COLLEGE

The latest news from Reaseheath College issue 16 Engineering Academy Opens Accolades for easeheath’s pioneering Apprentices Rengineering department is one of the first in the country to offer a specialist diploma in engineering to local secondary school pupils. Fifty 14 year-olds from Brine Leas High School, Malbank School, Sir William Stanier Community School and Shavington High School began studying for their qualification in September. They attend college for half a day a week to gain practical, workshop skills and continue classrooms sessions on engineering at school, alongside their conventional GCSEs. Hopefully the two year  Josh Johnson and Kerrie Machin qualification will inspire pupils to enter the engineering industry, possibly continuing to Two young people who degree level. combine their jobs with college Our dedicated £1 million-plus training and excel at both have  Joan Feenan tries out a fun buggy at Reaseheath’s new Engineering Skills Engineering Skills Academy has been crowned Reaseheath Academy, watched by Principal Meredydd David been fitted out with fun buggies, apprentices of the year for their ramps and specialist equipment to Opening the academy, Joan that on offer at Reaseheath. outstanding achievements. accommodate the pupils and new, Feenan, Director of Children’s The academy, with its world Bench joiner Josh Johnson specialist staff have been taken on. Services, Cheshire County class facilities, was the result and florist Kerrie Machin The academy is one of only Council, said that every young of an impressive partnership took top honours when we 40 projects in the country to be person should have the between the local authority, celebrated the graduation of funded through the Department opportunity to shine and that local high schools, central over 100 apprentices. for Children, Schools and this aspiration was coming government and the Learning See pages 9 - 11 for details of Families (DCSF). closer with schemes such as and Skills Council. our many successful students. Recordbreaking Effort to Support Abi Our big hearted students and staff raised a record breaking £10,116 for a local teenager paralysed by a brain haemorrhage. Funds raised through Reaseheath’s RAG (Raising And Giving) appeal went to Abi Davey, who has undergone emergency brain surgery. The money is being used to help Abi’s family care for her at home. The cash was raised by the Students Association, who produced stickers and urged fellow students, staff and the public to ‘Take Abi Round the World’ by being pictured with the sticker while travelling. Animal behaviour and welfare degree students were photographed in a South African game reserve and agriculture students took the stickers onto an ice lake in the US. Student Association Secretary Jennifer Kitchiner was determined that the 2008 appeal would break all previous records and was thrilled when the money came pouring in. She said: “This is a cause that we hold close to our hearts and everyone has worked really hard to make this year’s fundraising exceptional!” The total of funds raised by Reaseheath staff and students over the  Jennifer Kitchiner hands over our cheque to Abi’s sister, Mica, watched by past 18 years is a massive £129,000 – all benefiting local charities. members of the Students Association

www.reaseheath.ac.uk l 01270 625131 Maintaining Momentum, Pursuing Excellence

By the time you have finished reading this university and industry partners is at the heart exactly what my colleagues and our students edition of Grass Roots, I’m sure you will of this success. deserve and I would like to thank them for agree that we are maintaining the great Reaseheath is a trailblazer and is accepted making all of this possible. momentum we have built up, and that we are as being one of, if not the, top specialist also rapidly achieving deserved recognition land-based college in the country. Having Thank You. for excellence in our work. read Grass Roots, that message comes Our hugely positive impact on communities, through loud and clear. Over the next two on businesses and on the thousands of years we will complete our £51M capital build students we work with each year is continually programme. This will match the Outstanding being recognised regionally and nationally. quality of our education and training with Our close relationships with our school, world class facilities and resources. This is Merdydd David World Class Facilities Open on Campus

easeheath students are using our new IT centre, animal Renjoying newly opened, management teaching centre, world class facilities as part purpose built construction trades of our continuing £51 million workshop, two halls of residence capital investment programme. and our dedicated Engineering The latest buildings to be Skills Academy. completed include a £2.5 million Reaseheath’s farm is currently learning skills and student undergoing an extensive £2.5 services centre, providing a state- million upgrade which includes of-the-art library and study area, a newly opened milking parlour and an international standard providing industry standard indoor riding arena which is part teaching facilities and offering of a £2.3 million upgrade of our an enjoyable experience for both equine centre. cow and operator. Welcoming the handover of the Over £500,000 has also been  Graham McNaugher latest facilities, Principal Meredydd invested in the college’s food milking in our new dairy David said: “This investment processing plant and licensed reflects Reaseheath’s continuing dairy factory. The facilities and success and growth and will on-site expertise are used by horticulture and sports turf of the students and the continue to maintain our position many blue chip multi-national departments are scheduled for professionalism of the staff. The as the premier specialist college companies for new product completion in 2010. deep involvement of the college in the country. The new build development projects. Minister for Further Education with industry, and the benefit of programme, which is college wide, Construction of a futuristic Sion Simon has toured some of our the knowledge exchange that will ensure that all students and Student Hub, offering dining new buildings. takes place between both sectors, staff enjoy 21st century technical facilities and leisure areas will Sion Simon said: “This has confirms the important role that and educational facilities.” begin soon, followed by the been a very informative visit. I colleges play in not just educating A total of eight major buildings building of a Farm Interpretation have been extremely impressed young people and adults but in have been completed in the past Centre. New facilities for with the world class facilities at helping industry to be competitive 12 months. Students are already adventure sports, countryside, Reaseheath, the enthusiasm in today’s difficult climate.”

 Karen Myatt, Learning Resources and Support Manager, celebrates the opening of our new learning resource centre

 Minister for Further Education Sion Simon meets Head of Engineering Melvin Johnson and plant mechanics Thomas Murphy, Simon Davidson and Liam Brown

2 COLLEGE Students take a MPs Applaud Reaseheath walk on the wildside

easeheath’s efforts to help for Colleges’ Week Rrural industries become more competitive and efficient, particularly in the delivery of traceable, high quality food and energy crops, have been applauded by MPs. MP for Eddisbury, Stephen O’Brien, and Edward Timpson, who represents the Crewe and Nantwich constituency, discussed our commitment to driving forward the rural economy during a campus tour of new facilities.  Degree students Holly Webb, Danielle The MPs visited our dairy Hudson, Karen Carrigy and Hayley parlour, animal management Percival construct a climbing frame for teaching centre and engineering our lemurs skills academy – all part of a £51 million capital investment Our animal management across campus (see page 2). students faced a tough challenge Our visitors also learned about as they made a new adventure our investment into our food play area for ring tailed lemurs,  processing plant and licensed MPs Edward Timpson (centre) and Stephen O’Brien talk to Martyn East, porcupines and meerkats during Head of Agriculture dairy factory, ensuring facilities Colleges’ Week. reflect the best in the industry. Teams of students made feeders Stephen O’Brien, who is reputation for excellence. energy resource are top of the and hid them in the enclosures Shadow Minister for Health, “Reaseheath is training government’s agenda. There to encourage natural foraging commented: “The continuing students to the highest industry is increasing public demand behaviour. They built a climbing expansion at Reaseheath shows standards, giving them the for high quality food produced frame and hammock for the lemurs, the tremendous commitment the competitive edge and the skills- locally and it is essential that we constructed a tunnel and covered college has towards maintaining based learning to drive forward have skilled young people to take den for the porcupines and planted the high standard of its teaching the rural economy. As the local this forward. Reaseheath offers a shrubbery for the meerkats. and its partnerships with industry. MP, I shall continue to do all I wonderful support for anyone The skills challenge was part of The impressive number of can to support Reaseheath’s who wants to make their career in a new, national week celebrating employers and institutions which tremendous development.” agriculture or in the land based the opportunities and fun offered choose to become partners Said Edward Timpson: “Food sector. The new features which through colleges. is testament to the college’s security, sustainability and are being built are world class.” Said Head of Animal Centre Richard Champion: “This has been a really good event because it has encouraged our students to use Five minutes their own initiative and develop skills which they will use later in of fame their working lives. They have come Reaseheath was the only college to up with some really good ideas.” feature on national BBC Breakfast We are one of the few colleges during the launch of Vocational in the country to have a zoo licence Qualifications (VQ) Day. and the challenge took place in our Lecturer Harry Delaney Animal Centre, which has a newly and horticultural students opened £1million teaching centre. Mark Hargreaves and Colette We were also visited by Minister Ellison met up at Chester Zoo for Further Education Sion Simon for a live link to celebrate the as part of Colleges Week. achievements of those taking vocational qualifications. Mark, a horticulture team leader at the zoo who, at the same time, achieved his NVQ Level 3 Horticulture with  Colette Ellison gives her views of college life us, spoke of the benefits of gaining qualifications while experience. Harry gave the word perfect in the rather Colette, a National Diploma views of the trainer. pressurised atmosphere. Which in Commercial Horticulture Our five minutes of fame is more than can be said for the student, described how follow an uncomfortably orangutans who were supposed she helped plant up animal early start and three hours to provide the backdrop – they  enclosures during work of waiting, but everyone was went back to bed! One of our porcupines climbs its new food platform

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 3 Collaboration Boosts Ornamental Dream Job Fish Welfare for Jimmy roundbreaking new training Genabling ornamental fish retailers to raise care standards has been launched by our animal management department. The bespoke training, a mixture of residential workshops and distance learning, is the result of a partnership with leading retailer Pets at Home. The training is tailored to increase the expertise of in-store aquatics specialists,  improving pre-sale fish welfare Jimmy Dale and after-sale advice. Pets at Home has signed Former animal behaviour and  Fish experts Dave Hulse and Dave Wolfenden up an initial group of 60 staff welfare student Jimmy Dale is off to from across its 220 stores. a dream job in the Caribbean. Commented Kathy Toft, Head of Certificate in Aquatics state-of-the-art knowledge of Encouraged by college lecturers, Training: “The welfare of our fish Management. The training is led pet fish husbandry and welfare Jimmy, 24, has secured a rare and remains our top priority and staff by lecturers Dave Hulse, who is – ensuring that staff who work exciting opportunity to help save a training such as this helps us to also a consultant for Tetra, and in aquaria and pet stores are giant frog on the Caribbean islands achieve this goal. Importantly, Dave Wolfenden. fully trained and up-to-date with of Dominica and Montserrat. it also helps our business to Dr. Peter Burgess, an current practices. The frog, called the Dominican maintain great fish care in-store international advisor on “Reaseheath has an expert Mountain Chicken because it and it is an exciting opportunity ornamental fish and consultant to team of aquatics lecturers and tastes like poultry, is a main source for us to encourage continuing Mars Fish Care, has collaborated modern facilities. This high level of protein for the islanders but professional development within on the course content and points training will make a significant has been decimated by volcanic our store teams.” out that scientists have disproved contribution to improving the eruptions and a fungus. The training is available for all the view that fish are “primitive” welfare of ornamental fish within Jimmy is joining a team who ornamental fish retailers, in Britain creatures with no feelings or pain this country”. hope to establish a captive or abroad. Successful candidates sensation. He said: “The aquatics Contact: Dave Hulse 01270 613293 / breeding programme and finally will gain a Level 4 Professional training at Reaseheath will deliver email [email protected] allow the frog back into the food chain. Jimmy’s job will be to provide a sustainable food source Zoo Workshop and help train the locals. Artistic Talent Jimmy, who will be in the Zookeepers from across the Caribbean for a year, said: “This country attended an animal is an amazing opportunity to training and enrichment help both the local people and workshop hosted by our animal these rare frogs. I owe it to the management department. enthusiasm and encouragement of The workshop featured high Reaseheath staff and the hands-on profile speakers Dr Andrea Fidgit, experience with the reptiles and nutritionist at Chester Zoo, and amphibians which I couldn’t have international animal trainer Sabrina got elsewhere.” Brando from Holland. Topics Jimmy completed our Higher included nutrition and methods of National Diploma in Animal handling and training animals to Behaviour and Welfare, which improve safety and welfare. included work experience at Animal Centre Head Richard  Caption goes here Stapeley Water Gardens, Nantwich. Champion talked about enrichment He became a full-time keeper there and how to encourage natural for two years, followed by a period behaviour. His advice was followed as an assistant biologist on a sea by a practical session with our turtle conservation project in Costa serval, tapir and spider monkeys. Rica and a job surveying the UK’s The 45 strong group included native reptiles and amphibians.  William records life in one of our sheep pens with his signer, Martine Loveless zookeepers from Knowsley Safari He has since topped up his Park, Twycross Zoo, Chester Zoo, diploma to a BSc Degree in Paradise Park Hertfordshire and Former pre-entry animal care student William Herd has grown his talents Animal Behaviour and Welfare at Woburn Safari Park. as an artist since coming to Reaseheath. William, who is in his third year the University of Chester, during Richard said: “This was an ideal with us, likes nothing better than touring our site with his sketchpad. His which time he completed his opportunity for us to strengthen favoured subjects are our farm and small animals. William has progressed dissertation on the effect of ultra links with our industry partners. We to Entry 2 and says that he thoroughly enjoys life at Reaseheath, violet radiation on our own, home- received very good feedback.” particularly the new friends he’s made among his peers and support staff. bred Himalayan crocodile newts.

4 COLLEGE Silver Medal at Medals Galore at RHS Tatton UK Skills easaeheath’s garden Reaseheath landscapers won a Rdesigners brought home an silver medal in the intermediate impressive tally of medals from finals of the UK Skills 2008. the RHS Tatton Flower Show. Stephen Farrington, a school A gold medal and best in show in instructor, and Philip Johnston the small garden category went to and Paul Griffiths, who are both three former students who wowed self employed, teamed up to the judges with their modern represent the college at this version of a family allotment prestigious national competition. combined with a play area. Our team, which was managed Margaret McDonough, and trained by landscape Catherine Wright and Jim instructor Clive Evans, qualified O’Rourke teamed up as at the regional heat at the Welsh ‘Reaseheath Alumni’ to design College of Horticulture and weeks ‘5-a-Day…with Hidden Play’, a later went to Chichester for the garden featuring containers of fruit final. They had to build a garden and vegetables, a seating area, to a brief using hard and soft two concealed children’s dens and landscaping skills and missed a  Television presenters Gordon Burns and and Ranvir Singh join lecturer Sarah illuminated jets of water. All three Hopkinson and students Matt Honour and Jools Martin on the ‘Have a Grow’ garden gold medal by just a few points. have become self employed after Philip and Paul have both gaining our Professional Diploma was designed and built by students our success will inspire schools, completed NVQ Level 2 in Garden Design. studying for their Foundation nurseries and parents to include an Horticulture with us while Margaret said: “Getting top Degree, Higher National Certificate area in their garden where children Stephen, a former National marks at such a prestigious show or Professional Diploma in Garden can enjoy conserving butterflies Certificate student, is now was mind blowing, particularly as Design and the planting was and other beneficial insects.” studying towards his assessors’ we were first time exhibitors.” described by judges as one of the Reaseheath students also award. Philip has progressed onto Reaseheath’s exhibit, a children’s best in the show. designed and built BBC his Higher National Certificate in butterfly garden ‘Metamorphosis’, Explained Garden Design Northwest Tonight’s garden ‘Go Garden and Landscape Design. was awarded silver gilt, just points lecturer Carol Adams: “The On, Have a Grow!’ which was Steve Williams and Tom below gold. The garden featured challenge for designers is to used by television presenters Ironmonger, who were part of last interactive displays of butterflies create gardens which are bold and throughout the show. year’s successful UK Skills team, in various stages of development imaginative while working within the Aimed at inspiring show visitors represented the World Skills at a and nectar rich plants for food, parameters of nature conservation to grow their own vegetables, our demonstration event of training shelter and moisture. The garden and sustainability. We hope that students used a formal, cubist excellence in Paris. design and black backdrop for a contemporary feel and created raised beds for easy access. Brocklehurst, also received silver gilt. Carol Adams answered viewers’ First time exhibitors Hugh gardening questions during a live Thomas and Hilary Pinnock, broadcast from the show. otherwise known as Floral and Other successful exhibitors who Hardy Gardens, were awarded a trained at Reaseheath included silver medal and Louise Ward took Candy O’Connell, whose silver bronze. Another former student, medal show garden was built with Katie Bratby, worked on television the help of current students. gardener Chris Beardshaw’s Sue Beesley, BBC Gardener exhibit, which took best in show. of the Year 2006, who now has her own Lodge Lane Nursery, took silver gilt while Jacqui

 Students Alan Thurm, Matt Honour, Sonia Kay, Juliette Hamilton, Sue Johnson and lecturer Carol Adams on our Metamorphosis garden

M6 Tea Party An ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed garden designed ‘gateway’ to Cheshire as part of the Cheshire Year of by Foundation Degree in Garden and Landscape Gardens 2008. A number of our Foundation Degree Design student Alan Thurm will provide a relaxing Garden and Landscape Design students had haven for visitors to an M6 motorway service station. designs shortlisted. Alan’s design for a wildlife picnic area with Alan, a former teacher who is pursuing a new outdoor seating for Sandbach services came top career in garden and landscape design, used in a competition after a public vote. The garden, his experience to create a garden which would  Reaseheath Alumni - Margaret part of a redevelopment of the site, will provide a appeal to children. McDonough, Catherine Wright and Jim O’Rourke

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 5 More Blooming Success for Reaseheath

here was a fairytale ending to Sarah clinching silver in the Tthe floral design competition intermediate section. at RHS Tatton Flower Show when All three completed six intense our florists were awarded a silver hours of competition watched gilt medal for their exhibit ‘A by international judges and Floral Fairytale’. an extremely knowledgeable Our florists created a bed for audience. Chrissie and Stephanie Sleeping Beauty using English were filmed as they worked flowers, reflecting Cheshire’s against the clock to complete five Year of Gardens 08. The design, designs for the advanced section. which narrowly missed a coveted The footage, with presenter gold medal, attracted crowds of Rachel de Thame, went out on the visitors who also watched stage Gardener’s World programme. demonstrations by college staff Sarah, a former civil servant,  Celebrating silver gilt, florists June  Chrissie and students. has completed her Advanced Shallcross, Ruth Clarke, Sarah Parker Sevenoaks Reaseheath’s florists have won National Certificate in Floristry and Sue Poole medals at the show for the past and now works for The Design five years. Head of Floristry June Element, Manchester.  Sarah  Shallcross said: “We were delighted Chrissie makes a weekly 240 mile Stephanie McLoughlin Forrest to receive one of the top medals in round trip from her South Wales our section. Entering prestigious home to attend Reaseheath. She shows like RHS Tatton allows us to is studying for her NPTC Level 4 in show the public how exciting and Floristry and spends the rest of the rewarding floristry can be.” week working in a floristry shop. Three talented Reaseheath Stephanie is also studying for her students also came under the Level 4 qualification and lives and spotlight during the national finals works in The Potteries. of the WorldSkills UK floristry Former student Natalie Stanyer, competition, held as part of the recognised as being one of the show. Sarah McLoughlin, Chrissie best young florists in the world Sevenoaks and Stephanie Forrest after representing the UK at the were among just 16 competitors WorldsSkills final in Japan, also in the country to qualify, with demonstrated designs at the show. Enthusiastic Gardeners Gain RHS Awards

Successful RHS students were:

RHS Diploma (full certificate) Beadle, Liz Pearce, Christine Philip Swift, John Pritchard, Penn, Isabelle Brooke, Hilary Christine Bishop Kenworthy, Emma Jo Harrison, RHS Diploma (individual Advolly Dube Taylor modules) RHS Advanced Certificate Nicola James, Janine Griffin, (individual modules) Barbara Platt, Charles Griffies, Ann Faulkner, Mary Hoult, Philip Joanne Philips, Liz Beardsall, Tatler, Julie Webb, Diane Parker, Helen Grant, Lynne Delaney, Marjorie Bruce, David Gibson,  Successful RHS students and tutors Judith Lee Clive Hambleton, Ralph Milward, RHS Advanced Certificate Mary Moxon, Eileen Newman, Horticulture enthusiasts Philip practical exam. They then completed with commendation Emma Crutchley, Janet McKeating Swift, John Pritchard and a further three theory modules and a Sue Beesley, Margaret Jane RHS courses offer a mixture of Christine Bishop are the latest gruelling six hour practical exam to Sellars, Rosemary Priaulx, theoretical and practical skills. students to be awarded the achieve the full diploma. Allison Sterlini Details: 01270 613211 or email ultimate qualification for amateur Philip, who passed with RHS Advanced Certificate Course Manager Sue Sherwood on and professional gardeners. commendation, said: “Gaining Angela Farrow, Gilbert [email protected] All three achieved the prestigious the RHS Diploma has been the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) pinnacle of a life long interest in Diploma in Horticulture after gardening. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed gardener and instructor for the Christine is developing a two attending college for one day a coming to Reaseheath and Wirral Autistic Society. He received and a half acre plot at her home. week and studying at home. meeting like minded people who the James Bruce Award from the She said: “Everything that I have The students first had to gain get the same buzz out of growing Institute of Horticulture for achieving learned has been useful and the their RHS Advanced Certificate by things as I do.” the highest marks in the country for lecturers have been inspirational. successfully passing three theory John, who also gained a the practical exam. I’ve also met a great bunch of modules and a demanding three hour commendation, works as a Passionate amateur gardener people from different walks of life.”

6 COLLEGE The Ultimate Commute High Profile for Adventure Sports easeheath’s flexible sports between classroom studies Rturf training programme and practical sessions on our is allowing Bulgarian Georgi commercial golf course. Farfarov to combine gaining He said: “It is very useful new qualifications while for me to work on different continuing to work. systems. The climate here is Georgi, an assistant very different and you need an greenkeeper at the Pirin Golf irrigation system only on the and Country Club near the town greens. At home, we fight with of Razlog, spends two weeks the sun in the summer and have each month with us studying snow on the ground for two for his NVQ Level 2 Sportsturf. months in the winter.” He then flies home to spend the Senior Sports Turf Lecturer rest of the month carrying out Gareth Phillips said: “Our his duties at his workplace. students have to be able to Reaseheath is one of very few compete in a global market colleges to offer such a flexible, so we have been delighted block release style of learning. to welcome Georgi onto our Our college’s quality training programme. His fellow students  Up and away – adventure sports was also highly recommended have benefitted from his input students try out the new high ropes course by Pirin’s head greenkeeper, and have learned first hand  Georgi Farfarov James Croft, a former student. about sports turf management Our adventure sports students have Georgi divides his time in a different climate”. been enjoying the high life on our new, industry standard high ropes course. The impressive structure is proving a great hit during team Pierce Travels the Globe building exercises and also offers our students the opportunity to International news, too, from course in Pennsylvania and has teach and coach visiting groups. Pierce Corcoran, who is spending now moved on to Farmlinks in Adventure sports staff have taken a year in America on the Ohio Alabama, gaining experience in new qualifications to enable them to Internship Programme. both warm and cool climates. teach on the ropes course. Pierce, who successfully Pierce is hoping to return to his Said Head of Adventure Sports completed his Foundation native Ireland and find a job in Tim Reeves: “This is proving to Degree in Golf and Sports Turf course management. be a great facility, encouraging Management with us, has been Senior Sports Turf Lecturer students to develop both team putting into practice what he Gareth Philips said: “Pierce’s related and individual skills.” learned about caring for turf under experiences highlight the benefits The newly formed Sports different weather conditions. of our foundation degree and our Department has launched  Pierce Corcoran He spent six months working extensive links with American golf qualifications for school leavers for the prestigious Oakmont courses and universities.” who are passionate about sport. The National Diploma in Sports (Performance and Excellence) is aimed at young people who have Vintage Golf Tournament Benefits Charity completed their GCSEs and want to develop their sporting skills as well as Golf and sports turf management gain an ‘A’level equivalent qualification. students handed over proceeds We also offer a range of sporting from a successful golf opportunities through our first diploma tournament to charity. and national certificate programmes. Over £550 was raised through The launch of the new department the Reaseheath Vintage Open, follows the success of a purpose an annual tournament for golfers built course which enables aged 70-plus. The Stableford Crewe Alexandra’s elite competition was run by students apprentice footballers to gain an on our commercial golf course academic background which is and attracted competitors from relevant to their sporting careers. several counties. Another exciting development Income from entry fees, has been the launch of a second donations and a raffle went football team which is competing to Claire House Children’s in the British Colleges Mens Hospice, which cares for League. The team, managed by children with life limiting  Students Pierce Corcoran, Lee Paulley and Jason Clinch and Senior Sportsturf tutor Kevin Cunningham, is well conditions. Events fund raiser Lecturer Gareth Philips present the charity cheque to John Maddock into its first season and has much John Maddock said: This is We have 240 children on our open. In addition, everyone future potential. We have been a very valuable contribution books and it costs us millions who took part in the tournament playing successfully in the Northern which is greatly appreciated. of pounds to keep the doors had a great day.” Colleges League for some years.

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 7 College Champions Honoured

easeheath’s ‘stars’ have Rbeen honoured for ‘going the extra mile’. Steve Roach, Section Manager for Agriculture, Countryside Management, Equine and Horticulture, has received the Reaseheath Star Award, presented annually to the person judged to have made the most outstanding contribution to the continuing success of the college. Steve, who also took the Leadership Award, said: “I am absolutely delighted. It has  Pippa Copeland and Pauline Prince  Roger Holme, Ken Basford and Les Shillito been a privilege to be working with and leading such world class teams. Also presented: “Reaseheath has expanded The Growth and Development beyond all expectations and Award went to the Agriculture the challenge for us now is to Department for the team’s remain the best and continue to commitment to and delivery deliver a quality service in this fast of quality training which was changing environment. Currently supported by the agriculture there are two big issues, food industry and had resulted in an security and climate change, and influx of students. Reaseheath is in a prime position The Education Excellence to lead on both.” Award was presented to the Steve has been a staff member Equine Department for building for 32 years. His first appointment onto the success of their Grade 1 was as a senior technician in status through imaginative ideas,  Steve Roach  Val Finneren and Jo Studzinska engineering, before which he such as rewarding students who spent four years in Africa working displayed qualities above the on land reclamation and water requirements of their course. went to the Customer Service students have an equal chance development. The Peoples Award went to Team of Jo Studzinska, Val to be happy and successful, Of his recent appointment caretakers Ken Basford, Roger Finneren, Pippa Copeland, went jointly to Pre-Entry to lead the Horticulture Holme and Les Shillito after an Pauline Prince, Sarah Leeson Course Manager Louise Badjie Teams in addition to his other overwhelming vote from staff and Sam Vernon for the proactive and Entry Course Manager departments, Steve added: “I from the many departments they way they responded to the needs Chris Loret. Both were said love change and new challenges help throughout the year and for of clients and partners. to be inspirational and tireless and I’m really looking forward to helping to prepare for the many The Diversity Champion leaders, constantly striving to working alongside staff from this college events. Award, which recognises find the best way to support the exciting department.” The Customer Service Award efforts to ensure all Reaseheath students in their care. Returning to the World of Work

Reaseheath runs a number programme, during which mailmerges, databases and of successful programmes time she prepared a CV spreadsheets and telephoned. which enable people to and learned job searching clients. By the end of her update their skills and gain techniques, interview skills, placement she had gained the confidence to return to confidence building, methods valuable office experience, two work. Typically, learners gain of communication, health and Level 2 NVQ units in Business useful qualifications and skills, safety, equality and diversity and Administration - and a followed by a period of work and obtained her L2 Numeracy glowing testimony from her line experience. Another alternative certificate. manager! She then passed is our Green Gym programme, She wanted to work in an interview for a position as in which volunteer groups take administration but felt she one of our customer services on projects in their local parks had no relevant experience administrators. or outdoor spaces – a great to offer an employer. So we Sam said: The programme  Sam Vernon way to get fit, make friends and found a work placement for was a great opportunity for build confidence! her at college, working for the me and I would recommend affect your regular benefits Mum of three Sam Vernon so Programme Administrator for it to anybody who needs their or allowances and are held impressed us that we offered NPTC and the National Trust. confidence building”. at local convenience centres. her a job! Sam enrolled onto Sam applied her Courses which help you Contact Tammy Sinden on our four week employability organisational and IT skills on get back to work do not 01270 613196

8 COLLEGE Accolades for Apprentices wo young people who Tcombine their jobs with college training and excel at both have been crowned Reaseheath apprentices of the year for their outstanding achievements. Bench joiner Josh Johnson and florist Kerrie Machin took top honours when we  Best animal care apprentice Erica Brian celebrated the graduation of over 100 apprentices. Josh, 20, who works for Conran Homes, Faddiley, took the  Top apprentices celebrate Apprentice of the Year award while Kerrie, also 20, a florist with Country with Nixon and Sons and now Flowers, Knutsford, and Biddulph starting up a small farm shop Flower Shop, was crowned Certificate of Endeavour: Advanced Apprentice of the Year. Tom Bray, 18, food apprentice Josh achieved his award (Blackhurst Butchers) for the high standard of his Certificate of Excellence: written work and for practical Michael Fuller,18, agriculture achievements such as helping apprentice (CE and A Walley) to set up risk assessments for and horticulture apprentices the company’s new workshop. David Crawford, 24, (Numast) He has now progressed onto his and Scott Maddock,18, (Halton  Agricultural excellence Ed Atkins and Advanced Apprenticeship. Borough Council) Michael Fuller Kerrie was singled out for her u The Apprenticeship and high level of commitment, her Advanced Apprenticeship natural flair and for her keen eye schemes allow wage-earning for colour and design. trainees aged 16 - 24 to Announcing the awards, gain nationally recognised  Jack Sidebottom Christine Middleton, Reaseheath’s qualifications by attending Apprenticeship Team Leader, said college on one day a week. We that many of the apprenticeships also offer Adult Apprenticeships construction industries. had been achieved in record time, for those aged 25+. u Reaseheath is looking for more and that this proved a high level of u Employers include golf clubs, animal care employers who will determination and focus – the sort exterior landscapers, kennels, take on work based trainees of skills welcomed by employers. pet shops, livery stables, Contact Reaseheath’s Work Based  Top for construction – Andrew Hughes Other principle awards florists, farms and the food and Learning team: 01270 613258. presented on the night were: Best Agriculture Project: Ed Atkin, 17, an apprentice herdsman Double Honours for Apprentices who works for his parents, Chris and Isobel Atkin, on their dairy Apprentices Luke Mason and farm at Darley Hall, Oulton Park Paul Boardman have gone on Best Animal Care Apprentice: to take national awards. Erica Brian, 18, of Cheadle, Luke, who won last year’s Stoke, a groom/trainer with the Reaseheath Apprentice of the J.Podmore Racing Stables at Year, was just pipped at the Uttoxeter post in the North West Learner Best Floristry Apprentice: Awards. He was runner up in the Claire Littler, 25, of Northwich, a personal achiever category at florist with The Black Rose, Hale. the prestigious event, organised A former office worker, Claire has by the Cheshire and Warrington progressed onto her advanced Learning and Skills Council, and apprenticeship and hopes to take received a cheque and certificate her assessor’s award. from Simon Weston OBE, the Best Construction inspirational Falklands war veteran. Apprentice: Andrew Hughes, Luke works on a dairy farm. 23, a bricklayer with builder Paul, an employee of J. A. Cliff Building Services in the Landscape Services Norton-in-Hales, Shropshire. Department of Halton Borough He is responsible for younger Council, has taken the title of apprentices in the work place. Young Horticulturist of the Year Best Food Apprentice: Jack in a national competition run Sidebottom, 17, of Mottram St. by the Association for Public  Luke Mason celebrates with his boss Rob Hodgson Andrew, an apprentice butcher Service Excellence.

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 9 Reaseheath Students Celebrate Exceptional Year

ur students celebrated new, full time position of Student Oan exceptional year at President, aimed at strengthening an accolade packed awards dialogue between Reaseheath’s ceremony. students, staff and governors. Nearly 770 students Bahamas resident Michael graduated at the end of an Lever was recognised for his academic year which saw a personal qualities. Described record number of enrollments as a very mature and sociable  Special students: Kara Heritage-Smith, Rachel Jones, Kate Nicholas, Hayley and completed qualifications. young man, Michael made the Juniper and Michael Lever Speaking at the awards Transatlantic trip to study on our ceremony, Principal Meredydd First Diploma in Adventure Sport. David outlined highlights, Selected as the student who achieved by very few colleges, contributed most to sporting Principal award winners: including: activities, former player for Vocational Skills: Construction u Confirmation from Ofsted, Wrexham Ladies’ Football Team u Callum Mitchell (Best Overall u Luke Raynor (Best overall following two recent Rachel Jones was honoured Student); bricklayer, Level 1); assessments, that Reaseheath for the work she had put into u Bridget Olsen-Rong (Most u Dominic Barber (Most continues to achieve its creating, supporting and improved student) improved bricklayer, Level 1); ‘Outstanding’ status and that training Reaseheath’s ladies’ u Edward Williams (Best overall high retention, achievement footballers. This included Foundation Certificates bricklayer, level 2); and success rates placed the gaining access to the indoor u Martin Hayward (Best overall u Adam Jones (Best overall college in the top ten of all training facilities of the Crewe student, animal care); joiner, Level 1); colleges in England Alexandra football academy. u Christopher Jordan (Staff u Ashley Alcock (Most u The award of the new Training The Beacon Trophy, prize A, animal care); improved joiner, Level 1); Quality Standard in recognition celebrating excellence, went u Amy Lowe (Staff prize B, u Michael Lawson (Best overall of Reaseheath’s excellent to Kate Nicholas and her animal care); joiner, level 2) partnerships with industry border collie Gin, who became u Danielle Ayris (Staff prize, u The award of Beacon status household names as finalists in agriculture and countryside); Business in recognition of both an the tv series “Britain’s Got Talent”. u Lenard Owens (Staff prize, u Simon Berresford (Best outstanding Ofsted inspection Described as “the best act of its equine studies); student) and the excellent success rates kind in the world” by judge Simon u Nathan Hayward (Staff prize, of students Cowell, Kate and Gin went on horticulture); Access to HE Meredydd emphasised that to complete an 18 city UK tour u Callum Mitchell (Staff prize, u Abigail Nail (Best student) over one million people were and have published a book to engineering) employed in the UK’s land- encourage other people to follow u Matthew Tolley (Most Adventure Sport based industries and that 21,000 in their paw prints. improved, foundation u Vincent Martin and Charlotte newly trained and qualified staff The awards were handed out engineering) Ball (Best students, First were employed each year. He by Professor Gordon McGregor Diploma); also underlined the fact that Reid, Director General of Chester Animal Care u Kelly Wynne (Best student, land based industries directly Zoo, and by Joan Feenan, u Aaron Reale (Best overall National Certificate); influenced key challenges Director of Children’s Services, student, First Diploma); u Stephen Brownsill (Best such as food production, Cheshire County Council. They u Nicole Blackshaw (Best student, National Diploma) climate change, environmental were thanked by Students group ‘A’ student, First management and energy supply. Association President Andy Diploma); Equine Studies Five students were singled out Goldstraw and Vice President u Elizabeth Cope (Best group u Caroline Clegg (Best student, for special awards : Sam Walton. ‘B’ student, First Diploma), First Diploma); Foundation Degree in u Matthew Preen (Best group u Rebecca Cartlidge (Most Adventure Sports Management om Lomas (Best bank ‘C’ student, First Diploma) improved student, First student Kara Heritage-Smith Texercise), an Advanced Diploma); for making the best contribution National Certificate in Agriculture Animal Management u Gemma Brown (Croft End to college life, mainly for her student, both completed his bank u Jennifer Clarke-Lewis (Best Equestrian Centre Award); key role in ensuring the massive exercise and had an interview with academic student, National u Polly Graham (Best student, success of the college social a bank manager to discuss future Certificate); National Diploma); calendar. options. For his assignment, Tom u Sarah Lloyd (Best practical u Aislin O’Raw (Most improved National Certificate in Animal and fellow students visited local student, National Certificate); student, National Diploma); Management student Hayley farmer Dave Johnson, who gave Rachel Edwards (Best u Becky Armitt (For Care and Juniper, for her drive and them a tour of his current set-up academic student, National Consideration of Horses) enthusiasm in representing the with financial data. Students had Diploma); college as a student ambassador, to produce a SWOT analysis with u Paul Read (Best practical Floristry for her work as a student cash flows, revised gross margins, student, National Diploma); u Mandy Smith (Best student, representative on the college a profit and loss account and a u Thea Isherwood (Merit National Certificate); board of governors and for her balance sheet. Award for Outstanding Effort, u Emma Haslett (Most leading role in charity fund- Tom said: “I learned a lot from National Diploma); improved student); raising. Hayley is taking a year this exercise and it will be very u Rachel Deaville (Best student, u Sarah MacLoughlin (Best off from her studies to take up a useful later in my career.” National Award) student, Advanced National

10 COLLEGE  Isobel Slack, best student, food health and nutrition, receives a new award from the Food, Drink and Agricultural Group of the Chartered Institute of Marketing

 Environmentalist Mark Whitfield with  Elizabeth Cope, Nicole Blackshaw, Matthew Preen, Rachel Edwards, Paul Read, the Rob Rowlinson award for endeavour Thea Isherwood, Kate Nicholas and Aaron Reale with Professor Gordon McGregor Reid

Certificate); endeavour, First Diploma); Dairy Herd Management u Alexandria Paisley- u Alastair Tollett (Best practical u Rebecca Cotton (Best Dickinson (Most improved student, First Diploma); student); student, Advanced National u Chris Coppenhall (Best u Louise Littler (Royal Agricultural Certificate) student, National Diploma); Society of England Award: u Sam Rowley (Best practical Student from any course Horticulture student, National Diploma); showing an exceptional level of u Adam Fitzsimmons (Best u Richard Cornes (For commitment) student, First Diploma); endeavour, National Diploma) u Thomas Lambe (For Mixed Farming endeavour, First Diploma); Vehicle Technology u Tom Lomas (Best practical u Louise Black (Best student, u Daniel Bennett (Best student, student); National Certificate); First Diploma); u Tom Lomas (Best bank exercise);  Emma Pickard, best student, National u James Thomas (For u Kyle Alcott (Best practical u William Parker (staff prize for Diploma Agriculture endeavour, National student) endeavour) Certificate); u Philip Adedeji (Best practical Food Health and Nutrition student, National Certificate); u Isobel Slack (Best student); u Claire Rawle (Best student, u Fay Mountford (Best student Vet Place for Laura National Diploma); contribution to the food u Mark Smith (Best student department) ational Diploma in Animal runner up, National Diploma); NManagement student u Tom Reed (Most improved Agriculture Laura Nicholas, who has student, National Diploma) u Rebekah Allen (Best student, just graduated, has earned First Diploma); a hotly contested place to Environmental Conservation u Matthew Mullin (For read veterinary medicine at u Jack Jeffrey (Best student); endeavour, First Diploma); Nottingham University. Hollie Latham (Most u Emma Pickard (Best student, Laura, 20, believes that the progress); National Diploma); high practical content of the u Shane Clark (Best practical u Ben Lowe (Best student, course, plus the 15 months she student); livestock production); spent in America working for a u Mark Whitfield (For u Emma Pickard (Best student, large show kennels, gave her endeavour) crop production); the edge over other would-be u Hannah Slack (Champion vet students. Countryside Management Handler Reaseheath Open Laura said: “I’d had loads of u Claire Faulkner (Best Day calf show); work experience and this seemed student); u Matthew Barker (For to really impress the board at u Gethin Thomas (Most endeavour, National Diploma); my interview. Being a student at progress); u Jonathan Langridge (Best Reaseheath meant I’d worked  Laura Nicholas u Thomas Gleave (Best student, National Certificate); with a range of exotic animals like practical student) u Carla Madeley (For the lemurs, tapir and meerkats, endeavour, National so I had lots to talk about.” wouldn’t have studied so hard.” Land Based Technology Certificate); Now looking forward to six Laura is older sister to Kate, u Samuel Allman (Best student, u Simon Baskerville (Best years of university life, Laura national finalist in the tv hit series First Diploma); practical student, National added: “ I’m really excited. If ’Britain’s Got Talent’ with her dog, u Fraser McNicoll (For Certificate) I had done straight ‘A’ levels I Gin (see elsewhere on this page).

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 11 Construction Plant Tom is our Jaguar Land Rover Star Mechanics Success udding car mechanic Tom BChadwick was celebrating after being selected as Reaseheath’s top Jaguar Land Rover Young Apprentice. Tom, 15, who attends Malbank School, is one of 59 local pupils combining studying for GCSEs with working towards a technical qualification at Reaseheath. Our engineering department is one of ten centres nationwide delivering the popular training scheme for Jaguar Land Rover. The pupils spend one day a week at college working towards a Level 2 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair qualification and gain  Award winning construction plant work experience within the Jaguar  This year’s intake of Jaguar Land Rover mechanics Wayne Hughes, Tom Gates, Land Rover dealership network. Young Apprentices meet the company’s Callum Lister and Gary Jones It is hoped that the early training Operations Manager Kevin Johns and will encourage young people to work based learning co-ordinators Danny Thirty two apprentice construction enter the engineering industry as a Moore and Amanda Igoe, with Head of plant mechanics, who work for professional career. Engineering Melvin Johnson. leading companies nationwide, Pupils from Shavington, Brine graduated from a two year, part-time Leas, Sir William Stanier, Malbank I really enjoy coming to college training programme at Reaseheath. and Sir Thomas More Schools are – it’s what I want to do when I’m At their workplace the apprentices currently on the programme. older so it’s good to start early.” maintain machinery ranging from Tom’s talent was spotted by Tom is no stranger to the heavy earthmovers to small hire Reaseheath tutors, who chose podium. He was the National tools. At college, they learn new him to represent the college Autograss Racing Junior skills on a tailormade block release at an Apprentice of the Year Specials Champion this year and course run to industry standards by celebration at Jaguar Land Rover’s helps his Dad keep his custom our engineering department. Warwickshire headquarters. built vehicle race-tuned. The students gain their Technical Tom said: “I’m really proud Reaseheath Course Manager Certificate and NVQ Level 2 in to have been chosen as Stuart Neve said: “Tom is a very Plant Maintenance, plus other Reaseheath’s top apprentice. I’d capable student and has an industry recognised qualifications  Tom Chadwick works on a fun buggy love to be a car mechanic and excellent future ahead.” and key skills. The majority plan to progress to an advanced apprenticeship at Reaseheath. Four students received special Hospice Benefits from Charity Ball awards at the graduation ceremony: u Apprentice of the Year: Tom Proceeds from a glittering gala Gates (Banner Plant, Derby) evening run by National Diploma u Best practical student: Wayne in Events Management students Hughes (GAP Plant Hire, have been donated to a local Bangor, North Wales) cancer charity. u Most improved work-based ‘Style Events’ members Rachel evidence: Callum Lister Vernon, Clarrie Hocknell and Lizzi (Hewden Plant, Barnsley) Hough handed over £3078 to u For endeavour: Gary Jones St. Luke’s Hospice. They were (Jones Brothers, Ruthin, North part of a team who organised Wales) the ambitious dinner dance and Welcoming guests including charity auction in a marquee in representatives of funding bodies front of the college lake. CITB Construction Skills and St Luke’s Events Co-ordinator Total People, Vice Principal Dave Jane Thompson said: “I was Kynaston said that Reaseheath’s really impressed with the way engineering department, which has the students organised the ball. a national reputation for agricultural Running a successful event engineering training, had set out is very hard work. They had a  Jane Thompson (right) receives the cheque from Clarrie Hocknell, Lizzi Hough 12 years ago to develop specific professional approach and a and Rachel Vernon training for the construction plant tremendous eye for detail. industry. Employer support had “We have to raise £5,200 these are very important to us.” so we were really relieved when it been strong and the college was every single day just to keep the Clarrie Hocknell said: “Running went so well. Our problem will be now recognised as a leading charity going, so donations like the ball was a lot of responsibility how to top it next year!” provider of quality training.

12 COLLEGE High Demand Food Department Gets Cool Loan for Food Safety ood technology students Fand business entrepreneurs Course are using state-of-the-art machines to make ice cream, thanks to a generous loan from an industry partner. Nottingham company Alfred & Co has handed over a Technogel Mixtronic 110 batch pasteuriser and Mantegel 50 batch freezer, together worth over £35,000, for use during this academic year. Reaseheath is recognised as an international centre of excellence for dairy training and is dairy champion within the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink Manufacture. The loaned  Trials and Development Manager equipment further enhances our Damien Murphy joins course  Commercial Manager Derek Allen and technicians Jenny Tait and James facilities, which include industry organisers Allan Watson, Jim Livesey Blakemore try out the new freezer with Phil Doxey standard, fully fitted food halls and Simon Neighbour used by blue chip, multi-national companies for new product generation ice cream maker and said: “Technogel produces some Food safety officers from all over development and by small freezer will enable us to deliver of the most reliable and easy to the country studied farm dairy businesses looking to diversify by training which will help small and use ice cream machines available. production methods in our food producing new dairy products. large manufacturers to become This is an opportunity for us to halls and farm during a bespoke Reaseheath’s Trials and more competitive, and help with demonstrate the equipment to course aimed at reducing dairy- Development Manager Damien the training of our own students.” newcomers to the industry and it based health problems. Murphy said: “This has been a Alfred and Co is a major is also good for the college, which The officers looked at the very generous gesture by Alfred supplier of new and reconditioned prides itself on having some of the milking, pasteurisation, separation, & Co. and underlines the good equipment to the ice cream most advanced facilities in the UK. bottling and distribution processes relationships the college has industry and is sole UK distributor We are pleased we can support the typically found in a small farm with its industry partners. The for several leading brands. training of future generations of ice dairy. The course, the only one loan of a top of the range, latest Managing director Phil Doxey cream makers in this way.” of its type offered in the UK, was oversubscribed and will be repeated in February. The fifth Exchange of course to be run at Reaseheath, it Reaseheath played a high was funded by the Food Standards Best Practice Agency and organised by profile role at the national representatives of the Lancashire Dairy Training and Development Food Officer Group and the Greater Manager Chris Edwards and Manchester Food Liaison Group. Principal Meredydd David visited Dairy Event at Stoneleigh Twenty-five delegates from Dalum College in Denmark on a fact local authorities countrywide finding mission and exchange of Dairy Training and Development two counts: as a trainer to the dairy spent four days with us receiving best practice. Dalum College, like Manager Chris Edwards spoke about industry and as a dairy producer practical and theoretical training, Reaseheath, is a beacon college in the importance of close links down – we make four tonnes of cheese, which included watching dairy industry training. Said Chris: the food and dairy supply chain at a four tonnes of butter and two the milking process at our “We need to remain commercially well attended conference. We were tonnes of ice cream each year. state-of-the-art dairy parlour aware of what is going on in the also one of the sponsors of a dinner, Dairy UK is on line to carry an and operating equipment in food manufacturing business and attended by over 300 representatives even stronger voice following our industry standard food this was an ideal way of keeping from 120 dairy processors. its merger with the Cheese halls. Visiting dairy engineers abreast of the industry training being Reaseheath is an active member Board, which represents 90% demonstrated examples of units offered through similarly successful of Dairy UK, the primary dairy of all small, medium and large typically found on small farms. providers. The staff at Dalum were processing trade body which is has cheese manufacturers. We One of the organisers, Allan equally interested in hearing of the attracted increasing membership intend to continue to help drive Watson, Food Safety Manager many ways Reaseheath co-operates from small dairy business operators the industry forward through this for Rochdale Borough Council, with industry partner. and farmers. We are a member on trade body. said: “ This is an extremely popular practical, hands on course offering training to reduce dairy-based health problems. Up to the Minute Marketing Reaseheath offers good practical facilities and feedback from the Marketing consultant Mark Ogilvie gave our food organised the talk, said: “Mark has worked in the delegates is excellent.” students some top tips on product development, food and allied industries and shared his experience For further course details contact gained through years of experience working with and knowledge with us. It gave our students a Bob Pilling, Food Standards small businesses. great opportunity to ask questions and discuss the Agency: 0207 276 8436. Food lecturer Debbie Heritage-Brill, who current state of the market.”

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 13 Showjumping Masterclass for Students NEW Indoor

team of equine students  Top tips from John Whittaker Arena A earned a private course walk with international The completion of our new showjumper John Whittaker as 60m x 30m indoor arena is part of their reward for being allowing us to offer a wider the best yard group. range of showjumping clinics Lucy Fillaudeau, Francesca Gray, and dressage competitions, Amy Shafe, Charlotte Whittles and both inside and out, which are assistant yard manager Leanne open to the public. Newall joined John while he was Clinics are small, friendly and competing at the Bolesworth Show grouped according to ability Jumping Classic. from novice to more advanced. John, who is regarded as The new facilities are also the world’s most successful available for hire. We are showjumper, gave the students continuing to hold affiliated some top tips about negotiating and unaffiliated dressage complicated fences and competitions, short courses described his jet setting lifestyle The students, who chose watched other members of the and workshops. Further competing abroad. He also a day out at Bolesworth as Whittaker dynasty competing details: Mary Moulton on outlined how he selected and their prize for maintaining high including John’s son and 01270 613216 trained his young horses. standards of horse care, also daughter, Robert and Joanne. Show is a Winner

Over 70 classes, including many Degree in Equine Studies British Horse Society qualifiers, were student Annabel Bourne with enjoyed by competitors from several Right Said Fred, who also took counties at the Reaseheath Horse the Ridden Showing and Show Show. Classes included showing, Hunter Championship. working hunter, show jumping, Sponsors included Bernard equitation, veteran, native, handy Corbett and Co., The Wild Boar pony, riding club horse and novelty. Hotel, Stanthorn Gundogs, Tern The Supreme Show Valley Trailers, John Harding Championship went to Alexis (agricultural contractor) and Blue Plavsic and her 18 year-old grey Print Studios. Mainstream, winners of the senior Head of Equine Caroline Booth  Supreme Champion Alexis equitation and veteran classes said: “We are looking forward to Plavsic and Mainstream are earlier in the day. our next series of events, which will congratulated by judges Paul Reserve Supreme Champion be in our new indoor arena and Stringer and Julie Beck was Reaseheath Foundation associated facilities.”

Patricia Rides High completed vocational qualifications with us. The young people have Ruskin Sports and Languages been attending college on one day College pupil Patricia Gleave was a week while continuing to study for riding high after receiving a trophy conventional GCSEs at school. for being best student on a horse The pupils, from 16 secondary care course. schools throughout Cheshire and Patricia was one of over 100 Key Staffordshire, study horticulture, Stage 4 pupils who successfully agriculture, construction, engineering, animal care or horse care as part of the Vocational Musical Pair Opportunities Programme. Said Reaseheath’s Pre 16 Learning Instructor Michelle Evanson and Manager Graham Morgan: “This her horse Toby One Konoby have is a fantastic opportunity for young  Patricia Gleave qualified for the British Dressage people in their final two years at with trainer Michelle winter regional finals in the novice school to receive a practical, work- Evanson and her freestyle dressage to music class. related experience which is outside favourite horse, Mary Michelle and her 18 year-old grey the usual curriculum. gelding performed their qualifying “Many of these young people test to a compilation of music from have little or no experience when follow successful careers in their of Nantwich Saddlery. She said: television programmes. The pair are they start the course but they quickly chosen subject.” “Although I don’t own a horse I go already successful competitors at gain practical skills and many go Patricia received a trophy riding weekly and it’s my dream to affiliated novice and elementary level. on to take further qualifications and sponsored by Carole Chandler work with horses.”

14 COLLEGE National Trust Trainees Graduate Hedgerow Network rainee countryside wardens Tand gardeners who work at National Trust properties nationwide graduated from a tailormade training programme run in conjunction with Reaseheath. Our college is the sole trainer in England, Wales and Northern Ireland for the National Trust Careership Programme. The  Hedgerow conservation trainees attend the college on a block release basis for three years and are assessed at their A multi agency networking group workplace by National Trust and aimed at securing the future of Reaseheath experts. They gain Cheshire’s hedgerows held its  NVQ Level 3 in Amenity Horticulture Cameron Down, Sarah Malleson, Tracey MacDonald and Gary Thompson inaugural meeting at Reaseheath. celebrate with tutors Leigh Cawley (back) and John Hall (front) or Environmental Conservation The Cheshire Hedgerow plus a range of practical skills and Network seminar brought together relevant qualifications (Belfast Properties) National Trust. The college remained 40 representatives of wildlife and The horticulture element of Gareth Seel Award for commited to providing training for countryside conservation groups, the Careership programme is Endeavour: Tracey MacDonald the specific needs of industry within farmers and land managers to also supported by the National (Dinefwr Park, south Wales) the land based sector. explore ways of pooling resources. Gardens Scheme Martin Measures, Head of Graduating wardens: The group aims to conserve Special awards went to four Training and Development at Sarah Letchford, Stuart Banks, and restore existing hedgerows outstanding graduates: the National Trust, thanked Gary Thompson, John Burton, and promote the planting of new National Trust Award for Best Reaseheath staff for ensuring that Iona Catherine Roberts, Tracey hedgerows by providing advice, Trainee Gardener: Cameron Down the Trust’s flagship programme MacDonald training and practical help. By (Killerton Estate, Devon) continued to deliver quality training. Graduating gardeners: 1990, Cheshire had lost 66% of James Row Memorial Award: Vice Principal Dave Kynaston Tamasin Battell, Cameron Down, its hedgerows due to intensive Sarah Malleson (Hidcote Manor said that the exceptional success Kate Robinson, Louise Reed, Neil agricultural practices and pressure Gardens, Wessex) of the Careership programme was Cuthbertson, Matthew Law, Leslie to build roads and housing. Wildlife National Trust Award for the Best testament to the partnership which Hurst, Vicki Stelfox-Griffin, Sarah has lost out, as hedgerows provide Trainee Warden: Gary Thompson existed between Reaseheath and the Malleson, Craig Howard an important resource for food, shelter and movement corridors. Peter Raynes, chairman of the Cheshire branch of Campaign Crunch time at Apple Festival to Protect Rural England (CPRE) said: “This first meeting has been Two rare types of Cheshire apple, indeed. The Betley apple is people are growing their own a tremendous opportunity to Bee Bench and The Betley, were known to grow only in the Betley fruit at home and are becoming unite organisations with similar identified during Reaseheath’s area while the Bee Bench comes interested in this fascinating objectives, allowing us to work popular Apple Festival. They from an area covering Crewe, subject.” together on a combined approach. I were among a number of unusual Nantwich and Market Drayton.” Hundreds of visitors attended have been delighted at the levels of varieties brought in by visitors Derek explained that the the event, which included a enthusiasm and energy shown for keen to find out the names of fruit unusual Bee Bench name came display of rare apple varieties. this important topic.” trees in their garden. from the Victorian habit of bee Horticulture lecturer Harry Neville Care, Reaseheath’s Fruit expert Derek Jones, who keepers putting their bee skips Delaney was kept busy advising Curriculum Leader for also recognised Astrachan Red into orchards so the insects could on the choice of tree and correct Countryside Management, said: and Irish Peach apples, said: aid pollination of trees. methods of pruning while other “This is an exciting project and “I was inundated with people He added: “Interest in staff led tours of the college fruit we were delighted to become bringing in fruit for identification Reaseheath’s apple festival garden. Our visitors ordered trees involved at its early stage. – and some were very scarce is growing every year. More and tasted apples along with Hedges are an integral part Reaseheath produced cheese. of our landscape. They make very efficient boundaries and  Harry Delaney are a tremendous resource for gets fruity Rare Dragonfly Habitat biodiversity. It is vital that they are preserved.” Countryside management students Organisations in attendance have been working alongside included: CPRE; Cheshire Wildlife Cheshire County Council’s ranger Trust; Cheshire Landscape Trust; service to improve the habitat for Farming and Wildlife Advisory dragonflies, damselflies and other Group (FWAG); British Trust for insects in the Weaver Parkway. Conservation Volunteers (BTCV); The students have been improving National Farmers Union; Natural heathland and wet areas and England; Sandstone Ridge encouraging plant diversity in the Econet Partnership (SREP) and country park, which is on land the Cheshire Ploughing and reclaimed from industry near Winsford. Hedgelaying Society.

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 15 Reaseheath…. Food Students in the Medals at Winners again! Reaseheath, kept up a tradition Nantwich Cheese Show at the Cheshire Show when its community-friendly exhibition was cheddar cheese made by awarded silver in the Best Non- Aour food manufacturing Trade Stand competition. The students took a top medal college has been in the medals at the prestigious Nantwich for five consecutive years. International Cheese Show. The award was scooped The prize winning 20 kilo against strong competition, with block was produced in our judges citing the enthusiasm of food production halls by recent staff and students, the range of graduates from our National activities and the efforts made to Diploma in Food Manufacture. The involve show visitors. cheese took third place out of 24 entries in the Small Producer Class. Students Fay Mountford, Colin Morgan and Isobel Slack also Photograph courtesy of The Sentinel Long Service produced individual cheeses  James Blakemore at Nantwich Cheese show. for judging in the Novice Award for Dave Cheesemaker Class. All three acted as stewards at the show, one QCL Scientific, specialists in students have progressed onto of the largest in Europe. laboratory instrumentation and our Foundation Degree in Food Said James: “The show diagnostic equipment, joined forces Industry with Management. received entries of exceptionally with the college for the cheese show. Reaseheath’s Trials and high standard this year and QCL supplied Lacticheck equipment Development Manager Damien we were delighted to receive a for the Peak District Dairy Wagon, Murphy and technicians James medal in one of the most hotly an innovative, fully fitted mobile dairy Blakemore and Nick Blakemore contested classes.” designed by Reaseheath engineers. Scholarship Offers Global Travel Two young Cheshire farmers  Dave Mason receives his long service are to travel the globe, thanks award from Mrs Diana McConnell, Lady to a new scholarship marking Patroness of the Cheshire Show the retirement of John Platt OBE from the chair of Cheshire Loyal Reaseheath gardener Dave Agricultural Society (CAS). Mason was in the ribbons at this James Hague and Richard Beck year’s Cheshire Show when he are planning to visit New Zealand was called up for a long service with the £2,000 each received from to agriculture award. the John Platt Travel Scholarship. Dave, who has worked in our James, who is responsible for grounds and gardens for 38 running his family’s dairy enterprise years, received the Cheshire and is County Secretary of the Agriculture Society’s accolade Cheshire Young Farmers Club, from Cheshire Show patroness intends to use his three week visit to Mrs Diana McConnell. help him adapt his home system so Dave became an apprentice it runs more efficiently and profitably.  James Hague (left) and Richard Beck receive their scholarship from John Platt gardener with us at the age of 15 He said: “Winning the and later joined the staff. He is scholarship has given me a He explained: “I’m interested ordinate the Cheshire Show. The one of a team which looks after fantastic opportunity to study to see whether low input systems scholarship in his honour is open 12 hectares of formal gardens pasture management in New create greater sustainability in to anyone aged between 18 and and 50 hectares of grounds Zealand. Many farms have low an industry where costs are 35 who lives or works in Cheshire which surround our campus. He input systems, importing less than increasing rapidly.” and is employed in agriculture or attributes the variety of his work 15% of their feed, and seeing how Presenting the awards, John related industries. plus a love of the outdoors to his these work first-hand could really Platt said: “These two young Applicants must put forward long work record. help our business.” people made outstanding a project focused on new Recalled Dave: “The college Richard, who is farm manager applications and I am thrilled that technology, new or alternative gardens and ground were only and dairy herdsman, intends to they will have the opportunity to farming methods, diversification, about a third of the size when use his trip to learn how to gain widen their horizons by seeing how use of natural resources or I began and the only subjects the maximum profit from his grass agriculture operates in other parts improved profitability. taught were agriculture, crop. He plans to visit a variety of the world.” Applications are being taken for engineering, horticulture and of commercial dairy farms in four John, who is chair of 2009. poultry keeping. It’s amazing contrasting regions of New Zealand Reaseheath Governors, Details: Dave Kynaston on how quickly Reaseheath has and to spend a further week in completed 30 years with CAS 01270 613243 / grown into one of the top western Australia. during which time he helped co- email [email protected] colleges in the country.”

16 COLLEGE The Train to Gain initiative matches training needs with training service, business administration, team leading, management and providers at little or no cost where employees meet criteria. information technology. Reaseheath College offers a wide range of training opportunities to Contact Janet Beardmore on 01270 613189 or businesses including horticulture, food manufacturing, customer email [email protected] Cholmondeley Castle’s Gardening Staff Flourish

taff at one of Britain’s benchmark proves that you can Smost beautiful gardens do the job properly and boosts are celebrating gaining confidence. Using the Train to qualifications which will help Gain programme doesn’t disrupt them perform their jobs better. your business as the assessor The internationally famous comes in to the workplace. This Cholmondeley Castle estate has been very important to us as has formed a partnership with we attract 20,000 visitors annually.” Reaseheath to encourage Keith Crump, who raises fruit gardeners to increase their and vegetables for the castle knowledge without leaving kitchens, found that achieving their workplace. the qualification gave him more By taking advantage of the Train confidence to answer visitors’ to Gain service, eligible employees questions. have had free on-site training and He said: “Filling in background have successfully gained their knowledge has been helpful NVQ Level 2 Amenity Horticulture because I now understand why (Nursery) in just six months. I do things in a certain way. It’s Assessor Tony Handley has made me realise how much I do visited the site weekly to observe, know and it’s has given me a check underpinning knowledge greater sense of responsibility. and help staff fill in a portfolio. It’s a nice feeling to be able to Bill Brayford, head gardener of help our visitors – we get so the ten-strong team which looks many questions about the plants after 40 acres of award winning in our garden.” gardens and grounds, feels that Alison Dimelow, who the qualification recognises the specialises in propagating new years of practical experience and stock for the castle’s plant sales knowledge accrued by his staff. centre said: “I really felt that I’d  Assessor Tony Handley advises Keith Crump (left) and Alison Dimelow He said: “Gaining a national learnt something worthwhile.”

Train to Gain Ensures Uppercrust Workforce Britain’s market leader in speciality breads, manufactures hundreds of different “Gaining a qualification like this makes New Primebake, is working with Reaseheath products and delivers them to customers sure you are doing your job efficiently and to ensure an uppercrust workforce. such as the Co-op, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, it also makes you feel that what you do is The company, which supplies the majority Waitrose, Asda and Morrisons. worthwhile.” of leading supermarkets, has taken advantage Explained Andy: “Having our staff gain of the Train to Gain programme to encourage qualifications like these is good for us staff to gain recognised qualifications for the because it gives a national benchmark tasks they carry out on a daily basis. measure of quality. It’s ideal for a 24 hour Reaseheath assessors have been working production industry like ours because the with employees at key sites, providing assessors are very flexible and will come support and guidance for the completion of out in the evening to assess staff working the qualifications. on late shifts. Forty workers have opted for the “Another benefit is that learning gets programme, ranging from members of passed down the line from team leaders the hygiene team to staff in new product through supervisors to key operatives. development, production, administration It’s given us a lot of scope, particularly and reception. Within six months most have for continuing personal or professional achieved NVQ Level 2 in Customer Service, development.” Business Administration or Information Laundry Co-ordinator Maria Johnson, Technology, or in Food Manufacture in either who has been with the company for 15 Facilities Cleaning Support or Production years, has so enjoyed achieving her NVQ Control Skills. Level 2 in Customer Service that she is Participating staff now have a better hoping to progress up a level. Explained appreciation of how their role fits into the Maria: “ I deal with a lot of people on a daily  Maria Johnson stores factory clothing, watched whole operation and feel more confident, basis but I’d never really thought through by Train to Gain Co-ordinator Janet Beardmore and the reasons why we have so many systems according to Training Manager Andy Smith. Training Manager Andy Smith The fast expanding company in place, particularly around food hygiene.

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 17 Reaseheath Agriculture Development Academy Enrich Brings Taste of Success to Food Reaseheath Supports the Future Businesses of Farming

easeheath has reconfirmed Enrich, a food and drink training Rits commitment to supporting hub which is aimed at helping small agriculture’s future leaders in and large food manufacturers with response to industry demand. business and product development, Our agriculture department has has been launched at Reaseheath promised to continue to actively with backing from the North West attract, nurture and educate the Regional Development Agency. next generation of farmers following Aimed at increasing enterprise and consultations with key industry innovation across north west, Enrich figures and members of the is supporting businesses from primary agriculture community. producers to major manufacturers The vow follows a successful through workshops, clinics and stakeholder dinner when delegates business meetings run by specialists. from farming support organisations, Workshops on exhibiting consultants, experts and local effectively at food and drink festivals farmers were asked their opinions and on marketing a speciality food  Farmers and vets discuss cow lameness at a RADA event on the way forward for the industry. or drink brand have been well Principal Meredydd David attended by producers. said: “The evening was Rosie Sedgwick from My- extremely valuable, enabling us Key themes from the evening Development Plan for England Gineration said: “I was so inspired to engage with regional industry included: (RDPE) Livestock Sector projects by the workshop on festivals that I representatives and listen to their u The importance of good industry are being delivered through the completely redesigned my stand views and opinions. What came placements with leading farmers. college for an event. It increased my takings over time and again was that We are creating, in partnership u The importance of challenging by 50% on the previous year. The agriculture needs enthusiastic with the CLA and NFU, a the perception that agriculture workshops are vibrant, interactive, experts with the skills to database of suitable farmers is not a good career prospect fun, informative and well paced – and communicate and lead. which will assist students in and inspiring new entrants into they’re phenomenally good value!” ““Reaseheath has an excellent securing quality placements. the industry. Reaseheath has a Enrich team: 01270 613195 reputation for taking the lead for u The importance of knowledge great reputation for successfully training and knowledge transfer transfer, updating those in encouraging young people from within the agricultural industry. We the industry with cutting edge non-farming backgrounds into are committed to creating a centre science and technology. the industry and has over 240 of excellence which will encourage The Reaseheath Agricultural agriculture students enrolled Top Handlers young talent into the industry Development Academy (RADA) To offer your farm for a work and will support and increase the already offers a programme of placement contact Martyn Three agriculture students have knowledge and skills of those talks and events featuring key East on 01270 613179; email been in the medals, handling already working in it.” industry figures and the Rural [email protected] cows at the most prestigious shows in the country. Emma Pickard and Katie Swellings Events promote farm health and profit took top honours at the Royal ifty five farmers and and operating, working from Details on RADA and Manx Show while Izzie Wright Fconsultants attended a heights, safe lifting, animal Enrich events: contact Tim was high in the lineup at the thought provoking farm walk handling, and operating all Goldsbrough on 01270 613195; Royal Show. and discussion on rainwater terrain vehicles. email [email protected] harvesting, one of a number of events organised through RADA, which demonstrated where savings could be made to increase profit. The event was held on a local dairy farm with a recently installed rainwater harvesting system. Consultant Barry Jackson described potential savings, especially through the Enhanced Capital Allowance Scheme. u Two hundred and fifty farmers attended a Health and Safety Executive advisory day at Reaseheath. Activities  Rainwater harvesting included tele porter loading

18 COLLEGE Food Journey for Pupils REASEHEATH AT A GLANCE eaver County Primary Farming. During the past nine food takes before it arrives on • Outstanding College (Ofsted) WSchool’s junior months, Reaseheath has hosted their plates. Our activities have • Beacon College (QIA) department followed their food ‘out of classroom experiences’ for proved tremendously successful • Dairy Champion National Skills from plough to plate during a 49 primary and secondary schools and we have attracted pupils from Academy for Food and Drink visit to Reaseheath. from Cheshire and Staffordshire. the age of three up to ‘A’ level Manufacture Over 100 Key Stage 2 pupils Over 1,600 pupils have visited the standard. These have included • Engineering Academy visited the Genus MOET dairy college farm, vegetable and fruit gifted and talented students 14 years - 19 years • Training Quality Standard herd and went to our food gardens, food manufacturing halls and pupils with emotional and processing halls to see how and animal centre. behavioural difficulties. Subject areas: milk is made into food. The The activities have been “We have also been involved Further and Higher Education pupils looked at the effect which so successful that they are to with ‘Set up Science’, a local • Adventure Sports • Agriculture bacteria has on the production of be continued for the current project designed to enhance • Animal Management dairy products, watched cheese academic year. learning and to encourage teachers • Business and IT and ice cream making and had a Said Margaret Feest, and pupils to get out of the • Construction go at bread making. Reaseheath’s School Visits Co- classroom. Our visitors have been • Countryside and Conservation The day of activities marked ordinator: “We have been linking astounded at what we can provide • Engineering • Entry and Foundation Programme the end of the Year of Food and pupils with the journey that their and have loved the rural location.” • Equine • Floristry • Horticulture • Food Technology • Greenkeeping and Sports Turf • Motor Vehicle • Sports Performance and Excellence • Leisure and Community Studies Partner universities:

Total students: Full time Further Education: 1,500 Higher Education: 400   Weaver School pupils are introduced to the Genus MOET Tasting ice-cream Tasha Moores, Denni Richards, Rhiannon Part-time inc. adult leisure: 4,000 dairy cows by Farm Secretary Jane Clegg Morris and Ewan Young Schools partnerships, work based learning and Train to Gain 1,400 Estate Schools Urged to Put Forward Green Initiatives College grounds: 21 hectares Owned and rented farm land: 330 Schools with green ideas hectares are being urged to enter a Land leased to Crewe Alexandra Football Club: 6 hectares competition being run in partnership with Reaseheath. Turnover The Go Green Environmental Academic year 2008-09: £16 million Innovations Awards were Facilities launched last year, when On-site accommodation for 400; five Bridgemere CE Primary School, catering outlets; student lounge/bar; Nantwich, and Ruskin Sports learning resource centre; HE study and Languages College, Crewe, area; sports hall; climbing wall; multi gym; sports pitches (rugby, each took a £3,000 top prize. football, crown green bowling, The competition is organised cricket); commercial nine-hole golf and sponsored by Go course; indoor riding arena Green Car and Van Rental in Staff association with Reaseheath,  Go Green launch – Edward Timpson (third right) with Reaseheath’s Steve Roach 500 (including agency) Cheshire County Council and Dave Kynaston, Go Green’s directors David Blackhurst and David Bramhill and and Doveys Office Solutions, Carl Dovey of Doveys Office Solutions Further details – please ask for a and rewards schools which prospectus are helping the environment. put forward their ideas for a more Blackhurst explained: “We want Reaseheath College This year’s prize money has sustainable future. to encourage the business Nantwich Cheshire CW5 6DF increased to a total of £9,000. Go Green Car and Van Rental, leaders of the future to come up An ‘Oscars’ style celebration which has offices in Crewe, with practical, workable projects. Course Hotline (16-18 years): for shortlisted entries will be Whitchurch and Stoke, has We are looking for ideas which 01270 613242 held at Reaseheath and the pledged one per cent of the will make a difference to the Courses Hotline (19 plus) 01270 613284 awards will be handed over company’s turnover to educate environment, both locally and on Adult Leisure: 01270 613193 by Crewe and Nantwich MP local young people about the a wider scale. Last year we were Reception: 01270 625131 Edward Timpson. Schools from environmental challenges that will hugely impressed by the level of Fax: 01270 625665 Cheshire, North Shropshire and face them in adulthood. enthusiasm and professionalism Email: [email protected] Staffordshire have been invited to Managing Director David shown by the finalists.” Web: www.reaseheath.ac.uk

www.reaseheath.ac.uk 19 Reaseheath’s Festival Pulls in the Crowds

housands of visitors voted Gemma Garrett, who was one of Diary Dates… TReaseheath’s Festival and our visitors Come and see us! Open Day the best yet after u A‘food oscars’ which put local enjoying a packed day of food and produce to the test. NOTE family fun. Voters put sausages and burgers As well as enjoying hundreds of from Fordhall Farm, a community activities and displays, a bumper initiative run by ex-student Ben No Reaseheath Festival crowd was able to view many of Hollins in first place. Goat meat and Open Day in 2009 the new developments which are producers Tim and Marnie due to our continued £51 part of our £51 million investment Dobson, of Chestnut Meats were million new build. Keep  Knights in Battle fight it out a look out for alternative programme. placed second and Simply Pie, events in the local press The action packed day was run by Simon and Sarah Roberts brought to a finale by the ‘Knights was third in Battle’, who fought medieval- u A UKSkills competition for trainee January 2009 style on the front lawn. florists from across the north Other activites included: west region 17 u A calf show, with 20 agriculture u A live ‘Gardeners’ Question Course Information Event students showing youngstock Time’ broadcast by BBC Radio 18 – 22 from the onsite Genus MOET Stoke, supported by planting BIGGA BTME Turf Management herd under the expert eye of demonstrations Exhibition Harrogate international judge Ray Brown. u Displays of horse riding, sheep 21 – 22 u A pig show, with a championship shearing, abseiling, sausage LAMMA 09 and awards for the best turned making, quad biking, tractor Lincolnshire Agricultural  Food Oscars winner Ben Hollins, Machinery Manufacturers out pig and the best decorated manoevring, bird box making, with Reaseheath’s Director of Association annual show pig board chainsaw sculpting, engineering Business Development and Marketing u A test for horticulture students, and golf course machinery Margaret Bardsley who created a garden against u Music and dance from local February 2009 the clock schools and clubs, tours of our u A champion dog show and dog exotic animals 7 agility classes. Some classes u Clay pigeon shooting, archery Courses Information Event were judged by Miss GB, and a crafts and produce market 28 Reaseheath Lambing Weekend

March 2009  Action from the pig show 1 Reaseheath Lambing Weekend

7 Courses Information Event

7 – 8 Reaseheath Lambing Weekend

20 – 24 Nantwich Jazz and Blues Festival

27 – 29 The Outdoors Show National Exhibitions Centre  Miss GB Gemma Garrett with RAG students Claire McAleavy, Sarah Williams,  Calf show Champion Hannah Slack, Birmingham Verity Taylor, Chris Budd, Andy Goldstraw, Mica Davey, Emma Greenwood reserve Chris Rutter and judge Ray Brown April 2009

21 Familes are Cornfused Courses Information Event Escaped farm animals were spotted in one of our fields - but local families were not too worried about a close encounter! ‘Fun on the Farm’ was this year’s theme for our popular maize maze, May 2009 which was open daily through the summer holidays. Visitors kept a sharp lookout for lifesize models of farm animals while 16 – 22 Adult Learners Week attempting to find the centre of our giant corn crop. We created a six acre puzzle and a one acre version for younger or less active visitors. 24 Maze games, light refreshments and live animals at the entrance were Cheshire Young Farmers Clubs annual rally additional attractions. Said Maze Manager Anna Walton: “We extended the attraction to provide 25  Cornfused – the maze management Warrington Horse Show team Anna Walton, Sarah Johnson, a family day out which is good value for money. Children of all ages enjoy Hayley Juniper, Kara Heritage-Smith, Lucile our mazes. They provide a great opportunity for fun and healthy exercise.” 27 – 28 Esgalhado and Anaïs Evandre-Achini The giant corn crop has now been harvested to provide animal feed. Stafford Show

01270 625131 20 www.reaseheath.ac.uk l WrittenCOLLEG and editedE by Reaseheath’s Press Officer Lynne Lomax 01270 613279 l Designed inhouse by Colin Barnes l Printed by Inprint Colour Limited 01270 251589