January 2021 from 01/01/2021 to 31/01/2021 Ballymena Daily | 28/01/2021

Media Review January 2021 from 01/01/2021 to 31/01/2021 Ballymena Daily | 28/01/2021

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Also published in Northern Regional College

Northern Regional College says Higher Level Apprenticeships a ‘win-win for employees and employers

Pictured: Jordan Gaw, a second year Computing HLA at Northern Regional College. HIGHER Level Apprenticeships (HLA) offer a ‘win-win’ situation for those involved by delivering work-based training and...

Ballymena Guardian | 28/01/2021

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Engineer Chris scoops top award at Northern Regional College

...Computing, and Integrative Counselling. For further information on Foundation Degree programmes and other full time and part time courses at the College, visit www.nrc.ac.uk to explore our range of courses.

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Martin McKeown). students with non-clinical services internally and Celebrity chef gives NRC students some food for thought...

CELEBRITY chef Paula also explained think, not just about Pictured right, Paula McIntyre took how peelings and tops the origin of their food, celebrity chef Paula some time out of her of vegetables could be but its environmental McIntyre cooks up a hectic schedule to used for dehydration, impact, from the treat for students at give professional smoking or growing or rearing Northern Regonal cookery students at fermentation. stage to the moment it College's Bally- Northern Regonal Lecturer Jane reaches your plate and money campus. College’s McAuley said the beyond. Ballymoney campus masterclass was very some insider tips on beneficial for the how to reduce food students as it waste. incorporated pasta, Minimising food pulses, roots, stems, waste is a constant leaves, bulbs and challenge for seeds, all of which are professional chefs and criteria for the Paula’s Sustainable Professional Cookery Vegetable Masterclass Vegetable unit. focussed on food She continued: waste and introduced “With today’s the students to the growing emphasis on concept of ‘root to reducing food waste, fruit’ with chefs have to get mouth-watering creative to be able to results. use all parts of the With a selection of vegetable, so Paula’s locally sourced, Masterclass certainly seasonal vegetables, gave our students she created a variety plenty of food for of tasty dishes, thought. ” illustrating perfectly Root to fruit (or root how all parts of the to stem) dining is an vegetable, including emerging food the roots and the philosophy that leaves can be used. encourages people to Chef Paula McIntyre delivers a masterclass to professional cookery students at Northern Regonal College's Ballymoney campus.

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starts with a cooking demonstration in the HE department. launch our Virtual Open Day in the “The college would like to take this date! Mature student Chris proves that he is a class act after scooping award!

A MATURE engineering student from The Dayle Smyth Endeavour Award is Antrim has been awarded the presented annually in memory of Dayle Smyth, prestigious Dayle Smyth Endeavour an outstanding former student at Northern Regional College in Ballymena, who tragically Award for his outstanding lost his life in a road traffic collision in 2014, performance at Northern Regional soon after achieving his Higher National College in Ballymena. Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering. Chris McConnaghie, who is employed as Dayle’s father Garry said the award, which maintenance manager with SDC Trailers in this year was presented virtually because of Toomebridge, completed the Foundation COVID restrictions, helped keep Dayle’s Degree in Electrical and Electronic memory alive. Engineering with distinction at the College. Mark Maginty, co-ordinator of the part-time He is currently doing a BEng (Hons) Foundation Degree in Electrical and Electronic deg ree. Engineering at Ballymena, explained why Originally from Ballycastle Chris now lives in Chris was selected for the Dayle Smyth Antrim and is married with a young son and Endeavour Award. another baby on the way. “Chris completed the Foundation Degree He said his decision to attend the College was with an overall distinction which is an excellent prompted by the realisation that accredited achievement, but it was his journey that we felt qualifications could help with his career merited the award. prog ression. “Chris became a father while he was due to Having left school at sixteen, Chris admitted sit his second-year exams. that as a teenager, he didn’t have much interest “He was not able to study properly or in qualifications but that changed as he got complete final sections of his coursework. As a o l d e r. result, his exams and courseworks were While working in the maintenance deferred to allow him time to mentally prepare, department of MDF Ltd in Antrim - which is he subsequently passed with flying colours. part of the Retlan Manufacturing group which “Christopher is a delight to have in class and includes SDC Trailers - he decided to do a Chris McConnaghie pictured with his wife Holly and son Henry. is a real credit to the College.” BTEC in Engineering at the College’s Northern Regional College offers Ballymena campus as a stepping stone to going ‘thirties and have valuable work experience company allowed me to change my hours Foundation Degrees in Electrical and to university. under my belt, I could see the relevance and around so I could attend College.” Electronic Engineering, Mechanical and “The company was very accommodating and importance of what was being taught in class Chris said he was delighted to graduate with Manufacturing Engineering, Construction allowed me to change my hours so I could and that certainly helped.” distinction and getting the Dayle Smyth Award Engineering with Surveying, Sports Science, attend the College one day a week.” Having come through the BTEC with flying was ‘the icing on the cake’. Coaching and Fitness, Health and Social Care, Going back to school after a break of over 15 colours, Chris was able to progress to the “It is a huge honour to be selected. I faced Applied and Medical Science, Early Childhood years was not without its challenges but Chris Foundation Degree in Electronic and some challenges throughout my time at the Studies, Computing, and Integrative said the positives outweighed the negatives. Engineering within the College in Ballymena. College but I was always determined to keep Counselling. “I was the oldest in the class and, although He continued: “The Foundation Degree was goin g. For further information on Foundation there were other mature students, most of the my route to university. I was working full-time “I hope my story will inspire others to Degree programmes and other full time and students were teenagers. but the course was delivered one day a week so persevere and that like me, they’ll find that it’s part time courses at the College, visit “When I was younger, I wasn’t very focused I felt it was achievable and, once again, the well worth the effort.” www.nrc.ac.uk to explore our range of on qualifications but now that I’m in my mid c o u rses.

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Also published in Ballymoney Chronicle

Martin McKeown). students with non-clinical services internally and Celebrity chef gives NRC students some food for thought...

CELEBRITY chef Paula also explained think, not just about Pictured right, Paula McIntyre took how peelings and tops the origin of their food, celebrity chef Paula some time out of her of vegetables could be but its environmental McIntyre cooks up a hectic schedule to used for dehydration, impact, from the treat for students at give professional smoking or growing or rearing Northern Regonal cookery students at fermentation. stage to the moment it College's Bally- Northern Regonal Lecturer Jane reaches your plate and money campus. College’s McAuley said the b eyond. Ballymoney campus masterclass was very some insider tips on beneficial for the how to reduce food students as it waste. incorporated pasta, Minimising food pulses, roots, stems, waste is a constant leaves, bulbs and challenge for seeds, all of which are professional chefs and criteria for the Paula’s Sustainable Professional Cookery Vegetable Masterclass Vegetable unit. focussed on food She continued: waste and introduced “With today’s the students to the growing emphasis on concept of ‘root to reducing food waste, fruit’ with chefs have to get mou th-watering creative to be able to results. use all parts of the With a selection of vegetable, so Paula’s locally sourced, Masterclass certainly seasonal vegetables, gave our students she created a variety plenty of food for of tasty dishes, thought. ” illustrating perfectly Root to fruit (or root how all parts of the to stem) dining is an vegetable, including emerging food the roots and the philosophy that leaves can be used. encourages people to Chef Paula McIntyre delivers a masterclass to professional cookery students at Northern Regonal College's Ballymoney campus.

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Dodds announces public appointment extensions

...John McGrillen, have been further extended for six months from 1 February 2021 to 31 July 2021. Northern Regional College The tenures of two GB members, Isobel Allison and Gillian McConnell, have been...

Ballymena Daily | 21/01/2021

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Also published in Northern Regional College

Chris scoops top award at Northern Regional College in Ballymena

Causeway Chamber of Commerce | 21/01/2021

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New Vice Principal appointed at Northern Regional College

Copyright Material - reproduced under license by TruehawkMedia. No further copying (including printing, digital reproduction and forwarding) is permitted except under License. Northern Regional College has appointed Christine Brown as the new Vice Principal for Teaching and Learning. With an established career of over 20 years in the further education sector, Christine, who...

Ballymena Times | 20/01/2021

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NRC graduate sets up his own business

...community organisations, businesses and schools," he said. Mark McNally, who recently graduated from Northern Regional College Having previously benefitted from counselling himself, Mark, who has a bachelor’s...

News Letter | 19/01/2021

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Mark sets up new Bremar Training

...Computing and Applied and Medical Sciences. For information on these and other HE opportunities at Northern Regional College, go to www.nrc.ac.uk A message from the Editor: Thank you for reading this story...

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Northern Regional College | 19/01/2021

Media Source Online Visits 15,148

Celebrity Chef Gives Northern Regional College Students Food for Thought

Celebrity chef Paula McIntyre took some time out of her hectic schedule to give professional cookery students at Northern Regonal College’s Ballymoney campus some insider tips on how to reduce food waste....

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Also published in Ballycastle Chronicle [+ 1 more]

During an educational visit to South Africa, Northern Regional College travel and tourism lec Northern Regional College students join together with students from Vuselela College in South turer, Karen McLeod delivered the World Host Ambassador qualification to travel and tourism Africa via Zoom. Reaching outstudents atacross Vuselela ColIege in South Africa. the world Northern Regional College links up with Vuselela College in South Africa...via Zoom DESPITE all the travel restrictions we had to be innovative and offer international the same positive outlook for the future of the Northern Regional College and Vuselela College. imposed because of the Covid-19 learning opportunities to our students in another industry. ” “It was great to re-connect and share my pandemic, travel and tourism students at way,” Karen explained. Anne Marie Pitts acknowledged that the experiences of working with tourism businesses The Ballymena students awre joined on the increased use of communication technology was a along the Causeway Coastal route and share our Northern Regional College are still Zoom call by Anna Marie Pitts, Programme possible positive consequence of Covid. plans to re-imagine the business as a result of sharing international best practice Manager ofVuselela College; former student Holly “The pandemic has forced us to expand our Covid. ” experiences with students in South Hume who visited the College in South Africa and knowledge of communication technology like Holly Hume told the students that she really Africa. is now doing a degree in International Travel and Zoom, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter etc., to appreciated the value of international visits. Level 2 and 3 students from the College’s Tourism at Ulster University; and Kelli allow us to connect with each other instantly and “I had a brilliant experience as a travel and Ballymena campus, used Zoom to extend the walls McRoberts, Manager of Carrick Enterprise face-to-face. tourism student at Northern Regional College and oftheir online classroom for a virtual catch-up with Agency. “I think it’s fantastic that Northern Regional know from my own personal experience how much Vuselela TVET in north-west South Africa. Karen continued: “We had a great session, which College is incorporating this advanced technology students can learn when they embrace Travel and Tourism lecturer, Karen McLeod was both educational and entertaining. We to internationalise its travel and tourism international opportunities and learning. I am said she was delighted with how her students had discussed the impact of the pandemic on teaching curriculum and it is our goal to ultimately empower passionate about this concept and it was great to be engaged with technology to maintain the link the and learning and shared our thoughts and vision for students to do likewise,” Anne Marie said. able to share experiences with the students. Vuelela College. the recovery of the travel, tourism and hospitality Kelli McRoberts, who previously collaborated Covid-19 has impacted on us all, wherever we live, “Study visits, which promote international industries post-Covid. with Northern Regional College through the study and work in the world so it was interesting to understanding, intercultural learning and skills, “It’s interesting to realise that students Coastal Tourism Hub programme, said she was hear the perspective of students in another part of are an important part of the travel and tourism everywhere face similar issues and challenges but, delighted to have an opportunity to take part in the the world,” Holly said. curriculum but current travel restrictions meant despite everything that’s going on, they still share discussion with students and lecturers from

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Northern Constitution - Limavady Chronicle | 20/01/2021

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Also published in Ballycastle Chronicle [+ 2 more]

Inspirational talk for NRC Travel and Tourism students TRAVEL and Tourism students at is also very rewarding. p re s e n t a t i o n , ”she said. Northern Regional College were Barry explained that an important “He covered so much, from customer inspired –and more than a little bit aspect of his role as on-board manager, service and health and safety to career jealous –to hear first-hand what it’s which is the most senior cabin crew opportunities, airlines and airports. like to work with Virgin Atlantic member on any flight, is having to deal These topics are embedded in our A i r w ay s. with just about any kind of emergency Travel and Tourism courses so Barry’s Barry Sheils, an on-board manager that could happen on board. presentation will certainly help the with the prestigious airline, spoke to “It could be just about anything, from students with their exams and Level 2 and 3 3 Travel and Tourism a medical crisis to coping with c o u rs e wo rk . ” students at the College’s Coleraine and technology glitches and handling Vivienne added that it was also very Magherafelt campuses via Zoom. difficult passengers. It’s all in a day’s reassuring to hear that Virgin is He told them how after he completed wo rk , ”he explained. planning ahead for life after Covid and his Level 3 course, he’d flown with that there will short-haul low-cost carriers for several CHALLENGES be new and years before progressing to a cabin crew He outlined the impact of external exc i t i n g position with Virgin and then landing factors like Covid-19 and Brexit on the o p p o rt u n i t i e s his dream job as an on-board manager airline industry and how Virgin was in the future with the airline. responding to these challenges. for our “My career has allowed me to see the Although some routes have been axed students. world and no two days at work are every and redundancies announced, the Fo r the same,”he said. “The one thing that promise of a vaccine will lead to the skies infor mation never changes though is that we must opening up again and Virgin is already on all Travel always provide the best possible looking to introducing new routes. and Tourism customer service.” Tourism lecturer Vivienne Baldwin courses He assured the students that although said Barry’s talk was most professional available at delivering exemplary customer service and truly inspirational. Norther n while operating across different time “Barry is a great motivational speaker Re gional Virgin Atlantic on-board manager Barry Shiels delivered an inspir- zones, several miles up in the air and a and the students were totally enthralled College, go to ational presentation to Northern Regional College students from long way from land can be demanding, it by his entertaining and informative w w w. n rc. a c. u k Barry Shiels Coleraine and Magherafelt.

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Also published in Ballycastle Chronicle [+ 2 more]

WELL DONE

OUR PIERCE CONGRATULATIONS to Portrush

teenager Pierce Quigley who has been presented with his NI caps after representing NI Schoolboys last season. Pierce, on the books of Coleraine Football Club, won the caps after playing against Jersey. The 17-year-old represented Northern Ireland against Jersey Under-18s and Under-21s in the Channel Islands. He scored on his international debut and hopes to be included in the squad for the Centenary Shield - should it ever take place. Aged 17, Pierce is currently studying at the Northern Regional College which itself boasted a fine football team last year.

FOR WARD

But it hasn’t all been plain sailing for the fo r wa rd . He has broken his foot on two occasions with unfortunate consequences. On one occasion the injury prevented him from winning the SuperCupNI title with County Antrim when they defeated Man Utd in the final. On the second occasion, his ill luck saw him miss out winning the Victory Shield with Northern I re l a n d . Despite the setbacks, Jason has fought back to fitness and last season featured in Oran Kearney’s squad in pre-season. Well done to him.

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Also published in Ballymena Daily

Northern Regional College Student Graduates and Sets Up Own Business

Mark McNally, who recently graduated from Northern Regional College, has gone on to set up his own business thanks to the skills and qualifications he gained through his studies. Mark spent four years at...

Northern Regional College | 14/01/2021

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Public appointment opportunity at Northern Regional College

...for the Economy has launched a public appointment competition to recruit a governing body Chair for Northern Regional College (NRC). Economy Minister Diane Dodds said: "Developing the skills of our people...

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Mum tells of how local college opened doors for her

Studying at Northern Regional College After leaving school, Joanne successfully As part of the Foundation Degree, she se- opened doors for a young Portstewart completed a Level 3 Diploma in Construc- cured a placement with multi-disciplinary mother of two, who is now doing a degree tion at the college in Coleraine, but her architectural consultancy firm, GM Design in Architectural Technology at Ulster Uni- longterm career plans were put on hold Associates in Coleraine. versity. while she thought of her next move. "The work I did at college and then the Joanne Caskey - mum to Bobby (10) and She worked in Asda whilst focusing on her work placement with GM Design were Bella (5) - was awarded a Foundation De- young family but was drawn back to her great preparation for university and, be- gree with Distinction in Construction with original plan to work in the construction cause I was already familiar with much of Surveying at the college's Higher Educa- sector. the terminology, so I was well able to cope tion graduations, paving the way for her to "Ten years after I completed my Diploma, with the workload," Joanne said. go to university. I decided to go back to the college to do a Joanne Caskey Joanne said that even as a young child she Foundation Degree," Joanne explained. was always interested in the design and "It's a roundabout route but it's working construction of buildings, an interest she for me and I'm really enjoying it." attributes to her father.

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Public appointment opportunity within further education sector

...for the Economy has launched a public appointment competition to recruit a governing body Chair for Northern Regional College (NRC). Public appointment competition to recruit a governing body Chair for ...

Department for the Economy NI | 14/01/2021

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Northern Regional College - appointment of Chair of Governing Body

The Department for the Economy wishes to appoint a Chair to the Governing Body of Northern Regional College (NRC) with effect from 1 July 2021.

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PLAUDITS FOR LECTURERS NRC tutors support Julie through studies

in 2020, graduating with dis “As well as a getting a sol By Times Reporter tinction and this was her id foundation in biomedical [email protected] @nabbeytimes steppingstone to becoming science and laboratory expe an undergraduate at Ulster rience, I feel more confident Northern Regional College University. about the competency of my Julie, who left school at 16 IT and research skills and my lecturers have been thanked with one GCSE to her name, ability to do presentations. for supporting a former stu wants to work in a medical re “I found that being a stu dent who is now studying a search laboratory as a biomed dent at NRC helped me grow as Biomedical Science degree at ical scientist after graduating. a person. My self-belief, self- university. She said: “I started the Ac esteem and confidence in my cess Diploma in Social Science own ability has really devel Julie Spratt did a Foundation at Magherafelt campus in 2016 oped and this was in no small Degree in Applied and Medi and transferred to Ballymena part due to the ever-present cal Science at Newtownabbey to do Science modules in my encouragement from the lec NRC campus after completing second year, and this allowed turers. Thanks to this sup an Access Diploma at NRC in me to progress to do a Foun port, I was motivated to go to 2018. dation Degree in Applied and university to study biomedical She completed the course Medical Science. science.” Julie Spratt.

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EDUCATION Karen is top of the class at NR College

Newtownabbey-based Karen Karen said she found par Kearns has graduated from ticularly rewarding: “I was Northern Regional College lucky to secure placements achieving the highest overall in both a community coun mark in her year group. selling agency and in a GP Karen, who recently com surgery. pleted a University of Ulster “This practical experi validated Foundation Degree in ence alongside my classroom Integrative Counselling Prac learning really enhanced my tice at NRC, was nominated for confidence. the Dean’s Award for her con “The combination of sistently high performance placement and theory-based throughout her studies. study makes the course ex She said: “I became inter tremely rich and diverse. ested in studying counselling The standard of teaching and began researching cours and support offers a fantas es. Northern Regional College’s tic learning experience.” offering gave a clear progres Karen has now her sights sion of study which was appeal On course for success - Karen Kearns on ambitious goals includ ing to me. ing more study at NRC: “I in “I began with a Level 2 well as she was able to balance tend to stay on in placement course, then progressed to Lev studies with family commit to gain more experience and el 3 before embarking upon the ments. also work towards becom Foundation Degree.” As part of their course, stu ing accredited and having Karen, who has ayoung son, dents are required to com my own practice. I am also said that the part-time aspect plete 100 hours of counselling interested in further study of the course also suited her through placement which with the College.”

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PRAISE FOR FAMILY AND LECTURERS FORTHEIR SUPPORT Julie battles cancer as she changes career

diagnosed with breast cancer. aration for going to universi By Staff Reporter It was challenging to keep up ty. “As well as a getting a solid [email protected] @midumail with my studies while I was foundation in biomedical sci going through treatment, but ence and great laboratory ex the College gave me something perience, I feel more confident A local woman has praised the positive to focus on and helped about the competency of my help and support of her family keep my mind busy.” IT and research skills and my and lecturers after overcom Following the success ability to do presentations.” ing breast cancer while study ful completion of the Access She continued: “On a per Diploma at Northern Re sonal level, I found that being ing for a career changing gional College in 2018, Julie a student at Northern Region degree. progressed to do a Foundation al College helped me grow as Julie Spratt (pictured) from Degree in Applied and Medical Diploma would help me get a a person. My self-belief, self- Knockloughrim, who left Science at the College in New- betterjob.” esteem and confidence in my school at 16 with just one townabbey. She completed Julie spent a total of four own ability has really devel GCSE, is now doing a Biomed- the course in 2020, graduat years as a student at Northern oped and this was in no small ical Science degree at uni ing with distinction and this Regional College and studied part due to the ever-present versity with a career goal of was her stepping stone to be at three different campuses. encouragement from the lec working in a medical research coming an undergraduate at “I started the Access Diploma turers.” laboratory as a biomedical sci Ulster University last autumn. in Social Science at Magher- Having sailed through the entist. Julie explained that after afelt campus in 2016 and sub Access Diploma and then the Although she enjoyed be leaving school, she worked sequently transferred to the Foundation Degree with flying ing a student and the interac in a variety of part-time jobs Ballymena campus do Sci colours, Julie said she would tion with lecturers and the which she fitted in around the ence modules in my second “most certainly recommend” camaraderie of other stu demands of a young family. year, and this allowed me to both courses. dents, Julie admits that her “I had always planned to re progress to do a Foundation For further information on time at the College wasn’t all turn to third level education Degree in Applied and Medi courses available and other plain sailing. to improve my career pros cal Science.” HE opportunities at Northern “At the start of the second pects when my children were She said her four years at Regional College, go to www. year of my Access course, I was grown up and felt the Access the College were a great prep nrc.ac.uk

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Assembly Business

...Ireland) 2020 Belfast Metropolitan College Annual Report and Accounts for year ended 31 July 2020 Northern Regional College Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 July 2020 Tourism Northern Ireland...

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Page 5 From student to tutor - Ian takes new role at NRC

Ex-electrician Ian source of help throughout the Thomson, who first qualification,” he said. attended Northern Ian added: “Looking back, it has been so worthwhile. ” Regional College in 1994, Upon the completion of his returned to the College to foundation degree, Ian secured a complete a Foundation full-time lecturing post in the Degree in Electrical and Colle ge’s electrical installation Electronic Engineering department where it all began some 26 years ago. and recently graduated “Walking in as a lecturer as with a distinction grade. meeting some of the staff that had Ian, who worked as an previously taught me was a electrician for 20 years before surreal feeling. becoming an Electrotechnical “I am extremely proud of the Trainer Assessor, decided to effort I put in to get to this point enhance his skillset and and I am really looking forward knowledge by undertaking the to my future career as a Foundation Degree at the lecturer. ” Colle ge. Ian Thompson In addition to in Electrical and “I spent a number of years in Electronic Engineering, my assessor role at a training my continual professional Northern Regional college offers organisation. I found I really development. ” Foundation Degrees in enjoyed spending time with the Despite juggling his studies Construction Engineering apprentices and watching them alongside work and family life, Construction Engineering with develop. Ian achieved top marks. Surveying, Mechanical and “Sharing and imparting “Completing the Foundation Manufacturing Engineering, knowledge of what I have learned Degree was certainly Applied and Medical Science, over several years is very challenging. There are a number Sports Science, Coaching and rewarding,” Ian explained. of components including classes Fitness, Health and Social Care, Following this, he was offered a and assignments which alongside Early Childhood Studies, position as a trainer within the my work and family life meant I Computing and Integrative Colle ge: was extremely busy. Counselling. “I jumped at the chance to “However, the support given For further information on work at the College. On securing by the lecturing team in the these and other HE opportunities this role, a decided to undertake engineering department was at Northern Regional College, go the Foundation Degree as part of excellent and provided a great to www.nrc.ac.uk

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Also published in Coleraine Chronicle

Union Street site cleared to make way for new £40m NRC campus College demolition undeway

Above and below right: the demolition team moves in ahead of the NRC's £40m campus redevelopment. How the new campus will look from Anderson Park.

THE demolition of Coleraine's Northern which is protected. through to the town centre. Regional College got underway in earnest It will be retained and refurbished to become a The training restaurant and hair and beauty salon last week, starting with razing of the performing arts studio. will, at set times, be open to the public to provide our Planning applications for the Coleraine Campus students with the opportunity to train in a realistic original Technical School building. were presented to the Planning Committee of environment. A number of structures on the corner of Union Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council in June 2019 The performing arts centre will be an additional Street and Brook Street are being levelled to make and gained cross-party support and unanimous resource not only for the college but for the way for a £40m state-of-the-art campus building approval. community. due to re-open in 2023. An important feature of the design is creation of Last month Economy Minister Diane Dodds Opened in the 1930s, the original red-brick strong links with the town centre through Anderson revealed that 100 construction jobs would be created building, has over the years, been known as Park. when work gets underway. Coleraine Technical College, Causeway Institute The main entrance will be an open airy ‘garden In total the building phase will sustain 300 jobs and and most recently NRC's Coleraine Campus. room’ which aims to extend the park space into the provide over 1000 hours oftraining for new apprentices It was extended in the 1950s and, in 1968, the building. across a range of construction related trades, she said. six-story tower block was added. The landscape design will create an attractive The college successfully relocated over the summer Neither the Technical School building or the reinvigorated outdoor space accessible to all. to Beresford Avenue in Coleraine, where it has tower block are listed, however the new campus will This will not only be a benefit to staff and students maintained curriculum delivery at a modified former incorporate the adjacent St Patrick's Church Hall, but also the whole community creating stronger links secondary school building.

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December Surge in Covid cases A SURGE in Covid cases, which saw the The Economy Minister revealed that over 100 new borough's infection rate rise higher than construction jobs will be created when work starts on the anywhere else in NI, resulted in a record £40m rebuild of Coleraine's further education college. News ofthe major boost to the town's economy came weekly death toll at the start of December. as Diane Dodds announced the appointment ofthe lead Figures from the Northern Ireland Statistical contractor for the Union Street project. Work has since Research Agency (NISRA) show a total of 16 Covid begun on demolition. deaths in the week ending November 20. Coleraine's police chief warned that paramilitaries Four North Coast visitors said they were “happy to be prepared to intimidate and even murder rivals would alive” after a freak wave swept them off the Bar Mouth only be caught with community support. Pier at Castlerock. In a message delivered as Causeway Coast and Glens The casualties were injured after falling on rocks but endured an upsurge in activity linked to loyalist criminal were helped back onto the walkway by a brave gangs, Superintendent Ian Magee renewed his appeal passer-by. for information. Consultant Dr Fergal Dunn explained how the The Chronicel unravelled the mystery behind the ‘Phone First’ transformation of Causeway Hospital's name of a star race horse that intertwined golf and the emergency department would likely be replicated in sport of kings. hospitals across NI. Though prompted by Covid the Portrush Ted was named after his owner's father, Ted overhaul was long overdue, he said. McNeill, son ofa club pro at Royal Portrush who himself Would Brexit replace Coronavirus in obstructing competed in the 1951 Open Championships. oversees tourists wishing to visit Causeway Coast and Councillors agreed a £400k rescue package for some Glens? of the borough's biggest events whose futures have been That was the question posed by Mayor Mark cast into doubt by the Covid pandemic. Fielding, when he appeared before an influential The Tourism Event Recovery Fund will provide a Stormont Committee. cash lifeline, whether or not organisers are forced to pull Alderman Fielding and a senior council official had the plug in 2021. been asked to contribute to a fact finding exercise on Also at Cloonavin, a committee has agreed to spend concerns over the end of the EU withdrawal transition £21,000 refurbishing a traditional bathing spot in period. Portstewart. Consultant Dr Fergal Dunn pictured in Causeway Hospital's Emergency Department.

An artist's impression of the Northern Regional College's Coleraine Campus. Chief Superintendent Ian Magee.

>» Portrush Ted, named after Ted McNeill (inset) clearing a hurdle at Kelso Race Course. Portnahapple bathing spot in Portstewart, pictured back in its heyday.

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Head of data in Cookstown and examinations assistant in Newtonabbey - GetGot have testing but rewarding roles

...and the ability to build a dynamic team. Apply 2 Examinations Assistant in Newtownabbey Northern Regional College is the main provider of higher and further education and training across a diverse...

The Coleraine Chronicle | 12/01/2021

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College demolition underway

...NRC’s £40m campus redevelopment. Tuesday 12 January 2021 10:35 THE demolition of Coleraine's Northern Regional College got underway in earnest last week, starting with razing of the original Technical...

Larne Times | 11/01/2021

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Also published in Carrick Times

Karen is top of the class atNR College

Copyright Material - reproduced under license by TruehawkMedia. No further copying (including printing, digital reproduction and forwarding) is permitted except under License. ...studies. She said: "I became interested in studying counselling and began researching courses. Northern Regional College’s offering gave a clear progression of study which was appealing to me. I began...

News Letter | 08/01/2021

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Also published in Ballymoney Moyle Times [+ 1 more]

Mum tells of how local college opened doors for her

...familiar with much of the terminology, so I was well able to cope with the workload," Joanne said. www.nrc.ac.uk * A message from the Editor: Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have...

Mid-Ulster Mail | 07/01/2021

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NRC staff praised as former student commences Biomedical Science degree

...Science at the NRC campus in Newtownabbey following the successful completion of an Access Diploma at Northern Regional College in 2018. She completed the course in 2020, graduating with distinction and this...

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Inspirational talk for NRC Travel students

Travel and Tourism students at North- Virgin and then landing his dream job as Barry explained that an important aspect ern Regional College were inspired - and an on-board manager with the airline. of his role as on-board manager, which is more than a little bit jealous - to hear first- "My career has allowed me to see the the most senior cabin crew member on any hand what it's like to work with Virgin At- world and no two days at work are every flight, is having to deal with just about any lantic Airways. the same," he said. kind of emergency that could happen on Barry Sheils, an on-board manager with "The one thing that never changes though board. the prestigious airline, spoke to Level 2 is that we must always provide the best "It could be just about anything, from a and 3 3 Travel and Tourism students at the possible customer service." medical crisis to coping with technology College's Coleraine and Magherafelt cam- He assured the students that although de- glitches and handling difficult passengers. puses via Zoom. livering exemplary customer service while It's all in a day's work," he explained. Tour- He told them how, after he completed his operating across different time zones, sev- ism lecturer Vivienne Baldwin said Barry's Level 3 course, he'd flown with short-haul eral miles up in the air and a long way talk was most professional and truly in- low-cost carriers for several years before from land can be demanding, it is also spirational. progressing to a cabin crew position with very rewarding.

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FOUNDATION DEGREE AT NORTHERN REGIONAL COLLEGE STEPPINGSTONE TO UNIVERSITY

Studying at Northern Regional College opened doors for a young Portstewart mother of two, who is now doing a degree in Architectural Technology at Ulster University. Joanne Caskey, mum to Bobby (10) and...

Northern Regional College | 06/01/2021

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The student becomes the master: local electrician graduates to become lecturer

Ex-electrician Ian Thomson, who first attended Northern Regional College in 1994, returned to the College to complete a Foundation Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and recently graduated...

Northern Regional College | 06/01/2021

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...laboratory as a biomedical scientist. Following the successful completion of an Access Diploma at Northern Regional College in 2018, Julie progressed to do a Foundation Degree in Applied and Medical Science...

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McCUE INVESTING IN THE FUTURE WITH APPRENTICESHIP RECRUITMENT DRIVE

CARRICKFERGUS-based Metropolitan College for the next through time-aged techniques, which integral part of our workforce and manufacturer, McCue, academic year, in a move that will McCue has become renowned for. can add real value. has partnered with two help the company retain its skillset in "My own personal experience as an of Northern Ireland’s the future. Speaking about the apprenticeship apprentice with McCue has certainly higher education programme, McCue’s Managing shaped my career path, allowed me facilities to recruit a The apprenticeship programme will Director, Gary Purdy, who began to progress throughout the company number of apprentice see the five apprentices undertake his career as an apprentice at the and contributed to my current role. joiners. on-the-job training with the company, said,“Since I joined McCue The apprenticeship programme highly-skilled craftsmen at McCue, as an apprentice back in 1985, many is a great opportunity for young The company, which specialises in combined with occasional study that things have changed, however the people to commence their careers project management, fit-out and will culminate with a recognised core skills that our apprentices learn and we look forward to developing bespoke joinery, is taking on five qualification.They will learn how to remain the same. It is fundamental for the young people and seeing their apprentice joiners from Northern create, craft and construct high- us as a business to develop the skills progression in the months and Regional College and Belfast quality joinery and intricate designs of our young people, who become an indeed, the years ahead.”

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Inspirational talk for NRC Travel students

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News Letter | 04/01/2021

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Inspirational talk for NRC Travel students

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Dodds announces public appointment extensions

Causeway Chamber of Commerce | 21/01/2021

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New Vice Principal appointed at Northern Regional College

Northern Regional College has appointed Christine Brown as the new Vice Principal for Teaching and Learning. With an established career of over 20 years in the further education sector, Christine, who...

Antrim Guardian | 15/01/2021

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Diane is outstanding in her own field(s)!

Copyright Material - reproduced under license by TruehawkMedia. No further copying (including printing, digital reproduction and forwarding) is permitted except under License. ...the well-known late historian and character Alex Blair. She did a diploma in Business Studies at Coleraine Tech, before going on to study accountancy at the University of Ulster in Jordanstown. She met...

Northern Regional College | 14/01/2021

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Public appointment opportunity at Northern Regional College

Department for the Economy NI | 14/01/2021

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Public appointment opportunity within further education sector

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An artist's impression of the Northern Regional College's Coleraine Campus. Chief Superintendent Ian Magee.

>» Portrush Ted, named after Ted McNeill (inset) clearing a hurdle at Kelso Race Course. Portnahapple bathing spot in Portstewart, pictured back in its heyday.

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Head of data in Cookstown and examinations assistant in Newtonabbey - GetGot have testing but rewarding roles

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2021. on 078 0532 1977. time. Vocational and Essential Skills exams cancelled Essential Skills and vocational March, and the scheduled summer exam series.” The Minister has instructed CCEA Regulation to examinations for the remainder of ensure that awarding organisations put in place this academic year have been suitable alternative awarding arrangements that are cancelled - the decision announced reflective of this year’s particular circumstances. “I wish to assure learners that the awards you by Economy Minster Diane Dodds will receive this year will have the same standards last week. and recognition as any other year and will carry the In making her decision, the Minister said the same degree of portability as you consider disruption to learning meant that it was neither progression pathways,” she said. sustainable nor fair to learners or to providers to “There are a range of qualifications that continue with exams. demonstrate occupational competency, such as “The pandemic continues to disrupt every aspect licence to practice, and I have requested that of our lives and I know how unsettling a time this suitable assessment adaptations are put in place, in has been for learners, their families and local a similar manner to last year. Where this is not providers who deliver vocational qualifications and possible, assessments may need to be delayed given Essential Skills,” said Mrs Dodds. public health and safety considerations.” “I am acutely aware of the increasing disruption In relation to Essential Skills, the Minister said to teaching and learning and despite the best efforts that external exams will also be cancelled and of our local providers and learners, this is no longer replaced with a teacher judgement approach, based sustainable nor fair to learners. upon suitable evidence. There will be a short “Therefore, I want to provide clarity and transition period where Essential Skills on-demand certainty and have taken the decision to cancel all exams will still be available up to the end of external vocational exams for the remainder of this February 2021, where they can be taken safely in year, including Essential Skills and BTecs and all line with PHA guidance, until the new other vocational exams scheduled for February / arrangements are in place.” f g

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Also published in Northwest Telegraph

Vocational examinations cancelled

ESSENTIAL Skills and vocational ex- "I want to provide clarity and certainty Mrs Dodds said she expected clarity on the aminations have been cancelled for this and have taken the decision to cancel all alternative arrangements to be available by year, the Economy Minister has confirmed. external vocational exams for the remain- the end of February. Diane Dodds said the disruption to learn- der of this year, including Essential Skills Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson said ap- ing meant that it was neither sustainable and BTecs and all other vocational exams propriate support for students must now be nor fair to learners or to providers to con- scheduled for February and March, and the the priority. tinue with exams. scheduled summer exam series." "It is vital definite contingency plans are "I am acutely aware of the increasing dis- put in place as swiftly as possible," he said. ruption to teaching and learning," she said.

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George Graham, the 'blow-in' who is now 'part of the fabric' in his adopted town!

...1947 and went to Rainey Endowed school in Magherafelt before taking up an OND in Engineering at Ballymena ‘Tech’. "I didn’t enjoy school much," he told the Guardian a few years back. "I remember my classmates...

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Also published in Northern Regional College

Chris scoops top award at Northern Regional College in Ballymena

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Mum tells of how local college opened doors for her

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Also published in Ballymoney Moyle Times [+ 1 more]

Mum tells of how local college opened doors for her

Northern Regional College | 07/01/2021

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FOUNDATION DEGREE AT NORTHERN REGIONAL COLLEGE STEPPINGSTONE TO UNIVERSITY

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McCUE INVESTING IN THE FUTURE WITH APPRENTICESHIP RECRUITMENT DRIVE

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McCUE INVESTING IN THE FUTURE WITH APPRENTICESHIP RECRUITMENT DRIVE

Copyright Material - reproduced under license by TruehawkMedia. No further copying (including printing, digital reproduction and forwarding) is permitted except under License. Northern Regional College says Higher Level Apprenticeships a ‘win-win for employees and employers Published in: Northern Regional College Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

41,348 34.45 €

Celebrity chef gives NRC students some food for thought... Published in: Ballymoney Chronicle Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

34,458 27,450 1,724.78 €

Chris scoops top award at Northern Regional College in Ballymena Published in: Northern Regional College Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

41,348 34.45 €

Reaching out across the world Published in: Ballycastle Chronicle, Ballymoney Chronicle Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

51,687 41,175 4,333.99 €

Inspirational talk for NRC Travel and Tourism students Published in: Ballycastle Chronicle, Ballymoney Chronicle, Coleraine Chronicle Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

68,916 54,900 3,620.38 €

WELL DONE OUR PIERCE Published in: Ballycastle Chronicle, Ballymoney Chronicle, Coleraine Chronicle Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

68,916 54,900 2,582.02 €

Northern Regional College Student Graduates and Sets Up Own Business Published in: Ballymena Daily Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

41,348 34.45 €

College demolition undeway Published in: Coleraine Chronicle Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

34,458 27,450 3,121.62 €

Karen is top of the class atNR College Published in: Carrick Times Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

94,324 78.61 €

41 Mum tells of how local college opened doors for her Published in: Ballymoney Moyle Times, Coleraine Times Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

286,452 238.7 €

Inspirational talk for NRC Travel students Published in: Ballymoney Moyle Times, Coleraine Times, Mid-Ulster Mail Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

73,109,671 60,924.72 €

Vocational examinations cancelled Published in: Northwest Telegraph Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

63,328 35,594 1,131.82 €

Chris scoops top award at Northern Regional College in Ballymena Published in: Northern Regional College Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

41,348 34.45 €

Mum tells of how local college opened doors for her Published in: Ballymoney Moyle Times, Coleraine Times Total Printrun: Total Circulation Total Visits Sum of AVE:

286,452 238.7 €