The Corporation of

Corporation Meeting

15 December 2010

Report from Deputy Principal and Chief Executive Curriculum and Quality

Quality

Ofsted Survey Inspection Programme

The College has received notice from Ofsted of a one day visit to consider Best Practice in Value for Money in Colleges. This visit will be conducted by Paula Heaney (HMI - Her Majesties Inspectorate) on 30 November 2010 and will consider the „strategies and processes that the College employs to use our available resources efficiently and effectively to achieve best value for money‟.

The visit will take a cross-College view of value for money and will involve meetings with Senior Leaders, College Managers and Learners to establish our best practice and inform a publication of best practice to be shared across the sector. Post-visit, the College will receive a brief letter summarising the points made in feedback and discussion at the end of the visit. This letter will be published on the Ofsted website.

Framework for Excellence (FfE) Outcomes

The following changes have been made to FfE over the past academic year most notably the decision not to publish the 2009/2010 Performance Indictor grades (please see below).

Outcomes and comparisons for 2009/2010 are expected to be made available by the Skills Funding Agency in December 2010.

Summary of changes to Framework for Excellence

. The removal of grades for the four published Performance Indicators (PI): Success Rates, Learner Destinations, Learner Views and Employer Views. They will now be shown as ungraded scores.

. Scores for each provider will be published alongside the range of scores obtained for each PI for comparison purposes. As a minimum, the comparative data will show the lowest score obtained, the median (middle score) and the highest score.

. In the case of Success Rates the range will consist of the median (middle score) and the 5th and the 95th percentile; the Success Rate indicator has been split into seven sub- categories: FE long qualifications (excluding A,AS,A2) FE very short qualifications (<5 weeks)

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 1 of 43 FE short qualifications (5-24 weeks) A, AS, A2 qualifications Apprenticeships (framework completions, overall success rates) Advanced Apprenticeships (framework completions, overall success rates) Train to Gain (Full Level 2, Full Level 3 qualifications);

. The reporting of Learner Views, Learner Destinations and Employer Views has been amended: where survey results have failed to meet the quality thresholds, no score will be given; . There has been a change in the scale for scoring Learner Views and Employer Views for consistency and ease of comparison: these are now both scored on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 lowest, 10 highest)

Update to Inspection Arrangements

As the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) impacts on the public sector, it has been necessary for Ofsted to shift their focus away from all Colleges to those providers that are Grade 4 or Grade 3 and not improving. It was announced that Colleges graded as Outstanding in the last Inspection, e.g. New College Durham, will be exempt from future Inspections as long as high standards are maintained and as long as current legislation remains.

As a result, a future Full Inspection is unlikely at the College unless one of the following triggers factors is activated:

 Notice to Improve received for Finance or Sector Subject Areas

 Success rates (long course) below national average for similar Colleges (including A Levels, employer training)

 Below average scores on progress measures (LAT/CVA)

 Merger with other (non-outstanding) College

 Serious concerns expressed by key stakeholders, e.g. funding agencies, partners, learners, regarding for example, changes in Senior Management/Principal.

 Concerns over the quality and integrity of our data.

NB - as a high performing College we are likely to receive a minimum of one or two Survey Inspection visits per year and may still be subject to a Risk Assessment monitoring visit at the mid-point of the Inspection Cycle, e.g. 3 years after our last Inspection.

Marketing

We continue working with the region‟s comprehensive schools, attending careers events, parent‟s evenings, assembly talks, classroom activities and onsite visits and taster sessions. During October and November we have delivered 68 sessions in schools and onsite with year groups 9, 10 and 11. We also continue to support Durham Enterprise Business Partnership (DEBP) Ambassador Programme for enterprise and transition activities. As part of ongoing development, we have reviewed our schools liaison programme and have introduced a new range of interactive activities and delivered a range of bespoke programmes for schools.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 2 of 43 Our information and advice events during the first two months of the academic year were very successful, with a year on year increase in footfall. Competitions took place for JLS and Metro Radio Live tickets as part of our In Demand sponsorship with Metro Radio. In conjunction with the Directors of Curriculum and Quality, a new enquiry form was introduced, as part of ongoing data capture and student tracking. This will assist in identifying the number of enquiries per curriculum area and the ongoing process to application, then enrolment. As part of this process we have revised the admissions procedure with regards to contacting students who fail to turn up for interviews. As a result we have created reminder postcards with an automatic second interview date.

The Marketing and Events team attended the North East Skills Event at Metro Radio Arena in November, accompanied by curriculum staff and students from Catering, Sport and Hair and Beauty. The two day careers event was attended by over 3,000 students from across and Tyne and Wear. The November Graduation will take place on Saturday 27 November 2010 with over 190 graduates in attendance. Progression week has been confirmed with the curriculum for week commencing 14 February 2011. The initial stages are being agreed with the Directors of Curriculum and Quality and the Heads of School, to introduce a series of progression talks, to be delivered by Marketing and ASC during timetabled lessons.

14 – 19 Curriculum

14-19 Curriculum Developments

The entitlement for all young people to study one of the new Diploma qualifications from 2013 has now been removed. This change will have a significant impact on the future of the fourteen lines of learning available. It is anticipated that some of the lines will not survive leaving those which are deemed to be a credible alternative to other existing, well established qualifications. Working in collaboration with three school partners, the College is currently involved in the delivery of one line of learning, Engineering at Level 2 for Key Stage 4 students. The College is able to offer Diploma courses to future post 16 learners in areas where there is a clear need. Students who wish to progress to college after studying a Diploma at school will have a number of options, including the Diploma route, dependant on there being a sufficient level of interest.

At level 1 and below the College has developed two modes of Foundation Learning delivery for young people. One is a full time route which is an extension of the well established vocational offer with the addition of functional skills and personal and social development. The other is a shorter programme, Steps for Success (S4S), which has replaced E2E. In addition to a general S4S programme the College is piloting curriculum specific routes in Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy and Art and Design during the autumn term. Early indicators suggest these are progressing well with a total of 46 students enrolled.

The College continues to work in partnership with twelve County Durham schools providing the opportunity for KS4 learners to access vocational qualifications within the Foundation Learning framework. Awarding bodies have recently developed a new suite of qualifications at Level 1 and this has enabled curriculum teams to review their offer. The most significant, exciting change has been the introduction of the BTEC Diploma in Construction which can be organised to allow learners to experience four trades during their two year course. The College also continues to support the Young Apprenticeships in Engineering Level 2 programme for learners from mid Durham schools. This is a very popular course and an application for the funding of an additional Year 10 group has been successful.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 3 of 43 The College is preparing to respond to a range of Department for Education Policy initiatives. These include a possible reform of A-Levels, the development of an English Baccalaureate and in particular the Wolf review of vocational education for 14-19 year olds. The review will investigate how to improve the organisation of vocational education for 14 to 19 year olds, including funding and accountability and how to improve progression rates to employment and further and higher education. The College has submitted a response, via the local authority, which promotes the role of further education in providing high quality vocational education and training. Professor Alison Wolf will report in the Spring of 2011 with an interim report due by the end of 2010.

HE Developments

Foundation Degree Awarding Powers (FDAP)

A visit of a sub-panel of the Advisory Committee for Degree Awarding Powers (ACDAP) took place at the end of September. This was a full day visit, during which the panel met during a series of meetings the Principal, Corporation members, senior managers, Heads of School, students, and academic and support staff. The sub-panel included the Chair of the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) and two Vice Chancellors. The visit was considered by those participating to have been successful, with the lines of questioning followed by the panel having been anticipated and prepared for. A Report following the visit was received by the College at the end of October. The Conclusions section of the Report confirmed that the sub-panel was satisfied considerable further progress had been made in a number of areas since the final visit of the assessors in April. These areas included activities associated with scholarly activity, and the roles and responsibilities of those engaged in the executive deliberative work of the College in respect of higher education. The Report noted that, “the College had acted quickly and positively in response to issues raised in the scrutiny team’s report...”

The Report confirmed, “as areas of strength, the supportive learning environment provided by the College and the careful thought given to students’ progression arrangements. The facilities...were good”, and students “spoke highly of the support they received from staff and they appreciated being treated as professionals and the industry experience that teaching staff were able to bring to bear on the curriculum”.

A full meeting of ACDAP will give a final decision on the application from the College for foundation degree awarding powers on 14 December.

HEFCE audit

A two day Higher Education Funding Council for (HEFCE) audit took place at the end of October. The audit examined the processes used by the College to recruit, induct, monitor and record higher education students, and examined arrangements in place to ensure that students are retained on programme and complete assessments associated with their awards. The audit tracked students randomly selected from a range of programmes. It also examined the process used to complete the annual financial return submitted to HEFCE. The audit report was very positive. It made some suggestions for the strengthening of financial return process.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 4 of 43 Health Professionals Council (HPC) visit

The Health Professionals Council (HPC) sent a three member panel to the College on 18 and 19 November 2010 to consider the revalidated programme for the BSc (Hons) Podiatry, which had been through a revalidation as a consequence of periodic review in June involving Leeds Metropolitan University and the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. The HPC had been unable to attend in June, and was visiting to confirm that the new programme satisfied its professional standards aligned to fitness for purpose and fitness to practice. A site visit was undertaken to the Low Carrs clinic, and panel members met the teaching team, senior staff, and podiatry students. The panel was fully satisfied that the new programme met its standards. It requested some minor changes to documentation wording. The HPC panel members complemented the team on the quality of the new degree programme.

Annual reports

In November the College completed and sent to its main validating body, Leeds Metropolitan University, the annual evaluative report required by the University as part of its quality assurance purposes. The report included qualitative and quantitative data, and confirmed the successful completion of all the annual programme reports for higher education provision operated by the College. These latter reports were considered on an individual basis by the Higher Education Standards and Quality Committee, a sub-committee of Academic Board, in October. They confirmed the overall health of higher education provision for 2009/2010.

University of York St.John collaboration

Meetings have continued with the University of York St John to secure arrangements for the delivery of their MA in Leadership and Management from the New College Durham campus from September 2011. This collaboration is intended to improve access to Masters level provision for full and part time students of the College, and to provide opportunities for New College Durham academic staff to deliver elements of the programme as a valuable staff development initiative.

ASC (Advice, Support and Careers) and Student Support

The start of the new academic year has shown an increase in the demand for „front-line‟ information and in-depth guidance. There has been a significant increase in Funding and Welfare appointments, resulting in a substantial increase in Charitable Trust Funding applications. ASC Funding & Welfare Advisers continue to work closely with a number of national and local Education Trusts who support New College Durham (NCD) students and during this academic year have secured a total £8,622 on behalf of students to enable them to continue in their studies. Several applications submitted are still to be considered and students are awaiting outcomes.

Following the ASC induction sessions with new students the team are meeting with a wide range of students through the front-line information service, one to one guidance interviews and group sessions. Early indications show an increase in requests for a variety of career planning discrete module tutorial sessions. The Learner Development Coordinator (LDC) continues to provide one-to-one mediation, advocacy or small group support to students on a variety of personal issues. Tutor requests for LDC personal, social, health education tutorial sessions remain consistent.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 5 of 43 The ASC team were involved in „Fresher‟s Fayre‟ which included providing new students with information and contacts for ASC services whilst ASC counsellors worked in partnership with the NHS Mental Health Team to promote „Time to Change‟. „Time to Change‟ is England's most ambitious programme to end discrimination faced by people who experience mental health problems. It aims to make lives better for everyone by ending mental health discrimination and to inspire people to work together to end the discrimination surrounding mental health. Feedback from the NHS Mental Health team was that the opportunity to have input to the Colleges „Fresher‟s Fayre‟ has proven to be the most successful promotional event for „Time to Change‟ in the North East of England since its launch in January 2009. Expanding upon last year‟s pilot with Sixth Form Centre student groups the „Mindfulness‟ tutorial introduced by Bev Baldasera, College counsellor is being rolled out to all course groups during this academic year. The tutorial aims to reduce the stigma around mental health issues, promote mental health wellbeing and stress management techniques to students.

During October 2010 students have also been involved in higher education awareness raising activities arranged by ASC staff in partnership with Aim Higher. These activities have included a visit to York and York St John universities by 12 Access to Higher Education students who explored career opportunities in Nursing, Social Science, Counselling, Primary Teaching and Physiotherapy. Individual students attended an event at entitled „Higher Education Unravelled‟ which was designed to provide information and answer student queries relating to being an adult learner in Higher Education. Feedback received was extremely positive. Attendance at these events included options for university campus tours, viewing of accommodation and an opportunity to meet with current students and staff.

The Connexions Partnership Agreement existing with the College continues to work well and has contributed to meeting the needs of those students identified as potentially „at risk of becoming „NEET‟. (Not in Employment, Education or Training). The work with these students has resulted in positive outcomes and contributed to retention and achievement of students. The Careers Liaison Group (CLG) was held on 11th November and continues to enhance and strengthen existing links with local Connexions services, Next Step, and Aim Higher Coordinators and their advisors. The CLG included focus School presentations from Early Years & Health and Social Care which included a student perspective. Initial feedback from delegates is especially positive. The next CLG group is planned for March 2011 and will include the School of Sport, Travel & Tourism & Public Services as the focus.

Other activities being planned during the first academic term include „Being Safe & Feeling Safe‟ a College wide event being held over several days involving contributions from College staff and students and is to include various aspects of how everyone can to be safe and ultimately feel safe.

Review of Personal Learning Coach (PLC) Service to date

Developments within the PLC service have continued since June 2010. The following report details these strategic and operational developments in summary format. The PLC service can report a very successful first term, in both direct student contact and from a developmental perspective.

Staffing:

 A PLC has successfully been appointed for the School of Technology, allowing caseloads and the quality of provision to increase and improve in that area

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 6 of 43  Due to internal progression the PLC for School of Business Management and Information Technology has been seconded into the teaching team for Functional Skills. However, this vacancy has been staffed on a fixed term basis until the end of the academic year  Similarly, there is also a vacancy in the SFC following the further progression of the member of staff in that area  Recruitment however is ongoing for this position and will be filled before the end of this first term

Referrals:

 Numbers of student referrals continues to increase into 2010  In 2009/10 initial targets were to increase caseloads by 10%, however, by July 2010 the total increase in referrals was 28%  Initial targets for this year, were to again increase the number of referrals by 10% across the academic year; however, this target has already been exceeded across the whole service

Year Student Referrals 2009/2010 (October) 463 2010/2011(October) 831

 For ease of comparison and analysis, the above table indicates number of referrals, comparing the number of referrals for October 2009/10 in comparison with October 2010/2011  The above table indicates an increase in referrals of 44%  This marks an increase in referrals of almost double this period last year and can be attributed to the Early Referral System implemented in each School, as detailed in the previous report  However, the team intend on building on this success in the future with additional strategies.

Strategies to further increase Referrals:

 Early Referral System and presence at Advice Events will continue  The further development of the PLC section of the website will also continue  Additional tracking of the source of referrals will be implemented  Referrals will now be tracked via individual classes/tutor groups/subjects to allow for a more refined monitoring process  This will allow for specific courses to be targeted and will ensure that the PLC service becomes an effective and efficient method of supporting courses deemed “at risk”, thus proving beneficial to both staff and students.

European Social Fund (ESF):

 Although the ESF comes to a close in December, the PLC service is still working with 21 learners across the provision to ensure their continued success and retention on programme  These students are provided with additional one to one support, and for every student that is retained on this scheme supplementary funding can be claimed  To date all 21 students have been successfully retained on programme (100% retention).

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 7 of 43 Choices +

 PLC Support for learners completing Choices + has been implemented during the earlier November start  All students completing Choices + are automatically assigned a PLC and we are working to increase our retention and achievement rate for Choices + by 10% this year.

Critical Thinking and Community of Enquiry:

 PLC service is continuing to develop workshops in thinking skills via an Advanced PLC in each school  Workshops can be tailored to meet requirements of Every Child Matters, Social Emotional Aspects Learning, Spiritual Moral Social and Cultural, Citizenship and Community Cohesion outcomes  Both PLC team leaders are now qualified coaches in the technique  One of the PLC team leaders is about to complete the Community of Enquiry trainer requirements and will be qualified to train others to facilitate by June 2011.

Learning Resources Centre

Learning Resources Centre (LRC) Inductions – 2010

At the beginning of the current academic year LRC staff provided 184 inductions for 2524 students. More Inductions were delivered in the previous year. This is accounted for by the larger average group size this year. A report on LRC Inductions was produced and circulated to Heads of School.

Follow up sessions are planned, which will complement the initial LRC Induction whilst focussing on how to use the resources that the LRC provides, such as books, journals, e- books, electronic resources and the library catalogue (Heritage).

Heritage™ and Biometrics

Using finger print scans as a means of identification proved to be very popular and successful during 2009/2010. However, there were some problems with the system which were expected to be resolved in the Heritage™ upgrade during the summer. At present the software is working but is not sufficiently reliable to allow us to start scanning student fingers and adding the resulting code to the biometrics database.

Portable equipment for annual Library stock-take

Two portable scanners were purchased this year for the library stock take. These allow staff to scan book barcodes at the shelves and then upload this data into Heritage™ thereby making the process quicker as well removing much of the difficulties for staff. Owing to software issues, the scanners proved to be difficult to set up and additional software was required. This necessitated a degree of manual processing but the system is now in place during the 2011 stock take.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 8 of 43 Dealing with overdue loans

In the latter half of the previous academic year, a system of restricted access to LRC Information Communication Technology (ICT) facilities for those students who had overdue loans and/or outstanding overdue charges in order to encourage return of books back and the recovery of unpaid fines. This seems to have had some success in reducing the amount of unreturned stock at the end of the academic year:

It will be noted that the value of unreturned stock was significantly lower during 2009/2010 than in the previous two years. The cumulative total at £7 121.46 is a significant amount and ways to recover this stock are being considered.

Value of Unreturned Academic Stock Year

£2,440.18 2007/2008

£3,477.56 2008/2009

£1,203.72 2009/2010

£7,121.46

As New College Durham attracts students from all over the county and beyond they are unlikely to come back to College on completion of their studies to return the books. LRC staff have been in discussion with staff at Durham County Council about a scheme that could address this issue. The proposal is that all former students who still have books out on loan will be contacted and asked to return their books to their nearest public library. County library staff will take the books back and then return them to a central location, where they will be collected by College staff. The scheme has been agreed and preparations are now being made for implementation in February 2011.

Develop content on NCD Online

The content on the LRC area of NCD Online has been revised last year. The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Administrator has also recently added text and images to improve the appearance of the various LRC areas and sections. Daniel Barksby, Librarian, is currently reviewing the Heritage™ Catalogue page with a view to possible adaption to contain all the LRC information that is currently held on NCD Online using ideas he learnt on a recent training event in order to adapt the catalogue screen. If successful all LRC information would be brought together in one place. At present the LRC is promoting the catalogue and its area on NCD Online in order to make it easier for students to find the catalogue. We hope this would also encourage them to use the catalogue and all the resources that are listed on it.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 9 of 43 Information Learning Technology

Staffing

At the beginning of the academic year, Graham Howard, Teaching and Learning and ILT Champion (1 FTE), took up a post in the Quality Unit of the College. This has resulted in an ILT Team comprising:

Gina Jaballah, ILT Champion (0.5 FTE) Daniel Henton, e-Learning Co-ordinator (1 FTE) Gail Hudson, VLE Administrator (1 FTE)

Appropriate documentation was completed and approved and the recruitment process for a Teaching and Learning and ILT Champion (1 FTE) is now in progress.

Placement Students

Two Foundation Degree in Information Communication Technology (FdSC ICT) are currently on a year-long placement in the Information Learning Technology area. They are available two days per week and have already proved to have been both innovative and productive. They supervised in their daily placement activities by the e-Learning Co-ordinator.

ILT Training Room

Installation of thin client machines in the ILT Training Room has necessitated a re-location of the staff currently using the room. Other than two computers being used for administrative purposes, the replacement machines have what is termed a „student image‟ that is, they are configured for student use and consequently do not have access to software which is need for staff training, etc.

Re-location of the ILT Team is currently being considered.

Training Activities

September

School of Sports, Travel and Public Services – pilot online marking NCD Online new Tools Creating Captivate objects PowerPoint™ resource Tracker for the 6th Form Centre Tutorial organisation on the intranet Foundation Degree Complementary Therapies video NCD online Safeguarding Test Functional Skills NCD Online resource area FESCO- set up NCD Online cross college site Student Guide - how to get on intranet PowerPoint™ for BMIT e-Portfolio for Podiatry students Value added tracker level 2/3 Quality Department Planner

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 10 of 43 October

School of Sports, Travel and Public Services – pilot online marking (on-going) NCD Online new Tools (on-going) PowerPoint™ resource Functional Skills NCD online resource area PowerPoint™ for BMIT (on-going) e-Portfolio for Podiatry students

November

School of Sports, Travel and Public Services – pilot online marking (on-going) NCD Online new Tools (on-going) Interactive PowerPoint™ resource VLE statistics Quality Review Library Intranet site Value Added Tracker Online Individual Learning Plans Flash™ Animations S4S VLE support Early Years and Care Interactive Pad pilot Captivate - New Tools

Additionally, one to one appointments and drop ins are offered every week

Blackboard™ Version 9.1 Implementation

Following a programme of cross-College training to facilitate the transition from Blackboard™ 7 to Blackboard™ 9.1 there has been a increase in the utilisation of NCD Online (the College‟s VLE based on Blackboard™ 9.1) as will be noted from the following chart.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 11 of 43 External Funding Unit

The External Funding Office manages and delivers a wide portfolio of projects which specifically targets a range of individuals such as those who are unemployed, economically inactive, ex-offenders, lone-parents, NEETS, young people and those in employment. Partners are drawn from the public, private, community and voluntary sectors such as Job Centre Plus, Community Volunteer Sector (CVS), Developing Initiatives In Supporting Communities (DISC), Connexions and Employers covering the spectrum of occupational sectors.

These varieties of initiatives are funded from a number of sources, namely European Social Fund (ESF), Big Lottery, Skills Funding Agency (SFA), Government Office North East (GONE), Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities (NLDC) and other grant and community programmes.

The current value of employment and training projects being managed and delivered by External Funding is £3,071,226.

Details of Existing Projects:

1. Project: Stockton Communities Fund Value: £995,179 No of Beneficiaries: 282 long term unemployed from deprived areas. Outcome: All into employment No of Partners: 20 local voluntary & community sector partners + two key subcontractors – who broker in training from 15 local training providers. Brief Description: New College Durham will develop sustainable employment for the most disadvantaged residents of the Ragworth and Hardwick estates. The project aims to reduce the levels of worklessness and inactivity in the most deprived areas and increase skill levels. New College Durham is one of three Lead Providers in the Borough of Stockton and will deliver coordinated tailored provision, using subcontractors and delivery partners where appropriate. This provision will complement and develop the existing services offered in these areas.

2. Project: Personal Best (Olympic Event Volunteering Project) Value: £300,102 No of Beneficiaries: 280 Unemployed People Outcome: 91 NVQ Level 1, 48 into Employment on completion, 40 into employment after six months, 122 in job search or further education, 120 participating in volunteering activities, 15 individuals trained as mentors. No of Partners: 10 local Voluntary & community sector partners. Brief Description: This programme focuses on engaging those most disadvantaged, supporting them to achieve a level 1 qualification and, through positive volunteering experiences, supporting them into employment. Graduates of the programme will have an enhanced opportunity to apply to become a volunteer in regional events and activities leading up to the 2012 Olympic Games. The project focuses on raising people‟s aspirations, equipping them with the necessary skills, promoting skills in sports and increasing volunteering skills. This will create a legacy of learning, skills and employment for individuals, employers and local communities. Our partnership consists of providers from the Voluntary & Community sector (VCS), the Council for Voluntary Services (CVS), Bridge Women‟s Centre, FE sector and Private Sector. New College Durham will be hosting the Personal Best Graduation Ceremony on 31 January 2011. This is a high profile opportunity with Jonathan Edwards and other Olympian Champions being present. Petrina Lynn from the SFA and our Principal will be presiding over the events. TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 12 of 43

3. Project: Enhanced IAG – Offender Learning and Skills Service (OLASS) Value: £69,685 No of Beneficiaries: 80 Ex-offenders Outcome: All beneficiaries enter non-accredited delivery, 60 complete their delivery, 18 progress into learning, 10 to progress into employment, 30 to enter further learning or job search. No of Partners: 7 Key partners. Brief Description: This project aims to reduce recidivism by improving the employability of individuals, aged 18 and over. It includes offenders serving a community sentence and those released on licence.

4. Project: Response to Redundancy Value: £960,060 No of Beneficiaries: 1,334 Outcome: 1,334 to complete training and 296 to progress into employment. No of Partners: 6 commercial training providers. 51% is delivered by New College Durham. Brief Description: This project aims to ensure that capacity is in place to respond to redundancies and the employment implications of the present economic climate. We are currently delivering to a number of public sector organisations, namely: Regional Development Agency (RDA), GONE, Durham Constabulary and Land Registry, who are making substantial redundancies. We are in the process of negotiating increased volumes and monies. This will be a critical area for the college for future delivery.

5. Project: Progression Challenge Fund Value: £479,500 No of Beneficiaries: 200 level 3 individuals engaged with. Outcome: 100 individuals to achieve accredited Level 4 training. No of Partners: 4 FE Colleges Brief Description: This project commenced in October 2009 and is scheduled to end in June 2011. This project is a pilot and consists of a partnership of 4 FE Colleges, with New College Durham being the Lead. The project will engage with learners at Level 3 and provide training to accredited Level 4.

6. Project: Durham County Council – Independent Travel Training Value: £30,000 No of Beneficiaries: Assist disadvantaged students on an individual basis. Outcome: Aid and review ability to access learning on an individual basis. No of Partners: None. Brief Description: This new project commenced in September 2010 and is scheduled to end in July 2011. The project was established to assist our most disadvantaged students to aid ability to access learning when needing to travel.

7. Project: Routes into Employment Value: £236,700 No of Beneficiaries: 468 individuals engaged with. Outcome: 113 into sustainable employment for 16+ hrs/wk, 95 in paid employment after 13 wks, 205 employers contacted, 125 employers engaged with by project end. No of Partners: This project is a partnership between the VCS, three Social Housing Providers (Three Rivers Housing, Derwentside Homes, Cestria Housing) and New College Durham. Brief Description: This new project is a One North East Single Programme funded project managed by Tyne & Wear City Region and Durham County Council. The project started in October 2010 and is due to complete on 31 March 2012. The project will engage with the long term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 13 of 43 to provide training and other support with the aim of returning them to the labour market and employment. This project will be delivered in Derwentside, Chester le Street and Durham and is based on the Regional Employability Framework providing a staged approach for clients to undertake engagement, action planning, training and development and Employment.

Future Plans

Department for Working Pensions (DWP) Work Programme: This is the new governments programme for the long term unemployed and is replacing New Deal. The External Funding Unit has submitted several expressions of interest to prospective prime contractors for the work programme. These include: SERCO, A4E, G4S, Working Links, CfBT and AVANTA. There are a number of meetings scheduled with these prime contractors over the coming weeks.

Response to Public Sector Redundancies: We have been approached by the SFA to deliver to GONE, RDA, Land Registry and Durham Constabulary. The External Funding Unit has currently doubled its Response to Redundancy (R2R) provision and is expected to deliver increased volumes over the coming months. We anticipate further public sector organisations requiring training to be delivered to potential redundant workers. I envisage this to be a critical area of work for the College for providing a flexible response to further public sector cuts.

The External Funding Unit will aim to build on the success of previous projects and continue to implement best practice in all of its initiatives. Examples of other non-core funding that the Unit is exploring include: Local Authority Tenders, Trans National Initiatives, Employability Projects (North East and Other Regions), Big Lottery, Offender Learning (including Custodial and Non-Custodial) and Third Sector Grants.

Employer Engagement/Workforce Development

An analysis of vocational training delivered in the workplace throughout 09/10 indicates another successful year. More than 1700 Train to Gain-funded learners, working for 256 employers, commenced NVQ level 2 and 3 and Skills for Life qualifications. 1400 learners completed their training programme and an overall success rate of 91% was achieved. The majority of delivery was sub-contracted to 11 partner-providers and 80 learners were trained by College staff. Sub-contract arrangements allowed the College to access a large employer network and to offer a wide range of qualifications, more than 40 in total, some of which are niche qualifications for specialist employers such as Stonemasonry for gravestone suppliers. Other qualifications delivered included Plant Operations, Road Passenger Vehicle Driving (taxi drivers!), Recycling Operations, Waste Management Operations, Business Improvement Techniques, Customer Service, Child Care, Learning & Development (CCLD), Health & Social Care, Warehousing and Storage Operations, Carrying & Delivering Goods, Food Manufacturing, Instructing Exercise & Fitness, Electrical Leakage Detection and a wide range of Construction training up to level 4.

Learner and employer satisfaction surveys revealed that both are very positive about the quality of the training delivery. Over 98% of the learners and 97% of the employers feel the training was well delivered. The employers, in particular, would use the College again and would recommend us to other employers. This is excellent as the College has £2.65m of Employer Responsive funding to support vocational training in 10/11 although there are many challenges. The Coalition Government has confirmed the end of the Train to Gain programme, a move to funding delivery of adult apprenticeships and the introduction of minimum contract levels (MCL) for providers of £0.5m to £1m. We are considering the best

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 14 of 43 way of increasing our sub-contractor base from the 7 partner-providers we are working with this year, while still maintaining quality of delivery. However, following a delayed start due to late publication of the funding guidelines, we have secured 180 learner starts for NVQ delivery (target 1450) and some 130 adult apprenticeship trainees. We are planning to allocate £0.5m to adult apprenticeships, around 150 starts. Apprenticeships are being delivered in sports management, customer care, business administration, engineering manufacturing and health & social care. A notable new employer for apprenticeship delivery this year is Caterpillar at Peterlee.

The College continues involvement in the Government‟s Employment and Welfare to Work initiatives aimed at getting people into employment. We are delivering bespoke pre- employment training to the unemployed through the 6 Month Unemployed Training Programme, utilising Local Employment Partnerships involving the Skills Funding Agency, Jobcentre Plus and local and national employers.

The College led a partnership delivering pre-employment training for the new TESCO store in . The partnership included , Derwentside Training, CPU and Working Links. The same partnership was also involved in delivery of training for new staff at the new Sainsbury store in Bishop Auckland. These two major retailers, located directly opposite each other in Bishop Auckland, were in competition to be the first to open. This resulted in some challenges all of which were delivered.

TESCO have now announced the opening of an Express store in Sacriston. In conjunction with Tesco and Jobcentre Plus, open days held at the College for Jobcentre Plus clients, have resulted in a further 23 candidates commencing a pre-employment training programme with the College on 12 November 2010.

As previously reported, open days have also been hosted by New College Durham in both Newcastle and Durham for recruitment to pre-employment training programmes for TUI (Thompson‟s Holidays and First Choice) which have resulted in 101 candidates registering to commence training on 15 November 2010. This is the first training we have undertaken for TUI and have been advised that, should this prove successful, it is a partnership arrangement they hope to continue and expand in the future.

The regional Local Employment Partnership with the Ministry of Defence did proceed despite disappointing referrals from Jobcentre Plus. 17 candidates started the training with eleven completing who met or exceeded the Army entrance fitness test. The successful candidates are now awaiting confirmation of the next assessment tests with the Army.

Pre-employment training in Warehousing and Distribution for the Co–op resulted in all the candidates securing employment either with the Co-op Distribution centre in Chester le Street or with Asda distribution centre in Washington.

Community Provision

Adult and Community Learning

The College has maintained its commitment to Adult Community Learning (ACL) learning despite funding restrictions for work in this area. This has been recognised locally and regionally and in particular by Durham County Council who, as part of the new funding arrangements post July 2011, has in principle agreed to work in partnership with the College. A proposal has been developed, including Bishop Auckland College, for a franchise arrangement for all of the Council‟s adult and community learning funding which will be incorporated into the Council‟s Adult Services Strategic Plan. The Plan will be considered for

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 15 of 43 approval by the Council‟s Senior Management Team in December and, following approval, will proceed to the Council‟s Cabinet in January 2011. Once approval has been granted, an implementation plan for the franchising arrangement will require formulation and will include: fee policies, curriculum portfolio, quality arrangements and delivery processes.

The College has taken the lead on the development of the Durham and Chester le Street Learning and Skills Partnership. The Partnership will align ACL funding and the planning of courses within the locality, therefore avoiding duplication and will identify gaps in provision. This has resulted in very good community enrolments for the College in both full cost and funded provision.

Waddington Street Centre is offering a range of courses at the centre in Durham City for customers who have a range of mental health problems. The Centre has been successful in securing funding for the College which will support delivery costs.

The College has renewed the franchise contract with Bridge Women‟s Centre. The Centre is extremely successful in engaging and supporting women from the area who have experienced significant personal issues and require additional support. The Centre now forms part of the College‟s Quality Review process which both parties are finding beneficial, embedding procedures to enable successful delivery of learning at the Centre. In the academic year 09/10 Women‟s Bridge achieved a 92% success rate an increase of 19% on the previous year. This is a remarkable achievement in light of the client group they work with and the staff feel, quite rightly, very proud of the achievement, contributing positively to the College‟s overall success rate.

Full cost community provision has expanded, offering a variety of different leisure and hobby type programmes throughout the area. Additional courses which contain a more vocational emphasis are being funded through Personal and Community Developmental Learning (PCDL) funding, enabling engagement of learners with access to fee remission, therefore widening the College‟s capacity to engage learners across the community.

School Updates and the Experiences of Learners

School of Business Management and IT

The School has achieved target in most areas of recruitment this academic year, with particularly high demand for ICT in both Further Education and Higher Education. The enrichment activities for Further Education students proved popular and provided opportunities for team building and links to their core curriculum activities. There have already been charitable activities within the School which have been recognised by senior management. The Business Society continues to be popular and has already facilitated a visit to the European Parliament.

Link Romanian Appeal

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Nazenin Mahloji and her colleagues with John Widdowson

The NVQ Diploma in Business Administration class took part in the Link Romania Appeal to send shoe boxes for families in time for Christmas. Nazenin Mahloji coordinated the task as part of her role as an administrator on work placement at the Student Union and enlisted the help of her classmates, raising money, filling the shoeboxes, and wrapping them ready for despatch. The group found the experience to be a challenging yet also very enjoyable one, and managed to complete 22 shoeboxes for the appeal. The group also completed a sponsored walk on 5 November 2010 to help raise funds to contribute to the appeal.

This activity has enabled the group to work as a team towards a very rewarding goal, which is also a key aspect of the NVQ Diploma in Business Administration. Nazenin and her colleagues were pleased to discuss this activity with the Principal, John Widdowson, when he visited their classroom to view the positive outcome of their efforts.

Massive Attack Paintballing

Paul Cooper, Mark Peart, Liam Weaver and friends enjoy paintballing

This team building event allowed the BTEC Level 2 IT Diploma students to get to know one another at the beginning of the academic year and to work together in order to carry out strategies and tactics to out manoeuvre the opposition. The event was supervised by massive attack staff that ensured the students had a very safe yet enjoyable time. The students will be able to reflect upon this activity when developing websites aimed at promoting paintballing events as a part of their core curriculum.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 17 of 43 Moorhouse Adventure Centre

Ross Burns, Paul Campbell, Sophie Lineton, Katy Newman, and friends at Moor House

The BTEC Business L3 Year One and Two students enjoyed participating in a range of activities including Tomahawk throwing, tobogganing, archery, abseiling, team activities, petrol buggies and rifle shoot. This was an excellent exercise to encourage team building and was arranged at the beginning of the course to help the students get to know one another in their groups. This enrichment activity also helps to support the local Scout and Guide Association who are the co-ordinators of these events.

The Business Society

The Business Society students outside the European Parliament

The Business Society is a student-led society coordinated by the Course Leader of the Foundation Degree in Business, Andy Wain. The aim of the society is to provide additional business related activity for the business students of New College Durham; this includes both Further Education and Higher Education students.

This year the Business Society has already been to Brussels, Belgium to visit the European Parliament and our MEP Stephen Hughes during September 2010. The trip went well and all students were exposed to the culture of different nationalities and a detailed review as to how the EU Parliament functions.

The Business Society is also planning to have several mini seminars during November 2010 to explore the past careers of our business tutors. In addition our major seminar this semester is on 29 November 2010 to discuss „The Entrepreneur‟. Panel members include CEO of Sunderland Software City, Bernie Callaghan, Director of Cotswold Manufacturing Ken Napper, Owner Manager of Mobeus Jewellers, Mark Lloyd and Director of Virtuoso Digital Marketing, Maureen Storey.

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Learning Support

Supporting students with Asperger Syndrome

Following the launch of this project last year, the Pathways programme now has a dedicated CLASS Pathways group. Although the core timetable mirrors the rest of the Pathways curriculum, these 11 students are studying a slightly different programme designed to meet their specific needs. This includes a Social Awareness programme and Independent Travel Training, both of which are accredited through the Open College Network (OCN).

Pathways

Pathways students worked hard designing, making and selling a range of items in order to raise money for the Link Romania shoebox appeal. Their efforts raised £20.

Pathways students: Aiden Ferguson, Charlotte Gordon, Kelvin Miller, Marcus Herrod, Lisa Robinson, Jake Duffy, Sam Cummings selling their goods during a busy lunchtime.

Step Up

The Step Up group visited the Disability North Exhibition (DNX) at the Metro Arena. The purpose of the visit was to find out about the range of educational, work and lifestyle opportunities on offer. They thoroughly enjoyed exploring all the stands and exhibitions.

Peter Westall at a stand in the Disability North Exhibition.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 19 of 43 The Centre for Functional, Basic and Generic Skills

SfL (Skills for Life) provision has started recruiting to 5 specific recruitment points this year and we expect to have 200 learners by the end of June 2011. This is different from the roll on, roll off provision we have offered in the past. The five start points, are already proving successful, as we are able to adapt to changing demand. With the demand for numeracy being higher, we have restructured the timetable, and where we have 5 sessions each of Literacy and Numeracy in the first set, we have adjusted this to 6 Numeracy sessions and 4 Literacy sessions.

As part of Foundation Learning and the drive to improve employability skills amongst our young people, we have developed courses that teach personal, social and work skills. We have also successfully developed programmes in Personal Learning and Thinking Skills which we have trialled in specific areas last year. These are being further developed and delivered in a wider context across more than one school.

School of Sport, Tourism and Public Services

Travel & Tourism

Sophie is currently in year 2 of the BTEC National Certificate in Travel & Tourism, as well as exceeding her target grades at College Sophie gained a place on the Hays Travel Training Academy programme. The Training Academy, based in Hays Travel Head Office in Sunderland, was set up to allow students the opportunity for some Part-time paid work in an industry they were currently studying at College. The academy has only 20 places and is open to students from all of the local Further Education Colleges. The position was originally for a six month period but Sophie has now been offered a permanent Part-time position within the Customer Services department due to her commitment and standard of work. Sophie was also asked to represent the company in their marketing material as testimonial of what it is like to work for Hays Travel.

Sophie Barrass Hays Training Academy

“I've been working at Hays Travel for six months now on the Training Academy Programme and I feel that this has been massively beneficial to the course I am completing at College. It has been a great opportunity to increase my knowledge within the travel and tourism industry as I have the chance to experience different departments within Hays Travel. I‟ve loved the time I have worked for Hays Travel so far, all the staff have been very friendly and supportive whist I have been training, and very patient whilst I've been learning different skills. I am looking forward to experiencing future departments!”

Another of the BTEC National Certificate in Travel & Tourism year 2 students, Rosa Marsal, has gained a place within the training academy and began her employment in October. TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 20 of 43 Sophie and Rosa have found their experiences so far to be of great value to them and their studies.

Sport

Luke Thompson has reached the final stages of the England College Football Associations (ECFA) trials. He is the first student ever to have done so from New College Durham and is one of only four to do so from the North of England. His success comes off the back of a promotion winning campaign that has seen the New College first team crowned Albert Dox Trophy champions and reach the dizzy heights of the ECFA premier league for the first time in its history.

Luke has progressed both on and off the field under the guidance of the staff at College, and as well as gaining the captaincy this year, he has also successfully moved from a level 2 to a Level 3 Diploma in Sports Performance and Excellence. Colin Myers, Football Development Manager at New College said; “Luke is a role model for all of the other students in the Football Development Centre”.

Luke Thompson (far right)

The Football Development Centre

The Football Development Centre enjoined a trip to Scotland where they experienced a 3-0 shock win for Hearts against Celtic. Before the game they were treat to a tour of the ground and lunch at the club and afterward they were invited back to the premier lounge where ex Sunderland player Kevin Kyle as well as other Hearts players chatted with our lads. On the seconds day the team played the East of Scotland League Champions where they drew 1-1.

High Ropes at Kirkley Hall, Northumberland.

As part of an Induction to the College, all new sports students had the opportunity to attend a High Ropes course at Kirkley Hall in Northumberland. 60 students went in total and they enjoyed a range of activities which promoted team building and leadership skills. The course also allowed new learners to meet their peers and staff teaching within the sports department.

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The BTEC Sports (performance and excellence) students are continuing their successful 3 year partnership with the service users of Durham City and Empower as part of their Level 3 Certificate in Higher Sports Leaders. The course offers the students the opportunity to work with older members of the community, as well as children and the disabled.

The mixed ability group come in once a week and play a number of structured games, sports and activities which are led by our Students on the programme.

Public Services

Since 1999, over 10,000 students and teachers have taken part in the Holocaust Educational Trust's groundbreaking Lessons from Auschwitz Project. Michael Hird and Charmiane Bowman who are both National Certificate Public Service Year 2 students attended this year representing New College Durham.

Based on the premise that 'hearing is not like seeing', this four-part course explored the universal lessons of the Holocaust and its relevance for today. The LFA Project with which they had the opportunity to go with aims to increase knowledge and understanding of the Holocaust for young people and to clearly highlight what can happen if prejudice and racism become acceptable.

The visit to the former Nazi extermination and concentration camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau were preceded and followed by half-day seminars in order to ensure an exceptional educational experience.

Since 6 September 2010 sixty L2 Diploma Public Services students have attended a Look at Life course at Catterick Army Base. The courses lasted for four days and involved Leadership and Teamwork skills, culminating in a night exercise in Catterick army training area.

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In addition to this all students from the course managed to raise £2960 for the Royal British Legion Poppy appeal, with one member of the group (Jordon Little) attending the Royal Albert Hall Remembrance Evening In London as a guest of the Royal British Legion.

All members of the course attended a paintballing event at Delta Force in Cramlington as part of the induction to the College and course. Again this promoted team work and leadership skills and it enabled learners to meet their Peers and staff teaching on the course.

The North East Drug Team (NEADDT Prison Service) visited the College and students on the course helped with training and were given a talk on specialist roles in the Prison Service.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 23 of 43 Students from New College Durham Public Services department participated in a major exercise involving all the local emergency services. Students were asked to act as cricket fans at a major arena when a simulated chemical bomb release has occurred. All the students were expected to follow emergency procedure and go the process of being „decontaminated‟. This involved stripping down and showering in the Fire Service CCBRN system and cooperating with Police to investigate the incident. All who participated were impeccable in their performance with Fire Service and Police personnel commenting on their attitude and commitment.

SUMO 3

SUMO (Step Up Move On) or Pre S4S (Skills 4 Success) projects continue to be successful and the school has a number of projects which have successfully completed or are on-going this year. The S4S team worked to engage with young people Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET) in the Pelton area of Chester-le-Street and Derwentside through Derwentside Training. Initial engagement took place from July 2010 with referrals received from Connexions. The aim was to engage with the hardest to reach NEET students and deliver a flexible programme of study in the local community. Initial contact was through one to one mentoring meetings with the young people. The second on-site programme began at Pelton in September and the Derwentside project started in September. The programmes were designed to allow an initial week of diagnostic assessment, team building, tutorial and Personal Learning Coach support. The programme was designed to change depending on the needs and interests of the learners; through feedback and consultation with an appointed student‟s representative. Varied taster sessions were put on for both groups at the college and learners were transported to the college to take part. The feedback was exceptional from both Staff and students from Pelton Community Centre and Derwentside training.

The partnership work with Derwentside training resulted in 71% of the young people progressing into employment or training. As a result Derwentside SUMO 2 commenced in October which targeted 15 young people from the area. Since the SUMO projects started 171 young people have been engaged and on 70% have progressed into employment or training.

The current cohort of Brandon SUMO enjoying life outside the classroom and getting involved with a forest skills session which included communication skills and teamwork at Chopwell Woods.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 24 of 43 Catering

A Game Day in Hospitality & Catering

Diploma in NVQ Levels 3 & 2 Professional Chef Student‟s spent the day preparing furred & feathered game for a “Taster in Game” fine dining evening at Le Nouveau Restaurant. The game was supplied by Durham Venison & Game from Newton Aycliffe. The day began early having the game delivered for a nine o clock start. This event was organised to give the students the experience of working with fresh killed local game and to gain knowledge and understanding of how this resource should be prepared, stored and cooked correctly

Emily Blenkinsop inspecting the quality of the fresh pheasants

Students were shown by two master butches Alan & Brian Pattison how to skin the rabbits then cut them into portions, pluck pheasants, partridge and pigeon which again they had to either cut into portions or de-breast the pigeons.

As well as rabbits, pheasants, partridge and pigeon there was also a full Roe Deer for the students to view, this was prepared by the demonstrating butches, the deer arrived skinned but this was brought along for students to view and touch.

The deer was then used as a demonstration on how to prepare large game for cooking by removing the shoulders, boning and rolling, the haunch again boned and rolled and finally the venison loin was removed from the backbone.

As well as the two master butchers game demonstration chef Kevin Roxby with years of experience cooking game at county shows in England, Ireland and even as far afield as New Zealand came to New College to demonstrate how to cook furred and feathered game both traditionally and oriental style.

All of the student preparation was for the following evening when Le Nouveau Restaurant held a game tasting fine dining evening which was well attended by guests.

Guests had a choice of two starters then had the five taster main courses followed by a choice of three sweets or a cheese board.

Up on reflection the students had two good days where they gained valuable experience in preparing, cooking and serving Le Nouveau guests using locally shot fresh game

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 25 of 43 Sixth Form Centre and Professional Development

Sponsoring Students in India

Students in the Sixth Form Centre continue to raise money for the Sacred Heart school in India. During the first term students, as part of enrichment, organised a “Freaky Thursday” charity day which involved selling raffle tickets and fancy dress. The event raised £313.90 which the event co-ordinator (Psychology lecturer Helen Robinson) explains “(the money) will be used for building and maintenance work (e.g. leaky roof, broken seating) and classroom essentials such as blackboards, painting the walls, exercise books etc”. The students are already planning next terms charity events.

Nisehal Tamang (left) his classmates and Neha Tamang (right) the children of the Sacred Herat school whom the Sixth Form Centre students sponsor.

Jamie Cullen, Katie Burton and Jamie Plews raising money on Freaky Thursday

Gifted and Talented Programme

In September the college welcomed its first cohort of AQA Baccalaureate students. These gifted students are being supported by a personalised tutorial and enrichment programme which incorporates stretch and challenge activities aimed to maximise their potential. Activities planned for the cohort include; Aimhigher residential visits to Oxford and Cambridge. The sixth form centre is also planning visits to other Russell and 1994 group universities, opportunities for volunteering and specialised subject specific stretch and challenge work for these students and indeed any other sixth form centre student who expresses an interest. In September, five AQA Baccalaureate students became the first group of student ambassadors assisting at college advice events to great effect. The group is also planning fund raising events and is already heavily involved in many SU activities.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 26 of 43 In addition, along with other AS students some of the AQA Bacc group have applied to take part in the supported progression Compact scheme which is an exciting opportunity to take part in a two year programme culminating in an additional qualification worth 40-60 UCAS points and a guaranteed place on a Durham undergraduate degree. In addition the students will receive specialist academic support in their subject area and given guidance on personal statements and university applications generally. The sixth form centre is supporting the students in their applications by offering workshops and submitting specialist subject references on behalf of the students. The closing date is December 5th and successful students will begin the programme early in the New Year.

Enrichment Programme

The revamped enrichment programme has been very successful with AS students taking part in a charity walk in aid of Mental Health week. Also in a hard fought international Healthy Eating “cook off” between the SFC & our International Students, money was raised by selling the food prepared by both sets students in the Colleges‟ restaurant kitchen for the Children in Need appeal.

The A2 students have been offered a variety of enrichment activities ranging from Forensic Sc. to “Spiked”, the students newsletter. These students have also been involved in raising money to support educational development in Nepalese schools.

Ranya Allison, Chantelle Blinco, Julie Hindmarch, Hannah Sanderman, Helen Brooke enjoy a day out as part of the AS and GCSE Enrichment programme.

International Youth Congress on Philosophy for Change

Two A2 Philosophy students have won the opportunity to participate in the annual International Youth Congress on Philosophy for Change which has places for only sixteen students nationally. The two week trip involves visiting various sites in Mexico and participating in community of enquiries on “peace, justice and sustainability”. The aim is to explore issues arising from stimuli such as Mayan temples, the rainforest and experiencing life in a village of modern Mayans who have been affected by war and discrimination.

Nathan Wakely and Tara Anderson in Mexico

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Healthy Eating Cook Off

AS students competed with the College‟s International students to raise awareness of healthy eating alternatives and to raise money for Macmillan. The two groups of students were given a £15.00 budget to design and create three meal options. The food was then sold over lunch time on Friday, raising a total of £110 for Macmillan. Although both teams sold out of all of their food, the international students created the most portions (to sell), so raised the most money. Well done to all the students involved.

Dawn Gardiner, George Crosby and Rebecca Curry

National School Film Week

The charity Film Education runs a National Schools Film Week whereby cinemas put on free screenings for many different subjects and curriculums.

This year, both the AS and A2 Film Studies successfully took part in the week by attending screenings at the Gala Theatre/Cinema in Durham.

The A2 started the week (19 October) off by attending a screening of the new French film Micmacs from director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. The students enjoyed this quirky comedy and gave them a fresh insight into the type of films that get produced in France. It also helped to show them that not all French films are as bad as the ones I show them in class.

The AS really got into the spirit when they attended the screening for new British film The Scouting Book For Boys (21 October). The day coincided nicely with the College charity day where students were encouraged to dress differently. The fact that we were on an enrichment trip did not deter them from travelling through Durham dressed in a variety of wild and wonderful costumes.

James Dunn and Stephen Oliver TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 28 of 43

Law goes to court

AS Law students visited Durham Crown Court on two occasions to observe the criminal justice system in practice. On both occasions the students had a private audience with Durham Crown Court resident judge, Judge Prince. Judge Prince talked openly to the students about his role and how he became a judge, the kind of cases he deals with and how he decides sentences. Student prepared questions for the judge prior to their visit and took part in a vibrant Q&A session. Judge Prince praised the students for their exemplary behaviour during the trials.

Bill Bryson: Seeing Further

A2 students were treated to an evening of 'Seeing Further' - An Evening on the Magic of Science with Bill Bryson & Guests. Students listened to debate of current scientific issues between Bill Bryson with the award winning biographer Richard Holmes OBE; science writer, broadcaster and novelist, Georgina Ferry; award winning science writer, Philip Ball ; and the President of the Royal Society, Lord Martin Rees. Topics discussed included evolution v creationism, robot rights and how to win a Nobel Prize in Science.

Action Research project in Mathematics

Dr Sarah Marshall (curriculum leader science and maths and Graham Capps maths course leader) have been successful in securing a grant of £1000 from the national centre for excellence in teaching of mathematics. This funding is being used to carry out an action research project around the theme of „discussion and collaboration in maths‟. Innovative techniques are being used with classes to encourage student-centred learning, students involved range from GCSE Evening classes, GCSE day classes and Functional Maths classes.

Access to HE

This is the second year we have offered a Diploma for Progression programme. This Level 2 programme provides a learning opportunity for those learners whom the Access to Higher Education programme is considered not to be currently appropriate. The EV openly praised this strategy highlighting that it gave students a “clear insight into what Access involved” 80% of Diploma for Progression students progressed onto Access in 2011.

The majority of Access to Higher Education students are in the process of applying to university via UCAS for 2011 entry. Heather Limbach and John Strowger, an Access Tutor, continue to receive complimentary e-mails from former students who have cited both as being crucial to their personal development and their subsequent acquisition of a Degree, once they progress from the Access program.

The feedback from the External Moderators report (22 February 2010) was very good. The Internal Moderation was identified as being outstanding at this centre. The moderator remarked that the course was well organised and the Access team‟s Grade Tracking was commended for its ability to monitor student performance across all pathways. On successful completion students continue to progress into Higher Education and/or employment.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 29 of 43 School of Creative Industries

Music and Performing Arts

The year ended with polished and professional performances from both music and drama students.

The first year National Diploma in Performing Arts participated in the Durham Mysteries, an outdoor extravaganza performed at The Sands in Durham on 27, 28 and 29 May. This prestigious event, organised by the Gala Theatre, featured modern versions of the medieval mystery cycle (stories from the Bible). These short plays were performed by a mixture of community groups and professional actors and our students performed The Harrowing of Hell, the grand finale of the piece.

Year 2 National Diploma Music students performed 21st Century Rocks-a concert of songs from film soundtracks- at the Gala Theatre on the 8 June and the First Year and First Diploma students put on a concert of hits from the 1970s at the Gala Theatre on the 7 June. The concerts were of a very high standard and audiences came away having had an enjoyable and „rocktastic‟ evening.

In the Drama Studio at New College, the Second Year National Diploma students staged two plays by Jim Cartwright: Two and Road. Both of these shows were performed to a very high standard and were well received by their audiences.

The level of achievement on both National Diploma courses was once again very high with more than 52% of students gaining a triple Distinction grade in Performing Arts and 39% achieving DDD in Music.

In practical music exams 12 students achieved Grade 8 in their chosen instrument and Natalie Cheyenne-Towers got the highest grade 5 in the region. Natalie was invited to sing at the Prize Giving Award Ceremony in Gosforth. In LCM Music Theatre, 12 Performing Arts students (63% of the class) achieved Distinctions for their singing examinations.

Former New College Performing Arts student, Brian Lonsdale, is currently appearing on Broadway in the National Theatre's production of The Pitman Painters written by award winning playwright Lee Hall.

Graphic Design

Graphic Design students were asked to design a T-shirt to promote a national film festival being held in Durham for „Kids for Kids UK‟. The winning T-shirt was created by Mathew Roche from first year Graphic Design who won a cash prize and printed T-shirt showing his final design.

Kids for Kids UK are an organisation helping promote young filmmakers throughout the UK and are part of an international based network of filmmakers. A showing of films from Mandela Bay Pictures that were written, directed and filmed by young people living in rural South Africa was screened at New College Durham highlighting topical issues such as poverty, HIV, bullying and arranged marriages that impact on some young people in South Africa today.

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Tutor Richard Hall and Student Mathew Roche

Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy

The Level 3 Beauty students attended the North East Skills event at the Metro Radio Arena to promote the vocational courses at New College Durham. The students provided prospective students with an insight into life as a student at New College Durham. As well as value information the students demonstrated their skills in Nail Art, Nail Care and Face Painting services.

Beauty Level 3 students Sophie Hobson and Amy Bowron

The beauty staff arranged for the beauty students‟ to attended one of the largest beauty exhibitions in the North, professional beauty at G-Mex. They had a fantastic time attending workshops and demonstrations. This allowed the students to look at various careers within the beauty industry.

Foundation Degree Graphic Design students meet author/illustrator Oliver Jeffers.

Foundation Degree Graphic Design students visited Seven Stories in Newcastle to meet and be involved in the installation project led by world famous Illustrator and author Oliver Jeffers. Seven Stories is the first museum in the UK wholly dedicated to the art of British children‟s books.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 31 of 43 Oliver Jeffers is the hugely successful author/illustrator of seven picture books, including Up and Down, the brand new and widely anticipated sequel to the award-winning Lost and Found.

Photos of the installation can be seen on: www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=237411&id=18708132529&ref=mf

Foundation Degree Graphic Design Work Experience

Second year students are undertaking a range of live projects. To date they have successfully completed designs for a new private dental practice, some examples are shown below:

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They are currently involved in further live briefs for the new Stanley Academy, a new charity for war victims called Veterans@Ease and a new national company called Milkshake Magic. Design work for these companies are in the early stages and will be completed in the next two months.

New College unveiled new talent

Over 100 Art, Design and Media students exhibited work in the „Watch this space‟ show. Students displayed a large selection of artwork including fine art, animation, illustration, surface pattern, textiles, fashion, corporate ID, ceramics and much more. The highlight of the show was the „Fashion show‟ promoting students creative designing and making of garments for fashion and costume design.

The aim of the show was to promote the work of our talented students on the National Diploma and First Diploma in Art and Design. Many of the students whose work was featured have progressed onto Higher education or have already secured employment in the Creative Industry.

Students from Year 1 and year 2 in Art & Design went to Edinburgh for their first enrichment activity of the year. Students visited the National Gallery of Scotland, The Dene Gallery and The Gallery of Modern Art. Students had the opportunity to see the famous prince‟s street and the magnificent castle. Some of the second year students have now put Edinburgh College of Art and design as an option for UCAS applications for Higher Education.

Year 1 Art & Design students took part in the „Shoe Box Appeal‟ buying and making gifts to raise awareness of families from around the world who have greater needs and live in difficult situations. Students collected, made and donated gifts for the event and took part in wrapping the boxes in the Mall.

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Alan Richardson and Liam Tate Art & Design Level 3 yr1

School of Technology

New Head of School for Technology

Ian Gaskill

The College would like to welcome Ian Gaskill as the new Head of School of Technology.

Ian has recently joined us from , where he has worked for the past two years as the Curriculum & Operational Manager for the School of Construction & Automotive. He has a proven track record of managing the delivery of high quality learning programmes within a Further Education/Higher Education College.

Ian‟s background is in Engineering; he served an apprenticeship and worked in the Engineering industry for 16 years, prior to starting his lecturing career at where he worked for six years

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 34 of 43 He moved onto in 1998, to progress his career, and to help with the development and planning of the Engineering provision in their new campus. Ian held various positions within the Engineering department, finally moving onto the role of Assistant Curriculum Manager for Vocational Studies.

During 2007 Ian was offered the opportunity to work on a cross county secondment, as the “champion” for the Engineering Diploma, supporting partnerships across County Durham pass through the Diploma Gateway process.

Ian‟s knowledge and experience is welcomed by New College Durham, and Ian says “I am very pleased to join New College Durham as Head of School of Technology. The School has excellent facilities for learners, along with highly experienced and dedicated staff. I‟m really looking forward to working with the team, in planning and delivering a well structured and high quality curriculum, to meet learner and employer needs”

The College is looking forward to working with Ian and welcomes his knowledge and experience.

Apprentices at Ushaw College

A County Durham teenager employed to help maintain the largest seminary in England and Wales has been named Apprentice of the Year.

David Mahan, 19, works as a painter and decorator at Ushaw College and has recently completed his NVQ in Painting and Decorating at New College Durham. He has been named Painting and Decorating Apprentice of the Year by New College Durham, where he has been studying for two years to complete his National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).

David is one of the three apprentices currently working at Ushaw College, and has been working one-to-one with Jim Hope, Ushaw Colleges Maintenance Manager.

David said “I have been at Ushaw since 2008 and I couldn‟t learn from a better person than Jim. I really enjoy painting and decorating, and learning from Jim. There is lots of work here to do, and I like being given the chance to see something as it is now and change it into something different and better.”

David who comes from Crook, previously completed his Technical Certificate in Basic Plumbing Level 2 at New College Durham, but now has his sights set on a career in painting and decorating. He is now considering what his next steps are.

“There are a lot of apprentices at New College Durham so to be named Painting and Decorating Apprentice of the Year is a big achievement and especially at his age,” added Peter Seed, Director of Estates and Facilities at Ushaw College.

“David is a talented young man and we want to find a way to make sure he can stay here but we recognise that College is important. We are extremely proud of David and delighted with the work he has been doing for us here at Ushaw College.”

Ushaw College is the Roman Catholic Seminary for the North of England, although in recent years has diversified to provide accommodation, conferences and events facilities. The 200 year old seminary provides David with around 20-25 different techniques, including traditional methods, which he would not ordinarily be able to experience if he was working for a painting and decorating contractor.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 35 of 43 “There are techniques David has not seen yet, such as repairs to stained glass windows so there is a lot more available to help him build upon his skills base,” added Mr Seed.

David was presented with his Apprentice of the Year Award at a special ceremony at New College Durham on 5 July 2010.

Nigel Fisher, Painting and Decorating Framework Leader is David‟s tutor at New College Durham. He added “For David to be named apprentice of the year at just 19 is a remarkable achievement but one which he thoroughly deserves. David has been at New College since 2007 and we recognised his commitment and enthusiasm along with a keen eye for detail.”

David‟s skills have also been acknowledged at the regional heats of this year‟s Skill Build Competition, held at Newcastle College earlier this month.

David pitted his painting and decorating skills against those of another 100 entrants in eight categories but was piped at the post. “We are so proud of David, he was very close to winning his section in the Skill Build competition but sadly was piped at the post,” added Peter Seed.

David Mahan Tony Lewin & David Mahan

Students Build Loch Ness Monster

Two groups of pathways students who have been doing Brickwork for six weeks have designed two Loch Ness Monsters using rough ring arches and spiral pillars to create the Monster. All the students have worked together in groups to create the monster and it has been a great team building, fun exercise whilst using different types of bricklaying skills to create the monster.

Group 1 Group 2

David Holden, Sam Blackmore Lindsey Scott graham, Teresa brown, Jade Kennedy, Robert Cant Daniel Innes, Gibson, Jessica Wilkinson, Jonathan Ryan Owens David Robson, Ryan Laverick, Martin Cook Ryan Owens, Hughes, Shelton Stewart Ryan Hughes,

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As part of the enrichment day the Full-time Nationals in Construction & Engineering students chose to go paint balling at Under Siege Paint Balling Centre, Tow Law. The weather was torrential rain, but the day was fun and everyone soon forgot about the weather and enjoyed the fun packed day. Following the safety induction, and after getting into our camouflage boiler suits, protective masks and gloves, we were given the paintball ammo. - Game on!!!! Two teams were formed; Construction wore Yellow bands and Engineers wore Red. Construction lecturers Richard Byers and Chris Raby joined the engineers to balance the numbers – thanks guys. Teams played games called Elimination, Dynamite recovering and disable the rocket, supervised by centre marshals. Battle areas were laid out across fields and in woods, with Land rovers, barricades and dug outs for cover.

At the end of the day we walked back to the centre and some staggered I must say, due to bruises or exhaustion, and a fantastic fun filled day was had by all.

Coast to Coast Charity Walk

Two Technology Lecturers; Mike Taylor and Dave Hutchinson, completed the Coast to Coast walk on Saturday the 31 July 2010 with a total journey of 192 miles over 12 days. The group were unsupported and carried all of their equipment such as; tents, cooking equipment, clothes and medical equipment, on their own backs.

Tradition dictates that all walkers dip their boots in the Irish Sea and pick up a pebble at the start. At the end of the walk, the boots are dipped in the North Sea and the pebble thrown in the water! The whole group achieved this tradition.

Dave Hutchinson took his seventeen year old son Michael with him and the group of three were subjected to the worst weather the Cumbria Fells could throw at them for the first three days, but it did improve to overcast and showers, until they entered Yorkshire when the sun did shine as they passed the half way mark in Keld.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 37 of 43 In total Mike and Dave made a fantastic £1,000 and it will be donated to two children‟s cancer charities; CLIC Sargent and Grace House Children‟s Hospice.

Apprentices at Hydram Steel Works

Craig is well into his apprenticeship having joined Hydram in June. He has worked with the quality team, in the sales and design offices and is currently in the welding section. He says he enjoys welding and is pleased he has been placed in the section so early in his apprenticeship. He is a football fan and supports Sunderland. He counts passing his driving test as his biggest achievement to date.

Jack is 18 years old and lives in Shildon. He did his A levels at King James‟ 6th Form College before coming here. His main interest is football and he supports Sunderland. Jack is a fully trained lifeguard.

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Aaron is 17 and lives in Newton Aycliffe. He spent a year at Queen Elizabeth‟s College in Darlington before joining South West Durham Training. He came to Hydram in September. He has worked part-time in a bar and is a keen Newcastle supporter, following them at home and away. He says his biggest achievement to date was gaining an apprenticeship at Hydram.

Derwentside Homes Apprentice

Thomas Layton is an Electrical Apprentice studying here at New College Durham. He works for Derwentside Homes doing maintenance repairs and services and provides excellent customer service to tenants in their own home as well as making sure the best job possible is achieved.

Derwentside Homes take on a lot of our students as apprentices and the experiences they have with working for Derwentside Homes is a very positive experience, learning valuable skills in the trade of their choice.

Thomas Layton

Award Ceremony for Engineering Young Apprentices

The Engineering Employers Federation (EEF) recently held a presentation evening at Lumley Castle in Chester le Street for Engineering Young Apprentices who completed their apprenticeship programme in July 2010.

The event was organised to celebrate the young apprentices‟ performance in school, at college and in industry. Teachers and lecturers from the schools and colleges involved attended, together with representatives from the firms who provided work experience places.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 39 of 43 Apprentices who completed the two year programme, come from schools that make up the Mid-Durham partnership, these are St Leonards and Framwellgate School in Durham and St Robert of Newminster School from Washington.

Apprentices studied for a BTEC First Certificate or Diploma in school, along with a NVQ Level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations at College.

At the same time in school they studied for their core subjects of Mathematics, Science, English and ICT, along with other optional subjects, so that they comply with the requirements of the national curriculum.

A major part of the Young Apprenticeship programme is work experience with local engineering employers.

Ryan Summerbell from St Robert of Newminster School thanked all employers on behalf of the apprentices, along with NCD Engineering lecturers Graham Thompson and Nick Richardson, for their support and guidance throughout the programme.

Apprentices receiving their awards from Caroline Grumble from EEF, along with a group photograph with Graham Thompson from New College Durham.

Group Photo Ryan Summerbell

Daniel Hope Jack Lacey

Joseph Hirst Daniel McCormack

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Adam Lowes Christopher Freeburn

School of Early Years, Health and Social Care

The first cohort of Level 1 Child Care students completed studies in June 2010 with outstanding results; 100% retention and achievement

Excellent achievements across all programmes in child care in 2009/2010, e.g. 100% achievement level 2 NVQ, 98% Level 3 Child Care. This year 50% of the level 3 students have applied to go on to Higher Education – a significant increase in applications to Higher Education.

For the first time in 2010/201111, we have five groups of level 3 Child Care students, with 114 learners engaging with this programme of study.

The Level 1 child care programme incorporates personal and social development modules, This year, as part of “team work” and “running and enterprise”, learners and staff have raised £256.67 the Toma Fund for teenage cancer at the RVI (Royal Victoria Infirmary), and for „Treetops‟ the local specialist children‟s unit at University Hospital Durham. Students and staff took part in a witches walk and organised Halloween stalls in the East Mall of College.

Carol Andrews, Alyson Wilkins, Lisa Norris, Lucy Greathead, Stacy Cater, Lauren Bates, Emma Brown, Laura Goldsmith, Lauren Winter, Anne Anderson, Nikki Thompson, Lauren Montford, Judith Vaughan, Jade Prest, Jess Miller, Demi Morris, Lauren Swift, Emma McAngus

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Lisa Norris, Nikki Thompson, Tom Mercer

Excellent achievements in 2010/2011 for BA supported teaching and Learning and Level 3 Supported Teaching and Learning (STLS) – both 100%. Students from the Level 3 programme did exceptionally well with learners receiving support for dyslexia and visual impairment

Clare Foster, Claire Trotter, Juliet Marron, Neil Longstaff, Tracy Thompson, Korobi Choudhury, Darren McCloud, Chris Young.

Results for BSc Hons Podiatry programme were excellent in 2009/2010, with four first class Hons. Degrees and 17 x 2:1s.

Podiatry staff and students have again been asked to work over Christmas 2010 at the crisis centre in Newcastle – staff and students are extremely enthusiastic about this. In 2009/2010, Community Nursing and Health curriculum area had 100% retention and achievement across all programmes.

TL/MO z/GovRpt/2009-10/GovRpt070710 Page 42 of 43 The Nursing and Health team are delivering Medicines Management to County Hall supervisor level staff, with excellent feedback from the organisation. Staff are also delivering training on Dementia Care to staff from the same organisation and will deliver to another cohort in January 2011.

Kay Dover, lecturer in complementary Health has successfully completed an MSc in Public Health from Durham University.

Social work staff and students continue to work with service users and carers and are looking forward to a visit from a theatre group of people with learning difficulties. Social Work staff are delighted that one of their students who is profoundly deaf, graduated in July 2010 and another profoundly deaf student will graduate later in November.

The School of Early Years, Health and Social Care has had a very successful validation of the annual self assessment for Further Education funded provision, with outstanding, grade 1s across all aspects of provision.

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