Issue 4 | 16 October 2019 Catering students serve afternoon tea to delighted guests

Kind-hearted Catering students from the college served afternoon tea to guests over a three-day span in mid- June.

Guests were only asked to pay a nominal fee to enjoy the drinks, treats and sweets expertly prepared by the trainee cooks, who were finishing their studies for the last academic year.

Many thanks go to the students for their efforts in hosting the events, while our appreciation goes to everyone who attended. LDC decorate college entrance with flower pots A group of students form our Learning Development Centre helped give the college a summery look by planting flowers by the main entrance.

The flower pots included lobelia, geranium and begonias to help liven up the walkway to the main reception.

The college wishes to thank the students for their great efforts in decorating the campus. Apprentices take on table tennis in football match Two groups of our students went head-to-head in a friendly football match to help cap the end of the academic year.

Members of our Table Tennis Academy put down their paddles as they faced off against a team made up of Anglian Water apprentices.

However, the academy players came up short as Anglian Water secured a 3-0 victory. Access to HE students ‘graduate’ before university Having received offers from their respective universities, our Access to Higher Education students were treated to a mock graduation ceremony to celebrate their achievements.

All 17 of the students on the course had offers for their first- choice courses, prompting course leader Judi Fisher to arrange the occasion.

We wish everyone the best of luck in the future. LDC visit RAF base for work-based skill activities Trans X and Skills for Work students took the chance to develop their chances of employability with an action- packed trip to RAF Wittering.

As well as taking part in work- related activities, all students got the chance to sit in the cockpits of planes and check out war memorabilia.

Many thanks go to RAF Wittering for organising the trip. Trio place well in table tennis National Cup

Two bronze medals and a fifth on the Monday morning after commitments, taking place place-finish were secured as the weekend’s tournament, in Ostrava, Czech Republic in Table Tennis Natalie was quick to turn July. Academy players competed the players’ attentions to the at the Junior National Cup in upcoming European Youth She said: “Congratulations Plymouth. Championships. go to the players, and good luck for when they represent Shayan Siraj and Mollie This was the players’ next England next month.” Patterson finished third in the Boys and Girls sections respectively.

Megan Gidney was unfortunate to fall short of a podium position in the tournament in June.

It was a fiercely-fought and close competition, with all ten players in both the Boys and Girls sections each winning at least one match.

Coaches Gavin Evans and Natalie Green occupied the group on the mammoth 550- mile round trip to the south coast.

Following their return early College comes together to cap the end of year Grantham College celebrated also saw the end of Chair of Special thanks go to sponsors its star students and staff on Corporation, Mos Kalbassi’s who made the evening Thursday 27 June at their time at the college, Mos was possible; Oldrids & Downtown, annual awards ceremony. awarded a special award LiNCHigher, RAF Wittering, The evening celebrated the recognising his efforts. Kuiper Technology, InvestSK, achievements of students Lindum, Anglian Water, Salted throughout the year. Gracie Edwards, who studied Orange, System Professional Sport, was crowned our and Eve Taylor of London. For the third year running, Student of the Year. awards to two staff members Congratulations to all our were also presented – one of The ceremony was celebrated award winners and we wish you which is nominated for by staff by over 340 people including well, whether you are returning and one by students. the award winners, family to study next year, have gained and friends, staff members, employment or are taking a The 2018/19 academic year governors and sponsors. gap year.

Learning Development mark the end of year in style More than 100 party-goers Mosek handed out certificates led by manager Sarah Done gathered for a fun-filledof recognition to students and and assistant manager Tracy celebration for Grantham clients. Parkes. College’s Learning Development students and The celebration also allowed “I would like to say a grateful Day Break clients. for funds to be raised for the thanks to everyone that Day Break centre’s effort to worked so hard behind the The event allowed for families purchase a sensory carpet for scenes and on the night. The and friends to combine with its clients, with Louise Robinson feedback from attendees has students, staff and clients to raising £40. been incredible.” mark the end of the academic year. Lisa Smith, Head of Curriculum Lisa also wished to express for Learning Development, her gratitude to college A disco was provided by former said: “The evening was a governor Mos Kalbassi for his learner Kieran Brennan, while culmination of a year of hard support on the night, as well as Chair of Governors Amanda work by the Day Break team, photographer Trevor Toseland.

Science send-off for students moving on to pastures new As the 2018/19 academic year came to a close, many tutors decided to mark the end of the year with their own individual celebrations.

This included the Science department, who presented their Level 3 students with certificates of recongnition as the class head off to university and apprenticeships.

We would like to wish the best of luck to everyone who has left. Creative artists recognised at London ceremony

Two creative Art and Design commended’, while Emma’s Wendy Turner, the students’ students have had their work spray paint can design won a tutor on their Level 3 Art recognised in a national gold star and sponsor’s award and Design course, said packaging design competition. in its category. she was impressed with the commendable performance of Georgie Proctor and Emma The results for the competition her learners. Bishop submitted their were announced at an awards creations to the Starpack ceremony in London at the She said: “I’m very proud that Industry Awards, which end of June. Georgie and Emma have encourages young people to achieved a Starpack award. It’s take up careers in eye-catching The representatives from a massive achievement. and eco-friendly packaging Grantham College competed design. against students at university “It’s something that will get level in the competition, their foot in the door and stand Georgie’s bread loaf making their achievements all them in good stead for the packaging was rated as ‘highly the more impressive. future.” PVE enjoy afternoon tea as thank you for hard work Members of the Progression in Vocational Experience class were rewarded for their hard work in catering with an afternoon tea session.

While the food and drink was prepared by the students themselves, they were waited on by Tracey West and her team.

Thank you to everyone involved in ensuring the students were satisifed as they saw off the academic year with smiles on their faces. Joanna impresses employers and is rewarded with position A Public Services student wowed her work experience provider so much that she was offered more work with the company.

Joanna Handley undertook her placement at Oblio’s Deli and Bistro, who were impressed with her application and commitment.

She began work with the deli in July.

Congratulations Jonana on your achievement! Excess delivery donated to foodbank in need We had a surprise delivery of sandwiches, paninis and snacks delivered to Grantham College’s Refectory. As they weren’t needed, they have now been donated to a foodbank.

The food was brought to Grantham Foodbank, who said they intended to distribute it among attendees of a forthcoming church event.

HR Advisor Kirsty McGauley presented the food to members of the organisation.

Grantham College regularly collects food for the foodbank. To donate towards the brilliant cause, please place items in the box near reception. Staff get creative with recycling in Development Week As part of the college’s Development Week staff were tasked with creating elaborate outfits composed entirely of recycling.

A total of 20 teams dressed a model each with household materials, with creations including colourful princesses and warriors.

Principal Paul Deane used the chance to dress up as a cardboard cricket player for the event.

The competition was organised by the Human Resources department, with Dave Morris, Sarah High and Tracey Hart acting as judges.

Staff were encouraged to bring in recyclable materials for use in the event as the college pledged to cut back on its use of single-use items.

Claire Temprell, who was dressed head to toe in pink materials by her team, was crowned the winner. Alex is first to graduate through armed forces programme The newest Engineering lecturer at Grantham College has become the first Armed Forces service leader to graduate through the Further Forces programme.

Alex Knowles, who served in the Royal Air Force, will begin his new role teaching Anglian Water apprentices in September.

The Further Forces programme, an Education and Training Foundation initiative, helps The newly-qualified teacherdifference and inspire others to create paths for service leaders hopes to pass on his vast get into engineering. to retrain as further education experience as an engineer to lecturers. all of his future students. “Engineering has taken me to some fantastic places and Alex began work at Grantham He said: “After leaving the seen incredible things. I hope College in September of last Royal Air Force I knew I always that my students get the same year while gaining his PGCE at wanted to have a career that memories throughout their Nottingham Trent University. had the opportunity to make a careers.” Art and Design student is recognised for her creations Rachael’s other creations include prints of various animals, including rabbits and stags.

Rachael, who has begun selling her prints online, said she is delighted with how well her art has been received.

Her work has even be sold abroad, with purchases made in the Netherlands and elsewhere in Europe.

She said: “I’ve surprised myself. The feedback has been positive A talented Grantham College will have her designs on show and it encourages me to take artist has had her work selected at the Carre Gallery on Carre this further.” to be displayed in a gallery, Street, Sleaford. while securing an award for her Rachael’s work can be found creations. Her “Sparky Squirrel’ piece on Facebook and other social was chosen as the Directors’ media channels by searching Rachael Hare, who studied Award in the gallery’s Summer ‘Rachael Hare Mixed Media Art and Design at the college, Exhibition. Artist’. Apprentice Adam receives award for his dedication Adam Egner, an apprentice with lettings firm Belvoir, was presented with his Accounting Apprentice of the Year award.

Pauline Mould, Business Development Manager at Grantham College, presented Adam with his well-deserved trophy and certificate.

Adam was recognised for his outstanding attendance, hard work and commitment to learn in his role.

Congratulations, Adam! Doctor Victor returns nine years after leaving A qualified doctor and former Grantham College student has spoken highly of his time studying and living in .

Dr Victor Zhao, originally from Guangdong in China, began studying A-Levels in 2008 while living in the college’s halls.

He left Grantham two years later to study biomedical science at Newcastle University and completed his PhD in molecular biology there last year.

Victor has most recently been working as a post- operative researcher at his former university.

Despite being thousands of miles from home Victor said he enjoyed his time in Grantham, where he lived with members of the college’s Table Tennis Academy.

He said: “Grantham College is a good college in a historical and vibrant town. As a student it’s very convenient.”

Victor added that he had “really good” support from staff members as he adjusted to life in Lincolnshire, including enrolling on language courses. Day Break centre clients enjoy a summer to remember Students at Grantham College may have been away over the summer, but our Day Break centre clients were sure to make the most of the better weather.

The Day Break group were invited to a series of trips, which included visits to Twin Lakes, Woodland Waters and Skegness.

They were even allowed to go on a river cruise on the Newark Crusader.

We hope all of our clients enjoyed their summer! Refectory switches from plastic to plant-based products

Significant steps have been While single-use plastic on the environment and inspire taken in Grantham College’s products can take hundreds others to think differently. Refectory to reduce waste of years to decompose in the with the introduction of new earth, Vegware typically takes a She said: “We have decided to biodegradable food packaging. matter of weeks. look at biodegradable products because you cannot recycle From September, all plastic Karen Duller, Catering plastic if there is food waste on containers and cutlery will be Functions Manager at it. replaced with an alternative Grantham College, believes the product known as Vegware, change will go a long way to “Vegware takes 12 weeks to which is plant-based. reducing the college’s impact biodegrade.” Expansion for grooming facilities for new course Facilities have been expanded as Grantham College prepares to begin offering Level 3 Dog Grooming courses.

The grooming training area has had more grooming tables installed.

Grantham College’s upcoming L3 Dog Grooming course allows for students to practice on real-life animals, as well as gaining an understanding of the profession as a whole.

The course only requires one day of attendance per week. Multi-million pound IoT project officially underway

Excitement is building as work Led by Dr Steven Peacock - Vice designed to be employer-led on Grantham College’s new Principal for Higher Education and to meet the needs of the Higher Education facility is and Institute of Technology local area. officially underway. – the College successfully secured a share of £170m “It was a really good opportunity Grantham College’s Institute in funding to enhance high- to collaborate with Lincoln and of Technology (IoT), which quality HE Engineering and other colleges in the region.” opens in October 2020, will Digital studies in Grantham. see the historic grade II-listed Stonebridge House is currently Stonebridge House converted The College’s proposal was being prepared for the into a state-of-the-art based on the town’s strong refurbishment project, having Engineering and Digital Skills background in engineering, as most recently hosted the hub. well as the opportunity to fill College’s Media department. skills gaps in the local industries. Currently, plans are being Construction work on the site is finalised and final drawings are Grantham’s origins in scheduled to begin in January being completed with building engineering can be traced of next year. works due to start in early 2020. back to Richard Hornsby, who died in 1864. Dr Peacock stressed that the IoT As part of the Lincolnshire IoT project will restore Stonebridge partnership, Grantham College The College’s Elsham House House “back to its former glory will receive £2.6m of funding was named after the engineer’s and make it a cutting-edge from the Department for birthplace. facility.” Education to fund the building project and specialist learning Dr Peacock said of the project: Applications are open for IoT equipment. “The Institute of Technology is courses now. Olympian visits to coach at table tennis summer camp Players flew in from all over the globe to attend an intense table tennis camp held at Grantham College, with coaching delivered by Olympic and Commonwealth Games athletes.

Nations such as South Africa, Australia and Germany were represented at the Cooke & Deaton Summer School, which is held at the college every summer.

The course was led by six-time English table tennis champion, Alan Cooke, and Nicola Deaton, who was England’s no. 1 for five years. The pair spoke very highly of “This is the only option for Alan said of the camp: “It is their time training in Grantham serious table tennis players.” to enthuse and inspire the as they developed into younger people, but for the professional competitors. David, who has represented older players it is to play and England at the Commonwealth socialise.” Sam, who competed at the Games, added: “Here you’re 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, guaranteed 18 to 20 hours of Former Grantham College said of his decision to train in training a week, combining Table Tennis Academy players Grantham: “For me, it was the education and table tennis. Sam Walker and David McBeath best opportunity at the time. It were amongst the coaching was a pathway to the national “It is possible to go on and staff. team. represent your national team.” Day Break set £10k goal for ‘magic’ carpet fundraising Several fundraising dates have been set as Grantham College’s Day Break centre aims to secure money for a sensory ‘magic’ carpet.

The Day Break team will be holding a car boot sale at Grantham train station on August 25 and a stall at the Urban Hotel on September 15.

In addition, the team will be Day Break centre, explained: portable, so it allows for true holidng a Christmas disco at “A ‘magic’ carpet offers lots of inclusiveness for everyone.” the college, with ticket sales engagement from fun activities going towards fundraising. to challenging quizzes. The device, which would be placed in the LDC in the college, Sarah Done, manager of the “The unit is adjustable and will cost around £10,000. Ex-RAF trio help Engineering gear up for new year Former service members of the armed forces have joined the teaching line-up as Grantham College’s Engineering department gears up for the new academic year.

Phillip Evans, who served as a weapons technician, and Mark Spence, a former avionics technician, have joined the college over the summer.

The pair have more than 50 years of service in the RAF.

They are welcomed by a previous experience of 29th squadron, I taught aircraft department including Alex teaching. servicing.” Knowles, a former RAF mechanical engineer and the Each of the former RAF trio Mark added: “I used to teach first ex-serviceman to graduate possess specialist skills in maintenance on the Harrier, from the Further Forces each area of a fighter jet: Alex which gave me the incentive to programme. with mechanics, Mark with look for a teaching job.” electronics and Phillip with Alex joined the college in August weaponry. The pair are both eager to 2018 and recently gained his start teaching and assessing PGCE from Nottingham Trent Phillip, who has also worked in September and are looking University. as an assessor in his career, forward to working at Grantham Both Phillip and Mark have explained: “When I worked on College. New trial aims to create ‘workforce of the future’ Grantham College has been Since these placements were ensure companies can recruit given the go ahead by the completed, several students ‘work ready’ candidates who Department for Education to have begun employment with have the skills and attributes step up its industry placement their host employers. sought by industry. programme this following its success in 2018/19. Grantham College is one of “We, as a college, are focussed many colleges participating on furnishing students with the This year the college will assign in the trial, paving the way for skills industry needs and so are 80 students to substantial new T-Level qualifications to embracing the opportunities placements across a wide be introduced in 2020. T-Levels bring. Industry range of industries to help placements are the first step students develop vital technical T-Levels, which will be and have already brought and workplace skills. equivalent to three A-Levels, real benefits to students and will each include an industry businesses alike. The college is now seeking placement alongside study. to partner with “We are pleased to be businessess to provide students Paul Deane, Principal and expanding our trial this coming with placement opportunities. Chief Executive of Grantham year, working closely with College, said: “T-Levels industry so that together we Last year’s trial saw 30 students have been created by the can create the workforce of in industry placements. Department for Education to the future.” New academic year kicks off with annual freshers’ fair Grantham College began the 2019/20 academic year in style with its annual freshers’ fair.

There were plenty of attractions to welcome both new and returning students to the new year, including a bungee run, gladiator duel and sweet stall.

Visitors from outside the college were invited to host stalls at the event, while many internal staff also held their own stalls to spread the word of their services.

It was a really fun day, with smiles on every face - we can’t wait for the next fair! Staff and students’ SEND success sets them on new path Celebrations are in order after a group of both staff and students graduated from their foundation degree course at a ceremony in Lincoln.

Students Lauren Steele and Andrea Sande joined Learning Development staff members Maria Spicer, Stuart McLean and Jayne Miller in receiving their certificates at Lincoln Cathedral. described as an “intense” period “This has resulted in outstanding They had recently completed of study. results, and enabled further a foundation degree in progression within work or Professional Practice in Stuart said: “The degree will study.” Special Educational Needs and help me advance onto teaching Disability (SEND). and become more specialised Maria, who is planning to in the sector.” begin her top-up course The group of five achieved two to a bachelor’s degree in distinctions, two merits and Abigail Davidson, the group’s September, was indebted to a pass between them, having tutor, was delighted to see her tutor Abigail for her backing studied the course at Grantham her students’ dedication and over the two years. College. commitment pay off. She added: “If it hadn’t been for It was the first time that the She said: “I am extremely proud Abigail’s support and guidance, usual three-year course had of the hard work, self-sacrifice none of us would have been condensed into two and professionalism the group completed as successfully as years, resulting in what Stuart demonstrated. we had.” Construction students get real life experience Our Construction students crawler dozers, tele handlers, courses available to students to took part in a day at the tractors and dumper trucks. improve their career prospects CITB (Construction Industry within Construction. Thanks also Training Board) headquarters Students were also given go to LiNCHigher for funding the at Bircham Newton, Norfolk. the opportunity to drive and trip. operate real 360 excavators, The centre specialises in for many, their first experience Plant Maintenance and Plant behind the wheel of large plant Operations. machinery.

Our students were kindly Both Carpentry and Brickwork shown round around the students were in attendance large facility and had the and the day was a great success. chance to use the centre’s Thank you to all the staff from state of the art simulators that Bircham Newton that made all are used to train apprentices of our students welcome and and trainees in a wide-range gave them an array of useful of plant machinery, including knowledge regarding the use excavators, tower cranes, of Plant Operations and short Erasmus trips to continue Grantham College has been awarded over €400,000 in EU funding for work experience abroad for the next two academic years.

With Brexit imminent, the college were unsure whether the funding would be awarded when putting the bid together earlier in 2019. However, last Thursday the college were awarded with €400,000 to fund two years’ worth of Erasmus trips abroad. This comes two years after being funded the same will also have the opportunity to sample the culture, amount back in 2017. cuisine and lifestyle of the country they visit which in itself is a great experience. Working abroad is also a Student Services Manager, Sarah High great addition to the young person’s CV. is delighted that the opportunity will continue for students: “Being selected The programme pays for travel, insurance, to participate in an all expenses paid accommodation and subsistence costs for students Erasmus trip is a fantastic opportunity participating in the programme. There will also be an for our students. The experience opportunity to participate in cultural visits during their that they get from undertaking work trip. experience abroad really helps them grow as individuals, develops their skills This will take the college into their 15th year of sending and enhances their future job prospects. students abroad through the Erasmus scheme. It is great news that we have secured Student’s return saying they’ve had the “opportunity of another round of funding.” a lifetime.

Students will visit Tenerife, Spain, Aside from the obvious reasons for taking part in a Poland, Germany, Sweden, Malta and scheme such as this – going abroad and seeing a new Italy to gain industry experience within country - students’ will gain cultural awareness, increase their chosen vocational area. Students their employability chances and learn new skills.

Students try the Sorting Hat for size Art & Design and Graphic Design students got the chance to go to the Warner Bros. Studios to visit the magical wizarding world of Harry Potter.

Students had a tour around Hogwarts Castle, Platform 9¾, Diagon Alley, the Great Hall and the Forbidden Forest as well as exploring their collection of iconic props and costumes. A great day was had by all! Kilimanjaro trek for charity

Most people sit drinking a cup anything fitness related! I return 10 days later on January of coffee and eating a nice big am pushing myself out of 4th 2020. Eliza is hoping to slice of cake at a Macmillan my comfort zone in order reach the Uhuru peak, the coffee morning, but not our to raise as much money highest point of Africa, on New Access to HE student Eliza! and awareness for what this Year’s Day to watch the sunrise. She’s decided to climb the amazing charity does.” highest mountain in Africa for During the hike, Eliza will have Macmillan Cancer Support in Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,895 no access to toilet facilities and memory of her Aunt. metres (19,341 ft) above sea will spend the evenings sleeping level and is the toughest under the Tanzanian night sky. Eliza studies the Access to mentally and the most Higher Education course and demanding physically to Good luck on your travels and hopes to go on and study climb. During the hike, Eliza journey Eliza! We wish you all midwifery at university after will be walking in the early the best and can’t wait to see her studies at college. hours in pitch black and you complete this amazing sub-freezing temperatures. challenge. Show your support Having just purchased her There is no respite, but what to Eliza and help raise money for first pair of hiking boots ready a reward. this worthy charity and donate for the trek, Eliza comments: via: https://justgiving.com/ “Those that know me know Eliza’s ascent will begin on fundraising/eliza-addlesee1 how much I hate sports and Boxing Day and she will Local Engineering firm donates key equipment

The Engineering department at Grantham Lincolnshire farmland become profitable. College has been the grateful recipient of a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine Head of Curriculum for Engineering, Theresa donated by Autocraft Drivetrain Solutions. Cope said having the CNC machine would be a “big support” as the college aims to support the The machine, which measures approximately industry in Grantham. 20 square metres, was delivered to the college at the end of July. She said: “It would be very difficult to implement the industrial standard in a meaningful way It was donated due to Grantham College’s without the machine. participation in South Kesteven District Council’s Engineered in Grantham scheme, of which “Grantham College would like to kindly thank Autocraft are also a part of. Autocraft for their donation and valued support, which has enabled us to support and train the CNC machining is a manufacturing process to manufacturing apprentices of the future.” remove layers from a stock piece, controlled through software input. Engineering Lecturer, Andrew Gray added: “The machine will benefit all the manufacturing Grantham’s roots in engineering can be traced companies in Engineering in Grantham who back to Richard Hornsby, who died in 1864 and send apprentices to Grantham College.” whose work on agricultural equipment helped Open Evening - 29 September The first open evening of the academic year was a great start. Our visitors came from a range of schools including: Belvoir High, St George’s Academy, Greenfields Academy, Sir William Robertson Academy, Bluecoat Meres Academy (St Hugh’s), KGGS, Priory, Spalding Academy, Thomas Cowley High School, King James Academy, Ambergate, Newark Academy and Walton.

We had a handful of applications for Catering, IT, Media and GCSEs.

The potential students of this event largely seemed to be year 10 who weren’t overly sure what they wanted to study yet. The next event is due to take place on Tuesday 19 November at 5-8pm. We welcome new University Level students Friday 20 September saw the HE social take place in the University Centre Common Room. Level 4 & 5 students from all subjects came together to enjoy a Watkins buffet lunch and network with other groups.

These social events are the perfect place to meet others outside of your classes and chat to people from all backgrounds.

We kitted our students out with their own University Centre hoodies and our students are now representing the Centre around Grantham!

Grantham College goes blue

In aid of Jeans for Genes, staff and students donned their best jeans and tucked into plenty of blue based baked goods. From cookie monster cakes to denim wearing gingerbread men - there were plenty of options.

Learning Development and Day Break clients baked a selection of sweet treats to sell on the cake stall too which all disappeared very quickly.

As a whole, the college managed to raise £139.90 for Jeans for Genes. Day Break client runs half marathon Day Break client, Ryan participated in the Bristol Half Marathon on Sunday 15 September. Completing all 13.1 miles in a hope to raise lots of money for Shelter.

What an inspiration to us all.

A shaved head for a magic carpet Kind-hearted Heather has vowed to shave her hair to raise thousands for a sensory ‘magic’ carpet for Day Break clients.

Heather Baptie-Bishop, who works in Grantham, is planning to go bald on March 1 2020 in a bid to raise £3,000.

Heather said: “My mum works at Grantham College and teaches students with life long learning difficulties and disabilities. I’ve always wanted to shave my hair off for charity and what better cause to raise the money for. I studied at Grantham College and my mum has taught there for 20 years.”

If you would like to make a donation, please visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/shavingforcarpetride

Building bridges for the community Day Break clients enjoyed an afternoon with the Bridges Project Team in the market place. The event was spread across a week with a variety of different activities and acts going on throughout. Day Break clients helped build their own wooden bridge and even climbed it! Could we have the next Alan Sugar on our hands? Level 3 Business students are busy building their empire as part of the Young Enterprise scheme.

To begin raising funds for their business venture, they hosted a cake stand in reception and managed to raise over £65. Tracy Scarborough was the lucky winner of the cake raffle - winning a delicious looking chocolate cake.

A couple of weeks later, the team did a round trip to Nottingham and back in the gym. Completing50 miles beween them all, they cycled, rowed and walked.

Keep an eye out throughtout the rest of the year for updates and future events related to the new business enterprise. Let’s brew this together! It would appear that staff and students of Grantham College fully enjoy a good bake sale. The third one of September was in aid of Macmillan. The largest coffee morning in the UK is enjoyed by thousands up and down the country and we are proud of have contributed to this. Raising £91.70 for the worthwhile charity whilst enjoying a cuppa and a slice of the nice stuff made for a great Friday morning.

LiNCHigher continue to raise aspirations During the summer weeks, a bid was collated to request funds for a variety of trips across all subject areas. This was submitted to LiNCHigher who have since committed over £6000 to go towards trips such as Media’s Film Festival in York, Animal Care’s trip to the zoo, and the Apprenticeship fair at the NEC in November.

We are still waiting on confirmation of funds for several other trips but we are grateful to those that they have already agreed to contribute to.

Celebrating 20 years of Graphic Design Graphic Design Course Leader, Dave Thomas will be proudly celebrating twenty years of Graphic Design at Grantham College come 2020.

To mark the occasion, a reunion is in the midst of the planning phase which will coincide with the end of year exhibition. Due to take place on Saturday 13 June 2020, Dave is expecting to see lots of old familiar faces and we look forward to welcoming our ex-students back at College.

If you know of anyone who studied on the course in the last 20 years, please put them in touch with Dave Thomas or Jaz Abeysekera. Engineering Apprentice impresses with creative skills Nineteen-year-old Kai Newby’s career in “Kai has settled in really well and is learning new Engineering looks bright as he continues to skills virtually on a daily basis,” Dean continued. impress employer DLS Plastics. InvestSK approached the company for a trophy Having originally joined DLS Plastics on a as part of the Bridge’s project which recently very temporary basis for his work experience took place in September. Following this, Kai placement back in December 2017, Kai then designed a trophy imitating the Leonardo Da- came back to the company as a Tool Making Vinci bridge which he then presented to pupils Apprentice seven months later and is now in at Stamford Endowed Schools. the second year of his apprenticeship. What was originally thought to be an insight into Kai comments on his progress within the the industry as a weeks’ worth of engineering industry: “As part of the apprenticeship scheme work experience turned into a career path as I have secured employment and I am learning a he impressed his colleagues with his skills and valuable trade. It has been a great opportunity knowledge. for me to get involved with various projects including the Bridge Festival and presenting the Over one year on from the start of his relationship winning Trophy to Stamford Endowed Schools.” with DLS Plastics, Kai is continuing to impress having taken on extra training as a first aider within the company and is due to take on fire marshal training later this year. Alongside this impressive initiative, Kai also took the lead in designing and crafting a trophy to be presented to school children alongside the company’s Managing Director George Brewis. Assistant Operations Manager at DLS Plastics, Dean Lawson comments: “he presented his own design to school children when he is not long out of education himself; he’s fast-becoming a valuable addition to our team. Building Better Opportunities Extension gets off to a great start! Since late 2016, Grantham College have been members of the public, providing information the lead provider on one of three Building Better and supporting community events. Anne is Opportunities (BBO) contracts operating across awaiting news from several job applications in Greater Lincolnshire. BBO is co-financed by retail. The National Lottery Community Fund and the European Social Fund with the aim of tackling Aaron was referred to BBO by his school due the root causes of poverty, promoting social to behavioural issues, stemming from severe inclusion and driving local jobs and growth. anxiety and low confidence, especially with new people or situations. Aaron attended English and Originally due to end in June 2019, ours Maths sessions away from school through and was one of a number of projects nationwide with a small group of learners, and BBO support considered exceptional enough to be awarded focused on developing his confidence and additional funding to extend the project until long term goals, which highlighted an interest 2022. Grantham College works in partnership in animal care. Due to financial pressures at with Abbey Access Centre, AG&I UK, Boston home, Aaron thought that he would need to College, Children’s Links, Community enter employment. With support from his BBO Learning in Partnership (CLIP) CIC, The Princes Adviser, Aaron had the confidence to apply for Trust, Riverside Training Services and YMCA and was accepted onto an Animal Management Lincolnshire. Here are just a few of the individuals course at College, which he started that have benefited from the programme: in September 2019.

Paul was referred to BBO after 6 months of Nathan had been unemployed for two years unemployment, following significant workand was living in emergency accommodation history as a Warehouse Operative. Paul had when he joined the BBO project. Despite good low self-confidence and zero IT skills. Paul vocational qualification, Nathan had various has undertaken a tailored programme of health conditions as a result of poor living support, including attendance at our 6-week conditions, learning and behavioural issues, Employability Skills course, support through anxiety, low self-confidence, a history of being our weekly Job Club and development of bullied and no work experience. Nathan’s project confidence through group activities. Paul’s skills tutor worked with him to secure him permanent and confidence have improved so much that he now has an email account, he can search for jobs online, is studying through e-learning to gain further horticulture qualifications and is a Volunteer Gardner with The National Trust.

Anne was referred to BBO following the death of her mother, for whom she cared full time, having given up a 25 year career in retail. Anne had no IT or digital communication skills, displayed low confidence and struggled with shyness, which impacted her ability to write a CV, cover letters and enquire about jobs. After completing a 6-week Employability Skills course to develop her IT skills, Anne attended weekly Job Club sessions to put into practice her newly acquired IT skills searching for jobs and voluntary work online and complete a distance learning course in Retail. Anne is now a Volunteer Guide at Wyndham Park, meeting and greeting accommodation, resourcing donations including carpets and furniture, and develop basic life skills such as cooking and taking care of himself. Once settled into his new home, Nathan became very focussed on working. He completed multiple courses and qualifications and, supported by his project tutor to address his anxiety, attended interviews. Nathan is undertaking voluntary work at the prestigious Burghley House as a Gardener, where he has impressed with his quality of work and positive attitude. As a result of the programme, Nathan presents as a serious, clean and organised young man with aspirations, confidence and improved health.

As a result of our successful BBO project, the Business Development Projects team have continued to increase our offer to unemployed and economically inactive individuals, including young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) by securing additional sub-contracted funding for two new programmes, Skills Support for the Unemployed and Career Net (Skills Support for NEET 15-24 year olds).

To find out more about our offer, please contact a member of the team on extension 256 or drop in to see us at Riverside House.

Learning Development students flourish during work placement Learning Development students on the Supported Internship programme have flourished during their work placement. “All students taking part in work placements hit the ground running,” commented Work Placement Co-ordinator, Stuart McLean. Three students are doing their work placement at Asda, Grantham, where they are embedding customer service skills, communication skills, and support both staff & customers on the shop floor for two days a week.

Putting classroom based work into a practical setting has helped students in their placements and has encouraged them to apply what they’ve learnt in the classroom to a work environment.

Asda’s Community Champion, Karen Morrell comments: “the students have worked really hard over the last few weeks and I’ve noticed such an improvement in their confidence and work skills.” Media released from jail! The media department used their get out of jail free card and have had a successful move from the old police station over the the main site. With an impressive quick renovation of the classrooms, the new facilities are now in full use by all levels of media student. Mental Health Week recognised October 7-11 marked Mental Health Week. Activities took place around college, from CAMHS Counselling having a stand to Engineering students sharing photos of things that make them happy. Students & staff were also encouraged to write down something they would do to improve their mental health & wellbeing. Some said they would do more yoga while others pet more dogs!

We hope that everyone did something to look after themselves and will continue to take some ‘me time’.

Love Our Colleges Week This week is Love Our Colleges Week. Love Our Colleges week is the perfect time to highlight all the amazing things that colleges across the UK do. Colleges have been fighting for fairer funding as funds have continued to drop over the last few years.

We have been sharing some of the great things about the college over on our social media channels so follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for updates. @GranthamCollege

Calendar of Events

If you would like to attend any of the below events to showcase your subject area and promote the college, please get in touch with Jaz Abeysekera: [email protected]

OCTOBER NOVEMBER

14-18th Love Our Colleges week 5th Assembly at John Ferneley 17th GANF Careers Fair College 18th Wear it Pink day for Breast 6th Long Field Academy Cancer Awareness Careers Fair 21st-25th Half term 15th Children in Need 29th Multi Faith Roadshow 19th Grantham College Open 30th St Georges Academy Evening Careers Fair 21st Charles Read Careers Day 31st Belvoir High Careers Fair 26th Marketing talk at KGGS 26th NHS Careers Event

DECEMBER JANUARY

4th Assembly at Belvoir High 6th Staff & students return 13th Christmas Jumper Day 9th Toot Hill Careers Fair 20th Last day of term 30th Grantham College Open Evening

GC Success is released on a bi-monthly basis during term time. The next issue is due to be sent out on Wednesday 18 December 2019.

Please send any articles to be included by Tuesday 10 December to the marketing helpdesk: [email protected]