Annual Review 2009 - 2010

annual review 2009 - 2010

www.dudleycol.ac.uk

Principal’s

WELCOME Many thanks for your interest in Dudley College and for taking the time to read our Annual Review of 2009-10.

It was, undoubtedly, another challenging year for the college and for the communities and businesses we support here in the Black Country. If anything, these difficult economic times heighten the importance of further education and the significant role colleges play in the social and economic regeneration of their local communities.

Last year, through our diverse curriculum, we supported record numbers of young people on full time programmes and apprenticeships. In doing so we were pleased to see our success rates maintained above the national average and improved considerably in some areas. In short, more young people attended the college than ever before and more left us with their target qualification achieved.

Like many other colleges we experienced significant cuts in funding for general adult education programmes. In many ways it is disappointing to see these programmes in decline. We are, however, immensely proud of the significant growth we achieved on our programmes to upskill employed adults and to get those out of work back into jobs. Our new employability centre at Brierley Hill operated close to capacity throughout the year.

Whilst we know there are further reductions in public funding in 2010/11 and beyond, we remain positive and up-beat about our future. In January 2011 building work starts on our new Dudley town centre campus and in 2012 we will be celebrating our 150th anniversary with the opening of our new campus.

If I or any of my staff can be of assistance to you at any time, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Lowell Williams Principal

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visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

WELCOME

Chair’s

WELCOME Welcome to our Annual Report outlining another successful year for the college.

Congratulations to our learners who have achieved success from their courses and to our dedicated staff who have worked so effectively with them.

The future will be challenging but we are confident that we can continue to build on the high standards we are setting. We are also hopeful that over the next year we will make real progress on new college buildings around the Broadway campus to create a new Learning Quarter close to the Town Centre. These new facilities will benefit future learners and help regenerate a significant area of Dudley Town Centre.

As well as thanking our staff for their efforts, I also recognise the contribution of the Principal and his Senior Management Team as well as my colleagues on the College’s Governing Body (the Corporation) who give so generously of their time.

Viv Astling Chair of the Corporation

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OUR

MISSION Outstanding learning which develops skills, raises aspirations and changes lives.

about us Welcome to Dudley College - a ‘GOOD’ college in every sense of the word. I hope that our latest annual report gives you a taste of the progress and achievements that we have made over the last twelve months, as well as a true insight into college life here.

vision Our vision for the future is: By 2014 we will be recognised locally, regionally, nationally and internationally as a provider of high quality, successful education and skills training. Dudley College will be known as ‘a great place to study and work’. Success rates will be high and above national averages at all levels and for all ages. Teaching will be routinely good, and very often outstanding. Learners and staff alike will report high levels of satisfaction with the college, certainly above averages for the sector and in line with the ‘best in class’ in the public and private sector. Ofsted, and others, will report that Dudley College is Outstanding.

This vision has been enacted in our updated mission statement.

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VALUES In achieving our aims and in delivering our mission we will: l Put the learner at the heart of all we do. l Act with integrity and mutual respect. l Communicate clearly and openly. l Value each and every individual. l Recognise innovation and success. l Support and encourage team working. l Be a model of good equality and diversity practice. l Reduce the college’s impact on its environment.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

ABOUT DUDLEY COLLEGE

OUR FIVE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES: To focus ourselves in taking the next steps, we have identified five key strategic priorities that underpin our mission and that will drive our operational actions. l Priority One – A culture of high expectations, high achievement. l Priority Two – Towards an outstanding college. l Priority Three – Curriculum innovation. l Priority Four – Effective employer engagement. l Priority Five – Investing in our people.

Our strategic priorities translate into a set of objectives which on achievement will ensure that our local community will recognise Dudley as a proactive college which serves their needs and supports the economic, social and personal development of local people. Our learners will comment that our provision is welcoming and inclusive.

By 2015 we will be operating from new, inspirational buildings fit for education in the 21st Century. Our intention is to create a new building to house the proposed Dudley 6th Form Centre with learning delivered collaboratively with the college’s local partner schools. The Dudley 6th Form Centre will be a new beacon of aspiration for the north, centre and west of the borough giving learners a real choice regarding A level provision. Also within our estates strategy, we shall seek to establish a new higher education centre close to Dudley town centre, developed in partnership with our higher education partner university, the University of Wolverhampton.

Employers will recognise the college as a key partner in driving their business performance and meeting their skills needs. Our services to employers will be flexible, responsive and effective and the college will enjoy very high levels of employer responsive provision. The college will be at the heart of regeneration strategies, and will champion collaborative initiatives, working to address the skills challenge in the Black Country and the wider West Midlands.

We will continue to work closely with our local schools, community and voluntary organisations, franchise partners and business intermediaries.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

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2009-10 HAS BEEN A GOOD YEAR FOR US: (key outcomes) l We have ensured that teaching and assessment across the college is maintained at a high standard (80% of staff achieved ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ grades). l We further developed our support mechanisms especially for young people to maximise their opportunity for success. l We have broadly maintained overall success rates and improved considerably in some curriculum areas. l We established a dedicated employability skills centre to enhance the work opportunities of unemployed adults. l We have completely re-engineered our curriculum offer for learners with learning difficulties/disabilities. l Threshold services have been redesigned to better meet the needs of learners. l Student social spaces have been extended or expanded. l Learner and staff feedback surveys showed that overall satisfaction levels have improved. l Significant investment has been made in a new ‘virtual learning environment’. l We have adopted a consistently high quality and uniform approach to how the college is managed through a rigorously applied performance management framework. l We have trained all business support staff in the ‘internal customer’ concept. l All teachers and assessors have received safeguarding training. l We completed the feasibility study for the new learning quarter for the town and are now progressing the new build plans vigorously. l We have developed strong relationships with some key employers. l Good financial health has been maintained.

Our diverse curriculum has been maintained, both in terms of academic and vocational subjects, aimed at meeting the needs of both young people and adults, and employers and local communities.

The curriculum was particularly strong in the areas of: l Accounting. l Art and Design. l Business Studies. l Childcare. l Construction and Environmental Technologies. l Creative and Performing Arts.

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l Engineering. l English for Speakers of Other Languages. l Hair and Beauty. l Health & Social Care. l Humanities. l Management & Professional programmes. l Retail. l Skills for Life. l Teacher Training. l Work Based Learning.

14 new products were developed this year to enable us to meet very specific training needs identified by local employers.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

ABOUT DUDLEY COLLEGE

SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM Lowell Williams, Principal, joined the college in March 2008. The day to day management of the college is organised through a Directorate, comprised of the Principal and six Directors: of Learning, Finance, Student Support, Standards, Performance and Development, Personnel, and Estates and Capital Projects.

ACADEMIC MANAGEMENT The Academic Management Team is led by the Director of Learning and the Director of Student Support. Five Heads of Centre report to the Director of Learning and one Head of Centre reports to the Director of Student Support. They are supported by 21 Curriculum Managers, and together they are responsible for the delivery of teaching and learning across a range of qualifications. In addition, ten Advanced Practitioners assure the quality and development of good practice in teaching and learning.

COLLEGE STAFF We directly employ over 770 teaching and business support staff. All staff have the opportunity to operate across a broad range of activities and the college is fortunate in the adaptability and flexibility of this, it’s biggest resource. Staff have access to a comprehensive professional development programme that is reviewed annually, as well as the opportunity to participate in bespoke programmes such as ‘Management in Action’ and the ‘Talent Recognition and Succession Planning’ programme.

As a result of these sound systems, we have held Investor in People (liP) status since 1994.

CORPORATION The college is governed by a board of Corporation members made up of the Principal, 2 staff members, 2 student members and 12 external members drawn from business, public sector, education and community backgrounds. The Corporation elects its own Chair and Vice Chair from among its members and has the following sub-committees: Audit, Employer Responsiveness, Finance & Estates, Personnel, Remuneration, Search and Standards & Diversity.

QUALITY MARKS In addition to being an accredited ‘Investor in People’ organisation, the college holds ‘Matrix’, ‘Positive about Disabled People’ and ‘Customer Service Excellence’ quality marks. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

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Mr Viv Astling Chair of the Corporation Retired Chief Executive of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council.

A former solicitor and student of the college.

Served on:

Dr Bryony Conway

Mr John Freeman

Dean of the School of Art & Design at the University of Wolverhampton.

Specialist academic in Human Resource Management and Development.

Director of the React Programme for the Local Government Association.

Served on:

Served on: Audit. Standards & Diversity

Finance & Estates. Remuneration

Finance & Estates Remuneration (Chair).

Search (Chair) Standards & Diversity (Chair)

Mr Mushtaq Hussain

Mr Tony Lucas

Mrs Judith Moore

Manager in local government, finance department. Former elected member of Dudley Council (1990 to 2002).

Director of Advantage Early Growth Fund Limited, BLN Sponsors Limited and Lucas Interim Services Limited.

Previously employed by the Nat West Group.

Internal auditor at Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council.

Previously Area Manager and Internal Auditor for Post Office Counters Limited.

Served on:

Served on:

Employer Responsiveness (Chair).

Finance & Estates (Deputy Chair).

Audit (Chair). Remuneration.

Councillor Liz Walker

Mr Lowell Williams Principal

Served on: Personnel (Deputy Chair).

Search. Standards & Diversity (Deputy Chair).

Ms Taya Rudge-Robins Student Member Student Member. Currently studying Business Administration Level 3. 2009/10 Student Union Student with Disabilities Officer.

Cabinet Member Children’s Services, Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council.

Served on: Standards & Diversity.

Principal of Dudley College. Previously Principal of South Leicestershire College.

Served on: Search. Standards & Diversity. Employer Responsiveness. Finance & Estates.

Personnel. Standards & Diversity.

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visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

CORPORATION MEMBERS

Mr Peter Gardner

Mrs Sarah Heller

Engineering Performance Manager at Birmingham International Airport.

Project Leader and Chair of St Michael’s Community Project, West Bromwich.

Sales and Marketing Director at a local IT software and services supplier.

Previous senior roles at Microsoft UK and Fujitsu.

Served on: Audit (Deputy Chair). Standards & Diversity

Ms Kate Mulleady Runs an interim management and consultancy agency. Has over 15 years experience as a senior manager in FE colleges.

Served on: Audit. Personnel (Chair). Search.

Mr John Woodall Vice Chair of the Corporation Chartered Accountant. Previously Chief Executive of Training & Enterprise Council and Business Link, Dudley for 10 years.

Served on: Employer Responsiveness (Deputy Chair). Finance & Estates (Chair).

Remuneration (Deputy Chair). visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

Served on:

Ms Kim Hughes Student Member Student Union President in place for term 2010/11. Completed BTEC Level 3 Business – 2008 to 2010.

Served on:

Employer Responsiveness. Personnel.

Standards & Diversity.

Miss Julie Payne Staff Member

Mrs Christine Richards Staff Member

Appointed Staff Member (Support Staff). Hub Administrator.

Appointed Staff Member (Academic).

Head of Centre, Sixth Form Studies and the Arts.

Served on: Finance & Estates. Personnel.

Search. Standards & Diversity.

Served on: Finance & Estates. Personnel.

Search. Standards & Diversity.

Mr Lee Avery (Resigned 20/10/09)

Mr Tony Bagley (Term expired 19/03/10)

Served on: Employer Responsiveness.

Personnel.

Remuneration.

Search.

Served on: Employer Responsiveness.

Personnel.

Remuneration.

Search.

Mr Brian Mitchell (Term expired 28/02/10)

Mr Ben Sweeney Student Member (Term expired 30/06/10) Served on:

Served on: Audit. Remuneration.

Standards & Diversity.

Finance & Estates.

Standards & Diversity.

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OUR NEW ESTATE PLANS The college has an ambitious redevelopment strategy for its estate over the next five to ten years.

Above: Dudley Evolve looking west from the Broadway along Tower Street showing the main entrance.

In outline these plans include establishing a town centre ‘learning quarter’ focused around the existing Broadway site.

This will enable the college to eventually relocate from our existing five sites to the new town centre campus with three new buildings being developed all on land close to our existing Broadway Campus.

In the first stage of the project, a new vocational centre Dudley Evolve will be built on land at Tower Street. Dudley Evolve will house state of the art facilities providing training for the retail and leisure, public services and creative and performing arts industries. Planning permission has been granted and buliding work willl start in January 2011 with staff and learners moving into the new facilities by September 2012.

Above: Looking north along Ednam Road towards Dudley higher and Dudley 6th.

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visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

OUR CAMPUSES

Above/left: The new auditorium at Dudley Evolve from the Broadway.

The next stage of our plans includes a new 6th Form Centre - Dudley Sixth and a Higher Education centre - Dudley Higher, both of which will be built on land on Priory Road. Building work is due to start in the summer of 2011 with the opening planned for September 2012.

Dudley Sixth will have an unashamed focus on academic excellence by offering enhanced A level opportunities for young people.

The location of Dudley Sixth in the town centre will ensure easy access, and the outstanding facilities that will be provided will contribute to the development of a culture of high expectations and high achievement for all.

Dudley Higher will provide access to higher level qualifications in the town and the wider borough, aiming to develop a dynamic learning centre that raises aspirations and inspires, enthuses and supports learners who otherwise would be highly unlikely to enter higher education.

Please visit our website www.dudleycol.co.uk for progress reports on these plans.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

Above: The approach to Dudley 6th looking south from Priory Road.

Our final phase will be to develop a brand new high specification Technology Centre on our Broadway campus, which will include provision for studies in construction, electrical and electronic engineering, air conditioning and refrigeration, heating and ventilation, low carbon technologies, motor vehicle and associated trades, lean manufacturing and high value engineering. We hope this centre will be open in 2015.

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

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Financial performance 2009/10 was another challenging but successful year for the college.

In 2009/10, Dudley College managed to produce another underlying surplus, despite the continuing instability in the economy, and the uncertainties that this brought with it.

The college achieved its funding targets for all of its major income streams, with the exception of full cost provision

and adult fee income which both suffered from the effects of the recession. As a result of this performance, and by taking further cost savings measures, the college produced an underlying operating surplus of £536,000 (after accounting for extraordinary restructuring costs). The financial position for the coming year is also healthy with an increased operating surplus being forecast.

INCOME & EXPENDITURE In the last financial year, we achieved the following: l Overall income reduced by £1.8 million, mainly as a result of a reduction in fee income of £0.7 million, with a smaller (£0.5 million) reduction in investment income (due to very low interest rates) and further reductions in other miscellaneous income streams.

l Expenditure costs reduced by £1.3 million due to efficiencies generated in several non-pay areas.

COLLEGE INCOME 2009-2010

COLLEGE EXPENDITURE 2009-2010

Funding councils 91% Other income 4% Tuition fees 3% Education contracts 1.5% Investments income 0.5%

Staff 68% Non teaching costs 18% Premises costs 5% Depreciation 5% Interest payable 3% Teaching costs 1%

FIXED AND CURRENT ASSETS The college continues to carefully manage its investment in fixed assets. Significant investment has been made in upgrading many curriculum facilities, particularly in the remodelling and enhancement of several classroom areas.

In addition the student social spaces have continued to expand, and the Student Union now has a dedicated office environment.

Our estates strategy has continued to develop over the past year with significant progress made with regard to our approach to developing a ‘campus feel’ to the main Broadway site. Planning approval has been received for the first stage – Tower Street (Dudley Evolve Vocational Centre) and our

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professional design team continues to work with us to enable the other elements of the strategy to become a reality.

Formal borrowing consent has also been received for the first phase, and detailed loan financing options are now being worked through with our financial partner.

We will continue to manage our financial position carefully in 2010/2011, to ensure that our steadily improving financial health is not unduly affected by our building project, and to give confidence to our stakeholders that we can manage the anticipated longer term funding reductions, once the details become known.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

OUR FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 2009-10 COLLEGE INCOME 2009-2010 Funding Councils Education Contracts Tuition Fees Other Income Investment Income TOTAL INCOME

Balance Sheet as at 31 July £27,739,000 £473,000 £975,000 £1,180,000 £85,000 £30,452,000

Fixed Assets Land and Buildings Equipment Under construction Intangible Assets

COLLEGE EXPENDITURE 2009-2010 Staff £21,007,000 Teaching Costs £422,000 Non Teaching Costs £5,399,000 Premises Costs £1,618,000 Depreciation £1,535,000 Interest Payable £782,000 TOTAL EXPENDITURE £30,763,000 Less: FRS 17 pension cost adjustments Underlying Operating Surplus (BEFORE TAXATION)

£756,000 £445,000

Financial Summary - Income and Expenditure for the Years Ended 31 July 2009 and 2010

Current Assets Debtors Investments and cash

Liabilities Creditors Total assets less current liabilities

2010 £000

2009 £000

£24,176 £3,022 £1,073 £26

£23,417 £2,955 £0 £28

£28,297

£26,400

£1,565 £8,705

£1,293 £11,595

£10,270

£12,888

£3,945

£3,792

£34,622

£35,496

£2,381 £1,665 £9,937

£2,708 £1,671 £9,129

2009/10 £000

2008/09 £000

Long Term Liabilities Creditors after one year Provisions Net Pension Liability

£27,739

£27,727

Net Assets

£20,639

£21,988

Tuition fees and education contracts

£1,448

£2,196

Other income

£1,265

£2,339

£30,452

£32,262

Reserves Deferred capital grants Revaluation reserve General Reserve Pension Reserve

£2,919 £11,687 £15,970 (£9,937)

£3,069 £11,931 £16,117 (£9,129)

£21,007

£20,997

Total Reserves

£20,639

£21,988

Other operating expenses

£7,439

£9,049

Depreciation and interest payable

£2,317

£2,103

£30,763

£32,149

Income Funding Council Grants

Expenditure Staff costs

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

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INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE Considerable investment in the training and updating of our staff has been made this year, both through opportunities for individuals and teams and through whole college training/development days.

The professional development of our staff is one of our key priorities, ensuring that they are well trained and equipped with the necessary skills to undertake their individual roles effectively and efficiently. The highlights of our staff development programme include:

l 64 members of staff undertook professional

qualifications for teachers, lecturers and trainers.

l 38 members of staff undertook higher qualifications

(eg Degrees, HNC/Ds).

l Academic and vocational qualifications and non-

certified development activities.

l Computer Literacy and ILT. l Management development. l Internal Verification and Quality Assurance. l Equality, Diversity and Customer Care. l Risk Management, Health and Safety.

There were also two whole-college conference days.

The first of these took place on 23 October 2009

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and involved all staff. The aim of the day was to share information/consult on key aspects of the college’s operations. Workshops were presented on: Safeguarding and Community Cohesion; Pay Policy and Employee Dividend Scheme; the New Buildings Project and the Learner Voice. Staff had the opportunity to ask questions and give feedback on key strategic developments.

The spring term college conference took place on 22 February 2010. This day was focused around key issues which impact considerably on the work of all staff: the new Professional Code of Conduct; Roles and Responsibilities of Teachers and Assessors; Using Data Effectively; Outstanding Performance in Teaching and Learning and HEHA (internal customer care standards) accreditation.

During September and October 2009 the Advanced Practitioner team held a series of twilight workshops for variable hours’ staff unable to access daytime training.

In total during 2009-10, the college invested around £400,000 in staff development and training.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE

STAFF COMMENTS ABOUT TRAINING WORKSHOPS In addition to this, four new initiatives were undertaken:

1

The ‘Management in Action’ programme, which aimed to provide college managers with the practical skills and tools they needed to carry out their job highly effectively. This training is near completion. As part of our talent recognition and succession planning processes, 12 staff have been selected for our ‘Aspiring Managers’ programme which commenced in October 2010.

2

Child Protection and Safeguarding training. A total of 529 staff completed Level 1 training and 110 key frontline staff received Intermediate level training.

3

Training in ‘Managing Challenging Behaviour’. 35 staff drawn from all areas of the college were trained in managing challenging behaviour. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive and we intend to measure the impact of the training on practice during 2010/11.

4

Functional Skills training. The phased introduction nationally of Functional Skills to replace Key Skills began with a number of teams piloting materials. To prepare the teaching staff, we held a programme of training events in conjunction with City & Guilds.

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

‘The presentations helped me to understand how the college is run and the importance of registers.’

‘The clarification of the legal requirements has opened my eyes and created an interest amongst my colleagues.’

‘The conference was informative and well organised.’

‘It was useful to hear the details of college policies explained and confirmed so that people know where we stand.’

‘I felt the day was very clear and gave an excellent view of the college’s future plans and how we are going to work towards becoming outstanding.’

‘I found the trainer inspiring and the content valuable.’

‘I really enjoyed the training today and have lots of tips to consider and implement into my class sessions.’

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INVESTING

IN OUR COMMUNITY

INTERNAL QUALITY ACCREDITATION

l In 2009/10 we recruited four apprentices to

work in business support roles. The apprenticeship programme combines gaining valuable work experience with the opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification.

l The college committed to offer eight full

time placements for six months under the Graduate Internship Programme, an initiative that provided valuable experience to recent graduates from local universities.

l Working alongside partners such as Dudley

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Council and Future Skills Dudley, the college recruited ten full time paid placements through the Future Jobs Fund initiative. The purpose of the project was to provide individuals with valuable work experience and training that they had not previously had. The first cohort was recruited in March 2010 and placements included a range of areas such as Estates and Premises, Conferencing and Business Administration. 60% of the cohort achieved a positive outcome.

DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 09/10

The ‘HEHA’ quality expectations standard was developed achievements for business support staff to complement the opportunity received by academic staff for recognition of their performance via lesson observations grades. Building on the introduction last year of this internal process to recognise levels of customer service provided by business support areas, three teams received silver level accreditation. Other teams will be preparing submissions during 2010-11.

INVESTORS IN PEOPLE The college continues to maintain its efforts to improve in line with the requirements of the Investors in People standard. During 2009-10 we ensured that:

l Our organisation provided a good, ‘fit for purpose’ framework; l Investment was maintained in management training, including cultural and leadership development; l A Performance Management system was established; l Clarity of role had high impact on performance; l Our strategic approach in developing student support and the ‘student voice’ was maintained; l Internal communications were effective. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK Learners were invited to participate in two surveys in order to gather feedback and evaluate satisfaction levels.

Results show that satisfaction levels have increased overall compared to the previous year, particularly in the areas of:

l Advice and guidance before starting

the course l Induction l Support received whilst at college The staff survey also showed increased levels of satisfaction, with significant improvement in the areas of: l Self assessment and planning l Working conditions l Appraisal, training and development Employer feedback showed above average levels of satisfaction with: l Staff knowledge/experience l The impact that the training had on employees’ performance l Employees’ effectiveness in the workplace l Information on services available

EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY In addition to our normal equality and diversity events and activities, we were successful in bidding to the LSC (Learning & Skills Council) for monies to conduct research into the specific needs of further education learners or potential learners on the autism spectrum.

The research resulted in a set of recommendations put forward for further education providers in a project report entitled: ‘Removing Barriers to Learning for Learners with Autism in Further Education’. The impact of the findings provided the impetus for an Autism Awareness Course run by the college.

A dissemination event of the findings of the research took place in April 2010.

Guest Speakers included Neale Pilkington and Mark Carter from NO LIMITS, and Dianne Hanke from Dudley Autism Outreach Service. Positive comments about the event included: “Very enjoyable, informative, excellent, fantastic, very professional”. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

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OUR CURRICULUM We deliver our curriculum in a variety of ways, not only through traditional full-time and part-time courses but also increasingly through apprenticeships, advanced apprenticeships and workbased NVQs. Our diverse curriculum includes: A LEVELS

We offer over 30 different A Level subjects at both AS and A2 level including Sciences, Humanities, Business, Arts and Language subjects. In 2009/10 we introduced AS Citizenship which had a very high achievement rate.

Our offer of AS & A2 Communications & Culture in 1 year continues to be popular and successful.

ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION

Our Access courses give adults who have missed out on educational opportunities earlier in life, or those who are looking to change their career, the opportunity to gain qualifications which will allow them to enter Higher Education on a degree or HND course. The varied pathways offer opportunities to move on to higher education courses at a range of universities

ACCOUNTING

Our accounting courses allow learners to progress from basic book keeping and computerised accounts through to a recognised Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) accounting qualification at Level 4. We are also an AAT assessment centre.

ADMINISTRATION, SECRETARIAL & IT

The administration, secretarial and IT courses we offer provide general training in a range of areas, or allow for specialisation. They are suitable for those people just starting out or for those looking to progress their careers. All of the courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications and most offer work experience. We also deliver apprenticeships, advanced apprenticeships and NVQs at levels 14 in Business & Administration. These are delivered in the workplace and take 6-18 months to achieve depending on the level.

BUSINESS STUDIES

Our business courses enable learners to gain a good understanding of the business and finance industry. We run courses to suit all abilities including National and Higher Certificate/ Diplomas giving learners the chance to progress on to university or join a trainee management scheme. On our full-time courses we offer work experience and run a fully functioning convenience store which retail learners incorporate into their studies.

CHILDCARE & EARLY YEARS

These full and part-time and courses enable learners to develop personal 18

DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 09/10

and professional skills in their preferred vocational area, gain work experience with local employers and also provide them with the opportunity to progress on to university or a career in the Early Years sector. Our Early Years qualifications enable learners to specialise with children of selected age groups. Learners are prepared to work in a wide variety of settings, from nursery classes and infant schools to working abroad as a nanny.

Learners may also chose to follow our Apprenticeship route to gain employment and qualifications within the sector.

COMPUTING & IT

Substantial investment in training and equipment has helped to raise the quality of our IT provision at the college to meet the needs of learners and employers. By offering a range of industry recognised hardware and networking qualifications, including Cisco CCNA, A+ Computer Maintenance and Installation and the HNC/D in Computing. The quality of IT provision is of a standard that allows the development of high level vocational and academic skills.

Programmes on offer begin at Entry Level 3 and offer progression to HND.

CONSTRUCTION

We offer a number of full and part time construction programmes from entry 3 to level 4, covering both practical and theoretical elements. The vocations on offer include Brickwork, Carpentry, Plumbing, Plastering, Electrical Installation, Mechanical Services, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.

Apprenticeships are offered in Plumbing, Heating & Ventilation, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

OUR CURRICULUM

Plastering, Brickwork and Carpentry.

All learners, including local school pupils have access to specialist training workshop areas equipped with some of the latest technology.

We are currently working with a number of leading manufacturers to deliver renewable energy training programmes.

ENGINEERING

Engineering is one of our key curriculum areas; we offer a wide range of engineering and technology courses, staffed by highly qualified and skilled engineering practitioners.

We have invested substantially in new equipment and technology resources to enhance the learning experience for our learners. We offer workbased learning and full and part-time courses in Engineering at levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 including Electrical and Electronic, Electronics and Computing, Operations and Maintenance, Manufacturing and Motor Vehicle Studies. We are currently developing a suite of qualifications in environmental technologies.

ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL), ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (EFL) AND FOREIGN LANGUAGES

We offer a wide range of English Language courses to both international and home learners, from Entry level to English for learners who wish to go to university. Classes are offered in college in specialist accommodation, in the community and in the workplace. Learners can study towards Edexcel exams and develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Our foreign language provision focuses on European business languages and can be delivered on company premises.

We also deliver ESOL to companies at their premises. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

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FIRST AID & FOOD HYGIENE

Our First Aid courses include programmes specifically for the workplace and for those working with children. Our recognised Food Hygiene qualifications are essential if food handling is likely to be a part of a job role in any sector of the food industry.

HAIR & BEAUTY

We offer a full range of vocational courses in both Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy. Learners have access to fully equipped salons and treatment areas. Learners treat clients under realistic working conditions.

Regular demonstrations of the latest hairdressing and beauty techniques are provided by guest presenters.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE

Learners can study a range of qualifications which include NVQs level 2 and 3, and BTEC Awards, Certificate and Diplomas at level 1- 3. We also have NVQ apprenticeships and offer an Access to Higher Education – Nursing programme.

INDEPENDENT SKILLS FOR LIVING & LEARNING

These programmes are for young people and adults with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, and are designed to develop their communication skills and confidence levels. There are six vocational pathways offered at Entry level. Support is available to meet learner needs and prepare them for both work and mainstream study.

MANAGEMENT & PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Our Management & Professional courses offer a wide range of professional qualification pathways, encompassing many business-focused subjects: Personnel and Development, Leadership and Management, Credit Management, Accounting, Marketing and Purchasing & Supply. Learners can develop skills and improve career prospects, either within an existing career path, or in an entirely new direction. We offer courses from Level 3 to Level 5.

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visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

OUR CURRICULUM MUSIC PERFORMANCE

We have increased the breadth of our media programmes by offering Music Technology and Music Performance National Diploma.

These are specialist programmes that prepare learners for courses in performance and composition.

PUBLIC SERVICES

Popular with 16-18 year olds, these programmes are for anyone considering a career in the emergency services or armed forces. These courses require active participation in a range of fitness and outdoor related activities as well as academic studies. Qualifications range from Level 1 to Level 4 and are recognised in all public services.

RETAIL & CUSTOMER SERVICE

Our Customer Service NVQs at Level 1, 2 and 3 cover subjects such as understanding and delivering good customer service and dealing with customer complaints. Retail NVQs provide an insight into the principles and processes of retail and provide learners with an understanding of how to maximise sales and profit, good customer care, efficient stock control and merchandising.

Apprenticeships at Level 2 and 3 are available for both areas.

SKILLS FOR LIFE

Skills for Life courses are for adults who would like to return to learning in order to improve their English and Maths skills. Reasons for returning are varied, but many wish to improve job and promotion prospects or to support their children with school work. Courses are available to suit all levels of ability and learners work at their own pace in small groups.

This supports a major government initiative to improve the basic skills of the workforce.

SPORT

Colleges of Sport (BCS), learners have the opportunity to compete at a national and regional level. Our Team Sports Programme includes Basketball, Cricket, Endurance Sports, Football, Fitness, Netball,Volleyball and Racquets. Significant investment has ensured that learners have access to industry standard fitness equipment supported by fully qualified tutors.

TEACHER TRAINING

We offer a range of courses for those involved in teaching and training.

Courses are offered for Teaching Assistants in Primary and Secondary schools and for Learning Support Assistants in Basic Skills. We deliver the three latest qualifications required to teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector delivered under a partnership agreement with the University of Wolverhampton. We also run Assessor and Verifier awards.

VISUAL ARTS, DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE

Our Visual Arts, Design and Performance courses provide learners with a range of qualification pathways from Level 1 through to higher level awards. Pathways include Fashion and Textiles, Photography, Graphic Design, Theatre Design, Drama, Dance, Music, Music Technology and Musical Theatre. Our drama and performance learners have access to good studios and workshops and working with leading experts in these fields further adds to the experience for learners from both media and performing arts disciplines. In 2009/10 we introduced a Foundation degree in Musical Theatre running in conjunction with the University of Wolverhampton which attracted a lot of interest and has now successfully recruited for a second year.

TRAVEL & TOURISM

These programmes are very popular with our 16-18 year old learners, and provide a basis for a career in the travel and tourism industry.

Courses offer a broad range of skills to prepare learners for work in travel and tourism, e.g. ticketing, airline cabin crew and aviation.

The college offers an extensive range of sports related courses and through our Team Sports Programme which is affiliated to the British

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

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PROFILE OF OUR LEARNERS ALL LEARNERS - WHERE DO THEY COME FROM? Dudley 51% Other UK 23% Sandwell 10% Birmingham 8% Staffordshire 7% Other 1%

16-18 LEARNERS - WHERE DO THEY COME FROM? Dudley 71% Sandwell 15% Birmingham 5% Other UK 5% Staffordshire 3% Overseas 1%

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DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 09/10

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OUR LEARNERS

19+ LEARNERS - WHERE DO THEY COME FROM? Dudley 47% Other UK 28% Sandwell 9% Birmingham 8% Staffordshire 8% Overseas 1%

LEARNER AGE - AGE/GENDER 19+ Male 51% 19+ Female 29% 16-18 Male 11% 16-18 Female 9%

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LEARNER AGE/MODE OF ATTENDANCE 19+ Part-time 73% 16-18 Full-time 13% 16-18 Part-time 7% 19+ Full-time 7%

LEARNER ETHNICITY White 76.3%

Black African 1.7%

Pakistani 4.9% Indian 4.9% Not known/ not provided 3.4%

Other Asian 1.4% Any other 0.9% Other Black 0.9%

Mixed 2.6% Bangladeshi 0.7% Black Carribean 2.3%

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Chinese 0.2%

DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 09/10

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

OUR LEARNERS In the academic year 2009/10 we delivered over 20,000 qualifications, reflecting our diverse curriculum. The pie chart below shows participation by subject sector areas:

PARTICIPATION BY SUBJECT AREA (BASED ON 2009/2010 ENROLMENTS)

Preparation for Life and Work 25.8% Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies 16.3% Business, Administration & Law 10.7%

visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

Construction, Planning and the Built Environment 9.2% Information and Communication Technology 9.1% Health, Public Services and Care 8.0%

Retail and Commercial Enterprise 5.8%

Science and Mathematics 1.8%

Arts, Media and Publishing 4.6%

Languages, Literature and Culture 1.8%

Education and Training 3.3%

Social Sciences 0.4%

Agriculture, Horticulture and Animal Care 0.3% History, Philosophy and Theology 0.3%

Leisure, Travel and Tourism 2.6%

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OUR SUCCESS

College Success Rate %

N OT Y E T AVA I L A B L E

N OT Y E T AVA I L A B L E

The success rates for college based learners are calculated by the Skills Funding Agency using a nationally agreed methodology. This approach enables all training providers to be compared on a like for like basis against nationally derived success rates. For these learners, our success rates include all relevant programmes but exclude short and very short courses (typically less than 6 weeks duration).

Latest Pub Nat Rate %

SUCCESS OF YOUNG PEOPLE

College Success Rate % Latest Pub Nat Rate %

SUCCESS OF ADULTS

l Success rate of young people is maintained at 79%. l Success rate of young people has improved by

l Success rate of adult learners is 74%. l Success rate of adult learners has improved by 14

11 percentage points over the last four years.

percentage points over the last four years.

l Success rate of young people is 2% above the latest

l Success rate of adult learners has fallen slightly which

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published national rate.

DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 09/10

reflects the change in the mix and balance of provision following funding reductions. visit us online at: www.dudleycol.ac.uk

OUR SUCCESS

SUCCESS RATES FOR EMPLOYER-FACING PROGRAMMES

College Success Rate %

N OT Y E T AVA I L A B L E

N OT Y E T AVA I L A B L E

The following graphs show how well the college is performing against workplace delivered qualifications.

Latest Pub Nat Rate %

YOUNG PEOPLE APPRENTICESHIPS

Latest Pub Nat Rate %

ADULT APPRENTICESHIPS

l Overall young people apprenticeship success

l Overall adult apprenticeship success

rates are broadly similar to the latest published national rate. l Overall young people apprenticeship success rate has improved by 3 percentage points in the last three years.

College Success Rate %

rates have improved significantly in 2009-10 compared to 2008-09. l Overall adult apprenticeship success rates have improved by 6 percentage points over the last 3 years.

l Overall college Train to Gain success rates have

improved by 30 percentage points over the last 3 years . l Train to Gain learner numbers have increased by 2556 in the last three years.

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N OT Y E T AVA I L A B L E

SUCCESS RATES FOR TRAIN TO GAIN College Success Rate % Latest Pub Nat Rate %

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DUDLEY COLLEGE ‘A’ LEVEL RESULTS

HIGHER EDUCATION MORE THAN 150 LEARNERS SUCCESSFULLY ACHIEVED A HIGHER LEVEL QUALIFICATION DURING 2009-10. OVER 100 OF THEM ATTENDED OUR ANNUAL HIGHER EDUCATION AWARDS CEREMONY IN NOVEMBER 2009, TAKING GREAT PLEASURE IN DONNING FORMAL ACADEMIC CAPS AND GOWNS TO BE PRESENTED WITH CERTIFICATES OF THEIR ACHIEVEMENT.

Yet again, we are absolutely delighted to report on our A-level results.

96% of learners studying for A-levels passed, with an increased number achieving high grades (65%).

This year saw the introduction of the new A* grade at A-level and we were thrilled to see learners achieving this grade in several subjects including Law, History, Photography, Fine Art, Religious Studies and German.

We are particularly proud of the 100% pass rate in no less than 24 A Level subjects including major subjects such as English Language, Geography, Environmental Studies, History, Art & Design, Chemistry, Accounts, Business, Film Studies, Sport Studies, Biology, Sociology, Citizenship & Religious Studies.

AS level results have improved considerably with 82% of learners who took the examination passing the qualification.

As part of our partnership with local schools, two High Arcal school learners studied AS & A-level German outside of school hours and both obtained grade A*.

Principal, Lowell Williams, said: “This is an extremely pleasing set of results from the learners studying in our ‘A’ level Academy.

The investment the college has made, and will continue to make, in providing an exciting and innovative learning environment is clearly benefiting the young people who choose to study here and confirms the view of Ofsted that Dudley is a GOOD college!’

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Principal Lowell Williams said: “Most of those graduating today are people who have studied part-time, achieving qualifications whilst working full-time or bringing up a family. The effort that the graduates put in, and the support that they receive from their family and friends never fails to astound us and events like this allow both our staff and learners to showcase the results that individuals can achieve, whatever their circumstance”.

Among the graduates were mother and daughter Barbara and Lucy Everson, who both completed the HNC Business Management course. Mrs Everson, age 49, is a Sandwell Council Officer but after getting her qualification said: “I want to focus on more personal goals, and now I’ve got this under my belt I can. I gave up everything to take care of my children, and now it’s my turn.”

Her daughter Lucy age 27, finished the course after a two-year gap while she changed jobs. She is now an assistant engineer at the Metrolink project in Manchester. Lucy said: “It’s hard work and really challenging to juggle a full-time job with study, but it’s definitely worth it. It’s a cracking course though, and will prove really useful in my job.”

As part of the formal award ceremony, an audience of family, friends and employers alongside dignitaries were entertained by the college’s musical theatre learners who performed a variety of show tunes including ‘The Age of Aquarius’ and ‘Let the Sunshine In’.

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SUCCESS IN THE NEWS

CELEBRATING SUCCESS The college works extremely hard to meet the needs of the local community through offering courses that help everyone to achieve their potential and make a difference to their lives.

During 2009-10, local people, and some from further afield, studied a vast array of qualifications, ranging from Accounting to Visual Arts, Design & Performance. The culmination of the year was an event in June when prizewinning learners attended an annual awards ceremony to celebrate their success. Over 40 learners collected special awards for their hard work and determination over the academic year and celebrated with their family, friends and tutors at a magical ceremony held at the Broadway campus.

Bob Chapman, Director of Learning commented: “We design our courses to best support the needs of local people, thereby ensuring that both we, and our community, can make a positive contribution to the area”.

He added: “Many of the learners who celebrated with us on this spectacular

evening have already made an impact on the local community through their school, and their achievements at college mean that this contribution extends to their adult life”.

As around 250 guests congregated, they were entertained in the courtyard by the college music learners and magicians, creating unique and exquisite illusions. The evening of entertainment continued with a vibrant catwalk extravaganza from fashion & textile learners.

The spectacular evening closed with Musical Theatre learners performing a sequence from ‘The Little Shop of Horrors’.

College Principal, Lowell Williams said, “The ceremony was an overwhelming demonstration of how our local community continue to triumph through difficult times and allowed us to exhibit just some of the

Jo Wooldridge Tutor and Kelly Millward at the Celebrating Success Awards Evening.

outstanding talent we have, right here in Dudley”.

One proud student was Kelly Millward age 32 from Priors Mills, Dudley. Kelly studied the NVQ level 3 Beauty Therapy course and worked extremely hard to complete her qualification, despite juggling her role as a single parent while attending a full time course.

TRAINING ENGINEERS FOR THE FUTURE

Working with the college, the Institution has assessed and approved the Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship and confirmed that the quality and content of the programme meets the requirements for Engineering Technician (EngTech) registration. Engineering Technicians are recognised by the Institution and the Engineering profession as competent individuals concerned with applying proven techniques and procedures to the solution of practical engineering problems.

Carl Timmins, Carl Timmins, Curriculum Manager Curriculum Manager for Engineering proudly holding the IMechE for Engineering at certificate.

Dudley College said, “The approval of the college’s training scheme underlines Dudley College’s recognition of the vital contribution made by engineers to the region’s future prosperity. The scheme we have in place and the partnership we have with the IMechE and local employers ensures that our Technicians become well rounded individuals who can deal competently with a variety of complex issues”.

The IMechE underpins industry with a supply of high quality apprentices from approved colleges or training providers or graduates from accredited universities. The Institution has 89,000 members in 120 countries across the world and with almost 7000 members in the West Midlands alone it proved that Engineering is alive and well.

IMechE Senior Business Development Manager, Steven Gasser said “Dudley College and the IMechE have a very productive working relationship; the approval of their training scheme indicates the importance that the organisation places on the development of young engineers.”

The commitment to the training and development of professional Engineering Technicians (EngTech) at Dudley College has been endorsed by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), one of the world’s leading professional bodies.

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WORKING WITH EMPLOYERS At Dudley College we recognise that the skills of employees can have a major impact on the efficiency and profitability of employers. Our main aim over the last 12 months has been to help businesses add value by developing the skills and knowledge of their staff. This will become increasingly important as we face the economic challenges approaching the Black Country and wider West Midlands region.

During 2009-10 we have worked with many employers on a range of initiatives, for example:

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMMES Apprenticeship training was delivered through the work based learning curriculum teams and included National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) or QCFs (Qualification and Credit Framework). The apprenticeship qualification also included key or functional skills and a technical certificate. These frameworks are available in many subject areas and set the apprentices on the right path for their chosen career, with the support of an employer for work placement and experience.

We trained over 250 apprentices in the areas of Accounting, Administration, Construction, Customer Service, Engineering, Electrical Technologies, Hairdressing, Librarianship, Mechanical Services, Motor Vehicle, IT Practitioners and Support, Retail and Warehousing and Distribution.

Programme Led Apprenticeships are an important alternative to traditional employer-led apprenticeships, providing a path for young people who may find it difficult to gain employment, or for those who require an initial phase of upfront training before progressing onto an employer-led apprenticeship.

In 2009-10, we recruited 220 16-18 year old learners, who were looking to complete an apprenticeship programme, but due to the economic climate at the time, found it very difficult without having some skill base first.

As with employed-status apprentices, these learners worked towards the same apprenticeship framework, giving them the opportunity of working towards several qualifications that included an NVQ or QCF, and key or functional skills. They also undertook training in any other specialist training that was relevant for employment when the programme finished or while studying.

As each student moved into employment and completed the course, further progression pathways were available.

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WORKING WITH EMPLOYERS

LEMA ACADEMY During 2009-10 we successfully developed an innovative apprenticeship model: the ‘Lean Engineering & Manufacturing Academy’ (LEMA) which teaches current engineering and manufacturing skills combined with an integrated core understanding of up to date continuous improvement (lean) techniques.

the apprentice with the education and environment to learn, practice and implement core lean, engineering and manufacturing skills.

The Lean Engineering & Manufacturing Academy is a unique collaboration between the college and Lean Education and Development group (LEAD), who specialize in lean techniques and implementation.

This structured approach allows the apprentice time to understand employers’ specific engineering needs and allows them to develop their skills and knowledge to encompass this during the following two years of the programme.

The Academy will provide opportunities for 16-18 year old apprentices seeking a career in the engineering or manufacturing industries. During Stage 1 (the first 6 months) of an apprentice’s training, LEMA provides

Once the candidates have completed stage1, they will continue their apprenticeship training at college on a day release basis.

‘SUCCESS TO EMPLOYMENT’ PROGRAMME This very successful programme was aimed at assisting long term unemployed adults.

Over 260 people participated, all developing existing skills or acquiring new skills to maximise previously unreachable employment opportunities. The provision ranged across a variety of employment sectors such as Door Supervision, Domiciliary Care and Leisure Industries.

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DUDLEY COLLEGE ANNUAL REVIEW 09/10

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TRAIN TO GAIN The college had yet another very successful year in terms of attracting employers to engage in training through the Train to Gain initiative. Almost 6,000 employees undertook training, largely NVQs, in a wide variety of subjects ranging from Warehouse Distribution to Supporting Teaching and Learning in schools and Food Manufacture.

A range of new qualifications were developed in response to customer demand, particularly in the construction sector in the specialist areas of insulation, flooring, highway maintenance and interior design.

In addition, we adapted the Business Improvement Techniques qualification (originally designed for the engineering industry) to suit a wider range of businesses and delivered this to both local authorities and officebased enterprises. This led to two major projects being delivered to both Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council and Telford and Wrekin Council.

We worked with some large international companies such as Hertel UK, Balfour Beatty, GKN Aerospace, Ideal Standard International and Gemalto UK to name but a few though the majority of our work is with SMEs (small to medium enterprises). One of our big successes was with small construction companies employing less than 50 people. The need of these companies was met by providing training for employees in order for them to gain CSCS cards – a legislative requirement for working on construction sites. The NVQ assessment that the college provided allowed employees to demonstrate competency and consequently supported the need for development within the industry as highlighted by the sector council.

Terry Guy, Sales Manager reports “During the year we worked with a wide variety of companies from both the private and public sector, and ranging from large companies with over 500 employees to individuals running businesses as owner/managers. For example, we delivered training to large numbers of staff of the Ringway Group, a large international construction company. We also delivered training to self employed individuals in subjects such as Hairdressing and Plastering”.

Employers typically reported a range of positive outcomes as a result of the training received, including: ‘being in a stronger position when tendering for business’ ‘higher staff morale’ ‘reduction in the level of waste generated’ ‘generally we are now more efficient’.

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WORKING WITH EMPLOYERS

The range of qualifications delivered during the year is detailed below:

NVQ in BusinessImprovement Techniques 30%

NVQ in Carry and Deliver Goods 6%

NVQ in Customer Service 5%

NVQ in Wood Occupations 7%

NVQ in Fenestration Installation 6%

NVQ in Health and Social Care 6%

NVQ in Business and Adminstration 5%

NVQ in Decorative Finishing and Idustrial Painting Occupations 5%

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NVQ in Food Manufacture 5%

NVQ in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools 5% NVQ in Performing Manufacturing Operations 4%

NVQ in Hairdressing 4%

NVQ in Plant Operations 4% NVQ in Warehousing and Storage 4%

NVQ in Engineering Maintenance and Installation 4%

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WESTLEY PLASTICS

Westley

Plastics

For lots of sectors the economic conditions of the last 12 months have proved particularly trying, not least in the plastics industry.

Times have been particularly tough in terms of the reduction of large scale orders and Westley Plastics, an established Black Country company employing around 40 staff, is no exception.

The particular challenges that the company wanted to address are: to become more competitive within a market that is increasingly reliant on technology; to increase their competitive edge when tendering for contracts particularly in the defence sector, and to raise levels of motivation across the existing workforce.

To tackle these challenges head on, Westley Plastics began talks with Dudley College. The college’s sales team played a big role in helping the company to establish exactly what their training needs were and

how they could best be resolved.

The proposal that was made to the company resulted in the establishment of a programme of training designed to encourage young people to remain and develop their engineering skills and knowledge.

The main thrust of the delivery project was centred around a programme of NVQs at level 2 in Performing Manufacturing Operations. This programme involved assessing current skills levels and updating areas of identified need within a variety of job roles.

awareness of health and safety issues and a range of topics including risk assessments, use of abrasive wheels, emergency first aid and basic engineering safety.

The company were delighted to discover that they were eligible for Train to Gain funding, which meant that the only contribution that they had to make was to release staff from normal duties to attend training sessions.

In addition the programme included delivery of literacy and numeracy qualifications, training in forklift truck and overhead crane operation and sessions on recent work related legislation. Alongside the training emphasis was put on raising

UTOPIA BATHROOMS “Our aim at Utopia is quite simple – to turn your dream bathroom into a luxurious and practical reality”.

Firstly, Utopia wanted to raise levels of individual performance and secondly, to introduce more efficient working practices through the application of lean techniques. They also felt that it was important to raise the status of the Operations supervisors.

The college’s sales team played a significant role in helping Utopia to identify the most appropriate training programmes that would meet their business objectives, which resulted in

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the delivery of NVQs across a range of job roles, ranging from Administration to Driving Goods Vehicles and Business Improvement Techniques.

2 and 3. The company reports that staff morale and levels of confidence in job roles have increased, and the skills set of individuals has improved.

One of the key benefits of the relationship between the college and the company was that the college was able to help Utopia secure Train to Gain funding.

Samantha Bradburn-Willans HR Assistant, commented: “In particular, the Business Improvement Technique training has worked well in conjunction with introducing Lean Manufacturing Techniques.”

In total, 74 employees have been accredited, to date, with NVQs at levels

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CASE STUDIES

DREAMS You’ve seen the advert and probably been in a store. You may even have enjoyed a night’s sleep on one of their beds. Dreams are Britain’s leading bed retailer – and they are expanding despite the economic conditions. 44 new stores were opened in 2009. They are a people-focussed business whose aim is to send you to sleep!

Dreams turns over more than £280 million annually and employs 2,000 people.

At their ‘Academy of Dreams’ in the West Midlands, they train many of their staff in the skills essential to support the growing business.

Visitors to the Academy are immediately impressed with the fun atmosphere – the site manager is known to tether to his vehicle a huge gas-filled balloon, emblazoned with the Dreams logo, and drive it around the site whilst trainees look on from their upstairs classroom!

Mock sales areas are festooned with the latest beds complete with large teddies!

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There is a hard commercial edge to this private firm who have opened 250 stores since their founding in 1987, have their own mattress factory and a thriving online presence. They will even recycle your old bed.

Dreams turned to Dudley College’s sales team to supply their Central Hubs team with training in warehouse, distribution and driving National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) at levels 2 and 3. The College also helped staff in the mattress factory attain their NVQ in Performing Manufacturing Operations.

John Sanderson, Head of the Academy, said “Dudley College has shown the level of flexibility we

Staff Training Dreams style

wanted. The assessors have worked across our nine depots across the country and made themselves available to drivers at very unsocial hours.”

Lowell Williams, College Principal, said “We pride ourselves in understanding our customer’s needs and then working hard to meet them.”

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Our mission: outstanding learning which develops skills, raises aspirations and changes lives.

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

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