Please take one and Penwith College Magazine

Spring 2019 Celebrating our students and staff

Waiting for Godot Extended Diploma in Performing Arts students Hands on perform Samuel Beckett’s landmark play. learning Royal Marines and Fire and Rescue Service insight day.

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Oxbridge21 are accepted for places atbound two of the world’s most prestigious universities, Oxford and Cambridge.

College tops the post-16 Academic tables again It’s official, the College has been named one of the best performing 16-19 Two decades of success providers in England and Wales. Hundreds of graduating students receive their awards at Truro Cathedral.

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www.truro-penwith.ac.uk @Truro_Penwith truro.penwith.college Welcome to the Spring 2019 edition of

your Truro and Penwith College magazine

CONTENTS OPEN DAYS AND EVENINGS

03 Germany Science and Language trip Truro College 04 IB best in the country Sat 02 Mar 2019 Open Morning 10am - 1pm 05 College tops the League Tables Thu 02 May 2019 Open Evening 5pm - 8pm 06 Student Stories Penwith College 08 Art and Design creativity Sat 09 Mar 2019 Open Morning 10am - 1pm 09 Performing Arts on show Thu 09 May 2019 Open Evening 5pm - 8pm 10 Gold-rated University courses news Callywith College 12 Hot news from the College kitchens Sat 9 March 2019 Open Morning 10am - 1pm 14 Students get hands-on with insight days Thu 9 May 2019 Open Evening 5pm - 8pm 18 Charity news 19 Sporting achievements 20 Oncourse online

Get in Do you have any news or views you want to share with the College? touch Contact [email protected] or find us online on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. A country of science and language A group of science and German language students from Truro and Callywith Colleges enjoyed a trip to remember as they visited Göttingen in the centre of Germany.

Science and Language students at the former border between East and West Germany.

The hugely popular exchange programme, Alex Blackman, German lecturer at Truro which partners both Truro College and and Callywith Colleges, said: “Our long- Callywith College students with students standing exchange programme has seen at their partner school Theodor Heuss another very successful visit to Göttingen, Gymnasium in Göttingen, gives students the where our students have been able to put chance to immerse themselves in German their German language skills to the test in a culture by living with host families as well work setting of their choice.” as completing a week-long work placement of their choice. The aim is to improve their Commenting on her experience, languages German conversation skills in a practical student Anya Harper said: “I feel a lot more situation, but also to open their eyes to the confident about speaking German now. world of work and another culture in order The work experience was particularly useful, to broaden their horizons and boost their and the people so helpful when I got stuck Students learn about university applications. with the language. They were very patient laser technology. with me and always happy to explain things This year saw the language students to me.” conduct work experience in primary schools, a café, a garage and a nursing Joining the German exchange for the first home. The group also learnt about recent time this year were 12 science students, The students spent three days at the XLabS historical events during their visit to the who participated in a week of scientific Institute for experimental science where Grenzlandmuseum Teistungen on the former visits, talks and experiments that aimed to they conducted a range of experiments, border between East and West Germany, give them an understanding of the science they visited the Institute for Astrophysics which helped them set the scene for their conducted at university level. and they visited the Max Planck Institute for studies of German Reunification as part of Solar System Research, where the students their A Level German course. were lucky enough to witness the NASA live stream of the recent Mars landing amongst the scientists who had developed the landing craft’s stabilisation system.

Matt Blackman, science trip organiser and Deputy Team Leader of Science at Truro College, said: “The students were truly amazing and were praised by all who met them for their interest and enthusiasm. The experiences will live with them forever. I Science students participated in a week of Learning about recent historical am excited to be involved in another unique scientific visits, talks and experiments. events at the Border Museum. opportunity for students in our Science Mark Platinum award-winning science department.”

Bella Randell from Callywith College said: ”I really enjoyed the last day at the XLabs as we got to learn more about the nervous system and the brain. My favourite part was being able to dissect a pig’s brain to try and identify the different parts. We even had the opportunity to hold a human brain, which was exciting.”

Charlie Campbell from Truro College said: ”We were given a few German lessons before the trip, but my partner and host family were keen to speak English and we communicated easily. The language skills of the German students are excellent, and I would love to return one day to study or work, I feel inspired to pursue my further studies in science and to try to learn the German language.” IB is best in country

Students and staff at Truro College are celebrating after coming out as the top ranked College provider of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in the country.

The IB students on their residential trip where they enjoyed wood crafts and activities.

The Sunday Times Parent Power league Alanna continued, “I think one of the great tables, which is compiled using results data things about the IB is that because we are submitted by individual institutions, ranked such a tiny group, classes are much smaller. the IB Diploma at Truro College top for This means there can be more focus on each Alanna Gardella. Colleges and in fourth place overall behind individual student creating a close, friendly three selective grammar schools. atmosphere, which likely helped to increase Many students achieved my performance in lectures and exams.” In August 2018, the College celebrated an above the College’s average exceptional year of results, with an average Caroline Keech, IB Coordinator at the point score per student of 36, which is College, was delighted with the news, saying: point score with one student, equivalent to three A* grades and one A “Going into our 20th year of providing the Alanna Gardella, achieving grade at A Level, far above the national IB at Truro College we are thrilled with our average point score of 29.78. placing in the Sunday Times Parent Power a perfect score of 45 and league, which is a testament to all the hard One student, Alanna Gardella, said, work of our students and IB staff. On the becoming one of the top IB “Although the IB was challenging, it was International Baccalaureate at Truro College students globally. a very rewarding experience. As I wasn’t we are absolutely committed to building sure before starting College what I wanted an inclusive, non-selective, collaborative to study at university, completing such a learning community where students with a Alanna will be going on holistic course with a range of subjects range of academic ability and wider interests to study Law at Durham allowed me to figure out what path I can build a broad and balanced programme would take. of study that suits their needs.” University.

Gold again - College comes top for Workplace Health Staff and students are celebrating after fifth Gold award for Workplace Health.

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Healthy Rebecca Buckland, Personnel Assistant at Workplace Award helps to encourage the College, and Tristan James, Assistant employers to continually consider and Personnel Officer, were both named in the Key Staff members in the Health, improve the health and wellbeing aspects report, which said: “Rebecca and Tristan are Wellbeing and Sport Programme. of their workplace. clearly very passionate and motivated and their commitment to this area of work has from all departments and their staff in The award mentions a wide variety of the been instrumental together with the team of making our workplace a healthy and College’s campaigns, practices and staff other staff members whom lead on certain supportive environment. support programmes including the College’s health areas.” focus on management training, lunchtime “The College is always looking to enhance walks and runs for staff, the award-winning Rebecca was thrilled, saying: “To be our provision and the Healthy workplace Health, Wellbeing and Sport programme and awarded gold again for the fifth year really awards helps us to keep striving to provide support for stress management. reflects on the College-wide collaboration the best possible experience for our staff.” 05 Truro and Penwith College tops the post-16 Academic tables It’s official, Truro and Penwith College has been named one of the best performing 16-19 state providers in England and Wales.

The Department for Education 2018 post- 16 performance tables for schools and colleges put the further education provider at the top of the Cornwall table for academic point scores and progress made (A Levels and International Baccalaureate) in all state provision across the county.

Nationally, these tables also confirm it has been one of the highest performing colleges in England for more than a decade. The college has also been earmarked as a successful provider of Apprenticeships with achievement rates well above national and local averages.

The latest tables show Truro and Penwith College to be in the top 5% of all further education colleges nationally for student progress in both English and maths.

Principal David Walrond said: “A crucial point to make is that these exceptionally high scores are not secured by selective practices, or in other words by only accepting high GCSE profile pupils on to academic programmes.

“These results are based on excellent teaching and support, underpinned by an inclusive ethos.

The college’s value-added scores confirm this, with outstanding progress made by students, regardless of their different starting points, their school track records, or the type of course they choose.”

21 are Oxbridge bound 21 students are over-the-moon after learning they have been accepted for places at two of the world’s most prestigious universities, Oxford and Cambridge. The group of successful students come from Academy at the College and found that the people across Cornwall and are looking to study a and engaging teachers at College really made her number of diverse subjects at Oxbridge including College experience. “My advice for future students disciplines. Nationally, the competition for places Modern and Medieval Languages, Mathematics, would definitely be to get involved with lots of the at Oxford and Cambridge is fierce, with a success Physics, Experimental Psychology, English and free extra opportunities available at the College.” rate of just over 20%. It is therefore remarkable Earth Sciences. that, despite this intense competition, one third of Former Richard Lander student and Truro local all our Oxbridge applications received offers. We Gabriel Sturtridge from has been Zak Minett will be attending Cambridge to study congratulate all those who made an application offered a place at Cambridge University to study Spanish and German ab initio after first taking this year,” said Angela Liversedge, Oxbridge Modern and Medieval Languages. Gabriel was a gap year to visit France, Spain, Greece and and Academic Academy Lead at thrilled, saying: “I chose Truro and Penwith Germany. the College. College because it is one of the best colleges in the United Kingdom. I love the emphasis on self- “The feeling that I, as a languages student, am motivated study and the flexibility.” learning something not just to pass an exam, but to have a skill for life, is the best part about Rosie Smart-Knight from has been College,” said Zak. offered a place to read History at Cambridge. Rosie studies Drama, English Literature, Medieval “We are absolutely delighted with the success of History, Philosophy and is part of the Academic our students in securing places across all subject Penwith College students Lowenna and Horatio. 06 College sweeps gold and silver Lloyd makes the most of sea, surf at Senior Team Challenge and study Students have been adding up the accolades at a recent Most students will find one or two national maths challenge. hobbies to add variety to College life but that isn’t enough for Lloyd.

Currently studying Maths, Further Maths, Teams of A-Level Maths students and a few represent Cornwall in the national finals. Physics and Chemistry, as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB) students Academic Academy, at Truro College, Lloyd is from Truro and Penwith College battled “Our team performed incredibly during the also a member of the St Agnes lifeboat crew, for a place in the National finals of the UK challenge, really working hard together to an RNLI Lifeguard and a member of the Surf Mathematics Trust Senior Team Challenge. achieve great results. Our winning team England Squad, where he is currently ranked are very much looking forward to travelling second in the UK for the U18 longboard. After being tested on their maths to London in February to represent Truro communication and teamwork skills, College in the SMTC National finals, we wish Lloyd’s passions, while keeping him busy, competing against school and college teams them every success,” said Jan Dangerfield, provide him with a great sense of achievement. from across Cornwall, the Truro College team Lecturer of Maths at Truro College. emerged victorious, with their peers from “I keep a pager on me, which could go off at Penwith College only two points behind them Jamie Nevill, Maths lecturer at Penwith any time. When it does, I have to get down in second place. College, said: “I was impressed with their to St Agnes as fast as I can to launch the teamwork and mental agility, particularly boat and respond to the event. It’s definitely a The victory for the Truro College team, which since they have only been at College three responsibility but when it does go off there’s consisted of Finn Corney, Lloyd Stein, Louise months. If this is how well they can do after a rush and you realise that now’s the time to Mitchell and Harley Norgate, will see them three months – watch this space for next really focus and help out. When you respond heading up to London in February, 2019 to year’s results.” to someone successfully you feel like you’re making a real difference,” said Lloyd.

Lloyd finds that his three interests work very well together, saying: “To have the water knowledge and experience works really well. Especially surfing at the beach that your boat goes out at as you really get to know the waters and the people.”

The winning Truro team.

Lloyd finds the balance between Darren wins Apprentice of the year work and personal interests. Darren Dustan from Truro and Penwith College has won the Apprentice of the Year category at Brewery’s annual Tribute Estate Awards for the second time.

The Awards, now in their 19th year, were held at The Great Western Hotel in and were attended by shortlisted nominees from the Brewery’s 180-strong estate of pubs and hotels in Cornwall, and Somerset.

Darren is no stranger to success at the Darren Dunstan with Awards having scooped Apprentice of the colleagues from the Year when the category was introduced Victoria Inn and Tamsyn for the first time in 2017, while studying a Hawkins, St Austell Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship at the Brewery’s People College. Director (2nd from left).

Now 19, Darren progressed onto a Level 3 second time and was presented with an IPad and seeing everyone’s success through the Chef de Partie Apprenticeship in September Pro to thank him year! Massive thank you to the Victoria Inn 2017 with his employer, The Victoria Inn, for his hard work and dedication. for the continued support and the training Threemilestone, a St Austell Brewery opportunities they have given me. All of my tenanted pub. Ahead of his expected Darren commented: “The whole evening achievements wouldn’t have been possible completion in March, Darren has been was great from the food to the entertainment without them!” awarded Apprentice of the Year for the 07 Law students raise the bar in mock trials Law students from Truro College prove their legal wit after gaining a place in the final of the National Bar Mock Trials where they will be up against the very best from around the country.

The mock trials are an opportunity for rewarding experience that gave great insight we only had five weeks to prepare, that’s only students to experience the legal system as into the legal system” and “It’s confirmed five sessions, which meant a lot of hard work they prepare for a case in which they perform what I want to do”. in the students’ free time.” the roles of barristers, witnesses, court clerk, ushers and jurors and carry out examination, Terrina Dursley, Law lecturer at the College, All the students found the day a fantastic cross examination, opening speeches and said: “It’s a great opportunity for the students experience. One student commented: “Even closing speeches. to demonstrate their advocacy skills, thinking if you don’t do Law just to go with your school on their feet and adapting to new information is really good, especially the opportunity to try The regionals took place at the Plymouth and situations. public speaking. The day was really great.” Crown Court in front of a real judge, giving further realism to the experience. Comments “We were on the reserve list so we didn’t Terrina added: “Not only was the competition from the day included “It was a very even think we had a place. After we found out a fantastic day and a great opportunity to learn advocacy skills but it was a successful day with several of the students achieving scores of 10/10. Winning the regional competition was extremely rewarding and well deserved but was ultimately overshadowed by the fun that the students had on the day.”

Eight colleges from Devon and Cornwall took part in the regional stage of the competition while the finals in Edinburgh on Saturday 23 March will see the Cornish students up against around 20 different groups. Dressed in gowns and wigs, the students will have to prepare for a whole new challenge as the finals will be based on Scottish law.

All of the students involved enjoyed a fantastic experience. Generous donation for students’ cycling sessions

Foundation Studies students at Truro College were thrilled when their weekly cycling sessions were given an incredible boost when a trike was donated by a local charity.

Walking and cycling charity Sustrans, who work in partnership with , sparked an ideal opportunity at their most recent visit to the College’s Staff Development Day when a member of staff asked about obtaining a trike for their students.

After some enquiries Sustrans managed to More Foundation students can now enjoy the cycling sessions. locate a hand-cranked trike, which, as the name suggests, is driven by hand rather than foot, enabling students with limited mobility to take part in the weekly sessions. who leads the sessions, is thrilled with the Nick Ratcliffe, Sustrans project officer, said: donation, saying: “The new hand pedal trike “I am pleased that the trike will continue to be The students have cycling sessions every donated to Truro College will be an amazing put to good use. It’s fantastic that students, week where they learn everything from asset to our Tuesday cycling group. The new who wouldn’t have otherwise had the learning to ride a bike, working on cycle trike opens up opportunities for less able opportunity, will benefit from it and experience proficiency tests, how to prepare their bikes students to partake in our cycling sessions the freedom of cycling. Foundation students for the session, fixing flat tyres, road safety, allowing them to learn new skills in cycle getting out on two (or in this case three) traffic sign recognition and even the history safety and bike maintenance, while at the wheels should serve to inspire others to do of cycling. same time getting some exercise and having similar, especially with the new shared paths fun with their peers, which has not been that link Truro and Threemilestone being right Mark Palmer, the Foundation Studies lecturer possible until now.” on the College’s doorstep!” 08 Creative designs to encourage walking and cycling in Truro Art and Design students from Truro College have been working hard to create a new set of posters for a local social media campaign.

Led by Cornwall Council in partnership with used in the campaign. Bethany Polatch, Eve sustainable travel charity Sustrans, the social Prout, Hannah Goodman and Jade Always were media campaign will be used to encourage the four students to have their designs chosen, people to use the new shared space route which means they will be shared by Cornwall between Truro and Threemilestone. Council’s social media and seen by thousands of people. The students were given a client brief to follow, giving them the chance to experience working Nick Ratcliffe, the Sustrans project officer who to guidelines set by external agencies. After worked with the College, said: “It was a privilege the first deadline, a shortlist of students were to work with such committed and professional taken forward and sent through to the Cornwall young people. They grasped the assignment Council’s comms team, who sent back edits for with two hands and produced some exceptional the students to make. work. I wish them all the best with their future careers.” Out of these designs, four were chosen to be

Energetic, colourful and humorous - student work gets the message across.

The students loved seeing their Students enjoy first taste of work up on display in the gallery. exhibiting art work Art and Design students from Truro College were able to see their artwork on display in a gallery for the first time recently thanks to a brilliant exhibition at Penlee House Gallery and Museum.

Penlee Inspired is an exhibition where local invaluable for students as it gave them their first school children, students and adults have the taste of seeing others react to their work. The opportunity to display their work amongst some response from the public was amazing, leaving of the School paintings that inspired them. the students feeling more confident than ever. Indeed, there were even a few offers made on Fourteen Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and the night for some of the pieces! Design students had their work selected for the exhibition. To begin the process the students Mark Dunford, Programme Team Leader of Art visited the gallery to explore the work on show. and Design at the College, was thrilled with the They then responded to the artwork at College opportunity and the students’ hard work, saying: through the manipulation of a range of media, “Engaging with artworks is hugely important materials and techniques. Students then for all artists and designers as they provide selected a piece of work to submit to judges. both questions and solutions. ‘Penlee Inspired’ is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to see The exhibition kicked off with a Private View, artworks afresh and allow for new dialogues where invited members of the public could come across the centuries, for both the participants and see the art on display. This experience was and visitors to the gallery.” Students team up to give the greatest show Dance and Production Arts students from Truro College have finished the year with a show to remember as they showcased all they have learnt during their first term.

First and second year Level 3 Extended Anne Lazenby, Course Leader for L3 Diploma in Dance students took to the stage Extended Diploma Dance, said: “We are so to perform a wide variety of styles including proud of our students and the professional contemporary, tap, jazz, ballet and urban in attitude they display in both rehearsals and excerpts from professional repertoire and performance. They are a hugely talented pieces choreographed by the lecturing staff at group of young people who are exciting to the College. work with and just beautiful to watch on stage; they face every challenge head-on and all The first year students created group have bright futures awaiting them within the choreography based on the work of visual creative arts industry.” Performance helps prepare for auditions artists Robert Rauschenberg and Pablo at dance conservatoires and universities. Picasso while second year students Steve Brown, Production Arts lecturer at the choreographed and performed solo material College, said: “The dance shows provide created for upcoming auditions at specialist multiple assessments for production students. dance conservatoires and universities The students design, rig, programme and including Trinity Laban Conservatoire of operate the lighting. Music is also edited by Music and Dance, London Contemporary students and then loaded in to QLab ready Dance School, Rambert School of Ballet and for the technical rehearsals and show time. Contemporary Dance, London Studio Centre In addition to this, some students perform and Italia Conti. the role of the stage manager, making cues during the technical rehearsals with the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Production Arts choreographers and then executing the students were able to make the most of the lighting and sound cues during rehearsals live performances as they stage managed, and performance, all part of their year one rigged theatre equipment and ran lighting and assessments.” sound for the performance.

No waiting for applause in Waiting for Godot performance Students on the acting pathway of the Extended Diploma in Performing Arts at Truro College have been studying the Theatre of the Absurd, culminating in a performance of Samuel Beckett’s landmark play Waiting for Godot.

Waiting for Godot presents the audience with Georgie-Stewart-Ashley has really enjoyed two figures, Vladimir and Estragon, often researching the philosophy that influenced referred to as ‘tramps’, who are waiting on a the play, saying: “The Theatre of the Absurd country road for Godot. The play is about how was heavily influenced by the likes of Camus the men spend their time while waiting and and Sartre and the idea of existentialism. the strange characters of Pozzo and Lucky I love the fact that this kind of play rejects Students learn about the philosophical thinking that influenced the playwrights. that they meet. Godot never comes and conventional dramatic forms to portray the nothing happens! futility of human struggle in a senseless world. It’s really deep and made us really Lily Vincent-Roche, who played Lucky, think!” said: “This has been a really challenging play to do. My character is treated like a Dr. Kit Savage, course leader, explains: slave, he doesn’t say anything for most of “The acting pathway of the course aims to the play then he suddenly bursts into a two equip students with experiences of as many page, meaningless monologue. It has been different forms and styles of theatre as really interesting doing a different type of possible. Next term we will be studying Brecht performance.” and rehearsing a production of The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, which we hope to tour to some local venues.” 10

Gold-rated University courses news Graduation celebrates two Truro Cathedral was bursting with excitement as it saw hundreds of graduating University level students from Truro and Penwith College take to the stage to receive their well-deserved awards.

Full to capacity, the Cathedral hosted almost In his speech, he congratulated the College David Walrond, Principal at Truro and 1000 supportive friends, family and fellow on its excellent performance noting that: Penwith College, was thrilled with the classmates who gathered to give each and “Results are achieved by excellence in successes of Higher Education students every one of the graduating students a teaching, student support and leadership who have completed their studies with the celebration to remember. delivered by the staff, many of whom are here College. tonight.” The TEF Gold-rated College’s 20th He said: “We are here tonight to celebrate a Graduation ceremony recognised the Professor Simon Payne said of the event that remarkable achievement and the successful achievements of 339 students who have “The University appreciates and values the students really do deserve all of our praise.” worked so hard to obtain Higher Education collaboration between our two institutions and certificates this year. the work we do together, in partnership”. He David continued, saying: “It is the real added: “We are very proud of our relationship privilege of our work as a College to Professor Simon Payne, Deputy Vice- with Truro and Penwith College”, noting in give people the opportunity to learn, to Chancellor at the University of Plymouth, particular that the college “has achieved develop and to change and that means the represented the College’s accrediting body Gold in the national Teaching Excellence communities they serve can develop and and welcomed guests and students alike to Framework”. make progress too.” the grand ceremony.

Graduates receive their certificates.

Performing arts students provide music for the evening.

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Gold-rated University courses news decades of success

Dawn Rowe. Eugenie Walker. Maria Murray.

Among those receiving their awards on the evening, a selection Andrew Smart, Higher of students were recognised as being particularly successful in Education Team Leader at their achievements. Truro and Penwith College,

FdSc Biomedical Studies graduate, Dawn She said: “It was a big shock, my husband thoroughly enjoyed the Rowe, was awarded with the Academic and children are so proud.” evening, watching many hard- Partnerships Prize having graduated with distinction for her high quality research on ‘The Receiving special recognition for being working students graduate. antibacterial properties of garlic compared to a substantially high academic achiever, prescription Antibiotics’. This was presented assisting her fellow students and using her He said: “So many of our students graduate by Mark Glasson, the Faculty Partnerships compassionate nature and understanding having overcome significant challenges Manager at the University of Plymouth. to successfully support a family during her to achieve their awards and it’s great to work placement, FdA Children and Young recognise their achievements and the Mark said: “Dawn has demonstrated People’s Workforce graduate Maria Murray support they have had from family and outstanding academic was awarded with the Children friends. We run small friendly groups, excellence despite returning to and Young People’s Workforce providing excellent student support and education as a mature student Cup of Excellence. compress the timetable into as few days and managing the demands of as possible as most students are also a family and job alongside her FdA Childhood Education employed throughout their period of study. studies.” graduate, Michelle Preston It is inspiring to see our learners, who received the Bianca Trew come to our HE programmes from Access Overwhelmed to receive her Award for her particularly courses, Diplomas, A Levels and as mature award, Dawn said: “My family creative approach to her learners returning to education, take the are so proud, they basically did assignment for the Early opportunity that has been presented to them the course with me, as they Years Curriculum Science and succeed. This year we achieved over read lecture notes and tried and tested parts of and Technology Module, where she created 90% “student satisfaction with their course” my project, as well as putting up with constant a video clip of a gardener whose cabbages in the National Student Survey, which conversations about garlic.” were being eaten, inspiring and motivating reflects the professional and supportive the children to find the culprits. role played by teaching and support staff. “I feel like we all put so much effort in that I’m happy to accept the award, on behalf of She said: “I feel fantastic! It’s been such a “We really had something to celebrate here everyone on the course,” she added. great evening. A hard year but really worth it.” today. I know that I speak on behalf of all the staff involved in Higher Education when The Education Cup was won by BA (Hons) “I hope it’s an inspiration to my daughter who I say how proud we are of our students’ Education and Training student, Eugenie came down from Farnham where she is also achievements and we wish them all the best Walker, whose passion, motivation and at University,” added Michelle. in for their future studies or employment.” critical thought processes on top of her ability to interact and work with her peers won her the award. 12 Thousands raised at Fishy Feast charity event

Penwith College’s Senara restaurant delivered a gift that counts at Christmas, after its recent Fishy Feast raised nearly £5,000 for the Fisherman’s Mission.

Students worked alongside top chefs.

Speeches and thanks were made.

Harry Potter actress and MasterChef 2014 “The money raised is due to the countless winner Sophie Thompson joined a stellar people worked so hard and so much empathy line up of top chefs from across Cornwall for months to make a memorable night. including Jude Kerema (Kota Kai), Stephane Our sincere thanks goes to the sponsors, Delourme (The Seafood Restaurant), Ben the team at the College and the professional Tunnicliffe (The Tolcarne Inn), Guy Owen chefs”. (Idle Rocks), Emily Scott (St Tudy Inn), Mick Smith (Porthminster Beach Café) and Stuart Graham Oxley, hospitality programme team Pate (The Seafood Restaurant) to deliver a leader at the College sad: “The event was mouth-watering 16 courses to hungry guests. such an incredible collaboration of chefs and a very memorable experience for our The evening amassed nearly £4,000 in ticket students. sales and donations for the Charity, with final sales from the evening’s auction taking the “Bringing the Fishy Feast to the heart of total to nearly £5,000. the Cornish fishing community in order to raise much needed funds is very inspiring. Julian Waring, fundraising manager for We cannot thanks everyone enough for the Fisherman’s Mission commented: showing their support for this event.” Photography by Laurence Hartwell

Some of the delicacies prepared on the night.

Truro &

We offer fine dining at truly remarkable prices. From our newly Penwith designed, purpose-built kitchens, we serve exquisite dishes College using mindfully sourced, local ingredients from Cornwall and the South West. Spires Restaurant, Allen building, Truro College, Truro, TR1 3XX. t: 01872 267621 email: [email protected] 13 Rick Stein Academy students making the most of exciting culinary programme Twelve students from Truro and Penwith College have been making the most of the opportunities provided to them by the Rick Stein Academy during a recent cookery demonstration and bakery tour.

The students, who were chosen for the academy during a selection process at the start of term, have been enjoying a flying start to the programme with a practical session down at Penwith College’s training restaurant, Senara, led by the Rick Stein’s very own patisserie head chef Stuart Pate.

During the session the students learnt how to make lemon tarts, which they later enjoyed during a meal with some of their mentors from the Rick Stein restaurants.

During the meal, there was a presentation where a prize was given to the student who has shown the most progress in the first term of the programme. Zoe Thompson was awarded with a meal for four at St Petroc’s Bistro in for her effort and progress so far. “College has definitely helped with preparing used to,” said Rick Stein Academy students for a future career and with the Rick Stein Libby Reynolds and Chloe Timperley. The students have also been given the Group, it’s even better. The one-to-one opportunity to tour the Rick Stein Padstow personal treatment you get with your mentor Next up for the students will be a shellfish Kitchen, giving them the chance to see how is great as well as the in-depth experience. demonstration by seafood specialist chutneys, stocks, breads and cakes are made It was great to see the mass production and Stephane Delourme. on a large scale. to compare it to the small production we are College nominated for international Educator of the Year Award Truro and Penwith College was just one of seven globally to receive a nomination for the Riedel Trophy for the WSET Educator of the Year 2018, a prestigious award given to organisations who display outstanding provision of the wine and spirits qualification.

Among the first to offer their congratulations WSET learners and providers from around were some of the country’s top chefs, the world. who work in partnership with the College on the delivery of professional cookery The College has worked with businesses and hospitality qualifications and from across Cornwall, ranging from micro Apprenticeships. businesses, SME’s and large national companies. They have all found the impact With over 750 centres across more than 70 of the courses valuable to their business. countries up for submission, nomination for Recent organisations to utilise the WSET the award was a testament to the College’s qualifications are St Austell Brewery, The excellent provision of the WSET wine and Seafood Restaurant, Skinners Brewery and spirits qualifications, which are offered at Paul Ainsworth. three different levels at the College. The individualised style of delivery the College WSET qualifications are globally recognised offers plays an important role in its repeat as the international standard in wine and business as employers can rely on its team spirit knowledge and the awards ceremony, for significant results including increased wine which is now in its 13th year, offers the sales for many of the employers involved. chance to celebrate the achievements of Learning about wines and spirits at Spires Restaurant, Truro College.

Truro & Penwith Our menus change daily focusing on fresh, seasonal, local produce. Licensed, with full wheelchair access and ample parking close by, College we also offer catering for private parties and functions.

Senara Restaurant, Penwith College, St Clare, Penzance, TR18 2SA. t: 01736 335215 email: [email protected] 14 Students swap classroom for Moor Public Services students at Truro and Penwith College took their education to the moors recently during a Royal Marines insight day.

With Rough Tor as the backdrop, the students their last session of the day, stalking tactics. were led through a variety of sessions and activities to give them an insight into life as a After learning some mnemonics to help Royal Marine. remember the tactics, the students were tasked with stalking through the dense Students had to put their skills to the test underbrush without being spotted by the during the poncho erection activity, which marines. While fun, the challenge provided The students loved trying out the concealment techniques. gave the students an idea of how best to set the students with a fantastic hands-on up their shelters. They were then treated to experience that tested their physical ability as an intriguing lunch made up of MOD rations, well as their tactical skills. the outdoor education elements that are which proved to be considerably tastier than prevalent in the course and public services expected. “This is another example of the Public in general while having challenging fun. Services course at Truro College working We find this stands our students in a strong It was then on to camouflage and closely with potential employers. Whether position to join a public service of their choice concealment training, where the students this is armed, emergency or other public or progress on to the Foundation Degree in were tasked with applying paint to their faces services, we believe in giving the students Public Services here at Truro College,” said and learning the aspects of concealment. the best possible insight and exposure to Tim Staynings, Public Services lecturer at This activity prepared the students nicely for these potential careers. This also enhances the College.

Silver for Thomas at Worldskills final

Advanced geometry coupled with skilled brushwork and high levels of accuracy were required.

A Penzance painting and decorating student has won silver in the UK Worldskills Competition held at the NEC, Birmingham. Thomas Nowell from Penwith College has Andie Bishop, his lecturer who accompanied impressed with his work ethic and skills. achieved overall silver medal in the competition Thomas to the NEC, said: “I think it is a They are also delighted with his achievements. being pipped to the post by a student from remarkable achievement considering the City College of Building, Glasgow, a specialist advanced geometry required. Thomas’ Programme Team Leader, Steve Piff, said: “I construction college, by only two points. brushwork and accuracy was amazing, am delighted that after only five years offering particular since he was working in the NEC, the trades at Penwith College we have Thomas, who has a number of accolades under which is noisy with lots of people watching.” students who are right up there in ability with his belt including gold in the regional final of UK other specialist colleges in the country who Worldskills, held at South Devon College, and Thomas has now finished his Level 3 course each have hundreds of students to choose silver in the Johnstones Young Painter of the and is in full-time employment locally. their entrants from.” year, was delighted with the results. Thomas was employed by the firm with whom he did his work experience as they were so 15 Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service Insight Day Aspiring firefighters from Truro and Penwith College were Ladder climbing is a key skill. given the opportunity to experience Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s (CFRS) recruitment and selection process in a new initiative that is the first of its kind.

Groups of the College’s Public Services Level 3 Extended Diploma students recently took Running the hose. part in a series of Insight Days at Tolvaddon Community Fire Station, which were organised and run by Apprentice firefighters from the College.

On each Insight Day, students were put through a range of tests including fitness tests, dexterity tests, hose drills and techniques to Fitness testing. aim the hose, some of which the students had to complete during torrential rain and hail. Students were also given the opportunity to Nathan Starkey, Apprentice Firefighter with experience fighting their way through a confined Truro and Penwith College, led the students space with a breathing apparatus (BA) set in an through several activities on the day and said: exercise that simulated what it might be like to “The purpose of the Insight Days is to introduce enter a burning building while using a fogged students to the physical tests and various up visor. activities that they’d be required to take part in if they were to apply for a job in the fire service. Working on dexterity skills. Tours of the fire station and control room added to the experience, along with a talk from the “Throughout the day we showed the Public Station Manager and a surprise call out, giving Services students a bit of marching to improve The Firefighting Apprenticeship with Truro and the students a complete glimpse into life as a their non-verbal communication skills as well as Penwith College and Cornwall Fire and Rescue firefighter. several fitness tests such as ladder climbs, the Service began in 2017. The role enables the confined space drill and an equipment carry to Apprentices to attend incidents with the crew The programme was organised and delivered give them an insight into the fitness levels that and they are also given opportunities to gain by Truro and Penwith College Apprentices who would be required of them as firefighters.” extra qualifications such as a line technician work at CFRS as part of the only firefighting course. Apprenticeship programme in Cornwall. The The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Apprentices delivered four insight days in total Services aims to prepare students who are Nathan said: “I’m so glad I chose the to different groups, which will help them towards wishing to enter into and work within the Apprenticeship route because both the College the Teamwork and Leadership unit of their services and days such as this help to give the and CFRS have given me opportunities far Apprenticeship programme. students the best possible insight and exposure beyond my expectations. I would definitely to these potential careers. recommend an Apprenticeship to others.”

The Apprentices and the Public Services students found the experience invaluable.

• Learn from industry leaders Apprenticeships find • Train at our Outstanding College out more • Earn while you learn Contact us to Quality Careers start your career with Cornwall’s 01872 242711 truro-penwith.ac.uk/apprenticeships top employers @TruroApprentice TruroApprentice #GetInGoFar 16 Uncovering the past Digging the way to a brighter future, visiting schools Where are GCSE History students uncovered the past with an archaeological Norman Castle mock dig. they now?

The project unravelled ‘the Normanisation Local archaeologist and BSc (Hons) of England’ at a more practical level and Archaeology Programme Leader Dr Caradoc Hatty Hickling gave students the opportunity to become an Peters said: “We gave the visiting schools a archaeologist for the day. practical learning experience. It gave them Hatty’s journey towards a feel for what it was like to live within that Based on a Norman conquest, the dig period as well as opening their minds to the her dream career is well encouraged students to use the artefact opportunities available at university.” underway as she finishes reproductions to date the period and figure out what was going on at the site socially, NSSW Outreach Officer, Heather Venables her first term studying to culturally and economically at the time. was excited to run the first mock-dig with become a world-renowned Truro and Penwith College and was pleased Funded by Next Steps South West (NSSW), with how well it went on the day. “One of Norland Nanny. the mock-dig took place at the Tregye the teachers at St Ives Academy said that campus of Truro and Penwith College, and a number of the boys attending had not After completing the BTEC Level 3 was taught by the College’s university course considered Higher Education as an option, Extended Diploma in Child’s Play, lecturers, Dr Caradoc Peters, Sally Herriett but they had been converted by the day,” she Learning and Development at Truro and Stuart Falconer. said. College, Hatty began her journey to becoming an elite nanny at the prestigious Norland College.

Caring for the children of the world’s elite, Norland Nannies are trained in self- defence, skid-pan driving, how to avoid paparazzi as well as the usual healthy meals and how to change a nappy, making them a modern day Mary Poppins with an edge.

“I have nearly finished my first term at Norland and although it’s been challenging juggling both the degree and diploma, I have thoroughly enjoyed Students on the mock-dig experiencing real excavation processes. it. In one week, I can be learning self- defence, how to wash and change terry towelling nappies as well as learning how to cook tasty and nutritious frittatas. I am A huge career change from currently completing my four weeks of placement at a local SEN school. This has Cornwall to China been amazing so far and I have already learnt so much. I am excited to see what An adult languages student has realised her dream. the New Year brings. I’m so grateful to everyone at Truro. I was well prepared Lisa Walker is currently the only foreign teacher With a passion for languages, Lisa went for Norland, the course (CPLD) in at a school in Lishui in China after completing to Truro and Penwith College Business to particular prepared me and all the her CertTESOL course with Truro and Penwith complete her CertTESOL course (Teaching support with the work load and College Business in March 2017 with no English to Speakers of Other Languages) in my personal statement! I’m previous teaching experience. 2017 and hasn’t looked back. Lisa said: so happy!” “The TESOL course has been so beneficial, Lisa spent her first 18 months after the course without it I don’t think I could travel the working for an agency teaching at a range world working like I’ve always wanted to.” of institutions including a primary school in Ningbo, East China. In September 2017, she Lisa recommends her TESOL course to went to the private boarding school in Lishui, anyone searching for a new career a small city surrounded by the beautiful Wuyi and wanting to travel, saying: “It Mountains, where she has now been offered changed my life, taking me in a a contract. completely new direction.”

Lisa Walker with her students in China. Hatty Hickling 17

An impressive 150 business students came together to organise the event. Business students raise £700 for Children in Need Putting their newly acquired skills to the test, Business students from Truro College managed to raise £700 during an assessment for their course. Working hard to raise funds.

No less than 150 Business Level 3 Extended For the fundraising, event students organised Diploma students assembled to plan, 30 different activities and stalls, which included organise and execute a fundraising event, food and clothing stalls, hair dying, Xbox which would not only raise money for tournaments and splash the teacher to name Children in Need but would count towards a few. their assessment on the course. Catherine Wallis, Business lecturer at the As part of the assessment, the students College, was thrilled with the students’ had to plan and manage an event from start achievement, saying: “The students were to finish, which included creating budgets, excellent in planning, managing and delivering completing risk assessments and developing a business event for the whole College. marketing campaigns. Through this practical element of the course they have been able to experience first-hand For many of the students the task was how and why planning represents the most their first time running and managing an important element in the event management event on such a large scale. Indeed, with process. The practical skills and insights approximately 5,000 students on the campus that students learn on the Extended Diploma each day they had to prepare for the busiest in Business ensure that our students are outcome. equipped with the relevant skills, knowledge and understanding for future success.” Cake sale in Mylor reception. New Year kicks off with a half-tonne donation to Truro Foodbank In the spirit of shedding the pounds in the New Year, Truro College donated 75 stone’s worth of food and toiletries to a local foodbank. The College staff from Seaton building kicked things off with a huge donation to the appeal. Staff, students and parents at Truro College would have a few boxes to donate to Truro took it upon themselves to make sure Foodbank in the New Year. But the people December was indeed a time of giving as of Truro College went above and beyond, they organised a reverse advent calendar to donating nearly half a tonne of food and help raise donations for Truro Foodbank. toiletries to the fund.

With each day representing a different Andy Bersey from Truro Foodbank was category, students and staff were blown away with the donations, which nearly encouraged to donate something every day didn’t fit in the van. He said: “We’re so over the holiday period, mirroring the usual grateful for all of the donations from Truro act of receiving something every day from an College. From all of the students, teachers advent calendar. and the parents. It’s all appreciated and is desperately needed. We’re expecting to use The staff in the College’s Student Services it all soon.” came up with the idea in the hopes that they 18

Everyone was eager to help the cause by embracing pink. Students and staff go pink for charity In aid of breast cancer research, students and staff dedicated a day to everything pink. Star runner is From beautiful and delicious pink cupcakes Steve Phillips, the Safeguarding Officer at in the College’s training restaurant Spires to the College, decided to embrace the pink by Hair and Beauty students offering some glam having his hair and eyebrows dyed pink. US bound in the form of painted nails and stunning hair styles, the College was full of fundraising Throughout the day an incredible £400 was Grace Brock, Penwith College opportunities. raised for the charity. One member of staff was A Level student and running particularly pleased with the day’s fundraising The Student Services team were particularly efforts as they know just how important things legend, has been accepted to eager to raise money for the cause, offering like this can be, saying: “The support I’ve study at Boise State University the classic ‘guess the weight of the cake’ received from the mermaid centre, headlands game with a twist, with a cake generously and the sunrise at Treliske has been amazing. in Idaho, USA with a Sports homemade and decorated by a member of We need these places in Cornwall.” Scholarship. staff at the College. But it didn’t stop there as Grace said: “I chose this university mainly because of the sports and coaching facilities but also because it gives me good academic opportunities as well. I will be studying a broad range of subjects, Fundraising is the aim choosing a subject to specialise in at the end of the second year.” of the game Grace has had a wonderful season with Foundation Studies students at Truro College spread joy at highlights that include achieving the world’s fastest 10K time for an U18 female Christmas by raising money for the Little Harbour Children’s in Worcester, coming sixth while racing Hospice South West through a gaming event at the College. for the England U20 team in the Cross De Atapuerca in Burgos, Spain, securing a place in the GB U20 team for the Organised by the students themselves, the students can’t wait for their next fundraising European Cross Country Championships event gave students the chance to unwind opportunity. who won a team gold medal at their first and have some fun in the name of charity as event in Tillburg, Holland. All of these they challenged one another in various video Marie Tullett, Foundation Studies lecturer achievements were the last three months games, with Sonic Racing emerging as the at the College, was so impressed by the alone. favourite. students’ hard work, saying: “I am so very proud of our students and what they have While finishing college at the end of this With games £1 a go and delicious array of achieved. They planned and organised the term, Grace still has her A Level exams left coffee and cakes for refreshments, the event whole event, which was a roaring success! to complete alongside plenty of training raised over £130 for the charity. They impressed me with their positive before she leaves for the US, making this attitude, remaining motivated throughout. an undoubtedly busy year for Grace. The students were really pleased with how It was an absolute pleasure to witness the the fundraising event went, commenting incredible team work and how they all grew on how busy it was and great it felt doing in confidence.” something nice for the charity. In fact, the gaming event was such a success the

A Level student and world record holder The gaming event drew a crowd. Proud students present the money raised. Grace can’t wait to study in America. 19 Truro College Sport students inspire the next generation

The Sports students are enjoying the sessions as much as the children.

Second-year Extended Diploma Sport students from Truro College have been developing their coaching skills as they lead First marathon a group of Year 5 pupils from Blackwater Community Primary for lunchtime School, who are part of the Truro and Penwith Academy Trust, through a series of lessons. running group The students have helped the pupils develop them onto different sports and it gives us the their range of physical literacy through a opportunity to work with kids to see if it’s what Regular participation in an series of sessions that allow them to try we want to do in the future. I’ve enjoyed it a award-winning health and different activities building their agility, lot, it’s been great fun.” balance and coordination. Each lesson the wellbeing programme has students create a carousel of activities for While the sessions act as a part of the helped three colleagues go the pupils to rotate through, giving them the sport students’ practical section of their chance to learn a range of skills. Tim Evans, coaching module, the experience has also from gentle jogs to completing the Truro College lecturer working with the been great for the children of Blackwater their first marathon. Sports students, stated: “The sport students Community Primary School. Members of have focused on planning activities that the staff who accompany the children each Louise Aspinall, Dom Haughton and Glen primary school pupils enjoy, helping them to week were thrilled with the sessions, saying: Hilton, all of whom work at Truro and Penwith encourage the children to not only develop “The children will be so sorry to leave, they College, have completed their first ever their physical literacy but also helping them to really look forward to the sessions. Even marathons with the help of the College’s have an active future.” the students who have always refused to Sport England and National Lottery funded take part in PE and the students with less Health, Wellbeing and Sport programme. Harry Butterworth, one of the students confidence have taken part and loved it. It’s leading the sessions, has found the given all children of all abilities access and The group have been running together opportunity to be incredibly beneficial, saying: has built their confidence up. We just can’t for three years as part of the Health and “It’s been good for the kids and for us. They praise the students enough.” Wellbeing programme at the College. can learn new skills that could progress “It started off as small jogs at lunch time then we looked for a 5k race then a little bit more and then a little bit more and pushing a little bit further all the time until eventually we Truro student records signed up to the marathons.” said Louise. fastest marathon time But it’s not just success in fitness the three have noticed throughout their training. “It’s Rising marathon star Floyd Ratcliffe going out with friends and it’s a real stress for British Junior with HWS Project Lead Julian Wills. buster,” said Dom. “Getting out of the office in the middle of the day means you can go back feeling refreshed. It makes a huge difference Truro College student Floyd Ratcliffe recorded the fastest to how I feel for the rest of the day.” marathon time of the year for any under 20 year old in Britain. He posted the record time of 2 hours and 44 minutes at the Valencia Marathon in December.

Floyd, who is in his second year of studying 20,000 athletes. A Level Maths, Physics and Chemistry at Truro College, has been running for a number Floyd is now targeting a number of races of years, with success at several distances. at regional and national level, and has He recently started being coached by the aspirations to continue his running when he College’s Health, Wellbeing and Sport project gets to university, where he plans to study Lead Julian Wills. engineering.

Though Floyd had competed over 26 miles Floyd said: “I’m really pleased with my before, the Valencia Marathon was his performance at Valencia. It was much first major road event at this distance, and hotter than racing here in Cornwall, so expectations for the event were significantly I had to plan my hydration carefully. To Dom, Louise and Glenn with exceeded with his junior category winning have recorded 2018’s fastest under 20’s HWS Project Lead, Julian Wills. time, and top 500 placing out of a field of over marathon time is amazing.” 20 oncourse online The best of Truro and Penwith College on the web

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