www.dudleycol.ac.uk PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME

There’s no point pretending that these are anything but trying times. 2008-09 has been a diffi cult year for many in the Black Country and the global recession has had a profound and damaging effect on our local economy.

Here at Dudley College we have been acutely aware of our heightened role as many local people and businesses have turned to us for help. I believe we have risen to the challenge. Through 2008-09 we supported record numbers of both young people, on full and part time courses, and adults, following employer based learning programmes.

We also introduced a suite of courses especially designed to meet the needs of those made redundant or at risk of redundancy. To accommodate demand from adult learners, we made some radical changes to the delivery pattern of many of our learning programmes, including more fl exible start dates, opening at weekends, work based assessment and training during unsocial hours. These changes have not compromised the quality of our work.

As Principal, I am absolutely delighted to be able to report that for the fourth consecutive year our success rates have improved, these are now above national benchmarks across all levels and across all age groups. This is a tremendous achievement. In addition, close management of our own fi nances, which has included a programme of effi ciency savings across the college, has resulted in good fi nancial performance, consolidating our underlying fi nancial strength. As ever, it is the staff of the college who have delivered this performance and who deserve our thanks.

We are now fi rmly in a position to look forward, with confi dence even in these uncertain times, to a successful future.

Lowell Williams Principal

2 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk WELCOME

CHAIR’S WELCOME

Welcome to our Annual Report As well as thanking our staff for their efforts, I also recognise the contribution of the outlining another year of members of the college’s Governing Body success for Dudley College. (the Corporation) whose members give so generously of their time. Congratulations to our learners who have achieved success from their courses and to our dedicated staff who have worked so effectively with them.

The future will be challenging but we are confi dent that we can continue to build on Viv Astling the high standards we are setting. We are Chair of the Corporation also hopeful that over the next year we will make real progress on new college buildings around the Broadway campus to create a new Learning Quarter close to the Town Centre.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 3 ABOUT DUDLEY COLLEGE: ABOUT US VALUES

Welcome to Dudley College - a In achieving our aims and in ‘GOOD’ college in every sense of delivering our mission we will: the word. I hope that our latest annual report gives you a taste of Put the learner at the heart of the progress and achievements all we do. that we have made over the last twelve months, as well as a true Act with integrity and mutual insight into college life here. respect.

Communicate clearly and VISION openly.

Our vision for the future is: Value each and every individual. By 2014 we will be recognised locally, regionally, nationally and Recognise innovation and internationally as a provider of success. high quality, successful education and skills training. Dudley College Support and encourage team will be known as ‘a great place to working. study and work’. Success rates will be high and above national Be a model of good equality averages at all levels and for all and diversity practice. ages. Teaching will be routinely good, and very often outstanding. Reduce the college’s Students and staff alike will report impact on its environment. high levels of satisfaction with the college, certainly above averages for the sector and in line with OUR MISSION the ‘best in class’ in the public and private sector. This vision Outstanding learning has been enacted in our updated mission statement. which develops skills, raises aspirations and Ofsted, and others, will changes lives. report that Dudley College is Outstanding.

4 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk ABOUT DUDLEY COLLEGE

OUR FIVE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:

To focus ourselves in taking the continued to note good progress, next steps, we have identifi ed for example: fi ve key strategic priorities that underpin our mission and that will Signifi cant progress has been drive our operational actions. made in increasing overall success rates; Priority One – A culture Train to Gain (employer based of high expectations, high training) success rates are at a achievement. high level; Priority Two – Towards an Students make good progress outstanding college. compared to their prior levels Priority Three – of achievement; Curriculum innovation. Work experience for 16-18 Priority Four – Effective full time learners has been employer engagement. very well developed; Priority Five – Investing in Teaching and learning our people. observations outcomes are well linked to staff We offer a diverse vocational development planning; curriculum, to meet the needs Pre-enrolment advice and of both employers and local guidance and good learning communities. The curriculum is materials focus on the specifi c particularly strong in the following requirements of students; subject areas: Governors are challenging and rigorous in their approach; Accounting. Equality and diversity is strong. Art and Design. Business Studies. In addition, the Quality Assurance Construction. Agency for Higher Education Creative and Performing Arts. (QAA) noted in May 2009: Engineering. Clear, comprehensive English for Speakers of Other admissions policy; Languages. Helpful and informative Hair and Beauty. information for students; Health & Social Care. Strong working relationship Humanities. with the University of Management & Professional Wolverhampton; programmes. Policies aimed at widening Retail. participation are clear and Skills for Life. support students from all Teacher Training. backgrounds; Work Based Learning. Staff demonstrate a courteous and welcoming In the June 2009 Ofsted approach to prospective monitoring visit, Inspectors students. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 5 KEY STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES:

To achieve our key Our local community will recognise We work closely with 16 local Dudley as a proactive college which schools: strategic aims the serves their needs and supports college has identifi ed the economic, social and personal School Partnerships development of local people. Our 2008/2009 a number of strategic learners will comment that our provision is welcoming and inclusive. Dudley North Cluster Schools objectives (as listed Coseley below). By 2015 we will be operating from Dormston new, inspirational buildings fi t for Ellowes Hall education in the 21st Century. These have been carefully aligned High Arcal to fi t in with the Learning and Skills Council Annual Statement of Our intention is to create a new Dudley West Cluster Schools Priorities as well as the envisaged building to house the proposed The Brier priorities of the proposed Young Dudley 6th Form Centre with Crestwood People Funding Agency and the learning delivered collaboratively Kingswinford Skills Funding Agency who are due with the college’s local partner Summerhill to commence operation on the 1st schools. The Dudley 6th Form Wordsley April 2010: Centre will be a new beacon of aspiration for the north, centre and Dudley Central Cluster Schools Castle High Young people (including west of the borough giving learners Employability and Citizenship). a real choice regarding A level Hillcrest provision. Also within our estates Holly Hall Adult skills (including strategy, we shall seek to establish a Pensnett Employability and Progression). new higher education centre close Other (out of Dudley borough) Employer engagement. to Dudley town centre, developed in partnership with our higher Redhill (Stourbridge) Teaching and learning (including education partner university, the George Salter (Sandwell. Blended Learning and ICT). University of Wolverhampton. West Bromwich) Supporting learners. Alexandra High (Sandwell, Tipton) Access and equality. Employers will recognise the college as a key partner in driving their Marketing and communications. We also work closely with business performance and meeting numerous community and voluntary Quality and standards. their skills needs. Our services organisations, franchise partners and Finance and resources (including to employers will be fl exible, business intermediaries. In relation Finance, Human Resources, IT responsive and effective and the to our links with employers, through and Estates). college will enjoy very high levels our highly successful Employer of employer responsive provision. Engagement Team, we have extended Leadership and management The college will be at the heart of (including Quality Enhancement). our close links with over 800 local regeneration strategies, and will and regional employers to deliver champion collaborative initiatives, effective training solutions. We such as the South Black Country provide employers with a single Innovation Campus. point of access to our expertise, resources and training programmes which lead to nationally recognised qualifi cations.

6 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk KEY STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

15 June 2009, following a SENIOR CORPORATION successful assessment by SGS MANAGEMENT United Kingdom Ltd, the college TEAM The college is governed by achieved the new replacement a board of 17 Corporation quality mark ‘Customer members. They include the Our Principal, Lowell Williams, Service Excellence’ (CSE), the Principal, 2 staff members, 2 Government standard which joined the college in March 2008. student members and 12 external The day to day management of helps public service organisations members drawn from business, to ensure that they put their the college is organised through public sector, education and a Directorate, comprising; the customers at the core of what community backgrounds. The they do. Principal and the Directors: Corporation elects its own Chair of Strategy, Learning, Student and Vice Chair from within its Support, Standards and “CSE recognition demonstrates members and has a number of to our stakeholders, customers Performance, Finance, Personnel, committees including: Estates and Capital Projects. and clients that we are fully committed to service excellence Finance & Estates, Standards by having a good understanding The Academic Management & Diversity, Personnel, Team is led by the Director of of our customer base and their Remuneration, Search, Audit and requirements,” said Hilary Learning and the Director of Employer Responsiveness. Student Support. Six Heads of Jakovlevs, Director of Standards Centre report to the Director and Performance. of Learning and one Head of Centre reports to the Director CUSTOMER ”The transition of Dudley College of Student Support. They are SERVICE to the higher standards required supported by 23 Curriculum by ‘Customer Service Excellence’ Managers, and together they are EXCELLENCE is noteworthy as it has been responsible for the quality of AWARD undertaken in an environment teaching and learning across a of necessary change within the range of qualifi cations. In addition, Having held ‘Charter Mark’ college,” adds SGS Customer ten Advanced Practitioners form accreditation for some years, on Service Excellence assessor, the college lesson observation Bob Waddle. team and support the development of good practice in teaching and learning. Lowell Williams receiving award from Bob Waddle, CSE assessor. COLLEGE STAFF

We now directly employ over 880 teaching and business support staff. All staff have the opportunity to operate across a broad range of activities and the college is fortunate in the adaptability and fl exibility of its staff. Staff have a comprehensive professional development programme that is reviewed annually. As a result of these sound systems, we continue to hold Investor in People (liP) status for our commitment to staff since 1994.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 7 CORPORATION MEMBERS (1st August 2008 to July 2009)

Mr Viv Astling Chair of the Corporation Mr Tony Bagley Mr John Freeman Mr Peter Gardner

Served on: Served on: Served on: Finance & Estates (Chair) Employer Responsiveness Audit Remuneration (Chair) Personnel Standards & Diversity Search Remuneration Standards & Diversity Search (Deputy Chair)

Mrs Sarah Heller Mr Mushtaq Hussain Mr Tony Lucas Mr Brian Mitchell

Served on: Served on: Served on: Personnel Employer Responsiveness Audit (Deputy Chair) Standards & Diversity (Chair) Standards & Diversity Finance & Estates (Deputy Chair) (Deputy Chair)

Miss Julie Payne Mrs Christine Richards Mrs Judith Moore Staff Member Staff Member Councillor Liz Walker

Served on: Served on: Served on: Served on: Audit (Chair) Finance & Estates Finance & Estates Standards & Diversity Personnel Personnel Search Search Standards & Diversity Standards & Diversity

8 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk CORPORATION MEMBERS

Mr Lowell Williams Mr John Woodall Principal

For more information on the Corporation contact our Clerk to the Corporation, Janet Boardman, on [email protected]

Served on: Served on: Employer Responsiveness Employer Responsiveness Finance & Estates Finance & Estates Personnel Search and Standards & Diversity

Ms Sophia Daly Mr Simon Holburn Mrs Barbara O’ Connor Mr Lee Avery Student Member Student Member Vice Chair of the Corporation (Resigned 20/10/09) (Term expired 30/06/09) (Term expired 17/10/08) (Term expired 16/07/09)

Served on: Served on: Served on: Employer Responsiveness Finance & Estates Personnel (Deputy Chair) (Deputy Chair) Standards & Diversity Remuneration Personnel (Chair) (Deputy Chair) Remuneration & Search (Chair) Search Standards & Diversity Mr Sharaz Sadiq Mr Ben Sweeney (Chair) Student Member Student Member (Resigned 30/09/09) (Term expired 23/10/09)

Served on: Finance & Estates Standards & Diversity

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 9 OUR CAMPUSES

The college operates from fi ve campus sites across the borough.

Our main campus is the Broadway Campus. This houses our 6th Form Academy, Business and Computing, Electrical, Engineering, Sports and Recreation, Foundation Studies, Marketing and Sales, International and Learner Guidance Services.

Our second largest campus is Mons Hill, from which we deliver a wide range of programmes covering Hair, Beauty, Complimentary Therapies, Art, Design including makeup, costume and Media and Performing Studies. This campus also provides a welcoming environment for supported learning programmes. The campus also houses our specialist construction provision including construction craft programmes, as well as specialist provision in Gas, Heating and Ventilation and Refrigeration programmes.

Dudley College’s International Glass Centre in Brierley Hill has been relocated to the Mons Hill campus. The newly refurbished centre of excellence caters for a wide range of students from all parts of the world. It has gained a reputation for being the only centre of its kind offering a hands-on practical approach to kiln, cold, stained and hot glass blowing, whilst still retaining a design input and versatility to suit enthusiasts, studio crafts persons and graduates in glass.

Our next campus is Castle View. This houses our Early Years, Health and Social Care, Music and Public Services programmes.

Our fourth campus is located on Dudley Road in Brierley Hill from which we offer specialist training in forklift truck and overhead gantry training, as well as our specialist employability skills programmes. This campus also houses our dedicated conferencing facilities that have proved to be very popular with the business community.

Finally our fi fth campus in Dudley is our Wolverhampton Street site; this is a dedicated purpose building that houses our very popular automotive programmes covering both light and heavy vehicle technology.

10 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk OUR NEW ESTATES PLANS

The college has an ambitious redevelopment strategy for its estate over the next fi ve to ten years.

In outline these plans include establishing a town centre ‘learning quarter’ focused around the existing Broadway site. This will enable the college to eventually relocate from our existing fi ve sites to the new town centre campus with three new buildings being developed both at the Broadway campus and adjoining land.

The new buildings include a Dudley 6th Form and a Higher Education centre, which is in partnership with Wolverhampton University. A further site development Artist impression of the new College building from in Tower Street will see the construction of a vocational the Coronation Gardens view centre with state of the art facilities to provide training for the retail and leisure, public services and creative and performing arts industries.

The development is seen as a major catalyst for the regeneration of Dudley and the wider sub-region. The design of the buildings provides a landmark statement of the college’s commitment to supporting local business and the borough’s plans to invest in Dudley town, whilst enhancing the environment for all.

New state-of-the-art facilities will allow us to extend our educational provision for both young people and adults. The development will also act as a catalyst for the regeneration of Dudley and the wider sub-region, underlining our commitment to supporting the community and local Artist impression of the new College building from business, while enhancing the environment. the Tower Street corner view “Our plans are more than just about the opening of new buildings. We hope to raise aspiration and ambition for young people and adults, particularly in the North and centre of the borough”. Lowell Williams, Principal

A fi nal phase would see the redevelopment of some outdated buildings on the college’s Broadway site to provide modern facilities for construction and engineering. This would create a single campus for the college based in the north east quarter of the town centre.

Plans are about to enter the detailed planning and design stage and we hope to start building work towards the end Artists impression of a future redevelopment of of 2010 with staff and students moving into the fi rst of the the Broadway site new facilities by the end of 2011. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 11 INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE

We have made a In addition to this, three new The spring term staff development considerable investment in initiatives were established: day took place on 23rd February. This day was focused around the the training and updating 1. The ‘Management in Action’ needs of teams and individuals, with of our staff this year, both programme, which aimed to a range of events being delivered through investment in single provide college managers with throughout the day. the practical skills and tools they individuals and whole college needed to carry out their job During week commencing Monday training/development days. highly effectively. This training 29 June, a whole week was devoted was very warmly received and is to staff development and training. A The professional development of ongoing. range of workshops was held for all our staff is one of our key priorities staff and included: ensuring that they are well trained 2. A programme of events was and equipped with the necessary specifi cally developed for staff Preparing for the new 14-19 skills to undertake their individual who are assessors. 63 assessors Diplomas roles. The focus of our staff attended the programme during development programme included; 2008-09. Time Management Assertiveness Professional qualifi cations for 3. The college invested heavily Customer Care teachers, lecturers and trainers. in creating a team of experienced practitioners The Learner Voice Academic and vocational from a wide spread of Improving Teaching & Learning qualifi cations and non-certifi ed curriculum areas. Their purpose ACT NOW! Community development activities. is to mentor/coach staff who are Cohesion newly appointed or in their Computer Literacy and ILT. fi rst year of teaching as Child Protection a qualifi ed lecturer. 37 staff Personal Protection Management development. participated in this programme. Functional Skills Awareness Internal Verifi cation and Quality There were also seven whole- Literacy, Numeracy and IT Assurance. college staff development days. qualifi cations for staff The fi rst of these took place on Equality and Diversity awareness Equality, Diversity and Customer 24th October 2008 and involved raising Care. all staff members. The aim of the day was to consult on the College Introduction to the Gym Risk Management, Health and Operational Development Plan, and Safety. for staff teams in their individual In addition to the above, a number departments and sections to of new staff and assessors obtained plan for how they could their initial teaching qualifi cation contribute to the (PTLLS) as part of an intensive implementation of programme delivered by the teacher the actions. training team.

In total during 2008-09, the college invested around £412,000 in staff development and training.

12 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE

STAFF COMMENTS MADE ABOUT TRAINING WORKSHOPS:

“I am completing my “The session was well “Brilliant workshop! teacher qualifi cations. organised and the time Thanks to the tutor for This meets the college spent will prove to be the presentation and the requirements but also very worthwhile in the much needed help.” provides me with an future.” opportunity to review my teaching methods.” “The tutor delivering the “I found this useful in session adapted very building on my coaching well to the wide range of “I have had a lot of skills. It mainly enhanced needs of the individuals ILT training aimed at skills and ideas I have in the group.” improving how I use but still gave me food technology in the for thought, and got me classroom.” asking questions about “Great! Well thought out how I could improve my useful session. Skills own performance.” will be used within workplace.”

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 13 The project has been warmly A survey conducted on employers’ INVESTING IN OUR received by staff and will be fully views of the college found us to be COMMUNITY rolled out across the college over ‘satisfactory’, missing a ‘good’ grade the next two years. by 0.1%! The ‘professionalism’ of During 2008/09 the college staff and ‘would recommend Dudley committed to recruit ten INVESTORS College to another employer’ apprentices to work in business scored the most highly, being support roles. The apprenticeship IN PEOPLE better than the average of all other programme combines gaining providers. valuable work experience with the In March 2009, we successfully opportunity to achieve a nationally maintained our IiP accreditation. Our resource effi ciency was also recognised qualifi cation. By the Many strengths were recognised by graded as ‘good’. end of July 2009 there were four the assessor, such as: apprentices employed and working. Organisational restructuring that EQUALITY AND The college also committed to provides a better, ‘fi t for DIVERSITY offer eight full time placements for purpose’ approach; Investment in management six months under the Graduate We have been working hard training, including cultural and Internship Programme. This initiative to embed sound equality and leadership development; will provide valuable experience diversity principles into everything The participative approach to to graduates in assisting with we do, whether it relates to developing vision and strategy in strategically important projects staff recruitment or the student the college; throughout the college. experience. We were invited by the Clarity of role has high impact LSC to contribute to the production on performance; Working alongside partners of “The amazing thing about teens High levels of accountability; such as Dudley Council, the – stuff you should know” - a guide Strategic approach in developing college will offer ten full time aimed at 14 – 19 year olds exploring student support and the ‘student paid placements under a project diversity. Our Equality and Diversity voice’; known as Future Jobs. Recruitment Offi cer, and several students, were Effectiveness of internal to these placements will begin at happy to oblige! the start of the 2009/10 academic communications; year. Placements will include a Effectiveness of the performance range of areas such as Estates and accountability framework; Premises, Conferencing and Business Administration. FRAMEWORK FOR EXCELLENCE INTERNAL QUALITY ACCREDITATION This is a national performance assessment framework for expectations education providers developed achievements by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) during 2008. The college Academic staff receive recognition participated in this assessment of their performance via lesson framework and achieved the observation grades, but there has following results. been nothing similar in place for business support areas. A project A ‘learners’ views’ survey found that has therefore been undertaken we are a ‘good’ college, with ‘being during 2008-09 to develop a quality treated with respect’ and ‘receiving standard that is applicable and help from staff’ scoring the most relevant to such staff, and has been highly, those scores being equal to, branded as the ‘HEHA’ kitemark. or better than, the average of all other providers.

14 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 15 OUR CURRICULUM Here at Dudley College, we offer the following diverse curriculum: A LEVELS ACCOUNTING area, gain work experience with We offer over 32 different A Level Our accounting courses allow local employers and also provide subjects at both AS and A2 level learners to progress from basic them with the opportunity to including Sciences, Humanities, book keeping, computerised progress on to university, or a Business, Arts and Language subjects. accounts and payroll through to career in the Early Years sector. a professional level of accounting. Our Early Years qualifi cations ACCESS TO HIGHER We are also an Association of provide professional status. EDUCATION Accounting Technicians (AAT) assessment centre. Our Access courses give adults who COMPLEMENTARY have missed out on educational THERAPIES opportunities earlier in life, or ADMINISTRATION, With three fully equipped therapy those who are looking to change SECRETARIAL & IT rooms at our Mons Hill Campus, their career, the opportunity to The administration, secretarial and we specialise in a wide variety of gain qualifi cations which will allow IT courses we offer provide general part-time courses, including Indian them to enter Higher Education training in a range of areas, or allow Head Massage, Aromatherapy and on a degree or HND course. The for specialisation. They are suitable Refl exology. These courses provide varied pathways offer opportunities for those people just starting out or students with both theoretical to move on to higher education for those looking to progress their and practical skills in their chosen courses at a range of universities. careers. All of the courses lead to subject area. nationally recognised qualifi cations and most offer work experience. COMPUTING & IT We also deliver Apprenticeships, Substantial investment in training Advanced Apprenticeships and and equipment has helped to raise NVQs at levels 1- 3 in Business & the quality of our IT provision at Administration. These are delivered the college to meet the needs of in the workplace and take 6-18 employers. By offering a range of months to achieve depending on industry recognised hardware and the level. networking qualifi cations, including Cisco CCNA, A+ Computer BUSINESS STUDIES Maintenance and Installation and the Our business courses HNC/D in Computing. The quality enable learners to gain a of IT provision is of a standard that good understanding of the allows the development of high level business and fi nance industry. vocational and academic skills. We run courses to suit all abilities including National CONSTRUCTION and Higher Certifi cate/ We offer a number of full and part Diplomas giving learners the time construction programmes, chance to progress on to covering both practical and university or join a trainee theoretical elements. The vocations management scheme. on offer include Brickwork, Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical CHILDCARE & Installation, Mechanical Services, Air EARLY YEARS Conditioning and Refrigeration. All These courses enable learners to learners, including local school pupils develop personal and professional have access to specialist training skills in their preferred vocational workshop areas.

16 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk OUR CURRICULUM

ENGINEERING FIRST AID & FOOD MANAGEMENT & Engineering is one of our key HYGIENE PROFESSIONAL curriculum areas; we offer a wide Our First Aid courses include QUALIFICATIONS range of engineering and technology programmes specifi cally for the Our Management & Professional courses, staffed by highly qualifi ed workplace and for those working courses offer a wide range of and skilled engineering practitioners. with children. Our recognised Food professional qualifi cation pathways, We have invested substantially in Hygiene qualifi cations are essential if encompassing many business-focused new equipment and technology food handling is likely to be a part of subjects: Personnel and Development, resources to enhance the learning a job role in any sector of the food Leadership and Management, Credit experience for our students. industry. Management, Accounting, Marketing and Purchasing & Supply. Learners We offer work-based learning HAIR & BEAUTY can develop skills and improve career and full and part-time courses in We offer a full range of vocational prospects, either within an existing Engineering at levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 courses in both Hairdressing and career path, or in an entirely new including Electrical and Electronic, Beauty Therapy. Learners have direction. Electronics and Computing, access to fully equipped salons and Operations and Maintenance, treatment areas. Learners treat Manufacturing and Motor Vehicle MUSIC PERFORMANCE clients under realistic working We have increased the breadth of Studies. conditions. Regular demonstrations our media programmes by offering of the latest hairdressing and beauty Music Technology and Music ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS techniques are provided by guest Performance National Diploma. presenters. OF OTHER LANGUAGES These are specialist programmes (ESOL), ENGLISH AS A that prepare learners for courses in FOREIGN LANGUAGE (EFL) HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE performance and composition. AND FOREIGN LANGUAGES These include NVQs, OCR Level 1 We offer a wide range of English Health and Social Care and BTEC Language courses to both National Certifi cate and Diplomas. international and home students, Through one of our partners we from Entry level to English for also offer the Registered Manager students who wish to go to Award for those with managerial university. Classes are offered in responsibilities within the care college in specialist accommodation, sector. in the community and in the workplace. Students can study INDEPENDENT SKILLS FOR towards Edexcel exams and develop LIVING & LEARNING their listening, speaking, reading and These programmes are for young writing skills. people and adults with learning diffi culties and/or disabilities, and Our foreign language provision are designed to develop their focuses on European business communication skills and languages and can be delivered confi dence levels. Support is on company premises. We also available to meet learner needs deliver ESOL to companies at their and prepare them for both premises. work and mainstream study.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 17 PUBLIC SERVICES This supports a major government TRAVEL & TOURISM Popular with 16-18 year olds, initiative to improve the basic skills These programmes are very popular these programmes are for anyone of the workforce. with our 16-18 year old learners, considering a career in the and provide a basis for a career emergency services or armed SPORT in the travel and tourism industry. forces. These courses require active The college offers an extensive Courses offer a broad range of participation in a range of fi tness range of sports related programmes skills to prepare learners for work and outdoor related activities. through our Sport Academy that in travel and tourism, e.g. ticketing, is affi liated to the British Colleges airline cabin crew and resort RETAIL & CUSTOMER of Sport (BCS). Our sports offer representatives. SERVICES includes Basketball, Cricket, Cross Our Customer Service NVQs cover Country Running, Football, Fitness, VISUAL ARTS, DESIGN AND subjects such as understanding Netball, Volleyball and Racquets. PERFORMANCE and delivering good customer Signifi cant investment has ensured Our Visual Arts, Design and service and dealing with customer that learners have access to Performance courses provide complaints. Retail NVQs provide industry standard fi tness equipment learners with a range of qualifi cation an insight into the principles and supported by fully qualifi ed tutors. pathways from BTEC National processes of retail and provide Certifi cate and Diplomas through learners with an understanding of TEACHER TRAINING to higher level awards. Pathways how to maximise sales and profi t, We offer courses ranging from include Fashion and Textiles, good customer care, effi cient stock Teaching Assistant up to the Photography, Graphic Design and control and merchandising. Certifi cate in Teaching in the 3D Product Design. Our drama and Lifelong Learning Sector and performance learners have access SKILLS FOR LIFE Professional Development to good studios and workshops Skills for Life courses are for adults Certifi cate in Education in the and working with leading experts who would like to return to learning Lifelong Learning Sector delivered in these fi elds further adds to in order to improve their English, under a partnership agreement with the experience for students from Maths and ICT skills. Reasons for the University of Wolverhampton. both media and performing arts returning are varied, but many wish We also run Assessor and Verifi er disciplines. New this year is a to improve job and promotion awards. Foundation degree in Musical prospects or to support their Theatre running in conjunction with children with school work. the University of Wolverhampton Courses are available to suit all which has attracted a lot of interest. levels of ability and learners work at their own pace in small groups. WORK BASED LEARNING Training in the workplace is delivered through the work based learning team and includes National Vocational Qualifi cations (NVQs) and Apprenticeships in Accounting, Administration, Construction, Customer Service, Engineering, Librarianship, Mechanical Services, Motor Vehicle, IT Practitioners and Support , Retail and Warehousing and Distribution.

18 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk OUR CURRICULUM

SUCCESS TO All clients must be on Job Seekers Once each student has moved EMPLOYMENT Allowance and have been so for into employment and completed “An exciting time ahead for 6 months or more. Each client is the course, further progression the area of Apprenticeship and invited to attend an informal Initial pathways are available. Employability Programmes” Assessment and Guidance interview to determine the correct path for 2008/2009 sees the area developing each individual. further by adding two new training programmes, that offer individuals Clients will also choose from a list the opportunity to further develop of vocational pathway qualifi cations or experience new or existing for several sector areas. These skills, for the world of work. To career pathways have been identifi ed support and strengthen our work as skill shortage areas and often lead base learning provision, here at to sustainable employment. Dudley College we are now very pleased to add an additional pathway PROGRAMME LED for students wishing to do an APPRENTICESHIP (PLA) apprenticeship. Programme Led Apprenticeship or PLA is an In partnership with the Job Centre apprenticeship programme without the “Success to Employment” having to be employed to start. programme is a new, individualised Students can undertake a block of skills development initiative that is up-front skills training, which means designed not only to meet the needs they have skills to offer employers of the individual, but to develop when matched to the world of skills that refl ect current local job work. Programmes are tailor made opportunities. Each programme is to individual needs, and there are no demand led and will signifi cantly set entry requirements. raise skill levels and open up previously unreachable employment On the PLA, individuals will opportunities. This provision will be have the opportunity of working delivered at one of our 5 campuses towards several qualifi cations depending on the individual that include an NVQ and Key programme, but will initially start at Skills, they also undertake our Brierley Hill campus. training in employment rights and responsibilities and any other All training will lead to a recognised specialist training that is Level 2 or Level 3 qualifi cation relevant for employment and may also include a basic skills when the programme qualifi cation, depending on the fi nishes or while clients individual skills on entry to studying. this programme. Old skills can be refreshed or clients can begin to work towards a new sector area for future employment opportunities. Enrolment onto the programme can be either through referral from Job Centre Plus, Signpost Centre or by direct contact to the Success to Employment team at Dudley College.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 19 WHAT DO OUR LEARNERS STUDY? In the last academic year 2008/09 we have supported over 20,000 learners, following a diverse curriculum. The pie chart below shows participation by subject sector areas:

PARTICIPATION BY SUBJECT AREA (BASED ON ENROLMENTS IN 2008/09)

Art, Media & Retail & Publishing (6%) Commercial Construction, Enterprise (6%) Planning & the Built Environment (6%)

Science & Mathematics, Agriculture, Horticulture & Animal Care, History, Preparation for Philosophy & Theology, Life & Work (27%) Social Sciences, Language, Literature & Culture, Education & Training, Leisure, Travel & Tourism (10%)

Business, Administration & Law (9%)

Health, Piublic Engineering & Services & Care Manufacturing (10%) Technologies (14%)

Information & Communication Technology (12%)

20 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk PROFILE OF OUR LEARNERS

LEARNERS - WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?

% Learners

Dudley 54%

Sandwell 12%

Birmingham 8%

Staffordshire 8%

Other 18%

16-18 LEARNERS - WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?

% Learners

Dudley 70%

Sandwell 16%

Birmingham 6%

Staffordshire 3%

Other 5%

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 21 19+ LEARNERS - WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?

% Learners

Dudley 50%

Sandwell 10%

Staffordshire 9%

Birmingham 9%

Other 22%

LEARNERS AGE/MODE OF ATTENDANCE

% Learners

16-18 14%

19+ Full time 6%

16-18 Part time 6%

19+ Part time 74%

22 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk PROFILE OF OUR LEARNERS

LEARNERS AGE/GENDER

% Learners

Female 16-18 9%

Female 19+ 36%

Male 16-18 11%

Male 19+ 44%

LEARNERS ETHNICITY

% Learners % Learners

Any other 1.9% Other Black 0.6%

Other Asian 1.3% Black Caribbean 2.5%

Bangladeshi 1.0% Chinese 0.3%

Indian 5.7% Mixed 2.7%

Pakistani 5.0% Not known/not 1.9% provided Black African 1.7% White 75.4%

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 23 OUR SUCCESS:

The Learning and Skills Council produces whether the programmes are largely college based or benchmarking data every year, which alternatively work place delivered. This approach enables all training providers to be compared on a like for like measures levels of success, retention and basis against nationally derived success rates. achievement of further education colleges across England. The improvement in our In relation to courses aimed at learners and delivered learners’ success rate has mirrored the at the college, our success rates include all relevant programmes but exclude short and very short national average. courses (typically less than 6 weeks duration) and any programmes that are aimed at employers. The The college’s success rates are calculated using following graphs 1, 2 and 3 show how well the college is a nationally agreed methodology depending on performing for individual learners.

80

GRAPH 1: SUCCESS OVERALL - ALL LEARNERS 70

60 Overall college success rate is 77%. 50 College Success Rate % Overall college success rate has improved by 24% over 40 the last four years. 30 National Success Rate % 20 Overall college success rate is now 2% above the national average. 10 0 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

80

70 GRAPH 2: SUCCESS 16-18 LEARNERS

60 Success rate for 16-18 learners is 79%. 50 College Success Rate % 40 Success rate for 16-18 learners has improved by 18% over the last four years. 30 National 20 Success Rate % Success rate for 16-18 learners is now 3% above 10 the national average. 0 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

80

GRAPH 3: SUCCESS 19+ LEARNERS 70

60 Success rate for 19+ learners is 76%. 50 College Success Rate % Success rate for 19+ learners has improved by 40 26% over the last four years. 30 National Success Rate % 20 Success rate for 19+ learners is now 3% above the national average. 10 0 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

24 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk OUR SUCCESS

For employer based programmes, overall learner “Teaching and learning are good. success rates are calculated on the basis of the number of apprentices who leave the programme with their The majority of lessons offer learners apprenticeship certifi cate compared to the total number a wide range of activities which challenge of apprentices who left the programme in each year. Timely success is a measure of those learners who and motivate, and include effective completed their course ahead of target. Success rates use of information technology (ILT).” for Train to Gain programmes are also based on this approach. The following graphs 4, 5 and 6 show how well the college is performing against workplace delivered Ofsted - Dudley College Inspection qualifi cations. Report June 2008

90 80 GRAPH 4: TRAIN TO GAIN OVERALL SUCCESS RATES 70 60 Overall college Train to Gain success rate is 92%. College 50 Success Rate % Train to Gain success rates have improved by 11% 40 in the last three years. 30 20 Train to Gain learner numbers have increased by 10 1828 in the last three years. 0 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

80

GRAPH 5: APPRENTICESHIP OVERALL SUCCESS RATES 70

60 Overall apprenticeship success rates have improved from a low base to the national average. 50 College Success Rate % 40 Overall apprenticeship success rate has improved 30 National by 14% in the last four years. 20 Success Rate %

* National success rates for 2008/09 are not yet available 10 0 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

80 GRAPH 6: ADVANCED APPRENTICESHIP OVERALL SUCCESS RATES 70

60 Overall advanced apprenticeship success rates are 50 College Success Rate % above the national average. 40

30 National Overall advanced apprenticeship success rates Success Rate % have been above the national average for the last 20 four years. 10

0 * National success rates for 2008/09 are not yet available 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 visitiit us online li at: t www.dudleycol.ac.ukddl l k DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 25 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

2008/09 was a mainly as a result of an increase COLLEGE INCOME 2008-09 in Funding Council income of challenging fi nancial £2.3 million with smaller year for the college. increases in education contracts and other income. As part of the college’s long term aspiration to assure its future, Expenditure costs rose by £2.3 increased attention was paid million mainly as a result of to assuring planned growth in costs incurred to generate the income against ambitious funding income increases and achieve targets whilst carefully managing LSC funding targets. Funding Other Income expenditure. Councils FIXED AND CURRENT Investment Education Income Indeed against a backdrop of a ASSETS Contracts challenging external environment The college continues to carefully Tuition Fees including the wider economic manage its investment in fi xed downturn and the emergence of assets. Signifi cant investment has a projected midyear fi nancial been made in upgrading many COLLEGE EXPENDITURE 2008-09 shortfall, the college was successfully curriculum facilities, particularly able to achieve a modest operating in growth areas such as the surplus (after accounting for construction trades. In addition, extraordinary restructuring costs). enhanced offi ce accommodation has To support our drive towards been completed for many central greater fi nancial effi ciency, the administrative areas, and student college introduced a range of social spaces have continued initiatives to more effectively to expand. manage our fi nances; these included a more robust business We have now made signifi cant planning and fi nancial reporting progress with developing our long Staff Premises Costs term capital estates strategy. Having framework that provided a greater Teaching Depreciation control of income and expenditure been forced to redevelop our Costs levels across the organisation. thoughts following the drying up Interest of LSC capital funding, the college Non-Teaching Payable In addition, regular performance Costs monitoring and variation reports has reshaped its previous plans allowed the early identifi cation and is now working on a phased of “hot spot” issues enabling approach to developing a ‘campus robust corrective actions to be feel’ to its main Broadway site. COLLEGE ASSETS 2008-09 implemented including managing Plans are well advanced to acquire staff costs more closely in line with the designated land plots, appoint a comparable sector averages. professional design team, and secure loan fi nancing support to enable our plans to come to fruition. INCOME & EXPENDITURE In the last fi nancial year, we achieved We will continue to manage the following in terms of income: our fi nancial position carefully in 2009/2010, ensuring that our Overall income increased steadily improving fi nancial health Land & Intangible Buildings Assets considerably by £2.6 million, is not adversely affected by our building project. Equipment Debtors

26 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk OUR FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 2008 - 2009

COLLEGE INCOME 2008-2009 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 JULY

Funding Councils £27,736,000 2009 2008 Education Contracts £437,000 £000 £000 FIXED ASSETS Tuition Fees £1,759,000 Land and Buildings £23,417 £23,233 Other Income £1,729,000 Equipment £2,955 £2,939 Investment Income £610,000 Intangible Assets £28 £30 TOTAL INCOME £32,271,000

£26,400 £26,202 COLLEGE EXPENDITURE 2008-2009

Staff £20,997,000 CURRENT ASSETS Teaching Costs £469,000 Debtors £1,293 £751 Non Teaching Costs £6,933,000 Investments and cash £11,595 £14,200 Premises Costs £1,777,000 Depreciation £1,437,000 £12,888 £14,951 Interest Payable £666,000 TOTAL EXPENDITURE £32,279,000 LIABILITIES Less: FRS 17 pension cost adjustments £778,000 Creditors £3,783 £5,043 Total assets less current £35,505 £36,110 UNDERLYING OPERATING SURPLUS £770,000 liabilities

FINANCIAL SUMMARY - INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEARS ENDED LONG TERM LIABILITIES 31 JULY 2008 AND 2009 Creditors after one year £2,708 £3,040 Provisions £1,671 £1,631 2008/09 2007/08 Net Pension Liability £9,129 £9,154 £000 £000 Deferred Capital Grants £3,069 £2,692 INCOME Funding Council Grants £27,736 £25,385 NET ASSETS £18,928 £19,593

Tuition fees and £2,196 £1,977 education contracts RESERVES Other income £2,339 £2,300 Revaluation £11,931 £12,175 General Reserve £16,126 £16,572 £32,271 £29,662 Pension Reserve (£9,129) (£9,154) EXPENDITURE TOTAL RESERVES £18,928 £19,593 Staff costs £20,997 £20,503 Other operating £9,179 £7,690 expenses Depreciation and £2,103 £1,752 interest payable £32,279 £29,945

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 27 INSTRUCTORS TRAIN FIREFIGHTERS TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD

Over twenty one instructors The two stage course which is Keith Richards, Manager of from the West Midlands Fire awarded by the University of the Brigade Training Centre at Wolverhampton is aimed at Smethwick said, “The training of Service training centre in developing key teaching skills: such people to carry out such a complex Smethwick have completed as planning lessons, effective delivery and potentially dangerous task as a new teaching qualifi cation. methods, learning styles, questioning fi re fi ghting is one that requires the techniques and identifying individual highest levels of skills amongst those needs. providing that training. Anything The instructors who are responsible that supports and improves the for the training of new recruits, Standards and Performance Manager process is of great value to us. This updating the skills of qualifi ed fi re John O’Dwyer said, “The course course has provided that boost for fi ghters along with delivering talks enabled the instructors to further our instructors and this gives me to schools, local companies and develop their already high quality confi dence that we can take our community organisations training methods. New recruits to training to a higher level which completed the teacher training the Fire Service have so much to will in turn make our staff and course with on-site training learn during an intensive training public safer.” delivered by Dudley College. programme but the instructors are now even better equipped to transmit their knowledge.”

Firefi ghters with middle front John O’Dwyer, Standards and Performance Manager at Dudley College. On his right is Keith Richards, Manager of the Brigade Training Centre at Smethwick.

28 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk IN THE NEWS TOM’S ALL SET TO BUILD A CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION

An annual campaign on Adult Learners’ week (9th May), was celebrated in more than 40 countries, to inspire people like Tom Palethorpe to pursue adult learning.

When Tom was excluded from mainstream education at the age of 11, his future looked bleak – but he is now laying the foundations at Dudley College for a career as a building surveyor, with help from the Learning and Skills Council’s Adult Learning Grant.

Tom, age 25, suffers from attention He recently enrolled on a two- “Anybody who’s thinking about defi cit hyperactivity disorder, year National Diploma Level 3 in returning to education should which wasn’t diagnosed at the Construction at Dudley College, defi nitely go for it. There are lots time. He couldn’t concentrate or and his long-term ambition is of opportunities to train to do sit still in class and within a year to be a building surveyor for an something that you’ll enjoy, and of starting secondary education insurance company. the extra money has made it was sent to a behavioural school, possible for me to do this.” which he left two years later with “I never really learned how to no formal qualifi cations. write essays and learning how College Principal Lowell Williams to study has been diffi cult for said, “Tom’s story is one of He was 14 when he got his me because I missed out on so perseverance, hope and ultimately fi rst job as a kitchen porter in a much when I should have been at success. Tom is an inspiration restaurant, and since then has had school,” he said. to others. It just goes to show many different part-time and full- what can be achieved at a further time jobs, mostly offi ce-based. “The course is hard work but education college, like Dudley rewarding – it’s worth persevering College, with the help of all the Tom was always determined to and I’m committed to seeing staff and the boost of an Adult improve his career prospects it through. Learning Grant.” and completed college courses in IT, catering and hospitality, brick making and painting and decorating from the age of 14, before starting full-time work seven years ago.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 29 STUDENTS GO THE EXTRA MILE

A group of female students Student Leonnie Preece said, “We Cross Country Coach Rachel from Dudley College have are so excited to be going to the Corns said, “This is a fantastic fi nals. To compete against some of achievement. Last year we had won the British Colleges the best in the country is amazing, one female runner qualify for the Sport West Midlands Cross we are training hard and can’t wait individual competition and this Country event. to get there.” year we have the whole squad going to the Championships. The The girls won the regional event girls will be up against Olympic The girls are now hard at training and are now representing the and Commonwealth hopefuls so in preparation for the British whole of the West Midlands at the competition will be fi erce. Colleges Sport National fi nals these prestigious games. They are training hard at college held at Loughborough University and are all looking forward to next April. These games see the experience.” over 2000 of the fi nest Under 19 athletes compete in a variety of sports.

Dudley College’s association with the British Colleges Sport offers the opportunity for students to participate in a wide range of both regional and national events.

Being a member of British Colleges Sport provides the college with opportunities to compete regionally and nationally in a variety of sports. British Colleges Sports aim is to achieve excellence in the promotion of all aspects of Front to back Roxeanne Kerrigan (red top), Hayley Betts, Danielle sport and physical activity in Harding, Kirsty Beckett, Charmalyn Rhoomes, Leonnie Preece. the Further Education sector.

30 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk IN THE NEWS GLITTERING EVENT HELD TO HONOUR STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENTS

Students at Dudley College The evening started with a vibrant in Heating and Ventilating (Service were honoured at an lively Catwalk Extravaganza from the and Maintenance), plus a raft of Fashion & Textile students followed domestic and industrial ACS gas annual ceremony to by the presenting of the awards. To qualifi cations. Curriculum Manager celebrate their success. close the evening students studying Robert Partridge said, “Steve has Musical Theatre performed an been a model student, he has Over 40 students picked up extract from their latest production worked extremely hard over the awards for their hard work and ‘Hot Mikado’. years he has been with us which determination over the academic shows in his achievements. We year and celebrated with their One of the winning students, Steve also have to acknowledge Steve’s family, friends and tutors at a Austin from Walsall said, “I really employer Robert Gordon who glittering ceremony held at the enjoyed the evening it was brilliant. I had a signifi cant part to play in his Broadway Campus. feel very proud of my achievements development.” and have enjoyed my learning Tutors at Dudley College nominated experience so much that I have set College Principal Lowell Williams students that deserved recognition my sights on becoming a lecturer said, “Here at Dudley College for their special achievements and here. I would like to thank all my we work with over 20,000 students who have achieved against tutors for their support and help students every year. Through the the odds through their sheer over the years.” presentation of these prestigious determination and effort to reach awards we have the chance their goals. Steve enrolled in September to celebrate the outstanding 2006 and has completed an achievements of some of our most Advanced Modern Apprenticeship special students.”

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 31 IN THE NEWS DUDLEY COLLEGE - OUTSTANDING ‘A’ LEVEL RESULTS

The establishment of an ‘A a 100% pass rate. This is a Principal Lowell Williams said: Level Academy’ at Dudley tremendous achievement as it “This is a truly fantastic set of includes the more challenging results. We are committed to College in 2007 is reaping subjects of Mathematics, Further giving the young people of Dudley benefi ts for students Mathematics, Environmental and surrounding communities hoping to go to university. Science, Psychology and Sociology. the very best chance to succeed. We are delighted with our A level Pass rates in some subject pass rate and it’s just great to The college is absolutely thrilled areas have shown a marked see so many happy students here to report its best ever A Level increase over the last couple of in Dudley. Their hard work and results this year, with an average years, especially in Film Studies, the dedication and commitment pass rate of 97.4% and a pass French, Physics, and Spanish, of their teachers have been well rate of 100% in more than an achievement acknowledged rewarded once again. All our twenty subjects. In addition the by Bob Chapman, Director of students and staff should be college’s overall A-C grade profi le Learning who said: “Students celebrating - they deserve it. We increased by 2%. This is the third coming to Dudley College work will now be working with all our year running that the college’s A hard, and our A level students are A level students to ensure they level success rates have risen. no exception. Their efforts over fi nd a good place at University.” the last two years are refl ected Students’ performance was today and we wish them well in particularly impressive in 23 their future endeavours”. subjects at A2 Level, recording

32 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk SUCCESSFUL EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT

CASE STUDY ONE: WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH - PARTNERSHIP WORKING DELIVERS RESULTS

Dave Morgan, Training Co-ordinator

For many companies, the last supporting them to develop new Vic Reid Director of Strategy 12 months have proved to ones to match future business commented that “One of the be a watershed in focusing needs. benefi ts of working in partnership with the company and Unite the attention on the cost base of their Dave Morgan Training Co-ordinator Union was that collectively we were operations. at Chamberlin and Hill Castings able to quickly put in place targeted Ltd put the challenge more bluntly, support and resources at the time Indeed against a backdrop of the “For many of our staff this was of greatest need”. toughest economic conditions the fi rst time since leaving school that many can remember in living that they have had to look at their Indeed, through the work of the memory, the focus has increasingly options, this was both a daunting partnership, the company has now been on survival and protecting and stressful time and needed to be opened up its training centre to cash fl ow. Particularly for carefully managed”. local residents as part of a wider companies within the engineering community based engagement and manufacturing sector, times Keen to support the company at strategy. Recently the company have been particularly tough with its time of need, a support package held a successful community based the reduction in order volumes was quickly put into place through learning festival that allowed it to as key customers scale back their Dudley College and Unite the reach out and successfully engage purchasing needs. For some, the Union and its workplace learning with its local community. challenge has been too great and representatives, consisting of advice led to their business being put into and guidance workshops, skills Looking to the future, back to administration. scans, plus the offer of a range of Dave Morgan, “We are cautiously supported training courses under optimistic that we will be seeing One company that has gone through the banner of ‘Protect Your Future’. the early signs that we have now these changes and appears to be The support package was delivered turned the corner, but much successfully moving forward to the at the company’s onsite learning work still needs to be done. The other side is Chamberlin and Hill centre with drop in workshops and prompt support provided through Castings Ltd, part of the Chamberlin fl exible attendance patterns allowing the partnership that we have with PLC group. Predominantly a employees to attend regardless of Dudley College and Unite the Union foundry and specialised castings shift patterns. has assisted us greatly – and that’s a business, the company recognised real positive!”. the need early on to support staff Initial results are encouraging as through these diffi cult challenges the uptake of staff in improving by working in partnership with their skills has been much greater Dudley College and Unite the than originally envisaged. One Union. Following the introduction noticeable area of success was the of short time working across the number of staff keen to improve organisation as a result of falling upon their literacy and numeracy order values, the company was keen qualifi cations, as well as trying out to ensure that as many of its staff other qualifi cations such as iTQ could access training opportunities and Health and Safety progression and update their skills whilst awards.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 33 CASE STUDY TWO: HIGH PERFORMING LOCAL AUTHORITY FORMS A STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP WITH LOCAL COLLEGE

Gail Rider, Head of Business Transformation

What makes a high performing Traditionally seen local authority such as Telford and within the automotive Wrekin Council choose Dudley and engineering sector, essentially BiT To support the programme, the College to support its key fl agship is a set of improvement techniques corporate training programme? college consortium has established that focus on streamlining internal an onsite learning centre located in processes particularly those that do Telford where council employees Well, an established track record not add any value to the business, learn the techniques and principles of delivering high quality workplace as well as mistake proof systems of BiT before working on a range of training, a keen attention to detail and procedures with the aim of real projects demonstrating how the and a commitment to work in making internal business operations business has improved as a result. partnership with the authority more focused. The application of were just three of the qualities that BiT is still a relatively uncommon Andrew Winning from LEAD Ltd infl uenced the council to select a process outside of the engineering who are the other partner in the Dudley College led consortium and manufacturing sector and the college consortium said, “The for its corporate business authority is one of the fi rst in the programme is very much focused transformation programme. country to apply it wholesale across on helping the employees of the its entire organisation. authority to learn the skills of Situated approximately 30 miles ‘lean thinking’ and then apply the west of Birmingham, the borough of Keen to select the right partner, the skills directly into their workplace Telford & Wrekin covers 112 square college consortium went through through the development of a miles and serves a population of an exhaustive selection process workplace project. Each project 166,000. The authority has set itself covering all aspects of its work in needs to demonstrate the saving ambitious plans to be recognised order to convince the authority that it has made to the authority and as a beacon of best practice in the it had the capability and fl exibility cumulatively it all adds up to a public sector through embracing to meeting the councils exacting realised saving for the council”. innovative techniques and processes training needs. as to how it manages its business Looking towards the future, initial operations. The programme forms Gail Rider, Head of Business results are very encouraging, staff part of a three year transformation Transformation at the authority from across various council business strategy to undertake a root and said, “As a progressive authority, units are now working cooperatively branch review of all the authority’s we believe in developing our teams, on a range of projects to improve key business planning and service giving them the skills they need to and simplify the internal process. delivery areas, focusing on improved be effective in their jobs and help Indeed, with increased pressure service standards and delivering the authority to deliver its long being placed on all areas of the outstanding value to its residents. term vision. What impressed us was public sector to tighten their belt, that the Dudley College partnership linked to the general downturn in The authority was keen to realise took the time to clearly understand the economy, the programme at the potential benefi ts of adopting our business and helped us identify Telford is being closely watched by a new ways of working and re- and plan a training programme range of other public sector bodies engineering internal operations that clearly meets the needs of the keen to demonstrate best value! with a focus on quality and value authority and its staff”. for money through the introduction of a process known as business improvement techniques (BiT).

34 DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk SUCCESSFUL EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT

CASE STUDY THREE: DELIVERING EXCELLENCE IN HEALTH CARE THROUGH INVESTMENT IN STAFF TRAINING

Judith Turner, Training & Development Manager

Against a back drop of development and training very As a result of the college’s work, a challenging performance seriously. The challenge for us detailed training programme that targets and a desire to become is on the breadth and depth refl ected the needs of the Trust of training needed with staff in was established which clearly a Foundation NHS Trust, the varying job roles and as such showed the value of working in Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals we will only work with training partnership and how it helped NHS Trust is justifi ably proud of providers that can deliver to support the business. Initial its recent award of being rated provision to an exceptionally high results are very encouraging with as “Excellent” for its quality of standard, Dudley College is one the Trust’s employees being able such provider”. to access funding for a number services in the latest annual of different courses including health check carried out by the Why Dudley College? Well it NVQ in Health and Social Healthcare Commission1. seems that part of the answer Care, Business Administration, was in how the college took time Housekeeping and an iTQ course, More impressive is the fact that to carefully understand what the plus shorter courses in Food this is second year running that Trust was trying to do and then Hygiene. the hospital has been rated as sought to work in partnership. “Excellent” for the Quality of It also helped that the college The support provided through the Services it provides. was able to demonstrate its college has also enabled the Trust commitment to excellence to demonstrate its commitment What was the secret to this through being one of the few towards the Skills Pledge3 through remarkable achievement? Well it providers in the region to be kite supporting staff training and seems that it is all about having marked to the Customer First development against a backdrop a clear focus and commitment accreditation standard2. of tight budget constraints. in investing in your staff. As one of the largest employers in Vic Reid, Director of Strategy Final word from Judith Turner Wolverhampton, the Trust is at the college commented “one from the Trust: “The response responsible for the training and of the key college responses from Dudley College in meeting development of over 2,000 staff was to meet with Judith and her our training needs was fantastic. and is keenly aware that staff team to discuss the training and As a result of the training training and continual professional development requirements of delivered by the college we development is at the heart of its the Trust and then draw up a have witnessed staff gaining new business in delivering clinical and detailed support proposal of how qualifi cations, and as a by product, service excellence at all levels. the college could assist through confi dence and motivation has various funding options including also increased. Additionally Judith Turner, Training and Train to Gain. We also recognised though, the college helped equip Development Manager placed early on that what the Trust us with a new IT Training Centre; the challenge more simply “The wanted was someone who would this was something that we just Trust is committed to a ‘vision deliver on their promise”. could not afford”. of excellence’ and as such takes its responsibility in staff personal

1 The Care Quality Commission has published 2 Customer fi rst is a nationally accredited 3 The Skills Pledge is a voluntary, public the Annual Health Check on The Royal award that promotes excellence in Customer commitment made by an organisation to invest Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust for the service through independently verifying in the skills of its workforce. year ended 31st March, 2009 accredited providers have a common quality standard for improving the customer’s experience of business support services. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 2008 - 2009 35 Our mission: outstanding learning which develops skills, raises aspirations and changes lives.

Dudley College, The Broadway, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 4AS www.dudleycol.ac.uk | Tel: 01384 363 363 design by www.thenerv.co.uk