to create • Data and storage • Communication a cutting-edge digital solution • Hardware, software • Independent working to meet the needs of Stanley’s and network systems • Organisation business. performance • Problem solving Ryan, who is based at • Health and safety Stanley’s Woolston site, • Using initiative • IT maintenance is now travelling the world • Workflow management. implementing the software, • IT security having been promoted to • Remote infrastructure Business Systems Analyst. He has already visited Miami, where he demonstrated the system to Stanley Black & Decker’s senior management, as well as receiving $10,000 in Stanley shares in recognition of his hard work.
APPRENTICESHIPS 58 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
As an installation electrician apprentice you will train to install, maintain and repair electrical systems in industrial, commercial and domestic environments. Gaining experience carrying out a variety of tasks, you will work on the ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of low Meet Lewis Pearce: voltage electrical and electronic devices and appliances. You Electrical Installation student will work with a range of different equipment and electrical Lewis Pearce has progressed systems such as fire alarms, heating, cables, fuses, lighting, from level 1 and 2, to a level switchboards and renewable energy technologies. 3 apprenticeship with KDE Electrical, Plumbing and APPRENTICESHIP: Heating Services. Lewis is really enjoying his Level 3 Installation Electrician apprenticeship and is getting lots of on-site experience as What will I learn? well as earning a wage. He says the best thing about Knowledge: Skills: studying at Warrington & Vale • Design and installation • Communication Royal College is the support practices and procedures • Customer service he receives from his tutors, whom he describes as friendly • Electrical principles • Fault diagnosis and and approachable. • Environmental technology rectification In the future Lewis hopes systems • Independent working to work abroad as a self- • Health and safety • Inspecting, testing and employed electrician. • Practices and principles commissioning for the preparation • Supervisory skills
and installation of APPRENTICESHIPS • Terminating and wiring systems and connecting conductors. electrotechnical systems
59 ENGINEERING
With a huge proportion of the engineering workforce set to retire in the coming years, leading companies are keen to recruit young people to take on exciting engineering roles. As an engineering apprentice, you may wish to specialise in areas such as electro-technical, fabrication & welding Meet George Warner: or craft & technician. Whichever path you wish to take, Advanced electrical you are sure to be taking on practical and dynamic tasks engineering apprentice in an ever-growing industry. Duties will include applying George Warner works as a proven techniques and procedures to solve engineering Junior Project Manager for and manufacturing problems, and making technical Heat Trace, one of the world’s contributions to a variety of sectors. leading suppliers of electric heat tracing equipment. APPRENTICESHIPS: A previous Neston High School student, George finished ENGINEERING Level 2 Performing Engineering school and immediately began Operations (PEO) an apprenticeship at Heat Levels 2 & 3 Maintenance Operations & Trace in Helsby. As part of Engineering Technician (MOET) his apprenticeship, George completed his BTEC Level 3 in Level 3 General Engineering or Electrical General Engineering and is now Engineering studying for an HNC in Electrical Engineering. George said: What will I learn? “That’s one of the great things about working as an apprentice Knowledge: Skills: for Heat Trace, they’re very • Design, development, • Adapting to different keen for me to continue my manufacturing, building situations, environments education and develop my skill and commissioning and technologies set. As part of my role I use processes • Interpreting data and AutoCAD to design work for our • Industry regulations documentation electrical installation projects • Operating and maintaining • Technical, practical and across the UK. My favourite products and equipment interpersonal skills part of the role is travelling around the country to meet our • Principles, practices, • Working efficiently and customers at their sites.” procedures and legislation. effectively.
APPRENTICESHIPS 60 HAIRDRESSING
As a hair professional apprentice you will build the skills, knowledge and experience needed to begin your career in the hair & beauty industry. You will experience a variety of hair types to prepare you to work with different clients, and will develop a high level of precision and exceptional Meet Emily Syers: client care. You will use a range of techniques in cutting Emily Syers started her and styling, working on real clients to hone your craft. apprenticeship to follow HAIRDRESSING You will also learn how to provide effective product her dream of working in the recommendations for customers and increase your hairdressing industry. With a personal sales skills. passion for using her creativity and imagination, Emily regularly APPRENTICESHIP: creates unique hairstyles that rival those of celebrity stylists. Level 2 Hairdressing During her apprenticeship, Emily has even had the opportunity to work with a number of celebrity Upon beginning the course you will decide whether you hairdressers. would like to go down the hairdressing or barbering route. Emily said: “An apprenticeship What will I learn? is giving me the experience of what it’s like to work in a busy Knowledge: Skills: salon environment in the real • Colouring and lightening • Communication world. Every day is completely techniques • Consultation techniques different and I get to meet so • Cutting techniques • Customer service many different people, which is helping me to improve my • Hair and scalp treatment • Independent working. people skills as well as my • Health and safety
hairdressing skills. I chose APPRENTICESHIPS • Shampooing and an apprenticeship because it conditioning challenges you and allows you • Styling techniques to express yourself. You get thrown into the deep end but that’s good because it gives you that push to reach your full potential.” 61 HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
As an adult care worker apprentice you will learn fundamental health & social care working practices in order to develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed in this career path. You will work to support individuals with a wide variety of physical, social and emotional needs, providing tailored care based on individual care plans, needs, wishes and preferences. This will give you a greater understanding of specific individual needs allowing you to develop practical skills and techniques for a career in this sector.
SOCIAL CARE APPRENTICESHIPS: & Level 2 Adult Care Worker Level 3 Adult Care Worker
HEALTH HEALTH What will I learn? Knowledge: Skills: • Dignity and care • Communication • Equality and diversity • Developing individual • Health, safety and welfare care plans • Physical, social and • Listening emotional needs of • Resilience individuals • Team working • Safeguarding • Working under pressure. • Statutory standards and codes of conduct • The importance of different forms of communication
APPRENTICESHIPS 62 HOSPITALITY
As a hospitality team member you will be immersed in all elements of the hospitality industry, to gain a wider understanding of different sectors and roles. You will gain vital customer service skills and learn the importance of going above and beyond customer expectations. You will also develop shrewd business skills, understanding the importance of sales, productivity, promotions, marketing HOSPITALITY campaigns and brand reputation. You will then be able to specialise in a chosen industry including food and beverage service, housekeeping, or conference and banqueting.
APPRENTICESHIPS:
Level 2 Catering & Professional Chef Level 2 Hospitality Team Member
What will I learn? Knowledge: Skills: • Business awareness and • Communication adherence to company • Customer service brand values • Professionalism • Enhancing productivity • Supervisory skills • Environmental awareness • Team-working • Improvement of products • Upselling and promotion.
and services APPRENTICESHIPS • Increasing market share • Legislative responsibilities of businesses • Product knowledge
63 HUMAN RESOURCES
As an HR support apprentice your work is likely to include handling day to day queries and providing HR advice; working on a range of HR processes, from recruitment through to retirement; using HR systems to keep records; providing relevant HR information to the organisation and working with your employer on HR changes.
APPRENTICESHIP:
Level 3 Human Resources Support
What will I learn? Knowledge: Skills: • Business understanding • Communication &
HUMAN RESOURCES HUMAN • HR function interpersonal • HR legislation and policy • Personal development • HR systems and • Problem solving processes. • Process improvement • Service delivery • Teamwork.
APPRENTICESHIPS 64 MOTOR VEHICLE
As a motor vehicle apprentice you will be immersed in the fast-paced and thriving world of the automotive industry. You will undertake a range of duties including maintaining and repairing light vehicles such as cars and vans, as well as diagnosing faults and finding appropriate solutions. In addition, you will carry out useful tasks such as routine MOTOR VEHICLE servicing and inspection procedures. The tasks you will face will be ever-changing, with new technologies and diagnostic techniques constantly being introduced.
APPRENTICESHIPS:
Level 2 Light Motor Vehicle Level 3 Light Motor Vehicle
What will I learn? Knowledge: Skills: • Advanced braking and • Communication suspension systems • Customer service skills • Alternative fuels and • Diagnostic and problem hybrid electric systems solving skills • Emissions, modifications • Efficiency and accessories • Self-evaluation and • Maintaining, repairing self-improvement
and testing vehicle APPRENTICESHIPS components • Team-working. • Removal and replacement procedures • The structure of the automotive industry
65 PLUMBING
As a plumbing apprentice you will gain a real insight into the plumbing & heating industry by performing tasks to prepare you for a career in this sector. You will be at the forefront of installing new environmental technologies, such as heat pumps, solar thermal systems, biomass boilers and water recycling systems. You will also develop key skills in measuring, marking, cutting, bending and jointing metallic and non-metallic pipework, to work with a range of appliances.
APPRENTICESHIPS:
Level 2 Plumbing & Heating PLUMBING Level 3 Plumbing & Heating
What will I learn? Knowledge: Skills: • Environmental protection • Building relationships measures • Core plumbing system • Health and safety techniques • Installation and • Customer service maintenance techniques • Diagnosing and fixing faults for domestic hot and cold • Effective communication water, central heating, rainwater and above • Electrical components and ground drainage systems control systems techniques • Pipework fabrication • Independent working techniques • Supervisory skills. • Principles of fossil fuels • Scientific principles
APPRENTICESHIPS 66 TEAM LEADING/SUPERVISORY
A team leader/supervisor is a first line management role, with operational/project responsibilities or responsibility for managing a team. Working in the private, public or charity TEAM LEADING/SUPERVISORY sector and in all sizes of organisation, specific duties will vary, but the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed will be the same whatever the role. Your key duties are likely to include: supporting, managing and developing team members, managing projects, planning and monitoring workloads and resources, delivering operational plans, resolving problems, and building relationships internally and externally.
APPRENTICESHIP:
Level 2 Team Leading/Supervisory
What will I learn? Knowledge: Skills: • Building relationships • Communication • Finance • Decision-making • Leading people • Leadership and • Managing people management skills • Operational management • Self-awareness • Project management • Time management. APPRENTICESHIPS
67 68 “The highlight of my time at college has got to be teaching sport to local schoolchildren as part of my work placement. I’ve had so many opportunities which really helped when it came to writing my personal statement for university.”
Hannah Glover Sport Level 3 Warrington Campus
69 VOCATIONAL COURSES
With a wide range of vocational courses on offer, we have something to suit all interests and levels of ability. Vocational courses are especially good if you enjoy a practical, hands-on approach to studying, with a combination of coursework and controlled assessment. They have been developed in partnership with employers to ensure that you learn the skills that are relevant for your chosen industry. With a vocational course, you will be studying one main subject, alongside English and maths if you haven't got a grade 4. This means you can specialise in the area of study where your career ambitions lie. If you choose to study a vocational qualification you will: • Gain real, hands-on experience and the skills that today’s employers are looking for • Be continually assessed via coursework and practical projects, as well as examinations
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL • Gain a recognised qualification • Have the relevant skills to progress into the world of work, further and/or higher education, or an apprenticeship.
70 VOCATIONAL COURSES: Page
Art & Design 72 Beauty Therapy 76 Brickwork 80 Business 84 Carpentry & Joinery 88 Childcare 92
Computing & ICT 96 VOCATIONAL COURSES Creative & Digital Media 100 Electrical Installation 104 Engineering 108 Games Design 112 Graphic Design 116 Hairdressing 120 Health & Social Care 124 Hospitality & Culinary Arts 128 Media Make-Up 132 Motor Vehicle 136 Performing Arts 140 Plumbing 144 Public Services 148 Science 152 Sport 156 Travel & Tourism 160
71 ART & DESIGN DESIGN & ART
On these exciting, innovative courses you can let your creative juices flow and express your imagination through a range of artistic disciplines. You will be introduced to a broad range of art and design mediums, before having the artistic freedom to experiment with your enhanced skills and interpret briefs in your chosen specialism. What will I learn? Our courses will give you the opportunity to explore your creativity and be exposed to a host of artistic genres. Along with discovering historical and contemporary artists to inspire your practice and enhance your research skills, you will cover a broad range of disciplines including: • 3D Art • Photography • Ceramics • Printmaking • Drawing • Professional practice • Graphic Design • Textiles. • Painting
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 72 Career options: ART & DESIGN COURSES: The creative industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the UK, generating more than £100 billion a year to the UK economy Level 1 Creative & Digital Arts and employs more than 2 million people. Level 1 Creative & Performance Arts Careers: • Animator Level 2 Art & Design • Architect ART ART Level 3 Art & Design • Art Gallery Curator • Art Teacher Level 3 Art & Design Foundation & Diploma (1 Year) • Fashion Designer DESIGN • Graphic Designer Length of courses: • Illustrator • Interior Designer - One year Level 1 • Jeweller - One year Level 2 • Product Designer - Two years Level 3 • Professional Artist Progression opportunities: Labour market information: After completing your level 3 course, you may wish to progress on to our HNC & HND in • There are an estimated 2.9 million jobs in Applied Arts, or our HNC & HND in Fine Art. the creative industry, that’s equivalent to 1 in 11 jobs in the UK Previous students have gone on to study at universities such as Falmouth University, • 678,480 people currently work in the Liverpool John Moores University, creative and cultural industries.
Loughborough University, Manchester VOCATIONAL COURSES Metropolitan University and Wrexham Glyndwr University. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! Source: gov.uk warwick.ac.uk 73 WHY STUDY ART & DESIGN AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: In the past, students have gone on to study at a number of excellent universities, including Erin The college has good links with a number of Hague who now studies Fine Art at Aberystwyth practicing artists, including our own artist in University where she is exploring painting and residence. You will also have the opportunity to illustration in greater depth ahead of pursuing a complete live briefs for local community groups career in art. and employers. DESIGN
& Trips and visits: Work placement: Local and national trips are continually organised To maximise your artistic potential you will carry
ART to inspire your artistic journey. Previous trips out a work placement in a field of your choice. include Berlin, New York and Barcelona to view Past students have undertaken enriching roles works from internationally renowned artists. You at galleries within Warrington Museum, or even will also have the opportunity to visit The Tate put their practical skills to the test at venues Gallery, Manchester City Art Gallery, Whitworth such as Blakemere Craft Centre, enhancing their Art Gallery, Museum of Science and Industry communication, teaching and problem-solving skills. and The Natural History Museum, to enhance Guest speakers: your creativity. You will have the opportunity to take part in guest Facilities: lecture workshops with practicing artists, such as Our creative art suites are equipped with a huge Julie Fewster about her experiences across the range of art supplies ready for you to explore a globe, and Ben Walters about setting up his own variety of mediums. We also have purpose built glass manufacturing business in China. spacious art studios with large windows to allow Alumni: plenty of natural light. Our excellent ceramic facilities include gas, electric and raku firing glass Many students on this course wish to progress kilns enabling you to have access to high quality on to university. Tutors will give you the ongoing equipment. support needed through your UCAS applications, providing expert advice on universities' specialisms and courses, through to helping to prepare your portfolio for your university interview.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 74 Meet Jah-Kyra Evans: Former Penketh High School student, Jah-Kyra, is currently studying Art & Design Level 3. Jah-Kyra loved learning the basics in her first year at college, but really found her feet and flourished in her second year when she was given artistic freedom to express herself. When she enrolled on this course, Jah-Kyra’s interest was predominantly drawing but with her tutors help, support and encouragement, she has now found her ‘niche’ in painting and loves being able to express herself through this medium. ART Student: Jah Kyra Evans & - DESIGN Meet our tutor Ben Brady: Art & Design Curriculum Manager, Ben Brady studied A Levels, and then completed a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design at Mid Cheshire College, now part of Warrington & Vale Royal College. From there he went on to complete a BA Honours in Fine Art at Liverpool Hope University, followed by a PGCE in Further and Higher Education with Manchester Metropolitan University. Ben successfully completed a post-graduate qualification in Fine Art at the University of Chester to extend his knowledge further. Ben has a vast amount of experience in education, having worked as an Associate Tutor in Fine Art at the University of Chester, and Tutor: Ben Brady then an Art & Design Tutor at Mid Cheshire College. “I love working at Warrington & Vale Royal College as each day is different and I am fortunate to manage an area I am passionate VOCATIONAL COURSES about. It is incredibly rewarding to see students develop their skills, confidence and knowledge during their time with us, and to witness their positive destinations. There is a strong support network at the college, where we all help each other to achieve a common goal, supporting students to reach their full potential.”
75 BEAUTY THERAPY BEAUTY THERAPY BEAUTY
Do you have a passion for making people look and feel beautiful? If so, our Beauty Therapy course is perfect for you. You will learn in The Academy at Warrington campus, which is equipped with modern commercial salons and beauty therapy suites. Our beauty, hairdressing & make-up facilities are open to the public, so you will be working on paying clients and gaining valuable experience that will make your CV shine. What will I learn? Based in our modern beauty therapy suites, you will cover an extensive range of topics such as: • Anatomy and physiology • Massage therapy • Body electrical treatment • Mechanical massage • Client care • Nail art • Consultation techniques • Pedicure treatments • Eyebrow services • Promotion and sales • Facial treatments • Skin type analysis • Health, safety and hygiene • Spray tanning • Make-up application • Waxing services. • Manicure treatments
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 76 Career options: BEAUTY THERAPY This exciting industry could open up a COURSES: world of opportunities, with chances for career progression, self-employment and even travel around the world. You may Level 1 Hair & Beauty Diploma wish to work in the cruise industry, carrying out beauty treatments on luxury liners, or Level 2 Beauty Therapy Diploma perhaps even work as an in-house therapist
at a 5 star hotel in countries such as Dubai BEAUTY THERAPY Level 3 Beauty Therapy Diploma and Bermuda. Careers: Length of courses: • Beautician Level 1 - One year • Beauty Therapist Level 2 - One year • Cruise Liner Salon Worker Level 3 - One year • Massage Therapist Direct entry onto the Level 3 Beauty Therapy • Nail Technician Diploma requires successful completion at • Salon Manager level 2. • Spa Therapist Progression opportunities: Labour market information: After completing your level 3 course, you may wish to progress on to our Level 4 • The hair & beauty sector is currently one of Salon Management course. the biggest growing industries in Cheshire • There are currently over 150,000 people Applying: employed in the Hair & Beauty sector in the UK. Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', VOCATIONAL COURSES or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus!
Source: ibisworld.co.uk/industry-trends 77 WHY STUDY BEAUTY THERAPY AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: We have a huge number of industry links from One of the college's greatest success stories is small local salons and hotel chain groups, previous student Rianne Chester, who secured through to product suppliers and skincare the gold medal for beauty therapy at World Skills brands. To further your understanding of this International Competition in São Paulo, Brazil. industry you will have contact with a range of She also gained the Albert Vitel Medal that manufacturers such as Dermalogica, Environ and recognises the best of the best. It was the first Silhouette, as well as our own apprentices. time the UK had ever won that prize. Many of our students progress to employment Work placement: in beauty salons, luxury spas within hotels and BEAUTY THERAPY BEAUTY The college actively promotes work placement abroad, or on cruise liners. More recently, we and will assist in securing a placement for you. have witnessed an industry increase in salon ‘rent Previous students have secured placements a chair’ vacancies, encouraging more beauty at popular salons and spas across Cheshire therapists to become self-employed and manage including: The Park Royal Hotel, Harmony their own clients. Beauty Salon, Bride Be Lovely, Spa Beautiful, Beauty Box and The Village Hotel. Trips and visits: To ensure you are at the forefront of industry Guest speakers: developments, you’ll attend Professional Beauty Our tutors continuously employ guest speakers North, the North’s leading beauty, spa and hair and external companies to come in to talk to our show. You’ll learn from industry experts via live students and demonstrate new products and demonstrations, and also get a chance to show off techniques. From this direct experience with your skills in nail, make-up and lash competitions. professionals, your skills and knowledge will be enhanced, giving you a competitive edge when Facilities: seeking employment. The Academy, our popular hair & beauty centre, is a fully equipped and modern facility containing a number of indulgent beauty therapy suites to enable students to learn in a real working environment.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 78 Meet Nyasha Burch: Beauty therapy student Nyasha started at college on level 1 and has since progressed to level 3. She moved to the UK from Bermuda and says her passion for beauty therapy was inherited from her grandma. She’s thoroughly enjoying the course and loves conducting treatments on her fellow classmates and clients of The Academy. The tutors have really helped her to enjoy and understand the importance of beauty therapy theory, and the positive energy that BEAUTY THERAPY her tutors bring to the salons and classrooms is infectious. Student: Nyasha Burch In the future she hopes to open her own one-stop-shop style salon, where clients can receive a whole number of treatments under one roof.
Meet our tutor Bethany Sanders: Course Leader Bethany Sanders has studied and worked within beauty therapy since leaving school. She achieved a BA Hons degree in Salon Business Management with University College Birmingham, completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at Edge Hill University, and a Masters degree in Educational Leadership & Management at Manchester Metropolitan University. Throughout her studies, Beth has worked as a mobile beauty therapist and within a skin clinic. She believes the staff are what make Warrington & Vale Royal College stand out, commenting on their wealth of knowledge, experience and the high standards they Tutor: Bethany Sanders expect of their students at The Academy. VOCATIONAL COURSES
79 BRICKWORK
BRICKWORK These courses are ideal if you would like to follow a career path in brickwork. The Colin Daniels Construction Centre is a dedicated facility for construction crafts, including brickwork, with well-equipped workshops carrying a wide range of tools and appropriate materials. Our expert tutors will teach you all aspects of the building trade and prepare you to enter the industry at a highly skilled level. You will gain the skills and confidence to secure employment in this area, whether it be on commercial developments, starting your own construction company or working in a supervisory or management role. What will I learn? In addition to the fully equipped construction workshops, you’ll have access to well-appointed classrooms and computer facilities which will enhance your learning and provide an effective link between the theoretical and practical aspects of the course. Our brickwork courses cover a range of topics including: • Blocklaying • Health & safety • Bricklaying • Interpreting building drawings • Building solid walling isolated and attached piers • Organising, planning and pricing • Cavity walling construction work • Constructing fireplaces and chimneys • Principles of building construction • Constructing radial and battered brickwork • Producing thin joint masonry and cladding • Decorative and reinforced brickwork • Setting out, building, repairing and maintaining masonry structures.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 80 Career options: BRICKWORK COURSES: With hard work and relevant experience you could soon be working your way up the career ladder within the construction industry. Level 1 Construction Skills You may wish to become a construction site (Multi Skills) supervisor, or move into ‘white collar’ roles such as estimating or surveying. With a Level 1 Bricklaying government target of 300,000 new homes to be built per year, the earning potential in this
Level 2 Bricklaying sector is incredible. BRICKWORK
Level 3 Bricklaying Careers: • Architect Irrespective of your GCSE results, most • Bricklayer students will start at level 1 and learn basic • Building Maintenance skills before progressing through the levels. • Building Surveyor Length of courses: • Quantity Surveyor • Self-employed Level 1 - One year • Site Manager Level 2 - One year • Teacher Level 3 - One year Labour market information: Progression opportunities: • The average UK salary for a bricklayer is The brickwork team work very closely with £28,080 our apprenticeships team, and will work with you to swap to an apprenticeship if you • Construction is the largest industry in the secure an employer. country, with over 3 million workers in the UK and over 230,000 new construction VOCATIONAL COURSES After completing your level 3 course, you jobs expected to be created within the may wish to progress on to our HNC in next 5 years. Construction & The Built Environment. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! Source: goconstruct.org 81 WHY STUDY BRICKWORK AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: The college has close links with a number One of the college’s greatest success stories of local and national employers such as is previous student Ashley Terron who took Vinci Construction, David Wilson Homes, home the top prize for bricklaying at the global Persimmon Homes, Taylor Wimpey and Cruden Worldskills competition in 2013, the “Olympics” of Construction. These links enable us to secure vocational training. Ashley, who works as an Area you valuable work placement and apprenticeship Construction Manager for Redrow Homes, is opportunities. now an assistant training manager for Worldskills UK. He was also named in the Queen’s Birthday BRICKWORK Work placement: Honours List of 2014 and awarded The British Our students benefit from fantastic work placement Empire Medal for ‘Service to Skills’. opportunities with a range of employers. Most Trips and visits: recently, our students have assisted with Vinci Construction’s £69 million Warrington Time Square Local trips are planned to see a variety of different redevelopment, and with All Saints Church’s architecture and construction technologies. restoration, a huge conservation project funded Previous trips have included Port Sunlight Village, by the National Lottery. Albert Dock and Liverpool Cathedral. Guest speakers: Facilities: Forterra Brick Manufacturers, MKM Building Your lessons will take place in our fully equipped, Supplies and OX tools are just a handful purpose-built workshop and classrooms at of companies who deliver guest talks and our Warrington campus. Our partnerships with demonstrations at our workshop, offering expert leading employers means we often receive advice and knowledge on the latest industry extremely generous donations, ensuring our developments. students have access to the best bricks and tools. Just this year, we received a donation of £28,000 worth of bricks from Redrow Homes, demonstrating the company’s commitment to investing in young people aspiring to work within the construction industry.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 82 Meet Connor Evans: Connor Evans comes from a family of bricklayers and dreamed of following in his brothers footsteps, who also studied brickwork at Warrington & Vale Royal College. He pro-actively secured his own apprenticeship with PLF Ltd after finishing school and quickly began his career. Connor finds the tutors to be incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, leading by example with their professional experience of the trade.
“They are not scared to pick up a trowel and get stuck in to help BRICKWORK Student: Connor Evans you rather than just telling you. The tutors will prepare you for working on a construction site and offer advice and guidance on securing an apprenticeship if that is what you want.” Connor has excelled on his course and has been entered into the annual Skillbuild competition as a senior contestant, usually only attainable at level 3. Connor’s dream is to set up his own family run construction company with his brother – he is even hoping that his younger brother will follow the family tradition by enrolling on this course!
Meet our tutor Carl Atherton: Brickwork tutor Carl Atherton has a host of qualifications and experience under his belt, and has taught many successful bricklayers including the aforementioned world champion Ashley Terron. Carl started his career as an apprentice aged sixteen and gained a qualification in advanced craft.
He previously worked as a bricklayer for Liverpool City Council, VOCATIONAL COURSES before moving into education. Carl joined the college in 2005 and has not looked back since: “I love seeing our students develop their skills and their enthusiasm for the trade.” Tutor: Carl Atherton
83 BUSINESS BUSINESS
Whether you aspire to own your own business, have a keen interest in the world of finance or want to progress on to university, our business courses will help you to reach your career goal. You will examine the key issues businesses face and learn how to apply your knowledge to different challenges. What will I learn? Our business courses will prepare you for the exhilarating world of business. You will learn about everything from finance and accounting, to marketing and branding, including mandatory and optional units such as: • Business and enterprise • Principles of customer service • Business online • Promoting a brand • Digital marketing • Providing business support • Employment law • Public sector business • Event management • Recruitment, selection and employment • Marketing campaign development • Sales and personal selling. • Personal and business finance
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 84 Career options: BUSINESS COURSES: Business is booming! Do you dream of creating your own brand, working with numbers in the world of finance or even Level 2 Business becoming your own boss? The skills you will gain from our business courses will create Level 3 Business endless opportunities for your future career. Careers: Length of courses: • Accountant
Level 2 - One year BUSINESS • Business Advisor Level 3 - Two years • Communications Officer Progression opportunities: • Financial Consultant After completing your level 3 course, you • Human Resource Manager may wish to progress on to our HNC & HND • Management Consultant in Business, or choose to specialise and • Marketing Officer enrol on one of our professional courses, • Office Manager such as Leadership & Management (ILM • Project Manager accredited), Human Resources (CIPD accredited) or Accounting (AAT accredited). • Retail Manager Applying: Labour market information: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk • Starting salaries in human resources can by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', begin at £18,000, however if you’re willing or fill in the application form at the back of to work your way up the career ladder this prospectus! you could eventually become a People Director, earning £100,000 a year! • There is a huge demand for accountants all VOCATIONAL COURSES over the world, almost every organisation has a financial department so there are lots of jobs available right on your doorstep or further afield.
Source: cipd.co.uk/careers 85 WHY STUDY BUSINESS AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: We have strong links with local businesses Jordan Gibbons, former Birchwood Community such as Warrington Chamber of Commerce, High School student, dreamed of becoming an Warrington Business Exchange and Real5 accountant. With the help of Warrington & Vale Networking, to immerse you in the intricacies of Royal College, that dream is now becoming a the business world. reality after he was offered an unconditional offer at his top choice university: Manchester Work placement: Metropolitan University, to study Accounting BUSINESS As part of your course you will have the & Finance. opportunity to work within a real life business, Trips and visits: gaining valuable experience and contacts ready for when you begin your career. You will also be Visiting a variety of businesses will help you given challenging assignments set in real-life to understand the intricacies of business business scenarios to help you progress, build employment, and develop your awareness of skills and develop positive behaviours which can the huge range of skills needed in this sector. be used in whichever career you choose. Facilities: Guest speakers: Our central location provides the ideal setting Leading professionals from the worlds of for your business studies, where you will be marketing, human resources and finance will surrounded by multi-million pound businesses enrich your learning journey, providing fascinating and top employers. You will have access to insights into their specialist fields with guest conferencing facilities and suites as well as lectures and demonstrations. computer classrooms to enhance your studies.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 86 Meet Alina Lanyo: Alina Lanyo, current Student President at Warrington & Vale Royal College, is going from strength to strength whilst studying her Business Level 3 qualification. Alina loves learning about exciting prospects in business and has a passion for marketing and PR. She hopes one day to put her skills to the test by opening her own business. “The welcome I received at Warrington & Vale Royal College's open evening was much warmer than at other colleges. The staff were really friendly and the facilities are great. It just felt right.” Student: Alina Lanyo BUSINESS
Meet our tutor Gavin Segal: Gavin Segal, one of our business tutors, comes with a rich background of business experience from across the globe. Working for leading employers such as Coca-Cola and Unilever, within varied roles such as Auditing and Field Marketing Management. Gavin has been a member of the Charted Institute for Marketing for 17 years, and specialises in areas such as Project Management, Economics and Marketing. With a broad experience working with advertising, website design and distribution companies, Gavin draws on his wealth of experience in a variety of Tutor: Gavin Segal sectors to influence his teaching. VOCATIONAL COURSES
87 CARPENTRY & JOINERY JOINERY &
CARPENTRY CARPENTRY Master the art of creating woodworking joints and hone your valuable craft with this hands-on, practical course. You will learn a whole host of skills to help you to construct, install and repair wooden structures and fittings, including doors and windows. Working in our fully kitted out workshop you will have all the tools you need to become a highly skilled carpenter or joiner. What will I learn? Over the duration of your course, you will study a wide range of topics to enhance your skills and knowledge of this popular trade, such as: • Construction industry and the built environment • Producing joinery items • Erecting complex structural carcassing • Producing woodworking joints components • Second fixing operations • First fixing operations • Setting up and operating cutting and • Health, safety and welfare shaping machinery • Maintaining non-structural and structural • Structural carcassing components • Using technical information, quantities and • Maintenance operations communicating. • Preparing, maintaining and using joinery hand and power tools
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 88 Career options: CARPENTRY & JOINERY A career in carpentry or joinery could COURSES: guarantee you the practical role you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you decide to work on a construction site, in a workshop or even pursue a career in self-employment, there will Level 1 Construction Skills be plenty of opportunities waiting for you. (Multi Skills) CARPENTRY Careers: Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery • Carpenter Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery • Construction Manager • Furniture Maker Level 3 Carpentry & Joinery • Furniture Restorer &
• Joiner JOINERY Irrespective of your GCSE results, most • Lecturer students will start at Level 1 and learn basic skills before progressing through the levels. • Site Manager Length of courses: Labour market information: • According to the National Careers Service, Level 1 - One year on average employed joiners earn a salary Level 2 - One year of £24,000 to £30,000 a year Level 3 - One year • There are currently almost 50,000 people Progression opportunities: employed in the carpentry & joinery product manufacturing industry After completing your level 3 course, you • The annual revenue of the carpentry & will be fully qualified and may choose to joinery manufacturing industry is expected seek employment on a construction site, to increase to £5.3 billion in the UK by 2020. VOCATIONAL COURSES be self employed or progress your studies on to our HNC in Construction & The Built Environment. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! Source: ibisworld.co.uk/industry-trends 89 WHY STUDY CARPENTRY & JOINERY AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: You will have plenty of opportunity to impress Our previous students have established local and national employers. You will experience outstanding careers with leading employers such guest talks and demonstrations from industry as Cruden Construction, David Wilson Homes, JOINERY professionals, and enter the annual SkillBuild Persimmon Homes, Taylor Wimpey, Urban & competition, working with the best in the Construction and Vinci Construction amongst industry. You may even build connections with many others. key employers and secure an apprenticeship or employment during your course. Trips and visits: Work placement: As part of your course you will get the opportunity to visit various local and national employers
CARPENTRY CARPENTRY As part of your course you will complete including Vinci Construction and Metsä Wood. hands-on work experience with a real employer in the industry, to gain skills and knowledge that Facilities: complement your course. Previous students Our state-of-the-art carpentry and joinery have even managed to secure employment or workshops will provide you with all of the tools apprenticeship opportunities after impressing and experience you need to begin your career. employers during their work placement. We are dedicated to making sure you have Guest speakers: all of the latest equipment in line with industry standards, to ensure you keep up to date with the You will hear from industry professionals about latest techniques. their skills, knowledge and experience. Skilled experts including C H Joinery Ltd and HiKOKI Powertools UK provide unique course-related demonstrations to help further your learning.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 90 Meet Elliot Slavin: Elliot Slavin, originally from Culcheth High School, enjoys the freedom and independence he gets on his carpentry & joinery course at Warrington & Vale Royal College. When he finishes his course, Elliot would like to work in the thriving construction industry, hopefully working on building sites for new build homes.
“If you’re thinking of a career in the construction industry, the CARPENTRY carpentry and joinery course is fantastic. The tutors and staff will support you and always give you help and encouragement when you need it.” Student: Elliot Slavin & JOINERY Meet our tutor Elliot Humphreys: Tutor Elliot came to college as a Carpentry & Joinery apprentice. Following his apprenticeship, he worked for a number of years as a site carpenter, working on heritage and listed building restoration. Elliot later returned to college as a tutor to share his skills and knowledge with the students. “The best thing about studying here is the tutors,” says Elliot. “They all have a wealth of industry experience and connections, and like to keep up-to-date with the latest technologies.” Tutor: Elliot Humphreys VOCATIONAL COURSES
91 CHILDCARE CHILDCARE
If you would like to work with children and help to make a real impact on their development, then you could be destined for a career in childcare. You will gain the skills, knowledge and experience needed to work in this rewarding sector, including learning how to support children’s emotional and social needs, as well as planning a safe childcare environment. What will I learn? On our courses there are plenty of opportunities to work directly with young people, and gain practical skills to use throughout your career. This course covers fascinating topics such as: • Health & safety of babies and young children • Roles and responsibilities of the early • International perspectives in education years practitioner • Professional partnerships • Safeguarding • Promoting play in early years settings • Supporting literacy and numeracy.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 92 Career options: CHILDCARE COURSES: After getting a flavour of a variety of childcare environments during your work placements, you are sure to gain real Level 1 Health, Social and inspiration for your future career. There are Childcare plenty of opportunities available to you, whether you would like to become an early Level 2 Childcare years teacher in a primary school, or would prefer to work in a nursery setting. Level 3 Childcare
Careers: CHILDCARE Length of courses: • Child Protection Officer Level 1 - One year • Childminder Level 2 - One year • Nursey Practitioner Level 3 - Two years • Playworker • Primary School Teacher Progression opportunities: • Special Educational Needs Teacher After completing your level 3 course, you • Teaching Assistant may wish to progress on to employment • Youth Worker in a nursery, school or other childcare setting. You could also progress onto higher Labour market information: education as universities are increasingly • As of 2016, in the UK there are accepting level 3 vocational qualification to approximately 23,500 day nurseries, 9,600 progress onto a degree. pre-schools and sessional crèches, 59,500 Previous students have gone on to study a childminders and 15,000 out-of-school degree in Primary education or Childhood childcare providers. Studies. • A qualified early year’s teacher can expect VOCATIONAL COURSES Applying: a starting salary of £22,244. Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus!
Source: nurseryworld.co.uk 93 WHY STUDY CHILDCARE AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: Our dedicated childcare department has a wide Our students have progressed on to a huge range of links with private day nurseries, primary variety of opportunities, with former students schools and childminders in the local area and attending universities including Chester, Salford further afield. This will help to broaden your and Liverpool John Moores to study courses career prospects and help you to secure work such as Primary Teaching and Paediatric placements in your preferred career. Nursing. Work placement: Trips and visits: CHILDCARE As part of this work-based course you will As part of this course, trips and visits will take complete 250 hours of work placement place to exhibitions at places such as the Slavery experience in a childcare setting. Working with Museum, Eureka Science Museum and the children of different ages ranging from 0 – 7, will Thackray Medical Museum to enhance your maximise your experience and increase your knowledge of this sector. Previous students have practical skills. Work placements will give you the enjoyed trips to Prague, Disneyland Paris and opportunity to impress future employers, secure Poland with a visit to London already planned a part-time job, or get inspiration for your next for the next academic year. You may even get career step. the chance to take a bite of the Big Apple on an enrichment trip to New York! Guest speakers: Facilities: This course benefits from guest speakers coming into college to provide useful insights Our childcare classrooms are designed to into different roles and career prospects within immerse you in the early years sector. You the industry, giving you a fascinating overview of will have access to learning and development your future options. equipment and resources to enhance your teaching and care skills.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 94 Meet Alex Saunders: Alex Saunders, former Great Sankey High School student, decided against staying on at his school sixth form. He knew he had made the right decision in choosing Warrington & Vale Royal College, as everyone on his course was open, kind and accepting. “Working in childcare can be quite challenging emotionally, but the tutors are really comforting and teach you how to support yourself in this working environment.” Alex has gained extensive work experience during the course,
working with lots of different age groups and young people with CHILDCARE Student: Alex Saunders behavioural and learning needs. He has now secured a full-time job at Old Hall Primary School, and can’t wait to get started. He hopes to continue working in pre-schools and primary schools, before realising his dream of becoming a Teaching Assistant.
Meet our tutor Nicola Moston: Nicola Moston, one of our childcare tutors, has a wealth of experience in the sector with a variety of age ranges. After studying for her Primary Education degree at Edge Hill University, Nicola embarked upon a career teaching in nurseries and primary schools in Warrington and the surrounding areas. She specialises in working with early years and has used her practical experience of this to enhance her ten years teaching at Warrington & Vale Royal College. Nicola is currently studying towards her Master’s Degree in Educational Practice with the Tutor: Nicola Moston University of Chester. VOCATIONAL COURSES
95 COMPUTING & IT IT & COMPUTING
Gain an insight into the fast-paced world of computing on our fascinating computing and IT courses. These courses will enable you to build on your existing knowledge, develop and enhance your technical skills and help you to embark upon a career in this ever-changing sector. What will I learn? You will have the opportunity to develop the skills you need in the industry through practical hands-on experience in our specialist computing suites. You will study modules such as: • Animation • Interactive media production • Communicating in the IT industry • IT security • Computer systems • IT technical support • Databases • Programming • Designing network infrastructure • Website development using HTML and CSS • Digital graphics • Working in the IT industry.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 96 Career options: COMPUTING & IT The computing & IT industry continues to COURSES: progress at rapid speed. From cyber security to IT engineering or even getting your creative juices flowing as a graphic designer, you’re Level 2 Computing & IT sure to find something to put your tech-savvy skills to the test. In this ever-growing world of Level 3 Computing & IT technology, opportunities are everywhere, and
with so many choices available you can take COMPUTING your pick! Length of courses: Careers: Level 2 - One year Level 3 - Two years • Cyber Security Analyst • Data Analyst Progression opportunities: • Database Manager (SQL Developer) After completing the level 3 course, you may • Graphic Designer & IT wish to progress on to our HNC & HND in • IT Consultant computing. • IT Engineer Applying: • Network Engineer • Project Manager Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', • SEO Specialist or fill in the application form at the back of • Software Engineer this prospectus! • Systems Manager • Web Developer Labour market information: VOCATIONAL COURSES • Potential earnings in this industry are substantial with starting salaries in IT averaging at £30,000. • Many large IT companies have branches in other countries, so you may have the opportunity to work abroad.
Source: highfliers.co.uk 97 WHY STUDY COMPUTING & IT AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: Our students benefit from the college’s close Previous students have gone on to a huge variety IT links with employers from a variety of industries. of roles in employment, or higher education & We work with large companies such as Siemens, studies. For example, former IT apprentice Ryan Barclays and the NHS, to small local businesses Kenney, has risen to success with Stanley Black including Winsford Work Zone and Culture & Decker, rolling out pioneering recruitment Warrington. software across the globe.
Work placement: Trips and visits: To make sure that you are job ready when you Every year our IT students take a trip to The COMPUTING finish the course, you will complete one week’s Gadget Show at the Birmingham NEC to learn work experience with an employer of your about emerging technologies. Additionally, choosing. Previous students have worked in students have recently visited the Arcade Club in IT security at local schools, or even computer Bury to enhance the games platform module of recycling charities, gaining an understanding of the course. the inner workings of computer systems. Facilities: Guest speakers: On our IT courses all aspects are taught to On these courses you will have the opportunity to current industry standard, keeping up with latest learn from guest speakers such as the Business trends and technologies. Students will get to use Development Manager at Siemens, along with both Apple Macs and Windows machines, along Software Engineers and even App developers with Microsoft and Office 365 software. Further to with current industry experience, to inspire your this, students will also become proficient at using next steps. programmes such as 3DS Max and Photoshop.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 98 Meet Dylan Kelly: Dylan Kelly, originally from Cardinal Newman High School, enrolled on the IT Level 2 course looking to use his existing technical talents. “We are constantly immersed in technology on the course. We get to use state-of-the-art software such as Photoshop for image editing, and study everything from coding to networking and even learn how to build a computer.” Dylan finds the support he gets from tutors incredibly useful, COMPUTING especially as they have different specialisms and can use their Student: Dylan Kelly industry experience to enrich students’ learning. Dylan has since enrolled onto the IT Level 3 course, and hopes to continue onto university before embarking on a career in networking.
Meet our tutors: &
Our tutors have a wealth of experience in the industry, all offering IT differing specialisms to aid students' learning. Maggie Adepetun and Sharon Busen focus on coding and programming, offering a bespoke element to the courses, including programmes such as C++ and Java. Rupon Miah, another of our tutors, specializes in 3D and environments, graphic design and website development. Whilst Tim Evans, our curriculum manager, works greatly in technical support, amongst many other topics, giving our students Tutor: Rupon Miah a wide-ranging wealth of knowledge in all aspects of IT. VOCATIONAL COURSES
99 CREATIVE & DIGITAL MEDIA DIGITAL MEDIA DIGITAL & CREATIVE CREATIVE
Our innovative Creative & Digital Media courses are aimed at students who wish to pursue a career within the fast-paced digital media industry. These courses deliver specialist curriculum allowing students to develop specific practical skills alongside learning about the digital media industry and professional practice. What will I learn? As part of this creative and dynamic course you will complete live project briefs, experimenting with a wide range of roles and exploring interactive and digital media production techniques. You will study topics including: • Camera techniques • Production techniques • Digital media production • Scriptwriting • Film analysis • Social media studies. • Media adaptations
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 100 Career options: CREATIVE & DIGITAL In this stimulating industry, no two working MEDIA COURSES: days will be the same! Balancing projects and dealing with a variety of challenges, you will stretch your abilities and advance your artistic
Level 1 Creative & Digital Arts skills to produce outstanding creations. CREATIVE Whether you want to work in lighting, sound, Level 2 Creative & Digital Media directing or even post-production, you are sure to find your niche. Level 3 Creative Media Production Careers:
• Camera Operator • Social Media & DIGITAL MEDIA Length of courses: • Content Developer Manager • Editorial Assistant • TV Producer Level 1 - One year • Film Director • Video Editor Level 2 - One year • Programme • Website Designer - Two years Level 3 Researcher Progression opportunities: • Radio Presenter After completing your level 3 course, you Labour market information: may wish to progress on to our HNC in Creative Media Production. • Statistics released by the British Film Institute (BFI) in January 2017 revealed Applying: that the top three box office hits of 2016 (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Fantastic Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk Beasts and Where to Find Them, and by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', Bridget Jones’ Baby) were all made using or fill in the application form at the back of UK crews, locations and facilities. this prospectus! VOCATIONAL COURSES • In 2017 UK consumers spent more on digital media - music, video and games - than ‘traditional’ media - books, magazines and newspapers - for the first time.
Source: prospects.ac.uk 101 WHY STUDY CREATIVE & DIGITAL MEDIA AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: As part of your learning experience you will work Our media students have an outstanding history on a variety of live projects, carrying out projects of success at university, progressing on to such as editing social media footage for local universities such as Keele University and Edge businesses. You will also have the opportunity to Hill University. compete in national film competitions to broaden Eryka Stewart, who studied at the University of
DIGITAL MEDIA DIGITAL your work experience. Salford said: “Studying the Level 3 course gave & me the confidence and skills to work in a live Work placement: studio environment. I have worked on shows Gaining valuable work experience and having the such as Judge Rinder and Jeremy Kyle, and opportunity to work with real clients will enhance thanks to the media course I quickly became an your learning and skills in the sector. You may effective member of the team.”
CREATIVE CREATIVE work on wedding photography and videography, or perhaps record footage for local schools and Trips and visits: businesses, and even work with local football As part of this exciting course you will have clubs on their digital media communications. the opportunity to take part in various trips across the year, including visits to the Bradford Guest speakers: Media Museum, Warner Bros Studio tour and a To enhance your learning you will hear from residential trip to Stratford-upon-Avon. professionals in the industry from a range of media backgrounds. You will also work with Facilities: universities and higher education institutions Warrington & Vale Royal College has such as Edge Hill University and Futureworks, state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including: to gain an understanding of your future a green screen studio, DSLR cameras, and Mac opportunities. suites featuring industry standard software such as After Effects, Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro, all of which contribute to a first-rate learning experience.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 102 Meet Georgia Tolfree: Previous Rudheath Senior Academy student, Georgia Tolfree, has gained a wealth of knowledge and skills on her Creative Media Production Level 3 course. She plans to study Language, Culture & Film and TESOL at the University of Leeds or York St.
John University. Her future aspiration is to teach English and Film CREATIVE Studies abroad in countries such as Japan and South Korea. Georgia said: “The course included everything I enjoyed and wanted to learn about. I met my course tutor before starting and really liked him and his enthusiasm for the subject.”
Student: Georgia Tolfree & DIGITAL MEDIA
Meet our tutor Dora Alexandrova: Dora Alexandrova, who teaches Creative & Digital Media at Warrington & Vale Royal College, originally studied Fine Art at Southampton Solent University. After studying for her PGCE teaching qualification, Dora gained a wealth of experience teaching a variety of ages before choosing to teach in the post-16 sector. She specialises in teaching Photography and Digital Graphics, and develops unique workshops using programmes such as Photoshop, Premiere Pro and Final Cut to bring professional practice to students learning. Tutor: Dora Alexandrova VOCATIONAL COURSES
103 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ELECTRICAL
Do you want a career working with the latest technology? Are you a practical, hands-on learner looking to progress in a thriving industry? If so, look no further than our electrical installation courses which will help you to develop a range of skills relevant to this industry, whilst also expanding on your scientific and mathematical understanding of electrical installation. What will I learn? On our courses you will study a range of modules such as: • Career awareness • Fault diagnosis and rectification • Electrical science and technology • Health and safety • Electrical systems design • Inspection, testing and commissioning • Environmental and sustainability measures in • Site preparation domestic dwellings • Structure of the construction industry. • Fabrication techniques for electrical installation
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 104 Career options: ELECTRICAL COURSES: A career in electrical installation will open up a world of opportunities, with the industry thriving and a wealth of jobs available Level 1 Construction Skills for newly trained electricians. As your career progresses you could move into (Multi Skills) ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION design engineering, project management, Level 1 Electrical Installation consultancy work or training. You could even set up your own business and become your Level 2 Electrical Installation own boss!
Level 3 Electrical Installation Careers: • Alarm fitting – Security Systems Engineer Irrespective of your GCSE results, most • Electrical Engineer students will start at level 1 and learn basic • Electrician skills before progressing through the levels. • Gas Detection – Field Service Engineer Length of courses: • Technician • Test Engineer Level 1 - One year Level 2 - One year Labour market information: - One year Level 3 • As a qualified electrician you could earn Progression opportunities: around £42,500, based on the national rate for qualified electricians The electrical installation team work very • In 2019, for another year running, it has closely with our apprenticeships team, been a great period for electricians, who not and will work with you to swap to an only continue to earn the most out of all of apprenticeship if you secure an employer. the trades, but have also seen the biggest VOCATIONAL COURSES After completing your level 3 course, you increase in average salary, at 5%. may wish to seek employment or progress on to our HNC & HND in Electrical & Electronic Engineering. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of Source: cwjobs.co.uk this prospectus! tradeskills4u.co.uk 105 WHY STUDY ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: apprenticeships or trainee positions. Previous students have progressed to become self- You will compete in competitions as well as employed electricians, and even set up their taking part in regular site visits, with employers own businesses. observing your work so you can show off your skills. We work with employers such as Trips and visits: Schneider Electric, Napit, Crabtree, IET and Aico Ltd, to ensure that your knowledge is up to date You will go on multiple trips, including venturing with current industry standards. out to national employers to further your skills and even complete additional qualifications. As Work placement: a level 1 student you will visit Aico Ltd training centre, completing gas detection and fire alarm Gaining a work placement is essential in this system training; a unique and thoroughly industry and has led to amazing opportunities for worthwhile offer to our college. You will be offered
ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ELECTRICAL many of our past students. All students complete a training package at their purpose built training a week's work placement for every year of their centre and will have the opportunity to finish course. Many of our previous students have gone this training upon completion of your course, to above and beyond to complete additional voluntary enable you to become a qualified gas detector, work to help them stand out to employers. alarm fitter and an official Aico Ltd installer. Guest speakers: In addition, you will visit coal and fire power stations, along with nuclear and hydroelectric We work with national and local employers to power stations, to enhance your knowledge of ensure your knowledge and skills are enriched the industry. by people in the current industry. Paul Meenan, a leading industry professional who works for E5 Facilities: and Network Rail, delivers useful demonstrations and presentations. Our state-of-the-art industry standard workshops will help to prepare you for working in electrical Alumni: installation. We work with companies such as Collingwood Lighting, who supply us with the Working closely with a number of high-profile latest LED lighting, to make sure you have the employers means our students are given best tools and equipment possible to complete ample opportunities to impress and secure your course.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 106 Meet Jack Spruce: Jack Spruce, originally from Weaverham High School, is currently studying Electrical Installation Level 2. Jack thrives on such a practical course and has even secured first prize at our electrical skills competition, wowing employers in the industry. Jack hopes to progress on to our level 3 course before becoming a full-time ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION electrician. “I love being involved in the competitions at college, it tests my skills and allows me to prove my abilities to potential employers.” Student: Jack Spruce
Meet our tutor Nick Anderson: Warrington & Vale Royal College is a unique place to study, as our tutors have quality work experience in the industry they teach. Nick Anderson, one of our Electrical Installation tutors, has worked as an electrician all around the world in countries such as Germany and America. He has now been teaching for almost 20 years and brings huge variety to his teaching from his international experience.
Tutor: Nick Anderson VOCATIONAL COURSES
107 ENGINEERING ENGINEERING
Bringing to life core subjects spanning electronics, mechanics and manufacturing, these courses will help you to build the skills and knowledge you need for a career in this industry. Practical and experimental sessions give you a hands-on experience to complement your theoretical and mathematical learning. What will I learn? Our engineering courses include a wide range of topics such as: • Computer aided design (CAD) • Mechanical technology • Digital and analogue electronics • Producing components using hand • Electrical and electronic principles fitting techniques • Electrical wiring and testing • Science for Engineering • Engineering materials • Using and communicating technical information • Health and safety • Working efficiently and effectively in engineering • Maintaining electrical/electronic equipment • Working safely in an engineering environment. • Mathematics and further mathematics
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 108 Career options: ENGINEERING COURSES: In the current UK Engineering sector there are an abundance of job opportunities. The industry has a vast skill shortage and there Level 2 Engineering Fabrication are a huge variety of jobs available for those & Welding interested in this industry. You may wish Level 2 Mechanical Engineering to pursue a path as a Design Engineer, or (PEO) perhaps you would prefer to get your hands dirty as a Mechanical Engineer.
Level 3 Engineering Fabrication ENGINEERING & Welding Careers: Level 3 General Engineering • Aerospace Engineering Technician • Automotive Engineer • Building Services Engineer Length of courses: • CAD Technician Level 1 - One year • Civil Engineer Level 2 - One year • Design Engineer Level 3 - Two years • Electrical Engineer Progression opportunities: • Maintenance Fitter • Manufacturing Systems Engineer After completing your level 3 course, you may wish to progress on to our HNC & • Mechanical Engineer HND in General Engineering or Electrical & Labour market information: Electronic Engineering. • The passenger and freight operations Applying: workforce of 58,000 could potentially double by 2030, making this a secure
Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk VOCATIONAL COURSES by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', career to embark upon. or fill in the application form at the back of • The engineering industry has a huge skill this prospectus! shortage - losing 69,000 skilled employees a year, due to an aging workforce.
Source: EngineeringUK 2017 109 WHY STUDY ENGINEERING AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: We regularly work with companies such as Our engineering students have progressed on to Roberts Bakery, Jungeheimrich, Vinci and APG a wide range of careers and further study, with Precision to enhance your learning. You will be many securing apprenticeship opportunities with involved in workshops, demonstrations and guest companies such as Tiger Trailers, Roberts Bakery talks from current leading industry professionals, and Tata before finishing their full-time courses. to learn more about the sector and the options available to you. Trips and visits: Visiting employers and companies will give you ENGINEERING Work placement: a real insight into working life in engineering. You You will complete one week’s work experience will gain an understanding of different roles and for every year of your course. Previous students working environments in order to enhance your have worked with employers such as APG future opportunities. Precision, Dantom Electronics and Colass, and have impressed so much that they have gone on Facilities: to secure jobs with these companies. Our state-of-the-art workshops have been Guest speakers: created to industry standard to prepare you for your future career. We work with a huge You will hear from a variety of professionals in variety of employers who provide outstanding the sector and take part in guest demonstrations, equipment to ensure your learning is at a high to learn the latest skills and techniques in the standard. For example, our students currently industry. work with motors from worldwide company ABB Motors, stripping and rebuilding these to understand the intricacies of their components. Students also have access to the latest engineering equipment, such as pillar drills, laithes, milling machines, motors and engines.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 110 Meet Russell Lomax: Russell Lomax, originally from King’s Leadership Academy, was determined to embark upon a practical, hands-on career. He wanted to progress on to study a degree, but preferred to learn in a more career focused way, as opposed to the academic A-level route. Russell enrolled on to the Mechanical Engineering Level 2 course, and loves the variety that this offers, involving different forms of engineering such as hand-fitting, mechanical and electrical engineering.
After experiencing trips out to employers, using industry standard ENGINEERING equipment and learning from his experienced tutors, he feels more Student: Russell Lomax employable than ever and knows his chances of securing a job are high. Russell is hoping to progress on to complete his HNC & HND with Warrington & Vale Royal College, before rising through the ranks in an electrical and mechanical engineering career. “Studying on a vocational course has definitely increased my career opportunities. I’ve learned practical skills which employers are looking for and I feel confident in my future prospects.”
Meet our tutor Chris Fearon: Chris Fearon, who is one of our general engineering tutors, comes from a long established background in engineering. Chris began his career in the Army, before progressing on to work for the Ministry of Defence working in aerospace. As an Avionics Engineer, Chris specialised in the maintenance of autopilot, radar, navigation and communications throughout his
career. Chris brings his career experiences in engineering to his VOCATIONAL COURSES teaching to enhance our students’ learning, giving them an insight into their future prospects. Tutor: Chris Fearon
111 GAMES DESIGN GAMES DESIGN GAMES
Do you dream of turning your gaming experience into a real career? This innovative course is perfect for you if you wish to pursue a career within the ever-changing and fast-paced world of games design. With experienced tutors guiding your learning, and specialist technology to hone your skills, you could soon be putting your technical and creative skills to the test in your dream job. What will I learn? Our games design courses cover a wealth of topics and will develop your skills and techniques to ready you for this exciting industry. You will gain a breadth of knowledge of the gaming industry, and get the opportunity to study the full spectrum of game development from generating ideas and narratives, to designing level structures. You will also study topics including: • 3D modelling • Game creation • Animation • Manipulating images and compositions • Character design • Storyboarding • Concept art • Using software such as 3DS Max, Maya, • Environment design Photoshop and Illustrator.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 112 Career options: GAMES DESIGN With the gaming industry more popular COURSES: than ever, you could soon be embarking on a career to become the next leading Computer Games Designer. There are so Level 2 Media many exciting job opportunities in the games design industry, whether you’re interested Level 3 Games Design in editing or programming, or prefer to get your creative juices flowing with animation or design. GAMES DESIGN Length of courses: Careers: Level 2 - One year Level 3 - Two years • Animator • App Designer Progression Opportunities: • Assistant Games Producer After completing your level 3 course you may • Computer Games Designer wish to progress on to our HNC in Creative • Computer Games Tester Media: Games Design. • Games Programmer Applying: • Production Assistant • Video Editor Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', Labour market information: or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! • The UK games industry was valued at £5.7 billion in 2018, its highest worth ever, and is expected to continue to grow. • The video games sector now accounts
for more than half of the UK’s entire VOCATIONAL COURSES entertainment market, making it more lucrative than both video and music combined.
Source: bbc.co.uk/news 113 WHY STUDY GAMES DESIGN AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: The tutors at Warrington & Vale Royal College Many of our students go on to university to have vast experience in the subjects they teach. study specialised areas of games design such Your learning will be enriched from their specialist as coding, comic design and concept character industry knowledge and links with employers. design. You will also get the opportunity to showcase your impressive creations at our Creative Arts Trips and visits: Annual Exhibition, held at both our Winsford and You will have the opportunity to attend local Warrington campuses. events such as Comic-Con, to experience the GAMES DESIGN GAMES Work placement: latest developments in the industry. You will also visit universities in readiness for your next steps. Last year students had the fantastic opportunity to undertake work placement for Warrington and Facilities: Halton Hospitals NHS Trust, working to a design Warrington & Vale Royal College has state-of- brief for the children’s operating theatre ward. the-art facilities and equipment, including; Students created storyboards with characters a green screen studio, DSLR cameras, and Mac which featured as wall art and uploaded onto suites featuring industry standard software such colouring sheets. Students have also provided as Photoshop, Maya, and 3DS Max. quality assurance for Sleepy Brain Studios, providing feedback for the company’s latest games. Guest speakers: As part of this course you will have the opportunity to take part in guest lecture workshops with leading employers, as well as taking on live briefs for local community groups and employers, with every opportunity to show off your creative and technical skills.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 114 Meet Jack Owens: Former St Chadwick’s High School student, Jack Owens enrolled on to the Games Design Level 3 course at our Winsford campus, hoping to further his skills and knowledge of the subject. Upon completing his course, James hopes to study Game Art at a specialist university in this topic, to help him realise his dream of becoming an artist. GAMES DESIGN Student: Jack Owens
Meet our tutor Sam Kidman: Games design tutor Sam Kidman attended the University of Bolton and achieved a Bachelor’s Degree in Games Art, followed by a Master’s Degree in Games Development. Sam has previously worked for TT Games and has even started his own games design company, Sleepy Brain Studios. Sam says the best thing about teaching at Warrington & Vale Royal College is meeting new students, seeing their energy and enthusiasm for the subject, and watching them develop as individuals. Tutor: Sam Kidman VOCATIONAL COURSES
115 GRAPHIC DESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGN GRAPHIC
If you are eager to pursue a career in the dynamic world of visual communication and printed arts, this specialist course is the ideal place for you to begin your creative journey. Our expert tutors will help to progress your knowledge of this vibrant industry, hone your creative flair, and ensure that you are up to date with the latest practice and technical skills needed to secure your dream job. What will I learn? Based in our dedicated Apple Mac studio, you will be using the latest Adobe software including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, giving you a competitive advantage over others when entering university or industry. On this creative, computer-based arts course you will develop detailed practical skills alongside learning about advertising, digital illustration and photo manipulation. The topics you will cover include: • Corporate Identity • Poster design • Digital Illustration • Publicity material • Gig Posters • Typography • Packaging • Vinyl covers. • Photo manipulation
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 116 Career options: GRAPHIC DESIGN The UK creative industries continue to COURSES: thrive, with more jobs available now than ever. In this vast industry the potential career possibilities and specialisms are Level 2 Art & Design endless, whether you would like to work in product design, animation or even digital Level 3 Graphic Design marketing. You are sure to find something to
complement your creativity with this dynamic GRAPHIC DESIGN and imaginative course. Length of courses: Careers: Level 2 - One year Level 3 - Two years • Advertising Assistant • Animator Progression opportunities: • Creative Director After completing your level 3 course, you • Digital Marketing Manager may wish to progress on to our HNC & HND • Graphic Designer in Graphic Design, or our HNC in Creative • Illustrator Media Production. • Marketing Officer Our courses have well established links with universities such as Preston University • Photographer and UCLAN, with all of our Graphic Design • Product Designer students gaining a place at their first choice • Web Designer university. The technical skills you will learn on the level Labour market information: 3 course are so advanced that you may also • The UK has the second largest design choose to seek employment upon finishing sector in the world and the largest design the level 3 qualification. industry in Europe. VOCATIONAL COURSES Applying: • There are approximately 2 million jobs in the creative industries; 75% of these being Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk located outside of London. by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus!
Source: thecreativeindustries.co.uk 117 WHY STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: As part of this course you will receive exciting With an impressive 100% pass rate, this course live briefs from local companies and community boasts a whole host of previous students who groups; gain real practical experience of working have gone on to shining success. Many of our for clients, meeting their requirements and students are now travelling the world; from going above and beyond their expectations. designing theme parks in Walt Disney World Previous students have ‘wowed’ by taking part Florida, to graphic design work in Australia, in competitions with organisations such as the world is at your fingertips. NHS, The Liverpool Biennial team and Creative Features Designs, building their work experience Trips and visits GRAPHIC DESIGN GRAPHIC and increasing their career prospects. As part of your studies you will visit local and Work placement: national galleries, museums, and exhibitions to inspire your learning and further your creative As well as working regularly with employers on skills and knowledge. live briefs, you will complete one week’s work experience with a company of your choosing. Facilities: You will have the opportunity to impress industry You will have access to the latest software such professionals and perhaps even secure a future as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. job offer. You will study in specialist, industry standard Guest speakers: studios, and work on Apple Macs and graphics tablets. Our tutors have varied and extensive You will hear from a variety of professionals in industry experience in areas such as advertising the industry as well as university tutors to prepare and digital illustration and are highly skilled within you for your next steps. John Harker, who runs their fields. the graphic design department at the University of Central Lancashire, is consistently impressed by the high level of skill demonstrated by our graphic design students during his guest lectures.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 118 Meet Bailey Marler: Bailey Marler, who studied at Weaverham High School, is one of our current Graphic Design Level 3 students. She chose to study at our Winsford campus due to its convenient location and wide range of modules; her favourites have included drawing digital self-portraits, and designing a gift bag as part of product design. “I was looking for a course that was practical, but one that also allowed me to have creative freedom, so I came to one of the college Open Evenings. I met the tutors on the evening and found GRAPHIC DESIGN them really friendly, so I made my choice!” Student: Bailey Marler Bailey hopes one day to establish her dream career of designing movie posters. She will be continuing her studies at her first choice university, Bournemouth Arts, to achieve her degree in Graphic Design.
Meet our tutor Jayne Fox: Jayne Fox, our Curriculum Manager for Games Design, Media and Graphic Design, has been teaching and running the graphic design course for over twenty years. Jayne has a background in professional graphic design and has continued to practice professionally throughout her career, working with a broad range of industries and employers. Jayne specialises in commercial graphic design, a fantastic new creative industry which underpins communications for most companies. As this new industry is growing by 11% per year, Tutor: Jayne Fox Jayne is keen to hone the skills of her students to prepare them
for a career in the commercial sector and ensure they progress on VOCATIONAL COURSES to thriving careers.
119 HAIRDRESSING HAIRDRESSING
Are you passionate about styling hair? Looking to wow the industry with your creative flair or perhaps you see yourself as the next celebrity hairstylist? If so, then our hairdressing courses are the best place for you to start. You will learn in The Academy at Warrington campus, which is equipped with modern commercial salons. Our salons are open to the public so you will be working on real paying clients and getting industry experience which looks impressive on your CV. You will also be taught by tutors who have worked within the industry and bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge. What will I learn? Based in our contemporary hairdressing salon, you will cover an extensive range of topics such as: • Blow-drying and styling • Hair extension services • Bridal hair • Hairdressing design • Colour and lightening • Health, safety and hygiene • Competition work • Occasion hair • Consultation techniques • Promotion and sales • Cutting • Setting and dressing hair.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 120 Career options: HAIRDRESSING A qualification in hairdressing is just the start COURSES: for an exciting career in the hair & beauty industry. You have the choice of going on to work in a salon, participate in competitions, Level 1 Hair & Beauty Diploma move into training and assessing or even going on to teach. The opportunities Level 2 Hairdressing Women’s are endless. Diploma Careers: HAIRDRESSING Level 3 Hairdressing • Bridal Hair Specialist • Colour Expert Length of courses: • Hairdresser Level 1 - One year • Lecturer Level 2 - One year • Salon Manager Level 3 - One year • Salon Owner Direct entry onto Level 3 Hairdressing Labour market information: requires successful completion at level 2. • The hair & beauty industry is vibrant, Progression opportunities: dynamic and fast-paced offering fantastic employment and training opportunities. The hairdressing team work very closely The sector boasts a workforce of over with our apprenticeships team and will work 245,000 people working across 55,000 with you to swap to an apprenticeship if you businesses comprising of hair, beauty and secure an employer. nail salons, barbers, and spas. After completing your level 3 course, you • Did you know the hair & beauty sector has may wish to progress on to our level 4 a turnover of £6.2 billion a year? professional course in salon management, VOCATIONAL COURSES or seek employment in a salon or the wider hair & beauty sector. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! Source: Hair & Beauty Industry Authority 121 WHY STUDY HAIRDRESSING AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: We have a huge number of industry links from Many of our students progress onto additional small local salons and hotel chain groups, courses, such as barbering or make-up, to through to product suppliers, haircare brands and further their skill set and employability. As well as exciting employers such as Steiner, a luxurious securing positions in salons throughout Europe, on-board spa cruise experience, if you dream of previous students have travelled the world working travelling the world. You will hear from and meet aboard cruise liners. Recently, we’ve witnessed an with a huge variety of industry professionals unprecedented number of students become throughout your course to help you create your self-employed hairdressers, taking advantage of
HAIRDRESSING own links with employers and enhance your social media and the rent-a-chair economy. understanding of this sector. Trips and visits: Work placement: You’ll get to enjoy an array of trips and visits in The college actively promotes work experience the UK and beyond! Previous destinations have and will assist in securing work placement for included Pro Hair Live exhibition, the Trafford you. You will have the opportunity to get a taste Centre, Barcelona and Crete. Previous students of working life in this exciting industry and gain have also visited Warrington Hospital’s Forget Me worthwhile connections ready for when your Not dementia ward where they styled patient’s hair. course is completed. Facilities: Guest speakers: The Academy is a fully equipped and modern Our tutors continuously invite in guest speakers facility containing a number of contemporary and external companies to give demonstrations hairdressing suites to enable you to learn in a of products and enhance your existing skills, real working environment, testing your knowledge knowledge and training. We work with a range and skills on a range of clients. You will work with of employers and manufacturers such as the latest professional products and resources Affinage and Paul Mitchell, along with successful currently used in the industry. You will also be apprentices who have progressed within their taught by tutors with a wealth of knowledge and career and opened their own businesses. expertise, who have a huge variety of industry experience within national and local companies.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 122 Meet Sasha Johns: Level 2 hairdressing student Sasha Johns came to the college from Culcheth High School. The helpful and friendly tutors, as well as the college’s easily accessible location is what encouraged her to enrol, and she has not looked back since! In the future, Sasha hopes to progress to Level 3 Hairdressing and eventually work within a salon to gain more work experience before becoming a self-employed hairdresser. HAIRDRESSING Student: Sasha Johns
Meet our tutor Lisa Lindsay: Hairdressing tutor Lisa Lindsay has worked within the industry for over 25 years. In the past, she has owned and managed her own salon, been self-employed and worked for a private hairdressing training provider. What she loves most about Warrington & Vale Royal College are the staff, who she describes as highly skilled and committed to their students, who “always come first”.
Tutor: Lisa Lindsay VOCATIONAL COURSES
123 HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE SOCIAL CARE & HEALTH HEALTH
Have you got a caring nature and are good at working with people? Could you imagine working in the care sector helping others enjoy a better quality of life? If the answer to these questions is yes, then this is the course for you! What will I learn? You will learn a range of skills and techniques used within the industry and will cover a variety of health-related topics, including equality and diversity, how to care for individual needs and the importance of effective communication. Other topics you will study include: • Health & Safety • Psychology • Lifespan development • Safeguarding • Personal and professional development • Sociology. • Psychological perspectives
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 124 Career options: HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE With the health & social care sector growing COURSES: faster than ever, you'll have plenty of opportunities to put your skills to the test. If you dream of a career working with people Level 1 Health, Social and and helping others on a daily basis, there are
Childcare a huge range of career options for you to HEALTH choose from. Level 2 Health & Social Care Careers: Level 3 Health & Social Care • Care Worker &
• Charity Officer SOCIAL CARE Length of courses: • Community Development Officer Level 1 - One year • Counsellor Level 2 - One year • Learning Disabilities Nurse Level 3 - Two years • Medical Technician • Mental Health Nurse Progression Opportunities: • Midwife After completing your level 3 course you may • Nurse wish to progress on to our HNC & HND in • Occupational Therapist Healthcare Practice, or our HNC in Social & • Social Worker Community Work Practice. Labour market information: Applying: • In 2017 the number of people working in Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk Adult Social Care in England was estimated by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', at 1.47 million. or fill in the application form at the back of VOCATIONAL COURSES this prospectus! • As at 2017 there were an estimated 42,000 registered nurse jobs in the adult social care sector.
Source: skillsforcare.org.uk 125 WHY STUDY HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: Our tutors have a wealth of experience within the Our fantastic health & social care students are health & social care industry, providing fantastic progressing on a range of career paths, such links with local and national employers. You will as Lizzy Hearsey who is currently studying benefit from links with local hospitals and care Paediatric Nursing at the University of Salford, homes and gain a real insight into a variety of and Olivia Heath who is currently studying
SOCIAL CARE professions. Paramedic Science. Our students have
& continued outstanding success in gaining their Work placement: first choice university or securing employment As part of your studies you will complete a series upon completing their course. of work placements, in order to enhance your CV Trips and visits:
HEALTH HEALTH and widen your perspective on career options. Many students have established amazing As part of this course you will have the connections and been inspired for the future after opportunity to explore exhibitions at places their work placement experiences. such as the Slavery Museum and the Thackray Medical Museum, to enhance your knowledge of Guest speakers: this sector. Previous students have enjoyed trips You will experience guest lectures from a variety to Martos in Spain, helping to care for people of leading professionals in the industry who will with limited spoken English, giving students a provide inspiration and encouragement for your difficult yet worthy challenge to overcome. You future pathway. may even get the chance to take a bite of the Big Apple on an enrichment trip to New York! Facilities: Our health & social care department includes all of the equipment and facilities needed to prepare you for a career in this sector. From hospital beds and medical equipment to accessibility materials, you will get to grips with practicalities to ready you for this working environment.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 126 Meet Jessica Gilmore: Jessica Gilmore, previously from Westleigh High School, initially enrolled on a Pathway course, and progressed all the way through to Health & Social Care Level 3. She considered colleges closer to home but after meeting the tutors, she knew the support available at Warrington & Vale Royal College would be outstanding. Jessica
has loved hearing from guest speakers during the course. HEALTH “Before starting the course I was determined to become a Palliative Care Nurse. After a representative from the Royal Navy came in and spoke about all the fantastic opportunities, I completely changed my mind. I am now applying to become a Medical Assistant and can’t Student: Jessica Gilmore wait to start travelling the world.” & SOCIAL CARE
Meet our tutor Alison Gilraine: Alison Gilraine, who teaches Health & Social Care at Warrington & Vale Royal College, brings a wealth of teaching experience and academic research to our students. After studying Psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University, Alison embarked on a career of teaching, which she has continued for 13 years. She has recently completed her Masters in Psychology, and has rolled out her findings to the rest of the college, using metacognition techniques to improve the academic and personal resilience of our students. Tutor: Alison Gilraine VOCATIONAL COURSES
127 HOSPITALITY & CULINARY ARTS CULINARY ARTS CULINARY & HOSPITALITY HOSPITALITY Are you a budding chef, or even an aspiring hotel manager? Our hospitality & culinary arts courses will give you the skills you need to pursue a career in the industry. You will learn from tutors who have real industry experience, with many having worked in Michelin-star and AA Rosette restaurants. Our in-house kitchen and award-winning restaurant, Buckley’s, is where you will begin your culinary journey, creating and serving dishes for our happy customers. What will I learn? Our hospitality & culinary arts courses cover a wealth of topics, and develop your skills and techniques to ready you for the workplace. These topics include: • Exploring gastronomy • Producing fish and shellfish • Food product development • Producing meat dishes • Food safety • Supervisory skills in the hospitality industry • Health and safety in catering • The nature of cooking methods • Poultry and game dishes • Vegetable and vegetarian dishes. • Preparing and cooking a range of different foods
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 128 Career options: HOSPITALITY & CULINARY The hospitality & culinary arts industries ARTS COURSES: are currently thriving. From Michelin-star restaurants and high end hotels, to quaint
cafés and village inns, you are sure to find HOSPITALITY Level 1 Culinary Skills something that suits you. Why not become a professional cake Level 2 Culinary Skills decorator, creating show-stopping masterpieces? Or even flex your social media Level 3 Professional Cookery skills with Instagram-worthy snaps of your mouth-watering creations as a food blogger?
Irrespective of your GCSE results, most The industry is bigger than it has ever been, & students will start at level 1 and learn basic and with so many choices available the CULINARY ARTS skills before progressing through the levels. world is at your feet. Length of courses: Careers: Level 1 - One year • Baker • Food Manufacturing Level 2 - One year • Banqueting Cookery Inspector Level 3 - One year • Cake Decorator • Lecturer Progression opportunities: • Catering Manager • Restaurant Manager You may then wish to progress on to further • Chef • Specialists' Private study or seek employment in the industry. • Chocolatier Dining Cookery Applying: • Food Blogger Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk Labour market information:
by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', • Food & drink contributes £31.1bn to VOCATIONAL COURSES or fill in the application form at the back of the economy. this prospectus! • The food & drink industry will need 140,000 new recruits by 2024 to feed an expected population of 70m people and meet market demands.
Source: fdf.org.uk 129 WHY STUDY HOSPITALITY & CULINARY ARTS AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: At Warrington & Vale Royal College your course We’re proud that a whole host of our students will be filled with opportunities to learn from the have gone on to embark on incredibly successful best, including chefs who have cooked for the careers. For example, Russell Wood, who Queen! We work with one of the best chefs in came to Warrington & Vale Royal College from the country, Gary Usher from Elite Bistros, along St. Gregory’s High School, secured a full time CULINARY ARTS CULINARY
& with Michelin-star chef, Aiden Byrne, famous position working with Michelin-star chef Aiden for restaurants such as The Church Green and Byrne at his Manchester House Restaurant, Manchester Kitchen. before progressing on to secure a role at 5 AA Rosette Restaurant Moor Hall in Ormskirk. Work placement: Trips and visits: In addition to working weekly services at our AA Rosette Restaurant, Buckley’s, you will complete Every year, students on this course take a trip a minimum 60 hours work experience per year to an international destination as well as trips HOSPITALITY HOSPITALITY of the course. This has helped approximately to regional leading restaurants. Previous trips 95% of our students to secure part-time jobs have included Crete, Malta, Barcelona, and the following their work placements, at venues such Netherlands, where students have explored as: Manchester Kitchen, Australasia, Dorado exotic restaurants, worked with international Lounge, Shelley’s Café, Park Royal Hotel, Village chefs, artisan producers and suppliers. Hotel, Kirkfield Hotel and Dine Catering. Facilities: Competitions Want to work in a real restaurant with professional You will get lots of opportunities to compete in state-of-the-art kitchens? Our in-house AA Rosette both internal and external competitions, including Restaurant Buckley’s is the perfect place to begin everything from the Association Culinaire your career in the culinary arts! Working with Française to Young Seafood Chef of the Year. the latest equipment and gadgets, you will learn This year our students even won gold at the technical skills to use throughout your career. Welsh International Culinary Championships, Buckley’s, our restaurant, is a well-established, along with a host of other prizes! professionally run kitchen where you will take part in fast-paced live services and ‘wow’ paying customers with your delicious gourmet dishes.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 130 Meet Thomas Purslow: Thomas, a local student from Beamont Collegiate Academy, finds the best part about his course to be the tutors, who are incredibly helpful and friendly. Tom wears a cochlear implant and receives
tailored learning to ensure that he is supported throughout his HOSPITALITY course. When he completes his course, Tom dreams of becoming a Head Chef at his own restaurant. “The tutors want me to achieve and be the best chef that I can be. They treat me like a real chef working in a real kitchen to prepare me for my future in catering.” Student: Thomas Purslow & CULINARY ARTS
Meet our tutor Scott Surtees: Scott Surtees, our hospitality & catering tutor and Head Chef at Buckley’s, has worked in numerous high profile restaurant kitchens before joining Warrington & Vale Royal College. He noticed that many chefs complained that college courses fail to prepare students for industry and can be old-fashioned with teaching techniques. He decided to get into teaching to help change that and now focuses on teaching students about techniques in the modern culinary industry. “As a department, we try to be as modern and industry focused as possible. It’s our duty to make sure our students can survive in a kitchen and are ready for work. I want my students to be able to walk Tutor: Scott Surtees into a kitchen in their first job and to be able to say ‘I can do that, I learned to do it at college’ and not have to be trained on anything.
I want to be their first Head Chef so they’re ready for the industry.” VOCATIONAL COURSES
131 MEDIA MAKE-UP MEDIA MAKE-UP MEDIA
Do you dream about a career in TV and film? Being a make-up artist to the stars or creating amazing special effects looks for the latest fantasy film? On our Theatrical & Media Make-up course you will learn how to completely transform clients using make-up, prosthetics and the use of special effects. What will I learn? Our course is based on national standards and you will learn all of the skills, techniques and knowledge needed for a career as a make-up artist in the exciting media industry. Topics you will study include: • Airbrush make-up • Health and safety in the salon • Anatomy and physiology for make-up services • Media make-up • Cosmetic camouflage • Photographic make-up • Cosmetic make-up science • Special effects make-up • False eyelash application • Style and fit postiche.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 132 Career options: MEDIA MAKE-UP With the make-up industry growing faster COURSES: than ever, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to put your skills to the test. There are a huge range of opportunities at your fingertips, Level 1 Hair & Beauty Diploma whether you wish to work on the latest blockbuster film, work on a regular TV Level 2 Hair & Media Make-up series to see your creations come to life, or
perhaps become self-employed. MEDIA MAKE-UP Level 3 Theatrical & Media Make-up Careers: • Make-up Artist Length of courses: • Make-up Designer • Prosthetics Artist Level 1 - One year • Salon Manager Level 2 - One year Level 3 - One year Labour market information: Direct entry onto Level 3 Theatrical & Media • The hair & beauty industry is vibrant, Make-up requires successful completion at dynamic and fast-paced offering fantastic level 2. employment and training opportunities. The sector boasts a workforce of over Progression Opportunities: 245,000 people working across 55,000 After completing your level 3 course you businesses comprising of hair, beauty and may wish to progress on to one of our level 4 nail salons, barbers, and spas. professional courses in Advanced Theatrical • Did you know the hair & beauty sector has Media Make-up or Salon Management. a turnover of £6.2 billion a year?
Applying: VOCATIONAL COURSES Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus!
Source: Hair & Beauty Industry Authority 133 WHY STUDY MEDIA MAKE-UP AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: You will have exciting opportunities to work on Previous students have gone on to further live briefs and put your make-up artistry skills to their studies with professional courses or the test at outward facing events. You are sure university. Many have taken on exciting careers to gain a wealth of experience to ready you for in the industry, working in TV, film and editorial, employment, whether you are creating spooky impressing celebrities with their talents. Halloween looks for local shows, or ‘wowing’ spectators with runway looks. Trips and visits: Work placement: You will have the opportunity to go on exciting
MEDIA MAKE-UP MEDIA trips throughout the academic year relating to the The college is committed to ensuring that all media make-up industry, such as IMATS London students benefit from the opportunity to undertake and Professional Beauty North, the North’s work placement, enabling you to gain a taste of leading beauty, spa and hair show. At Halloween, the real working environment. Our students have you will put your special effects make-up skills to worked on set at Hollyoaks, for Topshop’s Doll the test at Lock Down Escape and The Hayloft. Beauty, Debenhams’ Urban Decay and within local salons. Facilities: Guest speakers: The Academy is a fully equipped and modern salon containing a new media make-up studio Our tutors employ guest speakers and external that gives you the opportunity to practice your companies to give demonstrations of products skills in an exciting working environment. You will to enhance your existing skills and knowledge. work on real customers as well as fellow students These include celebrity make-up artists and to enhance your learning and immerse yourself in representatives of Doll Beauty and Code this course. Cosmetics.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 134 Meet Liberty Graham: Level 3 Theatrical & Media Make-up student Liberty Graham progressed from Hair & Media Make-up Level 2 and is thoroughly enjoying her course, commenting on how lovely and helpful the tutors are. She hopes one day to work within film or television. She has also considered becoming self-employed, offering prom and wedding packages for her clients. She’s excited for her future and the possibilities and flexibility that a career within the make-up
industry affords. MEDIA MAKE-UP
Student: Liberty Graham
Meet our tutor Rayner Cunniffe: Former Warrington & Vale Royal College student, Rayner Cunniffe, impressed so much during her course that she was quickly snapped up as our media make-up tutor. Rayner previously studied as an adult learner and progressed from Media Make-up Level 2 to a Professional Level 4 qualification in Advanced Theatrical Media Make-up. As well as being employed as a part-time college tutor, Rayner works as a freelance make-up artist, and recently announced her departure from Naked Beauty and Training salon to set up her own Tutor: Rayner Cunniffe make-up and beauty studio. VOCATIONAL COURSES
135 MOTOR VEHICLE MOTOR VEHICLE MOTOR
Learn the tools of the trade and get your motor mechanics career into gear. You will gain the knowledge and understanding needed in the repair of light vehicles, including engines, brakes, tyres, steering and suspension. This course includes a variety of topics which will stretch your skills, not only in the classroom, but also in our real life motor vehicle workshop. What will I learn? These exciting and wide ranging courses will cover a multitude of topics which you will study throughout the levels, such as: • Braking • Fuel injection systems • Braking units • Health and safety • Chassis systems • Modern engines • Electrical systems • Removing and refitting components • Engine technology • Steering and suspension systems • Equipment use and maintenance • Transmission. Throughout these courses you will complete project work and carry out industry related jobs for external clients. You will also have the opportunity to undertake specialist units in areas such as car audio.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 136 Career options: MOTOR VEHICLE The fast-moving automotive industry COURSES: continues to keep society moving. Embarking on a career in this sector could see you working on the latest car designs, Level 1 Motor Vehicle or even in the world of racing cars. Maintenance and Repair Careers:
Level 2 Motor Vehicle Fitting • Auto Electrician MOTOR VEHICLE Level 2 Motor Vehicle • Breakdown Engineer Maintenance and Repair • Motor Mechanic Level 3 Motor Vehicle • Motor Vehicle Fitter Maintenance and Repair • Motorsport Engineer • Service Manager • Vehicle Body Repairer Irrespective of your GCSE results, most students will start at level 1 and learn basic Labour market information: skills before progressing through the levels. • Over 570,000 people are employed in the Length of courses: UK Retail Automotive Industry Level 1 - One year • Salaries can go up to £35k-£45k per year as a breakdown engineer. Level 2 - One year Level 3 - One year Progression Opportunities: Upon completing the course students
have the opportunity to gain the FGAS VOCATIONAL COURSES qualification, allowing them to diagnose and repair air-conditioning faults. You may wish to seek an apprenticeship or gain employment in the industry. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', Source: nationalcareers.service.gov.uk or fill in the application form at the back of autocity.org.uk this prospectus! 137 WHY STUDY MOTOR VEHICLE AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: We have fantastic links with lots of employers, Our close links with employers present lots who will enhance your learning by coming in of opportunities for our students to secure to college to deliver guest talks and workshop apprenticeships and employment. Previous sessions. For example, we have previously students have progressed to work for Volkswagen, worked with companies such as Prestige Motors, Škoda, TDi North and Prestige Auto Repairs. Jungheinrich and Ricks Motors along with many local garages in Warrington, St Helens and Leigh. Trips and visits: Work placement: Getting out into industry is an important part of
MOTOR VEHICLE MOTOR your motor vehicle course. You will experience As part of the course you will complete work exciting opportunities watching race cars at experience with an employer of your finding. the NEC Auto Sports show, as well as visiting Fantastic opportunities can be gained from factories such as the Vauxhall factory in this, with many previous students being Ellesmere Port, along with visiting local garages offered apprenticeships, part-time and full-time to learn the intricacies of the skills required. employment after impressing their employers during their work placements. Facilities: Guest speakers: Warrington & Vale Royal College is home to its very own real life motor vehicle workshop. As a Our students benefit from guest speakers student on these courses, you will be serving real delivering talks and demonstrations within our clients, working on their cars and experiencing a workshop. We have welcomed representatives fully operational car garage. from leading tool manufacturers and suppliers including Jungheinrich UK, Snap-on and Halfords, ensuring our students are kept up-to-date with the latest industry equipment.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 138 Meet Rebecca Woodward: Rebecca Woodward, originally from Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School, decided to enrol at Warrington & Vale Royal College after seeing a poster of a female motor vehicle student at one of our Open Evenings. Being the only girl on the course she was initially terrified, but after meeting the tutors she felt instantly at ease. She has made great friendships with all of her course mates, even socialising with them outside of college. She loves that the course
is so practical and hands on: MOTOR VEHICLE “I learn so much faster than I expected, and we consistently finish Student: Rebecca Woodward projects way ahead of schedule.”
Meet our tutor Chris Johnson: Chris Johnson, one of our Motor Vehicle tutors, has a wealth of experience in the industry, having previously worked as a Nissan GTR Technician. He has also worked for International Race Teams, is a qualified MOT Tester and is fully qualified to work with electric vehicles, giving our students the most up to date working practice possible.
Tutor: Chris Johnson VOCATIONAL COURSES
139 PERFORMING ARTS
Do you love the spotlight? Do you dream of seeing your name in lights? Nurture your creativity in these imaginative and expressive courses, to enhance your performance skills and learn about a whole host of performance genres. Put your talents to the test in our incredible theatre and specialist PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING dance studios and bring on the applause! What will I learn? In this highly practical course you will develop unique performance skills and specialise within your chosen field of either acting or dance. You will prepare and rehearse for performances throughout the year, including Christmas pantomimes and end of year summer shows.
Acting Dance This pathway enables you to study the craft This pathway covers a variety of dance of acting through practical workshops and live techniques through practical workshops and performances. live performances. You will develop skills in and gain an You will develop skills in and gain an understanding of: solo and ensemble understanding of: contemporary and classical performance techniques, scriptwriting, the art dance, expressive performance techniques, of expression, text analysis, peer assessment/ peer assessment/critique, choreography, solo critique, devising performances, theatre and ensemble performance, the history of production, the history of theatre and the dance and the performing arts industry. performing arts industry.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 140 Career options: PERFORMING ARTS In this fast-paced creative industry you will COURSES: have the world at your feet! You are sure to find a way to unleash your talent whether you want to secure the starring role in the Level 1 Creative & most popular West End show, or want to help Performance Arts others realise their potential through teaching. PERFORMING ARTS Level 2 Performing Arts: Acting Careers: Level 2 Performing Arts: Dance • Actor • Community Arts Therapist Level 3 Performing & Production • Dancer Arts: Acting • Producer Level 3 Performing & Production • Stage Manager Arts: Dance • Teacher • Theatre Assistant Length of courses: • Theatre Director Level 1 - One year Labour market information: Level 2 - One year Level 3 - Two years • It is predicted that the creative industries could be worth £128.4 billion to the UK Progression opportunities: economy by 2025 • The continued growth in the creative After completing your level 3 course you may industries could help to create up to a wish to progress on to our HNC & HND in million jobs by 2030. Performing Arts.
Applying: VOCATIONAL COURSES Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus!
Source: prospects.ac.uk 141 WHY STUDY PERFORMING ARTS AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: The performing arts department are very proud to Our talented students have embarked upon be working alongside University of Arts London many exciting career opportunities after who are the awarding body for this qualification. completing their studies with us. Former student Ariane Sallis starred in productions on London’s Work placement: West End, before landing an exciting role at As part of this course you will undertake live Disneyland in Hong Kong, where she performs to performance projects for local community groups thousands of people every day. and employers, alongside performing externally Trips and visits: in popular events such as Evans Haunted House.
PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING You will also have the opportunity to participate in The West End awaits! On these courses you will competitions, giving you a taste of the real world have the opportunity to take part in trips both of performing arts. locally and further afield to dance and acting studios, outstanding theatre performances, Guest speakers: and live music showcases. You will build a wealth of knowledge about Facilities: careers in the performance industry by taking part in guest lecture workshops with local and Our dedicated theatre with sprung floor national employers. Our tutors have excellent and specialist dance and acting studios will links with industry and are still practicing in their provide everything you need to develop your fields, helping you to gain a real insight into the skills. You will have access to state of the art industry and benefit from the experience and staging, lighting and sound, to make sure your expertise of the teaching staff. performances are top notch!
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 142 Meet Alisha Thompson: Alisha Thompson, previously from Bedford High School, has soared to success on our Performing Arts Level 3 course. She chose to study at Warrington & Vale Royal College because of the huge variety of dance styles on the course, with traditional styles such as ballet and tap, as well as contemporary and urban dance. At first, she was nervous about coming to college, as all of her school friends decided to go to competitor colleges. PERFORMING ARTS “If anyone feels nervous about going to college on your own, just go for it. If you go to a college just because your friends are going, Student: Alisha Thompson you won’t succeed. You need to love what you’re doing.” Alisha wowed judges at a recent choreography competition, winning the coveted 1st place title. After finishing her course, Alisha will be auditioning to become a dancer at Disneyland Paris.
Meet our tutor Sindy Richardson: Sindy Richardson, our tutor in dance and performing arts, has worked as a dancer and workshop leader throughout her career, touring primary and secondary schools, as well as community and sporting events, theatres, and performing in a variety of shows. Sindy has fantastic experience choreographing for professional shows such as the Rocky Horror Show, Evil Dead: The Musical, Seussical, Bad Girls and Jerry Springer: The Opera. Sindy's success on Jerry Springer - The Opera was even acknowledged by the Guardian newspaper in August 2019: “Each Tutor: Sindy Richardson last movement - ingeniously choreographed by Sindy Richardson -
is precise yet animated, making brilliant use of the space.” VOCATIONAL COURSES
143 PLUMBING PLUMBING
Fancy a career as a plumber or heating engineer? Whether you want to work as part of a larger company or aspire to set up your own business, our plumbing courses will help you to reach your career goals. Gain the skills and confidence you need to fit, service and repair hot and cold water systems, central heating systems, bathroom suites and kitchens. What will I learn? In this practical course you will study a range of modules such as: • Central heating repairs • Plumbing science • Drainage systems • Repair and maintenance • Energy efficiency • Sanitation systems • Hot water systems • Soldering. • Pipe bending
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 144 Career options: PLUMBING COURSES: With a booming construction industry and government initiatives aimed at installing renewable energy into all households, there Level 1 Construction Skills has never been a better time to consider a (Multi Skills) career in plumbing. Following successful completion of this course, there are a number of further Level 1 Plumbing training courses that you can undertake in order to expand and develop your skills
Level 2 Plumbing PLUMBING in areas such as heating, ventilation & air Level 3 Plumbing conditioning and renewable energy. Careers: Irrespective of your GCSE results, most • Gas Engineer students will start at level 1 and learn basic skills before progressing through the levels. • Heating & Ventilation Engineer • Lecturer Length of courses: • Plumber Level 1 - One year Labour market information: Level 2 - One year • Potential earnings in this industry are Level 3 - One year substantial with a realistic income in excess Progression opportunities: of £35k • Over the last 4 years the North West’s The plumbing team work very closely with construction sector has seen an annual our apprenticeships team and will work with rise of 2.5% making it the third highest you to swap to an apprenticeship if you growing region. secure an employer. VOCATIONAL COURSES After completing your level 3 course, you may wish to progress on to our HNC in Construction & The Built Environment. Applying: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! Source: nationalcareers.service.gov.uk 145 WHY STUDY PLUMBING AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: The college works with a lot of local and national Many of our students progress into plumbing trades companies such as Aquila Plumbing, H20 apprenticeships with local enterprises including and Ocean Bathrooms. You will hear from leading Prestige Plumbing & Heating and H2O. A number industry professionals to enhance your skills and of past students have also become self-employed, prepare you for working life in this field. offering domestic plumbing services locally. Work placement: Trips and visits:
PLUMBING As part of this course you will have the Educational visits are planned as part of the opportunity to carry out on-site work experience programme to enhance your learning. Previous to build your skills, knowledge and employability trips have included going to the Albert Dock, ready for your next step. Yorkshire Copper and Electric Mountain. You will also get the opportunity to visit trade wholesalers Guest speakers: so that you get an all-round experience of As well as inviting a range of industry experts to selecting and ordering equipment in this industry. deliver talks on career progression, we also invite Facilities: tool manufacturers to present the latest tools, ensuring that our students are kept up-to-date with Our fully equipped construction facilities are the latest equipment. Companies include Screwfix, installed with well-kitted out, modern workshops MKM, Monument Tools and Nerrad Tools. in line with industry standards to ready you for employment in this industry.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 146 Meet Sam Porter: Sam Porter previously attended St Gregory’s RC High School, and enrolled at Warrington & Vale Royal College, hoping to secure an apprenticeship whilst studying his course. Sam got all the support he needed from his tutors to find the right employer; they have helped him to secure interviews and even advised him on interview presentation skills. Sam secured his plumbing apprenticeship after completing his Plumbing Level 1 course. He is thoroughly enjoying working for a real employer in a practical environment on his apprenticeship, and loves having the opportunity to learn from highly skilled PLUMBING Student: Sam Porter industry professionals.
Meet our tutor Andy Martin: Plumbing Tutor Andy Martin started his career within plumbing as an apprentice, before progressing to a supervisory role within a company supplying domestic and industrial plumbing services. After a number of years industry experience, he achieved his Certificate in Education and became an on-site assessor, before accepting a full-time position at Warrington & Vale Royal College. Since working at the college, Andy has won an Outstanding Tutor of the Year award, been promoted to Plumbing Sector Lead and is undertaking the college’s Aspiring Leaders Programme. Tutor: Andy Martin VOCATIONAL COURSES
147 PUBLIC SERVICES PUBLIC SERVICES PUBLIC
During this active, fitness based course you will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills, techniques, personal skills and attributes essential to secure a role in the uniformed services. Our experienced tutors will help you to develop determination and willpower, as well as skills in communication, leadership and teamwork. What will I learn? Alongside learning about the impact of war, conflict and terrorism and the role that the uniformed services have to play in today’s society, you will study topics such as: • Citizenship and diversity • Land navigation • Discipline in the Public Services • Leadership and teamwork • Employment and careers • Outdoor and adventurous expeditions • Government policies • Sport and recreation • Health & fitness • Volunteering.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 148 Career options: PUBLIC SERVICES Do you want a career with purpose COURSES: and countless opportunities to make a difference? If so, a career in public services could be ideal for you. There are a huge Level 1 Public Services & Sport number of careers available for you to embark upon, whether you would like to Level 2 Public Services serve in the Army, Navy, RAF, or would
prefer to work in the emergency services. PUBLIC SERVICES Level 3 Public Services Careers: Length of courses: • Army Officer • Customs Officer Level 1 - One year • Firefighter Level 2 - One year • Paramedic Level 3 - Two years • Police Officer Progression opportunities: • Prison Officer After completing your level 3 course, • RAF Officer you may wish to progress into employment • Royal Marines Commando or university. • Search and Rescue Worker Applying: Labour market information: Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk • Entry level salaries in the RAF range from by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', £15,220 - £39,000 depending on the role or fill in the application form at the back of • There are currently approximately 112,000 this prospectus! people serving in the British Army and British Army Reserves. VOCATIONAL COURSES
Source: army.mod.uk raf.mod.uk 149 WHY STUDY PUBLIC SERVICES AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: An integral part of the public services course Students generally progress into the includes meeting representatives from the emergency and uniform services, including Army, RAF, Navy, Police, Fire Service and NHS the police or military. We have also witnessed recruitment teams who will provide information students progress into higher education to and support on recruitment selection processes study International Politics and Security and to help with your next steps. Paramedic Science. Work placement: Trips and visits: Work experience is a great opportunity for you Trips and visits will be an important part of your PUBLIC SERVICES PUBLIC to learn about a job or an area of work within the learning, with enrichment activities including: vast public sector. Students have undertaken sporting and outdoor pursuits such as the Duke work placement at Merseyside Police, LiveWire’s of Edinburgh qualifications, trips to places such Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub and The as Low Mill Outdoor Centre in the Yorkshire MacIntyre Learning Centre, to name but a few. Dales, the Imperial War Museum, Whitegate Way and even to the Army Reserve Unit to take on Guest speakers: challenges similar to the Army selection process. As part of your learning experience you will have Facilities: the opportunity to hear from guest speakers ranging from past students now in the services, Our brand new state-of-the-art Sport and Public some with ten years’ experience, to leading Services Centre features modern classrooms professionals in the services, who provide a and a specialist fitness suite boasting a range valuable insight into service life. of cardiovascular and resistance equipment, a free weights area and strength and conditioning machines. With free access during lessons and free time, you will have everything you need to hone the skills required for employment in the public services sector.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 150 Meet Sinead Walters: Sinead Walters has just enrolled on our Public Services Level 3 course, which is the first step towards her dream of one day becoming a Paratrooper. She hopes to serve in the Army and looks forward to a fast-paced role, responding to problems and helping others. “This college is really inviting, I was considering going to another college with the majority of my friends, but after meeting the tutors and getting a taste of the course I know I’ve made the right PUBLIC SERVICES decision, this is a really good college.” Student: Sinead Walters
Meet our tutor Andy Bramhall: Public Services tutor Andy Bramhall holds a bachelor’s degree in Sports Development from the University of Chester and a Certificate in Education. He has worked at the college for four years and helps to run the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme. His favourite thing about being a public services tutor is witnessing his students develop both mentally and physically, and helping them achieve their goals.
Tutor: Andy Bramhall VOCATIONAL COURSES
151 SCIENCE SCIENCE
Interested in making scientific discoveries? Want to help solve a crime? Our applied science courses cover everything from the makeup of cells, disease and infection, energy and space, to forensic investigations. Experiment in our state-of-the-art, dedicated science laboratories and develop your knowledge of the sciences. What will I learn? In this biology and chemistry based course you will study fascinating topics such as: • Biology and our environment • Forensic Science and investigating a • Chemistry and our earth crime scene • Energy and our universe • Perceptions of science • Scientific practical techniques.
You will also get the opportunity to choose from specialist optional modules such as genetics and medical physics.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 152 Career options: SCIENCE COURSES: A career in science will open up a world of opportunities, whether you wish to work in a laboratory, hospital, factory or even a crime Level 2 Applied Science scene. The science industry is fast-paced and ever growing, so if you are looking for a Level 3 Applied Science career that could make a huge difference to the problems facing society today, this could Length of courses: be the course for you. - One year Careers: Level 2 SCIENCE Level 3 - Two years • Analytical Chemist Progression opportunities: • Biomedical Scientist • Forensic Scientist After completing your level 3 course, you • Laboratory Technician may wish to progress on to our HNC & HND in Healthcare Practice or progress onto a • Pharmacist BSC degree at university. • Psychologist • Researcher Applying: • Toxicologist Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk • Veterinary Nursing by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', • Zoologist or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! Labour market information: • The average salary for full-time workers in the science industry is £40,925 • There are plenty of job opportunities in science right on your doorstep. After VOCATIONAL COURSES completing a related degree you could go on to work for Eurofins, PQ Corporation, United Utilities or the NHS.
Source: Science Recruitment Group (SRG) 2019 Salary Survey 153 WHY STUDY SCIENCE AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: Our team of dedicated tutors work with countless Most of our applied science students progress local industries to broaden our students’ career on to university to study fascinating subjects aspirations. We have previously worked with such as Forensic Science, Zoology, Chemistry Warrington Pathology Department, Cheshire and Biochemistry. Previous students have even Police Road Traffic Department, Cheshire Fire progressed straight into employment to work in Department, Warrington and Manchester Courts the nuclear sector. of Law, and local forensic and genetic laboratories. SCIENCE Trips and visits: Work placement: As part of this course you will have the In order to enhance your employability or opportunity to go on a wide range of trips in order university prospects upon leaving the course, to enhance your scientific learning. Students you will complete one week’s work experience have previously visited places such as Eurofins for every year of your course. Forensic Laboratories, Liverpool and Warrington Previous students have secured exciting work Crown Courts to enter a National Bar Mock Trial placements, for example at NHS Pathology, competition, Chester Zoo to study the psychology Biochemists, Robotics labs, Undertakers, United of animals, and have even been on a digital Utilities Laboratories and PQ Corporation. autopsy trip. Students have even been offered full-time roles Facilities: following their placements. In this hands-on course you will have the Guest speakers: chance to take part in fascinating practicals You will also have the opportunity to hear from for every unit you study. Our state-of-the-art guest speakers regularly in the college to further laboratory is reserved exclusively for our applied your academic experience, for example the science students, and is fully kitted out with University of Bolton have previously wowed our everything you will need, such as a full forensic students with a workshop on tissue engineering. kit for investigating crime scenes and technical equipment to carry out DNA extractions.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 154 Meet Sarah Hall: Sarah Hall, originally from The Grange School in Hartford, chose the applied science course at Warrington & Vale Royal College because of the amazing facilities and the free college bus to our Warrington campus. Sarah liked the idea of opting for the BTEC route, rather than studying A-levels, as she prefers to gradually build up her grade, rather than studying towards a big exam at the end of the year. Sarah hopes to study Zoology at university and has received offers from the University of Chester, Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford.
“If you’re thinking of coming to Warrington & Vale Royal College, SCIENCE Student: Sarah Hall don’t be afraid to ask questions if you have concerns. The Learner Services team are really friendly and offer appointments before your first day to help put a support plan in place weeks before you start.”
Meet our tutor Laura Mottershead: Science Tutor Laura Mottershead studied for a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science at Manchester Metropolitan University. Alongside her studies, she volunteered at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, before graduating and securing full-time employment at Royal Liverpool Hospital as a Microbiology Technician. Laura completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Science at Edge Hill University, and is new to our college this September. Her favourite thing about teaching science at college is the number of practical lessons she teaches, utilising the fantastic range of laboratory equipment. She also appreciates the smaller class sizes, Tutor: Laura Mottershead allowing her to spend more one-to-one time with her students. VOCATIONAL COURSES
155 SPORT SPORT
Our sport courses are designed to provide students with a first-class sporting experience, encompassing everything from sports performance and leading activities, to the intricacies of sport science. Our tutors bring with them a wealth of sporting industry experience, coupled with state-of- the-art facilities so that you receive a high quality understanding of the sector. Community cohesion and healthy living initiatives have contributed to a thriving sector with more job opportunities available than ever in a growing market. What will I learn? As well as developing your professional, personal and social skills in communication, problem solving, and time management, you will also learn practical and theoretical knowledge to underpin these skills, covering a range of topics such as: • Anatomy and physiology • Sports injuries • Fitness • Sports nutrition • Leading sports activities • Sports performance • Organising a sporting event • Sports psychology • Profiling sports performance • Training for personal fitness. • Promotion and sponsorship
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 156 Career options: SPORT COURSES: You will have plenty of options available to you after completing your course with us, whether you dream of coaching, teaching Level 1 Public Services & Sport or even becoming a professional athlete in your favourite sport. Level 2 Sport Careers: Level 3 Sport & Physical Activity • Fitness Centre Manager Level 3 Elite Football Academy • Football Coach In partnership with
• Personal Trainer SPORT Chester Football Academy • Physiotherapist • Professional Athlete Length of courses: • Sports & Fitness Nutritionist • Sports Coach Level 1 - One year • Sports Official/Referee Level 2 - One year • Sports Psychologist Level 3 - Two years • Sports Teacher Progression opportunities: • Strength & Conditioning Coach After completing your level 3 course, you Labour market information: may wish to progress on to our HNC in sport or apply for a degree at university. • The sports sector is large and diverse ranging from health and fitness through to Applying: sport and leisure. • The fitness industry alone is currently Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', worth over £5 billion for the first time, VOCATIONAL COURSES or fill in the application form at the back of and a government push on community this prospectus! involvement and healthy lifestyles has resulted in a huge range of jobs becoming available.
Source: professionalbeauty.co.uk 157 WHY STUDY SPORT AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Guest Speakers: As part of this exciting course you will have the Our sport courses cater for all aspects within the opportunity to work with local employers such as industry and this is reflected in the varying guest the Warrington Wolves Foundation as part of the speakers we welcome to the college. Previous Warrington Schools Sports Partnership, allowing guest speakers include Warrington Wolves’ you to enhance your skills with the support of Strength and Conditioning Coach, Warrington leading industry professionals. Wolves’ Performance Analyst, LiveWire’s Leisure
SPORT Centre Manger, various sports coaches and Work placement: representatives from American summer camps. You will complete 35 hours work placement per Alumni: year based around employment areas such as sport coaching, sport leadership and fitness Many of our students have established hugely testing. You will also gain experience working successful careers in sport, from coaching and with schools, where you will learn skills in fitness training to becoming professional athletes. planning, leadership and session development Some of our students have even gone on to play and delivery. This unique opportunity will engage rugby for Warrington Wolves, including Harvey children in sport, enhance their sport and social Lavette and Patrick Moran. skills and will give you a flavour of employment within this sector. Trips and visits: Students on this course have the added bonus You will visit universities in preparation for of completing a range of national governing body your next step, such as Edge Hill University, coaching and officiating courses, such as the Manchester Metropolitan University and FA Level 1 in Coaching Football as well as the Liverpool John Moores University. RFL Level 1 in Coaching Rugby. This will give you the opportunity to add to your CV and stand Facilities: out in the crowd when applying for jobs and Our sport programme has recently moved to universities. a specialist facility which includes; full fitness testing lab, science lab, brand new indoor gym, computer suites and lecture theatre.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 158 Meet Kai Wilkinson: Former Rudheath Senior Academy student, Kai Wilkinson, is currently studying Sport Coaching with Football, Level 3. Kai left school and initially secured a place with a football academy to help him pursue his dream of becoming a professional football coach. Kai found quite quickly that the course wasn’t for him and made the decision to move to Warrington & Vale Royal College. Kai said: “I have never once regretted my decision to come to Warrington & Vale Royal College, the support from my tutors has been exceptional.”
Student: Kai Wilkinson SPORT
Meet our tutor Ryan Millington: Sports tutor Ryan Millington studied a sports science programme at college and then continued his sports science studies at Edge Hill University. This was followed by a post-graduate and teacher training qualification and he is currently completing his Master’s Degree. Ryan is also a qualified football, athletics and basketball coach, bringing a wealth of industry experience to add to your learning on this course. “What makes our department great is the tutor’s breadth of knowledge and wealth of experience within the sports industry. We adopt a friendly and supportive approach which gives you the Tutor: Ryan Millington opportunity to develop both socially and academically.” VOCATIONAL COURSES
159 TRAVEL & TOURISM TOURISM & TRAVEL TRAVEL
Do you want to travel the world in your chosen career? Do you dream of setting sail towards a career in the cruise industry? Or do you want to make people’s holiday dreams come true? On these exciting and adventurous courses you will open up a world of career opportunities: you will develop your customer service skills, learn everything you need to know about sales and the travel industry, and even study event management. What will I learn? These courses will help you to develop your skills and knowledge to succeed within one of the most diverse industries around. You will cover elements from marketing to airlines and cabin crew, and how to manage the impact that tourism has on life around us. You will cover topics such as: • Airports and airlines • Responsible tourism • Business travel • The cruise industry • Customer service • The UK Travel & Tourism industry • Hospitality in Travel & Tourism • Tour guiding • Investigating cabin crew • UK visitor attractions • Marketing • Worldwide passenger airlines. • Preparing for a career
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 160 Career options: TRAVEL & TOURISM From developing your outstanding customer COURSES: service skills, to learning the fundamentals of working in the industry, you will gain all the skills and attitudes needed to succeed in Level 2 Travel & Tourism your chosen career.
Level 3 Travel & Tourism Careers: TRAVEL • Airport Security Officer Length of courses: • Cabin Crew • Cruise Sales Consultant Level 2 - One year • Flight Dispatcher &
Level 3 - Two years TOURISM • Hotel Manager Progression opportunities: • Tour Guide After completing your level 3 course, you • Tourism Information Centre Manager may wish to progress on to our HNC in • Tourism Officer Travel & Tourism. • Travel Consultant Applying: • Travel Journalist • Visitor Attraction Manager Apply for this course online at wvr.ac.uk by choosing your course and clicking 'Apply', Labour market information: or fill in the application form at the back of this prospectus! • Projections suggest that the tourism sector will need to recruit an additional 1.3 million more staff by the end of 2024. • Britain is forecast to have a tourism industry
worth over £257 billion by 2025. VOCATIONAL COURSES
Source: prospects.ac.uk 161 WHY STUDY TRAVEL & TOURISM AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE?
Employer links: Alumni: Our tutors are dedicated to working with national Our previous students are flying high with employers such as Hays Travel, TUI, Swissport, companies such as TUI, Jet2.com, Ryanair, Q Hotels and Intercontinental Hotel Group, to EasyJet and Virgin Atlantic. In addition, many enhance your learning and provide up to date more students work in airport ground support
TOURISM industry information. as flight dispatchers, in luxury hotels, travel
& agencies and many more. Work placement: Trips and visits: As well as undertaking a valuable work placement in a field of your choice, you will gain Taking part in trips and visits is a key part of
TRAVEL TRAVEL hands on work experience as part of our annual your learning on these courses. As well as ‘hotel takeover’. Previous students have learned visiting a specialised training centre to learn from a wealth of information about the hotel industry professionals in the industry and get a taste of after taking over the Holiday Inn in Woolston, employment in the sector, you will also have the taking responsibility of every aspect of the opportunity to travel overseas to popular tourist hotel, from checking in guests to running the destinations such as Prague. housekeeping and room service team. Facilities: Guest speakers: You’ll feel like you’re jetting off on your first As part of your course you will have the cabin crew venture in our state-of-the-art mock opportunity to hear from overseas recruitment up aircraft cabin, complete with check-in desk advisors, cabin crew and hotel management, to boot. You’ll have all the latest equipment to give you the best overview of careers and currently used by cabin crew to ensure you’re opportunities within the industry. prepared for stepping into the role.
VOCATIONAL COURSES VOCATIONAL 162 Meet Jacob Jones: Level 3 student Jacob Jones chose to study travel & tourism at Warrington campus because he liked the modern facilities and found the tutors to be extremely knowledgeable and friendly. The former Lowton Church of England High School student loves to travel and hopes to progress into a career where he can continue to explore the world.
When he finishes his course at college he hopes to secure TRAVEL employment as a holiday representative in either Spain, Mexico or the Caribbean, or work as a member of American Airlines’ Student: Jacob Jones cabin crew. & TOURISM
Meet our tutor Mark Turner: Travel & Tourism Tutor Mark studied business and tourism at college before working in the retail travel industry for almost ten years. He later moved into education, gaining a Certificate in Education and holds a bachelor’s degree in Leisure & Tourism. His favourite thing about teaching at Warrington & Vale Royal College is being able to partake in the multiple trips and visits to locations such as New York, Florida and Paris, and encouraging his students to see as much of the world as possible to develop their experience. Tutor: Mark Turner VOCATIONAL COURSES
163 FAQS
“What do I do if you do not offer the level of course I would like?” There are different ways to progress. You can start on a related course and then progress to the next level the following year. Ask our tutors or admissions team for advice.
“What is the difference between applying and enrolling?” When you choose a course you are interested in, you will fill out an application form (apply) which you can complete online via the college website or you can fill in a paper form (see the back of this prospectus). You will then be invited for an interview and if you are successful you will be invited back in on GCSE results day to enrol on the course.
“HELP! I did not get the grades I wanted. What do I do?”
FAQS If you do not get the grades you expected, do not panic. Come and speak to our friendly staff at enrolment and they will advise which course is best for you.
“Will you be able to interview me at school?” Yes, absolutely. We offer interviews in schools, either during the lunch break or immediately after school.
164 FAQS
165 HOW TO APPLY TO HOW
166 HOW TO APPLY
We have simplified our application process to six easy steps! 1. Visit us We strongly advise you to come along to one of our open evenings at both Warrington & Winsford campuses from 5.30PM - 8.00PM: October 2019 - Thursday 10th December 2019 - Thursday 5th November 2019 - Wednesday 13th March 2020 - Wednesday 25th
2. Apply HOW TO APPLY To apply, go to wvr.ac.uk, find a course and click apply. Alternatively you can complete the application form at the back of this prospectus. 3. Interview You will be invited to attend an interview with the course tutor, or we can interview you in school, if you prefer. 4. Offer You will be told if you have received a place to study with us. 5. Sample Sessions & Welcome Days We will let you know about sample sessions and student welcome days so you can try out the course. Don’t worry if you change your mind and would like to study another course. We want you to do what is best for you! 6. Enrol on GCSE Results Day You will enrol on to your course on GCSE results day. You will receive your ID badge and all of the information you need for your first day. 167 HIGHER EDUCATION AT WARRINGTON & VALE ROYAL COLLEGE
Affordable, flexible and local... If you are thinking about university or want to complete a degree-level course after finishing your vocational qualification, why not choose Warrington & Vale Royal College? We offer many higher education and professional courses during the day and in the evening at our Warrington and Winsford campuses. Courses range from construction, engineering, accounting, human resources, management, public services, sport, teaching and many more.
Why should I choose Warrington & Vale Royal College for a higher education or professional course? • Affordable course prices. Our full-time fees are £5,995 per year – significantly lower than university fees • Less debt without compromising on quality • Learn locally and save on your living costs • Great results HIGHER EDUCATION HIGHER • Small class sizes • One-to-one support and guidance • Excellent links with employers • Fantastic facilities on campus.
To find out more about our higher education courses, visit wvr.ac.uk/higher-education
168 HIGHER EDUCATION
Meet our graduates:
Josh Woodward Erin Hague After completing his Level Erin progressed from our 3 in Graphic Design, Josh Art & Design Level 3 on to decided to remain with us our HND Fine Art. to study his HNC, also in “The HND has increased Graphic Design. my confidence so much. “I wanted to study a course The whole college has a that was of university great support system and level but remain local, so I owe the higher education I decided to stay nearby team a huge thank you!” with tutors that are really good.” 169 THE COLLEGE OFFER AT A GLANCE
Foundation Learning: Art Hospitality & Catering Public Services & Sport Hairdressing IT Health & Social Care Multi-skills
Apprenticeships: Accountancy Electrical Installation Human Resources Bricklaying Engineering Motor Vehicle Business Administration Hairdressing Plumbing Carpentry & Joinery Health & Social Care Team Leading/Supervisory Digital Hospitality
Vocational Courses: Art & Design Electrical Installation Motor Vehicle Beauty Therapy Engineering Performing Arts THE COLLEGE OFFER AT A GLANCE A AT OFFER COLLEGE THE Brickwork Games Design Plumbing Business Graphic Design Public Services Carpentry & Joinery Hairdressing Science Childcare Health & Social Care Sport Computing & ICT Hospitality & Catering Travel & Tourism Creative & Digital Media Media Make-Up
170 THE COLLEGE OFFER AT A GLANCE
171 wvr.ac.uk 01925 494494 @wvrcollege 172