GrassRoots issue 27

Raising Standards Inspiring Achievement

The latest news from Reaseheath College

Issue 27

In this issue

QAA - Outstanding experience for undergraduates See page 3

Florist Anna takes gold See page 8

FE students celebrate success See page 6

Congratulations to graduates from Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson See page 4

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Exciting times ahead as new build progresses Fantastic opportunities lie ahead for our students, particularly as the industries they are entering have been recognised in the government’s new agriculture and technology strategy.

Seizing the initiative, Reaseheath has invested £45 million into world class educational facilities and a further £30 million will be spent on new build over the next five years.

An overhead shot of our new build

This summer we will complete our £8.3 million National Centre for Food Futures and the Environment, an industry-led project which will allow us to equip our students with indemand skills in horticultural technology, innovation and sustainability.

Aimed at helping food producers meet the challenge of world population growth and climate change, this purpose built facility will contain classrooms, laboratories, demonstration areas, interpretation zones, technical growing areas and ultra-intensive production units for food crop trials and research activities.

Our horticulture department and NPTC Training Centre, which delivers training in

Curriculum Area Manager for Horticulture Sarah Hopkinson and Steve Petrie, site manager for GB, discuss the plans

the land based sector, will relocate here.

A new teaching and learning centre for our Foundation (Level 1) students will also open in September 2015 in the same complex.

Working in partnership with Cheshire East Council, we are looking forward to using this specialist £1millionplus facility to help students achieve independent living skills and prepare them for future employment.

This building will include dedicated classrooms, tutorial rooms, study areas, a café and a shop stocking

Reaseheath produce. Our Foundation students will work in this retail outlet, gaining valuable experience interacting with the public.

Leading on both developments is the award winning construction company GB Building Solutions.

The building of this new complex, sited on our former golf course, will be followed by a £13 million spend on a 200 room halls of residence where our horticultural unit used to be. We are also planning an extension to our Higher Education Centre, ready for September 2016.

Build partnership enables valuable work experience The GB Group team, led

by Project Manager Steve Petrie, has involved our construction and horticulture students in the design and development of our National Centre for Food Futures and the Environment and new Foundation skills centre.

During site visits our construction students have had the privilege of seeing best practice in site health and safety, site mapping and project management, plus the use of cutting edge design software.

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Under supervision from GB, our bricklayers, joiners and plasterers are also working on elements of the new build. This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain valuable site experience and a great chance to contribute to the building developments on campus.

Our horticulture and design students are working on external landscaping zones that will run through the site.

• Maximising opportunities, the GB team arranged for our Level 2 Diploma

in Bricklaying and Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery students to visit their other Cheshire project, the Kings Leadership Academy.

The groups were given an overview of the project,

discussed the plans and enjoyed a site tour. Judging from their enthusiastic response, all the students appreciated the chance to visit another quality build!

Our bricklayers at work on the site

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Reaseheath earns top marks for its Higher Education Our higher education (HE) students receive an excellent experience, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) has confirmed.

The QAA, which is the HE equivalent of Ofsted, judged that the quality of degrees we offer and the way they are delivered is worthy of commendation and in a number of areas exceeds UK expectations. The findings equate to an ‘Outstanding’ from Ofsted.

The QAA reviewers commended the quality and enhancement of student learning opportunities, finding that we exceed expectations in those two areas.

• The review team was particularly impressed with our extensive links to employers and the extent to which they were involved in the design, quality assurance and delivery of degree courses • The reviewers commented on our effective management of resources, finding that we use a co-ordinated and systematic approach to support our students' academic, personal and professional development so that they reach their full potential • They noted that all Reaseheath degrees include work-based learning, work placements, internships or other opportunities for gaining relevant work experience The review team found seven examples of good practice:

• The management and use of long-term relationships with external stakeholders such as employers to enhance student experience • The systematic approach used to providing work-based learning opportunities of quality and relevance • The full involvement of student course representatives in formal and informal communication • The strategic recruitment and development of HE staff to become advanced practitioners, enabling them to become leaders in teaching and learning • The alignment of the HE portfolio with Reaseheath’s Mission and Values: to ensure high levels of industrial engagement and to promote employability and the incorporation of work experience in all programmes • The consolidation of the HE ethos through investment in leadership, organisational structures and estate • The integrated and coordinated activity of curriculum areas and student support services to support the student learning experience Assistant Principal and Dean of HE Rachel Ellis-Jones said: “It’s particularly pleasing that a number of commendations and areas of good practice were highlighted. The investment which Reaseheath makes into its specialist facilities and expert staff was also noted. This investment is a major part of Reaseheath’s ethos, which is to encourage and support our degree students as they progress into careers within their chosen industries.”

Our graduates receive an excellent experience

Inspirational student recognised An inspirational mother of four who travelled from Luton to Reaseheath weekly to study for a new career has been recognised for her outstanding commitment.

Damaris Kuria received a £500 Open College Network West Midlands Region ‘Access to Higher Education’ Learner Award after being nominated by her tutors.

The former finance assistant, who used our Access to HE course to boost her knowledge in farming, is now studying for a BSc Business Management (International Food and Agri-Business) at the Royal Agricultural University. She hopes to return to her native Kenya to run her own farm and to use her expertise to work with African farmers.

Damaris, who returned to education after redundancy, chose agriculture as she felt it offered a fulfilling career with plenty of opportunities.

She made the hard choice to leave her husband and young family at home because she felt studying at Reaseheath would prepare her best for her degree. She achieved exceptionally high marks and an attendance record of nearly 100%.

Damaris Kuria celebrates with Access to HE course Manager Jayne Cawood

Said Damaris: “While I was at Reaseheath I learned a lot about 21st century farming and I’m now enjoying studying it in greater depth.

“Although adjusting to the college environment, being with new people and living in student accommodation was a challenge at first, I was hugely supported by my partner, the college staff and fellow students. Everyone went out of their way to make me feel at home.”

Our Access to HE course prepares mature students for degree level study. See www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ further-education/courses

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Graduation highlights career prospects

Our agriculture graduates are joined by course manager Jayne Richardson and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

Our graduation ceremony was a highlight of the academic year, with graduates celebrating with families, friends, employers and members of our local community.

They were joined by inspirational Paralympic athlete Baroness Tanni GreyThompson DBE, who was guest speaker at the ceremony at St. Mary’s Church, Nantwich.

We were celebrating the achievement of students who had completed degrees in agricultural science, equine science, food technology, garden and landscape design,

engineering, countryside management and adventure sports management, all delivered in partnership with Harper Adams University.

Those studying for animal management and science degrees validated by the University of Chester graduated at a ceremony at Chester Cathedral.

There was good news for our graduates from Principal Meredydd David, who emphasised that their degrees were a great investment!

• An independent analysis showed that spending £40,000 on course fees and living expenses would bring in

Graduates from our Foundation Degrees in Machinery Dealership Management, Agricultural Engineering and Construction Plant Engineering gather with Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

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First Class BSc Equine Science graduates Charlotte Woolley and Amelia Kenyon celebrate

£250,000 over the span of a career • Nearly 90% of Reaseheath graduates who completed last year were in related employment within six months on an average salary of £21,000 • We worked closely with employers, ensuring our degrees were specialist, technical qualifications which were relevant to industry.

This ensured our graduates are at an advantage in the competitive jobs market • We had received a fantastic report from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) on the quality of our

degree courses (see page 3).

In Ofsted terms, Reaseheath was ‘Outstanding’ • We’ve invested over £40 million into specialist facilities and resources, recognised as among the best in the country, and more investment was planned We currently have 700 students enrolled on degree courses. A significant number are mature students or are studying while working with the support of their employers, particularly on our Eden training programme which develops skills within the dairy processing industry.

Foundation Degree in Adventure Sports and Management graduates Sean Wood, Simon Simpson, Arran Bell, Erin Shuttleworth and Jessica Ashton with Course Manager Simon Nortcliffe and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

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Foundation Degree in Countryside, Conservation and Recreational Management graduates Alex Farrell, Wendy Nutly, Dafydd Jones, David Smith, Craig Conkerton and Andrew LawsonDick celebrate with lecturer Alison Cooper and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

BSc First Class (Hons) in Food Technology graduates Alice Chiodzeka, Michael Shaw and Charlotte Reed are joined by Principal Meredydd David, lecturer Martin Anderson and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

Foundation Degree in Equine Science, Complementary Therapy and Natural Horsemanship graduates Evangeline Hobdey-Canale, Natalie Brompton, Hannah Dickson and Sarah Matheson are joined by lecturer Dawn Gale and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

Foundation Degree in Rural Events Management graduates Nina Ashton, Ben Lloyd, Joanne McNamara, Helen Moseley, Emma Schofield and Katie Thorburn with lecturer Dan Bevan and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson

Dairy Technologists graduating from our Eden programme

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FE students celebrate success

Five outstanding students received special cross college awards:

Best contribution to college life Twm-Tegid Brunton (Level 3 Diploma in Forestry and Arboriculture) An outstanding student ambassador, he voluntarily attended over 40 college information events and went out of his way to support the student services team. A member of the North West Welsh Opera Choir, he had also sung at the student ball!

Cross college award winners Rachel Bowles, Lucy Culwick, Sam Norfolk, Katie Gibson and Twm-Tegid Brunton

A two day awards ceremony marked the success of 1371 Further Education students who had gained industry recognised qualifications and skills.

The ceremony marked the culmination of yet another record year of student achievement, emphasising we remain one of the country’s most successful specialist colleges.

Sharing congratulations with a capacity audience, Principal Meredydd David emphasised that 97% of FE students achieve their qualification

and that 90% progress into employment or onto degree courses.

There was further good news for parents and students: they could expect a 17% return on their investment in education – £7 for every pound invested!

Guest speakers were railway enthusiast Dr Pete Waterman (Cheshire & Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership), John Myers, Head of Employer and Delivery Services, and Jane Cowell, Director of Young People’s Funding (both Education Funding Agency).

Equine award winners Chloe Lewis, Abigail Melville, Vannessa Hadley and Taryn Denny

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Best all round contribution Katie Gibson (Level 3 Diploma in Professional Bakery) Katie had made an outstanding input into RAG (Raising and Giving) activities and was also press officer for the student magazine.

Personal qualities Rachel Bowles (Foundation Degree in Animal Management) The Student Association sustainability representative, Rachel was also chair of Reaseheath’s Conservation Society and helped to lead fundraising events.

Level 3 Extended Diploma Land Based Technology top student Christopher Pigney

Sporting activities Sam Norfolk (Foundation Degree in Adventure Sports and Management) Captain of Reaseheath’s First Men’s football team, Sam played 11 competitive matches and organised additional charity matches and sporting projects. These were in addition to his duties as Student Association President.

Beacon Trophy celebrating excellence Lucy Culwick (Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture) Diagnosed with a hole in her heart during her course, Lucy underwent open heart surgery and recuperated for just six weeks before returning to college.

She caught up with her studies, involved herself with college life and was off to study for a degree at Harper Adams University.

Jack Williams, best student Level 3 Diploma Countryside Management

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Harley Summerfield and Joseph Clarke, top students, Forestry and Arboriculture

Tom Waudby, best student, Level 3 Diploma Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

Our Pre-Entry group celebrate

Foundation award winners (front) Joe Riley, George Southern, Tom Maddox (back) Zoe Trevitt, Eleanor Mills, Liam James, Hollie Shaw, Jacob Clayton, Isobel Reid

Owen Taylor and Matthew Lamb, best students Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Horticulture

Emily Wiseman Level 2 Diploma in Floristry Most Improved student

Tom Poyser, Sally Merrill and Tom Hampson, top Adventure Sports students

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Torrence Summerfield, Becky Harper, Jess Fallows, Amy Champ and James Latter, top students, Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture

Jack Harrison, Liam Davenport, Chloe-Jade MacDonaldDunn and Phil Bates, top Public Services students

Luke Rimmer Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Business Student of Year

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Fantastic success at WorldSkills UK

Reaseheath’s Anna Eite is officially the most talented floristry student in Britain after winning gold at the WorldSkills UK national finals.

Anna took the top title in the advanced section against strong competition from the best students from colleges and training providers nationwide. The taxing competition was held over three days in front of thousands of visitors at The Skills Show in Birmingham, the country’s biggest showcase of vocational skills and careers.

Anna had to complete tasks which included designing a floral hat, belt and chair, making up a planted container and taking part in a team project.

The Level 3 Diploma in Floristry student was

Anna with two of her winning designs

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supported and trained by Programme Leader for Floristry Sue Poole. Said Sue: “This was a fantastic result and we are all so proud of Anna. She was a wonderful representative for Reaseheath and for the floristry department.”

Anna has secured a grant from The Princes Trust, a business enterprise scheme for 18 – 25 year-olds, and is setting up her own business Anna Flora www.annafloraflorist.co.uk Our horticulture department was also proud to support Richard Carden as he battled it out in the WorldSkills UK garden landscape finals.

Richard, a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture student, was one of just six students to be selected for the national finals and

Gold for florist Anna Eite

fractionally missed out on a medal.

Course Manager Tracy Walker said: “Richard did a fantastic job considering the pressure he was under to perform at the very highest level.”

Unfortunately 20 year-old Anna will be over the 22 years age limit for the WorldSkills final in Abu Dhabi in 2017 and will not be considered for the WorldSkills GB team for Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 2015 as this squad has already been selected. Richard, 19, may be long listed for Abu Dhabi provided he continues to improve his skills, as his marks were of sufficiently high standard.

Finalist Richard Carden

Our hopes for a world medal in 2015 rest on Matthew Beesley, a former Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture student, who is one of four landscapers on the short list for WorldSKills Brazil. Just two contenders will be selected to represent GB in the world finals.

Matthew, 21, was in the final squad for WorldSkills 2013 in Leipzig, Germany, but came third and missed out on representing his country.

Since leaving Reaseheath two years ago he has expanded his family’s business, Beesley’s Landscapes, and has helped to build an award winning garden at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Richard competes at the WorldSkillsUK finals

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Reaseheath wins at Cheshire Show Reaseheath’s action packed exhibition was voted Best Outside Education Stand at the Cheshire Show.

We were awarded full marks by judges and visitors including the High Sheriff of Cheshire Susan Sellers, who said: “I have been impressed with the breadth of activities, the knowledge and enthusiasm of

staff and the obvious interest they are generating among members of the public.”

Agriculture students Rebecca Harper, Kirsty Tailor, Liberty Turner and Lydia Diamond were also in winning form, showing heifers from the Reaseheath Holstein dairy herd in calf and young handler classes.

Success in the showring for agriculture students and Reaseheath Holstein youngstock

A great day at Nantwich Show

Judge John Gittins and steward Marie Birkenhead present the best stand award to Liz Green, Stephanie Owen and Glyn Ferriday from our marketing team.

Support for Royal Welsh Show

Finalists in the Wales YFC shearing competition

The Royal Welsh Show offered us another chance to support our agricultural community.

We repeated our sponsorships of Wales Young Farmers Clubs and the All Welsh shearing final, plus dairy shorthorn and Welsh pony showing classes.

Our stand even had a visit from comedian Ross Noble, who was filming ‘Freewheeling’, a show in which he visits events suggested by his Twitter followers. Some of our countryside students also aimed high in the pole climbing competition!

Comedian Ross Noble tries out his riding skills on our mechanical horse

Students Aaron Dixon, Jordan Slawinski and Cedric Mandaya with celebrity chef James Martin

Taking part in our local agricultural show gave us the chance to catch up with industry partners and alumni. Our stand, which was second in the Trade Stand Competition, was busy all day.

We were delighted to gain three awards in the Nantwich International Cheese Show, which had 4,400 cheeses entered from 23 countries! We

Food Technologists Andrea Winkler, Jane Gilman and Penny Masters with our award winning cheeses

took two silver awards in the specialist cheesemaker section for mild cheddar and Derby cheeses and a bronze award for a coloured Cheshire cheese in the Novice Cheesemakers class. All three cheeses were made by dairy technologists and dairy engineers on our Eden programme – a great accolade.

Three Bakery and Patisserie students, Cedric Mandaya, Jordan Slawinski and Aaron Dixon had a great experience assisting celebrity chefs James Martin, Will Holland, Jonathan Harrison and Sean Wilson during their cooking demonstrations.

We also had further success showing youngstock from the Reaseheath Holstein dairy herd – our students came away with five rosettes for the calves and for their own showmanship skills.

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Students are top of the tree at RHS show CONGRATS TV presenter Toby Buckland celebrates with our design and build team

GOLD for ‘A Taste of Wythenshawe’

Reaseheath garden designers and florists completed a phenomenally successful RHS Flower Show Tatton Park by winning two top awards and helping Cheshire’s leading visitor attractions to achieve another.

Foundation Degree Garden and Landscape Design students achieved one of just three gold medals in the prestigious show garden section with their innovative edible garden ‘A Taste of Wythenshawe’.

Sponsored by Wythenshawe Community Housing Group (WCHG), the garden showed creative approaches to growing edible plants including hydroponics and sculptural features. It celebrated Real Food Wythenshawe, a five year £1 million Big Lotteryfunded community food campaign led by WCHG which promotes ways that people can grow their own fruit and

vegetables and cook healthy, economical meals.

Dougal Philip, Chair of the judges, said: “This was a magnificent garden which was strong, exciting and innovative and with wonderful detail.

Reaseheath’s students should be really proud of what they achieved.”

The garden has been rebuilt in Wythenshawe Park by members of the Turnaround team, a programme developed by WCHG to offer training and potential employment opportunities to those with criminal records.

All team members have been trained by Reaseheath and have successfully gained their NPTC Level 2 Horticulture.

Reaseheath florists were also celebrating after winning the new RHS Tatton Park Floristry College of the Year Competition plus a silver gilt medal for their creative, carnival themed stand. Level

WINNERS of the RHS Tatton Park Floristry College of the Year Zoe Sillito, Anna Eite and Wendy Anderson

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SILVER Floristry lecturer Fiona Davies with details from the college stand

3 Diploma in Floristry students Anna Eite, Zoe Sillito and Wendy Anderson took the title and will compete at the national finals at the Chelsea Flower Show 2015. Our college floristry stand took a silver medal.

RHS Levels 2 and 3 Certificate in Horticulture students helped to build a carnival themed stand for Cheshire Gardens of Distinction, which was awarded Best Show Feature. The stand, in the ‘Inspire’ zone, represented Arley Hall, Adlington Hall, Cholmondeley Castle, Fryers Roses of Knutsford, Biddulph

BEST SHOW FEATURE: Cheshire Gardens of Distinction stand co-ordinator Tracy Walker with Chairman Sam Youd

Grange, Norton Priory, Bluebell Cottage Gardens and the Cheshire Gardens Trust.

Other successes included Jonathan Price, who has just completed his BSc Landscape Design and Management at Reaseheath, taking a silver medal for his show garden and former floristry student Adrian Thomas being awarded gold.

And in a final coup, Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture student Richard Carden won his way through to the 2014 WorldSkills UK Landscape Gardening finals (see page 8).

SILVER A spectacular fire eater on Jonathan Price’s garden

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Halls dedicated to visionary governor

now have 735 student rooms on campus.

Describing John as a visionary and inspirational leader, Chair of Governors Emily Thrane said: “John was a true gentleman and a lovely person. He left an enormous legacy at Reaseheath and his spirit will remain in these wonderful facilities. John

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planted seeds and ensured his vision would endure by giving us self belief and perseverance.

He also inspired great loyalty from everyone who worked with him.”

A plaque was unveiled by John’s daughter, Joanna Lomas, and an oak tree was dedicated by his son, Jeremy Platt.

Travel Scholarship Principal Meredydd David, Emily Thrane, Jeremy Platt, Rev Peter Mascarenhas, Joanna Lomas and Vice Principal Dave Kynaston dedicate Platt Hall to the memory of John Platt

Our newest halls of residence have been officially dedicated to the man who helped to make our college a leader in vocational training.

Platt Hall has been named in memory of John Platt OBE, the former Chair of our Board of Governors, who died two years

ago at the age of 82. John was a very supportive governor for 20 years and helped to spearhead over £50m of capital investment on campus The £6 million building has 150 en suite bedrooms including special provision for students with disabilities. We

Students praised for potato show

Mark Bayes and Marion Barker with their exhibition potatoes, joined by Master of Horticulture Harry Delaney and judge Derek Jones

Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) students who took part in a First Early Potato Show were praised by a top vegetable judge.

The students grew 20 varieties of first early potatoes on college plots and prepared them for exhibition. Local allotment holders and gardeners were invited to attend, along with families and fellow students.

The competition was judged by Derek Jones, a well known exhibitor, judge, horticulturist and historian.

He explained: “This is an innovative way to encourage students to improve their horticultural techniques.

Hopefully their enthusiasm and knowledge will help to sustain the fruit and vegetable shows run within their local communities.”

Two ambitious young farmers are looking forward to global travel thanks to a scholarship run by Reaseheath and the Cheshire Agricultural Society.

Entrepreneurs Rachel Billington and Simon Bonner each received £2,000 John Platt Travel Scholarships at the Cheshire Show.

Rachel will use her scholarship to help her gain a professional qualification from Leith’s School of Food and Wine, London, and has a long term plan to run a cookery school promoting British agriculture and the food chain. She will also visit other similar farm diversifications. She is currently a product development technologist with Goodlife Foods.

Simon is assistant herdsman at a pasture-based dairy farm on the Bolesworth Estate, Tattenhall. He plans to visit New Zealand and Ireland to compare pasturebased dairy systems with

those in the UK, in particular examining the opportunities and constraints for wealth creation and profit.

The John Platt scholarship is in memory of our former Chair of Governors who was also a former Chairman, President and Honorary Life Warden of the Cheshire Agricultural Society.

Cheshire Show Director Keith Thomas said that both candidates had been outstanding and had shown the drive, ambition and desire to seek out new information and technology which would benefit the Cheshire farming community.

The John Platt Travel Scholarship is awarded annually and is open to young people from a rural background who live or work in Cheshire and would benefit from travel.

Applications are being taken for 2015.

For further details see www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ john-platt-scholarship

Rachel Billington and Simon Bonner receive their John Platt Travel Scholarships from Keith Thomas and Principal Meredydd David at the Cheshire Show

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National endorsement for horticulture

Horticulture students Jenny Briggs, Mark Samadram and Harry Johns and florists Rebecca Jackson and Georgina Heath celebrate with lecturers Dave Black and Craig Bailey

Grand designs for florists Our florists regularly create designs for prestigious events, liaising with clients, learning relevant commercial practice and often working in beautiful settings.

Level 3 Diploma in Floristry students were invited as guests of honour to the Asian Fire Service Association’s conference and gala in Staffordshire after creating the table arrangements and stage decorations.

The designs, which had to reflect the recent death of Nelson Mandela and also the theme of leadership, impressed the event coordinators so much that they offered our students a free table at the ball.

Level 2 Diploma in Floristry students also gained invaluable work experience by creating 50 eye catching table arrangements for The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)

the knowledge and skills our students take with them into the industry.

The IoH organises the prestigious Young Horticulturist of the Year competition in which our horticulture students compete.

RHS students celebrate success Sophie Garratt and Pip Atkin with table arrangements for IChemE

Global Awards Dinner in Gloucestershire. The event recognises and rewards chemical engineering innovation and excellence and is a key event in the IChemE calendar, typically attracting 400 delegates from around the world.

And it was all hands on deck when we were invited to decorate the gallery at Arley Hall, Knutsford, before it opened to thousands of Christmas visitors.

Kate Magee and Carrie Grimes with their fiery displays

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Reaseheath Horticulture has received official accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Horticulture (IoH). The national recognition marks the start of an exciting journey for the department as it prepares to move into its new world class centre (see page 2).

The IoH is the professional body for the industry and has recently been granted a Royal Charter in recognition of the importance of horticulture in society. The accreditation recognises the high standard of horticultural education and facilities we offer and

Our RHS students and staff at their awards ceremony

Sixty of our students have successfully gained Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) qualifications in the last academic year.

Around half were professional horticulturists furthering their development while the remainder were career changers and keen leisure gardeners.

Reaseheath is recognised as the leading RHS training and examination centre in the north west and students travel from as far as the Wirral, Manchester, Bolton and Shrewsbury.

We offer theory and practical certificates at both Level 2 and Level 3 as weekly daytime courses, plus a Level 2 (theory) evening course. Once both

awards are achieved they convert into a well respected RHS Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture.

Apart from attending lectures, our students take part in practical activities in the college grounds and also play a key role in building our show gardens at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park. They also enjoy trips to outstanding local gardens and many will join a study tour of the leading gardens and horticultural centres in Holland in the Spring.

For further details contact Anne Harrison Course Manager anneh@reaseheath.ac.uk

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Industry speakers inspire futures in food and farming Agriculture and food production students gained invaluable advice on planning their futures at an inspirational Q and A session with a panel of industry experts.

The event, sponsored by the Food, Drink and Agricultural Group of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) and run by Reaseheath’s Agricultural Development Academy (RADA) and our agricultural department, attracted 80 undergraduate and Level 3 Diploma students.

The panel consisted of Philip Mclaughlin (Agricultural Manager HSBC); Lisa Williams

(Senior Consultant, Promar International and Genus plc); David Hall (Northern Manager EBLEX); Hayley Verney (Technical Sales Manager, AllTech) and Richard Ratcliffe (farmer and Vice Chair of Reaseheath Governors). The session was chaired by John Giles, Divisional Director of Promar International and the Chairman of CIM’s Food, Drink and Agricultural Group.

Topics included the range of jobs available, how to build a career and what employers look for in potential staff. Clear vision, a robust business plan, a critical understanding of

Students James Davies, Isabella Knowles, Robert Yardley and Hayley Sneyd join the panel of speakers

the marketplace and a sound grasp of modern technology were identified key attributes.

John Giles said: “The audience at Reaseheath was full of bright, intelligent and well informed young people and the standard of questions was as high as at any event, anywhere in the country. It is

essential that the agriculture and food production industries engage with talented young people. There are limitless opportunities in the UK and abroad, not just in farming but in areas such as human resources, finance, market analysis, IT, administration and in the legal field.“

Agricultural apprentices make a difference in Uganda A tractor which was renovated by Reaseheath agricultural apprentices is to boost food production in Uganda.

The Leyland 270 tractor was serviced and restored as a practical project by Level 3 apprentices from seven farms in the Farmcare group.

The tractor has been transported to eastern Uganda and handed over to a group of small subsistence farmers.

Apprentice Tim Cleaver flew out to help train the farmers on the tractor’s operation and maintenance.

The project was run in partnership with Somerset Wetland Wildlife Foundation, a not for profit organisation run by retired farmers James and Kay Barnard who support small farmers in Uganda.

David Watson, Head of Arable Operations at Farmcare said: “This was a great opportunity for the apprentices to put the skills and knowledge they’ve gained to the test and at the same time support a worthy cause. I’m extremely proud of the team who worked so hard to revamp the tractor and

must thank Reaseheath for its support. Hopefully the tractor will make a massive difference to the lives of small holders and their local community in Uganda.”

The apprentices work on arable and fruit farms and attend Reaseheath for one week sessions four times a year. They are also regularly visited in the workplace by Reaseheath assessor Anna Hughes.

Reaseheath Training works closely with the agricultural industry to provide bespoke training.

AD research for Mark Farm Manager, Mark Yearsley, who oversees our demonstration anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, received a Farmers Club Charitable Trust Agricultural Educator Award to compare the sustainability of AD in the UK and the USA. A passionate believer in renewable energy and in the importance of educating the

Farmcare apprentices Tom Mack, Colin Schenk, Rob Hinder, Camil Peno, Tim Cleaver, Connor Brown and Michael Simmons with their renovated tractor

See www.reaseheath.ac.uk/apprenticeships public and the next farming generation about its potential, Mark carried out research at eight on-farm AD sites in the UK and a further eight in Wisconsin.

He found that the primary reason for installing AD plants in the UK was to generate extra income by producing energy for the grid, while Wisconsin farmers focused more on reducing their carbon footprint and using the power on site.

For full details of Mark’s research, published in The Farmers Club Winter Journal, see www. thefarmersclub.com and click on ‘library’

Farm Manager Mark Yearsley

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Repeat recognition for Food Centre Reaseheath’s Food Centre has gained an internationally recognised Grade A accreditation from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) for the second year running.

Our Food Centre remains the first and only educational institution in Britain to achieve Grade A at BRC6, the highest possible standard for food safety.

The quality mark was approved after a repeat audit showed that our food manufacturing systems continue to operate under highly controlled conditions and to the highest industry standards.

The accolade is particularly prestigious as many food businesses strive, but never achieve, this ultimate standard.

The bid was led by Technical Manager Katharina Vogt.

Food Centre Head ToniAnne Harrison said: “This has been a second tremendous achievement and we are all very proud. Although we gained BRC6 at Grade A last year, it does not guarantee repeat success.

This achievement was due to the continuing hard work and dedication put in by the food team and illustrates how an understanding of industry procedures and practices

Mumbai trailblazing Two of our food science lecturers joined an international trade mission to Mumbai to take part in the International Food Tec India trade show.

Martin Anderson and James Blakemore were part of a UK Trade and Investment delegation organised by Hull and Humberside Chamber of Commerce. The aim of the visit was to explore the potential for collaboration with one of the world’s biggest dairy sectors.

A total of 466 exhibitors from over 30 countries including China, the Republic of Korea and Europe presented their products and technologies and took the opportunity to share knowledge. Over 12,000 visitors attended and our stand was kept busy with representatives of food and drink businesses from across the Indian sub-continent.

Particular interest was shown in our new Dairy Industry Skills Course and in our Eden training programme, and contacts were made with new and established dairy businesses, potential students and Indian educational

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Katharina Vogt (centre) with our technical team Kevin Campbell, Laura Broome, Andy Dale, Penny Masters and Elliott Bateman

underpin everything that we do. It can only increase our credence and standing within the food industry and lead to increased exposure to blue chip companies.”

Reaseheath’s £7 million Food Centre was opened in 2011 and is one of the best equipped food processing teaching and practical facilities in Europe. Built to exacting standards and staffed by

a team of specialist food technologists, the centre has dairy processing halls and production areas for butchery, bakery and confectionery.

Many local, national and international food and drink manufacturers use our facilities for new product development or staff training.

See www. reaseheathfoodcentre.com

Eden programme unlocks potential

Amy Naylor-Frizzell and Kyle Allington are congratulated by Adam Brazendale James Blakemore chats to a potential customer at the trade show

institutions.

Said Martin: “The trade show was extremely successful.

The opportunities for sharing knowledge and developing and delivering consultancy, training and education in India is immense. As it emerges as an economic superpower, India still has a very localised dairy market rather than the milk travelling through a vertically integrated supply chain to a retailer as happens in the UK. “We also had an amazing time in one of the world’s busiest cities, sampled some amazing cuisine and travelled in the scariest traffic known to man!"

One of our most successful degree programmes is the Eden project, a unique training initiative for the dairy processing industry. It was developed in partnership with leading companies and answers a demand for highly skilled managers in the food and drink industry.

Dairy technologists study on a block release basis over three years for a globally recognised Foundation Degree in Dairy Technology. We developed this well supported course six years ago and 130 students have graduated.

While final year success is celebrated at our graduation ceremony (see page 4), awards are also presented at the end of each year of study.

Top second year students Amy Naylor-Frizzell (best practical

student) and Kyle Allington (best academic student), who work for Arla Foods, received their awards from Adam Brazendale, Business Development Manager for the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink (NSA).

Adam said: “The NSA is a very keen supporter of this world class course. This initiative highlights how much potential there is in the food and drink industry. It is very encouraging to see that these dairy technologists are so keen to progress.”

Our first year cohort of 19 technicians from Arla Foods, Muller-Wiseman Dairies, Dairy Crest and Glanbia Cheese have already toured dairies in Yorkshire and Cumbria to study a range of products and processes.

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Gym helps students achieve personal best

Luke Stringer trains in our gym

Our newly refurbished high tech gym is helping our sports performance and public services students to prepare for their careers in style!

Our students train in our amazing new fitness facility, which is furnished to the highest standard with the same cardiovascular equipment as that at St George’s Park National Football Centre. We also have TechnoGym branded Kinesis and DAP cable machines for rehabilitative

exercises and a strength and conditioning zone with equipment of the same standard as that in the 2012 Olympic village.

Our sports students are also gaining unique experience testing external customers in our specialist Sports Science Lab, which has over £40,000 worth of equipment including a medical treadmill, a Watt Bike (used by British Cycling), blood profiling kit and functional movement screening.

Elite footballers and local and international cyclists, triathletes and runners use our facilities and our second year students assist with testing.

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Our sports department is also looking forward to a further £6 million investment into another cutting-edge sports facility, currently being planned, which will provide a local hub for community sport in Nantwich as well as more opportunities for our students.

• Local sports people can book a personal fitness review in our lab, which can include tests of current aerobic capacity (using our VO2 Max equipment) and blood lactate levels.

Contact 01270 613188 stuartf@reaseheath.ac.uk

Sports science supports Crewe Alex fitness programme

First team players Jon Guthrie, Brad Inman, Perry Ng and Anthony Grant join Richard Brooke, Andy Franks, sports lecturer Stuart Fisher, Crewe Alex assistant sport scientist Ben Cope and sports performance students James Brown, Stephen Ganley and James Earl in our gym

Crewe Alexandra FC is using our new sports science laboratory to help train its first team for the current season.

All first team players have used our cutting edge technology including maximal fitness testing on our top-of-therange medical treadmill.

The data was used by Andy Franks, Head of Sports Science and Conditioning at Crewe Alex, to check the base level of fitness of each player and to set personalised training programmes. The players return for retesting during the season. The data was collected by Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport students, many of whom will progress to careers in coaching or sport fitness.

Course Manager Richard Brooke explained: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to practice

and develop their skills by working with local, talented, professional athletes. Our students learn sports science

and coaching techniques and this has allowed them to see how critical these skills are in the industry they plan to join.

We have also been delighted to support Crewe Alex.”

NEW Reaseheath’s Ladies Football Academy Launching in September, this exciting partnership between Reaseheath and Crewe Alex FC will give talented young female footballers the chance to enhance their football abilities while studying for a nationally recognised sport

qualification.

Along with their college studies, students will receive specialist coaching from Crewe Alex FC coaches, individualised training programmes and regular progress reviews. They will also use our gym and have the opportunity to complete additional qualifications in coaching and refereeing.

Applications being taken now. For further details email kate.humphrey@ reaseheath.ac.uk

Sports students inspired by football centre visit Our Level 3 Diploma in Sports Performance students enjoyed an inspirational day at St George’s Park, the Football Association’s world-class national centre, which included a warm-up session similar to that used for the England squad!

After gaining tips on how to apply their developing coaching knowledge, our students were put through their paces in the gym by strength and conditioning coaches. They also looked at cutting edge sports technology

being trialled at the centre.

The group was guided through a hydrotherapy session using a pool with adjustable floor, heated jacuzzi and ice baths, looked at an underwater treadmill and discovered how elite athletes recover after intense training sessions.

The visit ended with a great Q&A session with a sports scientist who provided tips on securing work placements, progression into higher education and working with elite athletes in sports analysis,

Our sports students try out the facilities at St George’s Park

coaching and testing.

Our students were also impressed to discover that much of the equipment used by top professionals is available in our own gym!

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Speedy learning curve for local pupils Future engineers from local primary and secondary schools visited Reaseheath to learn about the science and technology behind a 1,000 mph record attempt.

Twelve schools were invited to take part in activities involving the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC), the vehicle which will attempt the 1,000mph land speed record in South Africa in 2016.

A replica of Bloodhound SSC, along with its education team, was a key attraction at our Family Festival and remained on campus to allow pupils to learn more about the exciting project.

The event was run in support of STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths), a national education initiative to inspire young people to consider engineering as a career. The UK needs to attract 100,000 new engineers into the industry each year and currently recruits just 30,000.

Up to 120 pupils at Key Stages 2 and 3 visited us daily to learn about Bloodhound SSC’s development, which is being supported by some of the world’s leading engineering companies including Rolls Royce. Our college totally supports STEM projects and we hope that some of our

Heavyweight action with the Hawk Group Agricultural engineering and construction students enjoyed an action packed open day hosted by the Hawk Group neat Whitchurch.

One of the largest independent plant hire companies in the UK, the Hawk Group hires heavy machinery to the construction industry and tractors to the agricultural industry as well as supplying cabins and site accommodation. The company is also a builder of new homes and has a successful international division.

Several of our former students work for the Hawk Group and our visiting students received careers advice along with many activities.

Level 3 Extended Diploma

in Land Based Technology students took to the driver training circuit to test drive a Komatsu 40 tonne dump truck, a Landrover Defender and a McCormick 7.660 tractor.

They also had a go at timed activities using sophisticated excavators weighing from 1.5 to 25 tonnes and learned how to operate laser levelling equipment on a Komatsu Crawler Dozer and a 13 tonne Komatsu excavator.

Our second year bricklayers also had a very worthwhile day operating plant machinery ranging from excavators to six wheel drive dumper trucks under the supervision of an instructor. They also drove off road vehicles and tried several machine simulators.

Our agricultural engineers enjoy their day with Hawk

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Rode Heath Primary School pupils Joe Jowlett-Reid, Izzy Haigh, Maisy Wells, Oliver Darwen and Sam Forrester with BloodhoundSSC

young visitors will be inspired to become the engineers of the future.

For more about careers

in engineering and science see www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ engineering and www. bloodhoundssc.com

Engineers take on ploughing challenge

Former agricultural engineering student Charlie James competes at the Cheshire match

Our agricultural engineering students researched advancements in plough design and function by visiting the Cheshire Ploughing Match, one of the UK’s most successful county based ploughing events.

Tasked with learning how technology has advanced ploughing methods over the years, our students compared early horse drawn ploughs and

post war ploughs with today’s large, modern reversible machines which are equipped with the latest precision steering systems. They also looked at the ploughing techniques used by the top class competitors.

Inspired by their visit, our students then organised their own ploughing challenge on campus!

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Eco test records impressive results A team of Level 2 IMI Light Vehicle and Maintenance students had their engineering skills tested when they competed in the Shell Eco Marathon. This unique competition, held at Mallory Park Circuit, Leicestershire, challenges students to design, build and drive their most energy efficient car.

Fifteen teams from colleges, universities and secondary schools across the UK, including apprentices from blue chip companies, battled

it out for the title. Each vehicle had to complete seven laps of the 1.3 mile circuit in 26 minutes at a minimum average speed of 15 mph before having its fuel measured.

Most of the vehicles had three wheels to reduce friction and were fitted with very small engines similar to chainsaws and leaf blowers. Our own aerodynamic car was made in our vehicle workshop from mostly recycled parts, using a variety of engineering techniques.

Driver Luke Berry, mechanic Liam Horn and course manager and mentor Duncan Mould with their eco vehicle

Our team of six students achieved 463 mpg on the day, a fantastic benchmark for future eco-marathons and a particularly impressive result, as this was the first time we

had entered the competition.

Hopefully those who have progressed onto our Level 3 programme will mentor the Level 2 team for this year’s contest!

Halfords gives High octane action for technicians a head start motor vehicle students Our vehicle technologists and agricultural engineers received a kick start for their future careers when they were presented with Halfords trade discount cards.

Our students can now take advantage of major savings on Halfords Autocentre products, which include parts and tools.

Paul Hewitson, Trade Manager for Halfords, handed over the discount cards during a presentation to our agricultural engineering, construction plant and motor vehicle students

in our vehicle technology workshops.

The offer is backed by the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI), which is working in conjunction with Halfords to support young people who are launching careers in the engineering and automotive industries. The IMI is the industry’s professional body and is the leading provider of work related qualifications for the automotive trade, which we deliver.

High octane action at the Santa Pod raceway

Kick start for our vehicle technologists and agricultural engineers

Our motor vehicle students experienced top fuel dragster racing, the fastest and loudest motor sport on earth, during a visit to the Santa Pod Raceway in Bedfordshire.

Students from Levels 1,2 and 3 Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) motor vehicle courses watched as cars and motorbikes competed in the National Hot Rod finals.

Our group were treated to a pit lane walk and enjoyed a close look at the technology of the vehicles before taking their seats in the grandstand.

Wisely wearing ear plugs, our students experienced the ground shaking as the cars and motorbikes accelerated from 0 – 100 mph in under two seconds. Nearly all the top fuel cars completed the quarter mile course in less than six seconds, reaching straight line speeds of over 240 mph.

For many students this was their first experience of drag racing and all came away with a greater understanding of the industry.

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Riding high at HOYS Our equine students came under the spotlight at the world famous Horse of the Year Show by providing the arena party for the fourth consecutive year.

Thirty-eight students and two staff were on duty for the prestigious event, helping international course designers Bob Ellis and Kelvin Bywater build courses to test the world’s leading showjumpers.

The students received unique training and experience and also took the opportunity to catch up with top ranked showjumpers including Guy Williams, an early international class winner. Our team did such an outstanding job that we have already been booked as the arena party for HOYS 2015.

Bob Ellis, who was lead course designer for the London 2012 Olympics, said: “Yet again, Reaseheath’s arena party was exceptional and helped us to put on a superb show. All the students were easy to work with, listened to instructions and shared a great sense of humour. They are a credit to the college. All riders aspire to compete and win at HOYS and it makes such a difference to us knowing that we can rely on our arena team to do a professional job.”

Equine students from all courses, from diplomas to degrees, are encouraged to take part in these prestigious competitions.

Sophia Cunningham, Jack Wormald, Lily Cargill, Elle Germany, Danni Parker, Sophie Carolan and Claudia Owler and are joined by top showjumper Guy Williams

Commendation for Bolesworth arena Future equine scientists party hone their skills

We are keen that our BSc (Hons) Equine Science undergraduates develop the skills to present their academic research concisely and with confidence.

As part of their course students research a genetic disease which is of importance to the equine industry and present it as a poster. This key assignment increases our students’ ability in research and academic writing and encourages the written and oral skills essential for sharing scientific research at academic

conferences.

We encourage our students to enter competitions for conference scientific poster presentations and several have been successful against entries from undergraduates and post graduates from universities and veterinary colleges.

Our undergraduates also attend major conferences to engage with the latest scientific research and innovations, as well as visiting relevant organisations such as studs and research centres.

First year undergraduates Kathy Briand-Hall and Beth Wood discuss their poster submissions for their equine genetics and breeding module.

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Reaseheath arena party applauds William Whitaker, winner of the Redrow Grand Prix and £9,900 in prize money, at Bolesworth International

Our equine students were commended for the professional way they provided the arena party for Bolesworth International, Cheshire’s world class showjumping competition.

Forty students and staff were on duty for four days, working alongside international course designers Bob Ellis and Kelvin Bywater.

Bolesworth has invested thousands of pounds to build up this exciting event, which attracted top riders

from 13 nations. Competitors were delighted with the new international arena, which is set in an amphitheatre and has a surface formerly used for the London 2012 Olympics.

Show founder Nina Barbour, who is Managing Director of Bolesworth, said: “Reaseheath’s arena party were extremely competent and professional. We really appreciated their teamwork, which helped us to deliver showjumping at its highest level.”

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Society monitors rare species Reaseheath’s Herpetological and Entomological Society has continued to assist the Field Studies Centre in North Wales to monitor Britain’s rare natterjack toads.

Members surveyed a reintroduction site on a previous visit, collating data on sex, weight and size, and this time identified sex ratio, breeding pools and spawn strings. This is an excellent chance for our students to gain first hand knowledge of natural history and conservation action.

Some members also spent a day with experts on a

neighbouring site, receiving training to monitor sand lizard populations. The sand dune habitats and secretive nature of the lizards meant the group had to tread quietly and have a keen eye. These skills will help our students as their herpetology careers develop.

• The group also enjoyed a behind the scenes tour of The Deep in Hull, home to one of the UK’s largest aquariums and a large collection of terrestrial invertebrates. Our students were particularly impressed with the skillful theming of the enclosures, such as fake ice in the Gentoo

Toad monitoring in action

Penguin display, and picked up some great ideas for projects in our own zoo. We hope that some of The Deep

team will visit our Animal Centre to deliver a theming workshop for our students.

Giant catfish is catch of the day!

Students shape future of rare habitat Giant catch for students

Students at the Meres and Mosses workshop

Our students have been given the chance to help shape the future management of a rare local habitat.

Over 30 students from our animal management, equine, countryside and agriculture departments expressed their views on the Meres and Mosses Landscape Partnership at a workshop run by the Shropshire Wildlife Trust.

The partnership is an ambitious £2 million, five year initiative across North Shropshire, South Cheshire, Wales and West Staffordshire looking at how best to preserve the area’s lowland raised bogs so they benefit both wildlife and people.

The area has been given

special recognition as a ‘nature improvement area’, one of only 12 sites in England.

Shropshire Wildlife Trust, which is running the initiative, wants to involve local communities and is keen to hear views on ways to restore and conserve this rare habitat.

Our students came up with a number of useful and innovative suggestions for conservation activities. They have been invited to a further workshop, where they will be joined by local policy holders, MPs and council leaders. This will give our students a real chance to shape the policy of the North Shropshire Meres and Mosses!

Learn more at www. themeresandmosses.co.uk

Catching giant catfish provided very realistic work experience for our Level 3 fish management and Level 2 countryside and environment students.

Our countryside department hooked up with successful local businesses Fox Lakemore Fisheries and Fields Farm Fisheries for two management tasks which benefitted both parties.

At Lakemore Fisheries, the students did a stock assessment in one of the main catfish lakes, a task which involved catching specimen catfish weighing over 60lb.

Despite the difficulties of working around several islands and among lily pads, reeds and overhanging trees, our students completed a very professional job, with fisheries owner Mark Ashmore

commenting that it was the most successful netting ever!

Our students also carried out dissection and pathology work on the bank as part of their fish science modules.

Another great chance to work with industry came at Fields Farm Fisheries, where, under the supervision of owner Chris Thornhill, our students seine netted two pools and moved the fish stocks to better suit the needs of anglers. In two days over 2000lbs of fish were captured, graded and moved to their new home. After the work was completed Chris commented that our students were a credit to Reaseheath!

For opportunities to work with our fisheries and countryside department contact peterb@ reaseheath.ac.uk

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Reaseheath’s Agricultural Development Academy (RADA) aims to improve the profitability and efficiency of farms in the north west by delivering high quality knowledge transfer that is focused on the needs of farmers.

RADA’s dedicated team uses government, European and industry funding to provide training and advice which will

help farming communities become more profitable and sustainable. These include advice on managing business, technical farming and environmental matters.

Our experts also inform the rural sector and its policy developers.

Further details call 01270 613195 or email georgef@reaseheath.ac.uk

Cleaner water at less cost

RADA helps improve land management near water

Awards celebrate farming’s best The British Grassland Society (BGS) celebrated the best of UK grassland farming at its annual awards evening, held at Reaseheath. The event was hosted jointly with Cheshire Grassland Society and sponsored by GrowHow UK and DLF Trifolium.

Organic beef and sheep farmer Dafydd Jones from mid-Wales was awarded the coveted BGS UK Grassland Farmer of the Year award for his strategic approach to business - supplying what the market wants and getting a premium price for his endeavours.

The award for Future Grassland Farmer of the Year, sponsored by The National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) and BGS, went to Dafydd Phillips of Pembrokeshire for devising the best business plan for a grassland farm.

Dr George Fisher, Acting Director of BGS and Manager of RADA, congratulated Dafydd on demonstrating his understanding of how grassland can drive a livestock business.

He said he also showed a clear passion for building a successful future in his chosen career.

Future Grassland Farmer of the Year Dafydd Phillips celebrates with his partner, Ellie Robinson, Charlotte Evans (BGS Technical Project manager), BGS President David Lee and Jo Wyles, NFYFC Agriculture and Rural Affairs Officer

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RADA’s Farm Environmental Services is helping to improve local drinking water and reduce costs to water companies and land managers.

Our experts have joined partners from The Environmental Agency, United Utilities and Harvey Hughes Ltd. and are working with farmers and landowners in Delamere, Winwick and other groundwater catchments in the county to improve water quality from boreholes. The farms are in safeguard zones – catchment areas where the raw water quality is deteriorating due to nitrates filtering through the soil into water courses.

The project, funded by the Environmental Agency and United Utilities, aims to raise awareness of the impact farming operations have on water quality and to advise farmers how to reduce nitrate loss. This includes testing soils and manures and reviewing fertiliser and manure management.

RADA’s farm environmentalist Dr Nicky Hall explained: “This is a long term goal because it takes years for changes in management practice to lead to water improvement. We were delighted that all the farmers we approached engaged with the project and our funders are pleased with the outcomes so far.”

RADA’s Farm Environmental Services is also working with Promar International and SAC Consulting to deliver a project

for United Utilities on farmland that forms the catchment of the Llangollen Canal. Our team is consulting with farmers, land agents, farm advisors and agricultural supply industries and is drawing up action plans to reduce crop protection chemicals running off farmland into the canal.

The canal feeds into the Hurleston Reservoir near Reaseheath and after treatment

by United Utilities, supplies clean drinking water to homes in Nantwich, Crewe, Alsager and up to Congleton.

RADA Manager George Fisher said: “United Utilities asked for our involvement, which is a great reflection on the work we do and the standing we have in the farming and business communities. Everyone should win. The farms will be more efficient, the agri industry will have clients that are more sustainable, the water company won’t spend so much on cleaning agri-chemicals and nutrients out of our drinking water and our water bills shouldn’t go up too much!”

RADA Manager Dr George Fisher

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Staff with ‘Star’ appeal Outstanding stars among our staff have been honoured for ‘going the extra mile’ to contribute towards our success.

Individuals and teams were recognised for their high levels of professionalism, commitment and dedication at our annual Awards of Excellence, The Reaseheath STAR Award to the most outstanding staff member went to FE Marketing Officer Stephanie Owen for her exceptional support of the college teams who offer impartial advice at our course information sessions, school visits and public events.

Steph was also responsible for bringing Bloodhound SSC and its educational team onto

campus, a major coup which inspired hundreds of local school children (see page 16) Other ‘stars’ to receive awards were: Individuals Liz Green (Innovation Award) Our Digital and Communications Team Leader, Liz was commended for her outstanding efforts to support departments with social media and on-line communication.

Katharina Vogt (Special Achievement) The Technical Manager of Reaseheath’s Food Centre, Kat was the driving force behind our BRC accreditation for the second consecutive year (see page 14) Steve Challinor (People’s Award) Our Estates Manager, Steve was applauded for his positive attitude to helping

Rowers raise funds for cancer charity

Reaseheath's dragon boat team

Forty staff took part in the Chester Dragon Boat Festival and raised £600 for Macmillan Cancer Support – this year’s RAG charity.

Our rowers competed against teams from other Cheshire businesses and groups in the race, which took place on the River Dee at Chester.

Assistant Student Services Manager Greg Otto organised the teams after being contacted

by Carl Fisher, a Cheshire volunteer for Macmillan. Greg said: “We really enjoyed the challenge. Every department had a member taking part, so it was a truly cross college effort.”

Sarah Page, Senior

Fundraising Manager for Cheshire, said: “We love this event because it really puts the ‘fun’ into fundraising and were delighted that Reaseheath nominated us as their charity.

We were even more pleased to hear later that the college had selected us as this year’s RAG charity and we are looking forward to working even more closely with the college.

“Macmillan needs to raise over £1 million for cancer services across Cheshire each year. Our mission is to support local people, and fund raising efforts from companies like Reaseheath is vital to our work.”

Liz Green 'Innovation award'

students and colleagues and also for his suggestions to improve working practices.

Dave Black (Colleague of the Year) Selected as the staff member who has done most to welcome new colleagues, Dave, a Programme Leader for Horticulture, is seen as truly embodying the spirit of Reaseheath.

Jamie Cook (Leader of the Year): Curriculum Area Manager for Countryside and Construction, Jamie was recognised for the positive difference he has made over the past four years, both in his support for his staff and for the significantly increased courses his departments offer.

Stephanie Owen 'Star award'

Teams Equine team (Educational Excellence) for their consistently high standards of teaching and high rates of student satisfaction.

Student Services team (Giving Something Back) for the exceptional range of services they provide to ensure students make the best of their time at college.

Applications and Enquiries team (Team of the Year) for working consistently and conscientiously to deliver important first introduction to potential students across all departments.

Eating well for less Our food experts demonstrated yoghurt production for a BBC1 programme focused on helping families to save money yet still eat well.

Senior Dairy Technologist Derek Allen was filmed helping well known presenter Gregg Wallace sort food fact from food fiction for an episode of ‘Eat Well for Less’.

Gregg joined Derek in our industry standard food halls to watch the process and to discuss the ingredients which go into the family favourite.

Derek Allan and Gregg Wallace outside our Food Centre

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RAG raises money for St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice Almost £10,000 raised through RAG (Raising and Giving) activities was handed over to St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice at our student ball.

Receiving the cheque from Student Association members, Mark Porter, St Luke’s Corporate and Community Fund Raiser, said: “This is a fantastic amount of money which will help provide patient care in the local community.

We are delighted that Reaseheath’s students chose

us as their charity.”

St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice provides day care and longer term care to patients throughout Mid and South Cheshire and also supports their carers, typically helping 3,000 people annually. The charity needs to raise £7,500 every day to keep its services free to Cheshire residents.

Our Student Association organised 35 fund raising events in RAG week alone, including a James Bond themed ball, a staff versus

Sporting success

RAG Chair Sam Norfolk presents a cheque to Mark Porter, watched by Student Association members

students football match, a raft race on the college lake and a tractor pull.

Student Association President Sam Norfolk said: “We had a fantastic team who worked hard to put together activities which everyone could enjoy while raising money for a good cause. We chose St Luke’s because its services benefit the whole community and some

were relevant to us, such as the bereavement counsellor for young people.”

Our students and staff also raised a further £4,000 for other charities. Over the past 26 years students and staff have raised over £190,000 for local good causes. This year’s RAG charity is Macmillan Cancer Support.

Reaseheath rocks!

Our men's recreational football team

We have some very successful student teams competing in the North West British College Sports Leagues.

Our men’s first and second football teams compete in extremely competitive leagues and play regular fixtures as well as regional cup competitions.

Our Women’s football team has gone from strength to strength, with players demonstrating fantastic technical skills, great team work and enthusiasm. Last year they won all seven local and regional tournaments and our 2015 team is a similarly strong squad. Home matches are held at the Crewe Alexandra training facilities adjacent to college.

Our men’s recreational football team, which caters for students aged 19-plus,

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has made an unbeaten start to the current season and is looking forward to playing more matches.

Our men’s rugby team made a very promising start to the season with impressive performances against colleges and sixth form teams. Training sessions are led by Crewe and Nantwich Rugby Club’s first team coach.

Our women’s netball team is playing well and improving at every game. Our mixed hockey team continues to compete in Northern Counties matches against other land based colleges and plays additional fixtures against local hockey teams. We also hold weekly sessions of RUSH hockey, which is suitable for beginners and regular players and we have a thriving ju-jitsu club.

Our festival themed summer ball was voted the best ever by over 1,000 revellers who enjoyed performances from three bands and four DJs, amusement rides and a BBQ. Here are Student Association members enjoying the action!

Get connected - join Reaseheath Alumni Our new Alumni Association is providing former students with a great way to keep in touch and giving us the opportunity to offer career support and guidance if required.

A growing community of former students, graduates, staff and friends have been telling us what they’ve been up to and where they are now. Our Alumni Officer, Katie Burt, has been hearing all sorts of interesting tales – right back to when we were the Cheshire School of Agriculture.

Membership of our alumni association is FREE and offers exclusive alumni discounts, networking opportunities, a dedicated Facebook page, Twitter handle @RHC_Alumni and LinkedIn group, plus a regular alumni newsletter and bi-annual magazine.

Find out more by visiting www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ about-us/alumni or contact Katie at alumni@reaseheath.ac.uk or call 01270 613219

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Sport helps students get ‘Fit for Work’

Reaseheath at a glance

Foundation and Entry students are benefitting from an innovative project encouraging them to take up active sports.

Around 200 students are enjoying dedicated sessions in our gym and at local leisure centres thanks to a ‘Fit for Work’ programme put together by our Sports Department and overseen by Foundation lecturer Simon Warman.

The project aims to make sport more accessible to our students by offering them one hour of physical activity a week. It is hoped that this will encourage the less active to incorporate sport into their daily routine and to enjoy the

SUBJECT AREAS

long term mental and physical benefits of a more active lifestyle.

‘Fit for Work’ will run for three years at a total cost of £76,242, almost £61,000 of which is being funded through Sport England, the national body which champions sport in the community. The remainder is being met by Reaseheath.

The funding application, made through our sports department, was supported

by Active Cheshire, the lead body for sport in Cheshire and Warrington, and Everybody Sport & Recreation, which delivers leisure in partnership with Cheshire East Council.

- Dairy Champion National Skills Academy for Food and Drink

Further and Higher Education & Apprenticeships - Adventure Sports - Agriculture - Agricultural Engineering Student Andrew Fox is advised by Shaun McDonald

- Business and IT

The project is proving popular, with students gaining confidence in the use of gym equipment and enjoying sports such as boxercise, badminton, volleyball, dodgeball and trampolining.

We will also involve our own sports students as supervisors and coaches, enabling them to work towards sports leader awards.

Industry mentorship programme – working together Could you work with us to help shape the future of your industry?

Reaseheath is expanding its network of industry mentors who could share their specialist expertise and knowledge and help shape our courses We’re seeking local or regional businesses or successful alumni who can help us achieve our key aim - to ensure that our students are well prepared to enter their chosen industry.

Our mentorship programme links those in the industry with relevant departments in a variety of ways. This is very much a symbiotic relationship which benefits both the mentor and the college.

Some mentors make themselves available to conduct mock interviews, give career talks and share industry good practice. Others offer practical opportunities, work experience or mid-year placements. This input allows us to develop our courses in line with the needs of industry and increases the employability of our students.

Our employers benefit because they can talent spot potential staff well in advance, discuss training of direct benefit to their business and take advantage of our own marketing and business networking. Many report that lack of trained staff is one of their main obstacles to

Potential animal management mentors join department staff

- Animal Management - Construction - Countryside and Conservation - Entry and Foundation Programmes - Equine - Floristry - Horticulture - Food Technology - Motor Vehicle - Public Services - Sports Performance

ASSOCIATE COLLEGE OF

TOTAL STUDENTS Further Education (full-time/part-time): 2,500 Higher Education (degrees): 710 Apprenticeships and work based learning: 700 Laura Jackson-Woods and Catherine Gresty, directors of Event Orchestra, with business staff Jill Dunn and Jayne Cawood

progress, and that working with Reaseheath has offered them guaranteed staff succession and a successfully developing business.

Our departments have individual needs and our mentorship programmes are very flexible. Some mentors spend an hour with us once a week, others make themselves available as required.

We held an industry mentorship event recently which was supported by 40 representatives from local industries.

If you feel you could contribute, contact dianar@reaseheath.ac.uk and indicate the department you’d like to link with.

ESTATE College grounds: 21 hectares Owned and rented farm land: 330 hectares Land leased to Crewe Alexandra Football Club: 6 hectares

TURNOVER Academic year 2013/14: £28.3 million

FACILITIES On-site accommodation for 735; five catering outlets; student lounge/bar; learning resource centre, HE study area, sports hall, climbing wall, multi gym, sports pitches (rugby, football, crown green bowling, cricket), equestrian centre, campus farm, campus zoo, licensed food factory.

STAFF 620 (including part-time and casual workers)

FURTHER DETAILS Please ask for a prospectus Reaseheath College, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DF

www.reaseheath.ac.uk

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Record crowds flock to festival

Crowds help in the ‘Oops Upside Your Head’ challenge

Bumper crowds enjoyed a really great day out at our annual Family Festival, which offered hundreds of activities and demonstrations.

Headline acts included daring displays of trick riding

by The Devil’s Horsemen and appearances from Titan, a giant robot. Families also marvelled at a replica of Bloodhound SSC, the supersonic car which will attempt a 1,000mph land speed record in 2016. Part of the festival’s ‘technology’ theme, the car’s simulator gave visitors the unique thrill of driving the fastest car on earth.

Another world record was attempted when 300 visitors boogied on our lawn to ‘Oops Upside Your Head’. The challenge was masterminded by our Student Association to raise money for our RAG appeal.

Daniel Naprous from The Devil’s Horsemen performs with the Lloyds TSB black stallion Dante

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Said Principal Meredydd David: “Once again our team delivered a fabulous family festival for thousands of visitors, allowing them to celebrate with us what is best about Reaseheath.

“As well as being a shop window for the skills of our students, the festival also makes a fantastic contribution to our local community and has become a not to be missed event for many people.”

• Our family festival is one of a number of college events which attracts visitors into the region.

An independent economic assessment has revealed that Reaseheath contributes around £85.7 million in additional income per year to the local business community.

Diary date: Reaseheath Family Festival: Sunday 17 May 2015

Diary Dates...

Come and see us February 2015 6 HE visit day 12 – 15 The Telegraph Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show, London 27 HE visit day 28 FE Course information event 28 – 1 Lambing and zoo weekend

March 2015 4–5 Skills North West, Manchester 7-8 Lambing and zoo weekend 13 HE visit day 28 HE and FE Course information event HE visit afternoon

April 2015 24 HE visit day 25 FE course information event

May 2015 17 Reaseheath Family Festival 24 Cheshire Young Farmers’ Rally, Reaseheath Farm Feast, Bebington, Wirral 25 -29 Cheshire Science Festival 27 – 28 Staffordshire Show

June 2015 9 HE / FE Course information evening 11 – 14 Bolesworth international showjumping 23 Summer Ball 23 – 24 Cheshire Show 25 – 26 Reaseheath Awards Ceremony

Titan meets admirers

Apple festival gets to the core of fruit growing Hundreds of local families got to the core of fruit growing at our popular apple festival.

The event featured 100 rare varieties of apples and pears, some dating back to Roman times.

Horticultural experts Derek Jones and Harry Delaney were on hand to identify varieties, answer queries on fruit production and suggest how to control pests and diseases.

We offer day courses in pruning and grafting and also sell fruit trees.

Contact 01270 613211

July 2015 1–2 Livestock Event NEC Birmingham 7 Big Bang Young Scientists and Engineers Fair, Liverpool 11 Newport Show 14 – 16 Great Yorkshire Show 20 – 23 Royal Welsh Show 22 – 26 RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 29 Nantwich Show

August 2015 2 Cheshire Game and Angling Fair 11 – 12 Anglesey Show 14 HE clearing event 20 Denbigh and Flintshire Show 21 FE clearing event

Pauline and Dave Griffiths use our apple juicer, helped by Jimmy Holland

Keep up to date on our website...

www.reaseheath.ac.uk l 01270 625131 www.reaseheath.ac.uk Written and edited by Reaseheath’s Press Officer Lynne Lomax 01270 613279