Grassroots issue 28

Raising Standards Inspiring Achievement E ET

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The latest news from Reaseheath College

Issue 28

In this issue

Outstanding research award for Hannah See page 4

Apprenticeship insight for Countryfile’s Matt Baker See page 9

Paige is construction plant star See page 9

Landscaper Matt takes silver in world finals See page 3

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Specialist build progresses Reaseheath is one of the UK’s premier land-based colleges and we have some of the best specialist facilities in the country.

We have already invested £50 million over the past six years into educational resources and halls of residence on campus and a further £30 million building programme is underway.

Due to open this Autumn is an £8.3 million National Centre for Food Futures and the Environment, a forward thinking bio-technology facility to train students and those already working in the horticultural and farming industries how to meet the challenge of world population growth and climate change.

complex. Working in partnership with Cheshire East Council, we have created this £1 million-plus facility to help students achieve independent living skills and prepare them for future employment.

This building will include dedicated classrooms and study areas, a café and a shop stocking Reaseheath produce.

Our Foundation students will work in the shop, gaining valuable experience interacting with the public.

Leading on both developments is the award winning construction company Pochin.

Construction of an additional 200 bed halls of residence, science laboratories and an extension to our Higher Education Centre will start next May. A £7 million Advanced This purpose-built centre, designed with industry input, will allow us to equip Agricultural Engineering Academy, which will deliver training our students with in-demand skills in in precision farming including crop and horticultural technology, innovation animal production systems, is being and sustainability. The centre, built designed and will also be in use by to the highest specification, contains 2016. laboratories, interpretation zones, technical growing areas and ultraNew or improved training facilities intensive production units for food already in use by students include a crops, trials and research. It will be used by both students and businesses. commercial farm, licensed teaching zoo, indoor equestrian centre and an industry standard food production A new Foundation Teaching centre. and Learning Centre for Level 1 students will also open in the same

Final touches are carried out to the sophisticated irrigation system in our Cambridge HOK glasshouse

Advanced brickwork students Josh Brandon and Tom Johnson gain valuable work experience on the new build

Accolade for Information, Advice and Guidance Service Reaseheath has been awarded the ‘matrix Standard’ for the high quality of our Information, Advice and Guidance service. This is the benchmark standard for advice and support services which support individuals in their choice of career, learning, work and life goals.

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Particular strengths identified included: • Dedicated staff with a clear commitment to implementing college values • Inspirational leadership and management, with a clear vision and a clear approach to strategic planning

Quality Improvement Manager Graham Harbage said: “To be awarded this challenging Standard is a testament to the superb work that goes on across the college in supporting both our students and our staff.”

• The effective use of external partnerships to support the quality assurance process

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Silver for landscaper in world finals of my life. The whole WorldSkills programme has been awesome. I have learned so much and gained such a lot of confidence. I’d particularly like to thank my hard landscape instructor at Reaseheath, Jason Hinks, and my Matt and fellow team member Jonathan parents for their support.”

Gill, from Northern Ireland, achieved Said Jason: “I’m really proud of Britain’s first ever medal in landscape Matt and how he’s developed as gardening at the global, Olympics a professional landscaper through style final. The pair had to prove their skills and stamina in hard landscaping, WorldSkills. This programme is all about benefitting the students through plant knowledge and management training and helping them to realise their by building a garden from scratch in potential.” four days under the gaze of 259,000 spectators.

Current Foundation Degree in Garden and Landscape Design undergraduate WorldSkills runs the competition Chris Shore and floristry students Fiona bi-annually for students aged 23 and under to showcase the skills and value Davies (Level 5) and Robyn Longden (Level 3) have qualified for this year’s of young professionals in vocational WorldSkills UK national finals. Based industries. Matt completed his Level 3 on their results, Chris and Robyn could Extended Diploma in Horticulture with be selected for the talent pool for GB’s us three years ago and now runs his WorldSkills squad 2017, to compete in own successful business, Beesley’s Abu Dhabi.

Landscapes, and employs two apprentices. He first competed in the British selection rounds for WorldSkills Level 2 Butchery student Ben Powell also did a fantastic job representing us while a Reaseheath student and has at the WorldSkills UK butchery qualifier. continued to train intensively as a potential squad member.

Find out more at www.worldskills.org Matt said: “Winning silver in the world finals has been the best experience Talented Reaseheath trained landscape gardener Matt Beesley proved he is among the world’s best by taking silver at the WorldSkills finals in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Matt Beesley (right) and Jonathan Gill celebrate at the WorldSkills finals in Sao Paulo

The medal winning garden

WorldSkills launches with a glittering opening ceremony

The GB WorldSkills team with Theo Paphitis

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Degrees are a great investment!

Hats off to our new graduates!

Although studying for a degree could be costly, it would prove to be a phenomenal investment in later life, our new graduates heard.

Speaking at our Faculty of Higher Education (HE) graduation ceremony, Principal Meredydd David said that an independent analysis had shown that spending £40,000 on course fees and living expenses would bring in nearly a third of a million pounds during a career.

Because our degrees are specialist technical qualifications combining knowledge, practical skills and industry experience, Reaseheath graduates were ahead in the jobs market and 90% who completed their qualification last year were in related employment within six months.

Our HE faculty had grown rapidly due to demand and would shortly have 1,000 undergraduates studying for degrees

such as equine, agricultural and animal science, landscape design, food technology, engineering, countryside, adventure sports and rural events management. As well as those following the conventional ‘A’ level route, many students were mature learners who wanted higher qualifications to change career or help with career progression.

The Quality Assurance Agency, which carries out an Ofsted style assessment of HE courses, judged our programmes as ‘outstanding’ and a national student survey showed a level of satisfaction which was well above average.

The graduation ceremony, held in St Mary’s Church, Nantwich, celebrated the success of 116 graduates who had successfully completed degrees validated by Harper Adams University.

Over 20% achieved a first class honours or distinction, and three graduates were singled out for special recognition.

They were: Hannah Dickson (Outstanding Achievement in Undergraduate Research in Equine Science), Emily Westwood (Academic Excellence Award in Equine Science) and Anife Turchin (Academic Excellence Award in Horticultural Science).

Animal management undergraduates on University of Chester programmes graduate separately at Chester Cathedral.

Inspirational guest speaker was Dame Sarah Storey, Britain’s most decorated female Paralympian. Sarah has won 11 gold, eight silver and three bronze medals in six Paralympic games in the sports of cycling and swimming and has also brought home GB medals in World Olympics.

She told our graduates: “Your degree puts you ahead of the game.”

BSc Equine Science graduates celebrate with HE Equine Programme Leader Dr Jan Birch, Advanced Practitioner Kate Douglas-Dala and industry mentor Campbell Thompson

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Countryside Management graduates with senior lecturer Dr Leigh Cawley

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Guest speaker Dame Sarah Storey joins our Engineering graduates and course manager John Fifer

Adventure Sports Management graduates celebrate with Dame Sarah Storey and course manager Simon Nortcliffe

Successful dairy technologists from our EDEN programme

Rural Events Management Patrick Lye and Meagan Stokes joined by lecturer Jonathan Gateley and Dame Sarah Storey

Agriculture graduates with course manager Dr Jane Richardson

Satisfaction rate soars

Horticulture graduates with department head Sarah Hopkinson and lecturer Craig Bailey

Satisfaction among our Higher Education students has risen for the second consecutive year, according to the National Student Survey.

The survey shows that our overall student satisfaction rate is up by 12% compared with last year, and that we scored 86% for teaching and 83% for the academic support we provide for our undergraduates.

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Celebration time for Further Education students It was celebrations all round when 1371 Further Education students (an impressive 97% of those due to complete) achieved their course qualifications.

Even more good news is that 98% of these students will progress into employment or onto higher level courses… and that long term every pound invested in their education will earn them a £7 return in income!

Not only does this high student success rate underline our position as one of the country’s premier land-based colleges.

It also proves that joining our hugely important industrial sector, which employs 4 million people and contributes nearly £100 billion a year to the economy, is the right choice!

Here are our students enjoying their long awaited awards ceremony!

Outstanding students received special college awards

Robert Sparkes, Fenna Ball, Philip Lawton and Katie Gibson receive their college awards

Best contribution to college life

Rob Sparkes (Foundation Degree in Animal Management)

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture students Callum Walker, Richard Bailey, James Davies, Liam Cupit, George Browne and Elisabeth Mercer

As President of our Student Association, Rob led this year’s charity campaign which raised a record £25,000 under the RAG (Raising and Giving) banner. He achieved this by working with our Student Services team to run a wide range of activities and by tirelessly encouraging students and staff to participate.

Best all round contribution to college life

Fenna Ball (Foundation Degree in Animal Management) and Chelsey Lavelle (Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care)

Best overall Entry Level student Emma Sutton

Best Level 3 Extended Diploma in Adventure Sports student David Glover

Vice President of our Student Association and Student Representative on our Board of Governors, Fenna had improved social events and ensured that first year students settled in well.

A student ambassador, Chelsey had brought the Reaseheath experience to life for prospective students and parents at over 40 events.

Personal qualities

Philip Lawton (Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Agriculture)

Top overall Foundation Level student Jacob Clayton

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Crewe Alexandra Ladies F.C. 'student of the year' Alice Naden

Initially finding the transition from home to college life difficult, Philip sort out support

from our Freshers Crew and safeguarding, welfare and curriculum teams. He is now throwing himself into college life, enjoying his studies and is a leading voice on the under 18 Social Committee.

Sporting activities

Nicholas Andrews and Harry Smither (Foundation Degree in Adventure Sports) Both had worked hard to encourage a ‘Healthy Living’ attitude among students.

Nick launched an indoor wall climbing club which had grown to be the biggest single student club with 76 members. He also encouraged students to take part in outdoor activities such as mountaineering and orienteering.

As well as helping with the climbing club, Harry led a student team on a ‘Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge’ completing the 27 miles in under 13 hours. He had also competed for Reaseheath men’s recreational football team, which won the Northern Counties Football league.

Beacon Trophy celebrating excellence

The Student Association Sixty five highly committed and pro-active students, members had worked hard helping first year students to settle in, running activities and raising money for charity.

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Level 3 Diploma in Public Services students of the year Luke Stringer and William Foulkes

Level 3 Diploma in Business award winners Shannon Tew and Abigail Bore

IMI Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Technology Maintenance and Repair top students Tim Beckett, Luke Berry and Fraser Williamson

Level 3 Diploma in Forestry and Arboriculture award winners Scott Smith and James Walsh

Level 2 Diploma in Floristy top students Sophie Garratt and Carol Edgington

Top Bakery and Patisserie students Daniel Ryan, Kay Phasey, Katie Brittleton and David Steiger

Award winning plasterers Reg Collins, Curtis Lloyd and Mark Jones

Level 2 and Level 3 Agricultural Engineering award winners Brian Marsh, Harold Stanier, Adam Neale, Andrew Hilton and Jacob Holland

Equine award winners Kirsty Banks, Isobel Hillier, Abigail Humphries and Tyler Simpson

Level 2 Diploma in Veterinary Care Assistants Abbey May, Kirsty Hudgill, Elizabeth Tarris, Emma Clayton and Neyna Heath with course Manager Kate-Marie Jeffs

Best Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture student Chris Shore

Top students in Countryside Management Ben Price, Ed Young, Floris Stoter and Chris Price

Stay connected!

Pupils from Springfield School celebrate the completion of their Pre-Entry taster programme

Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management award winners Bethany Fox, George Collinson and Megan Lowe

We love to keep in touch with former students through our growing alumni community.

Whether you’re continuing with studies, entering employment or progressing in your career, please let us know how you’re getting on.

Find out more at www.reaseheath.ac.uk/alumni

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Reaseheath apprentices recognised The contribution that apprentices make to businesses and the economy was recognised at our annual awards ceremony.

The event highlighted the achievement of 150 apprentices who had gained their qualifications in the past year. It was held during National Apprenticeship Week, a celebration of the benefits that skilled apprentices deliver through increased productivity and by providing workforce succession.

Top honours went to Apprentice of the Year Sophie Bell, a Level 2 Business Administration apprentice in Reaseheath’s busy marketing department, and to Advanced Apprentice of the Year Ross Brownbill, assistant dairy manager for Cheshire farmer Richard Archer. Kate Rooke, a Preston based bull technician for Genus Breeding, was Runner-Up Advanced Apprentice of the Year.

All three were selected for their commitment to their studies, attention to detail at their workplace and for their outstanding contribution to their employers’ businesses.

Other principle winners were: Best Agricultural Apprentice (Level 2): David Stoner (FW Hughes and Sons, North Wales).

apprentices to complete their Level 3 apprenticeship at Reaseheath this year.

Best Construction Apprentice (Brickwork): Ben Hardwick (John Cliff Building Services, Market Drayton).

Best Construction Apprentice (Joinery): Tom Spibey (RS Developments, Calveley).

Best Level 2 Equine Apprentice: Bethany Gerrard (Denstone Stud, Uttoxeter).

Best Horticulture Apprentice: Jim Alley (Delamere Forest Golf Club) Best Food Apprentice: Tom Jackson (Appleby Creamery, Cumbria).

Top Construction Apprentices Tom Spibey and Ben Hardwick with assessor Andy Armitage

Best Level 2 Agricultural Apprentice David Stoner with assessor Anna Hughes

Best Agricultural Apprentice (Level 3): Sam Blythe (GF Blythe and Son, Helsby).

Best Level 3 Farmcare Apprentice: Kamil Peno (Farmcare, Herefordshire).

Kamil was one of six Farmcare

Equine Apprentices Rachel Hill, Andrew Arrowsmith and winner Bethany Gerrard with assessors Anna Hughes and Dawn Joyce

DART Best Horticulture Apprentice Jim Alley

Top Apprentices Sophie Bell, Ross Brownbill and Kate Rooke

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Farmcare Apprentices and Assistant Manager Jim Burston, celebrate with assessors Mark Biddulph and Anna Hughes

Reaseheath is a leading trainer of apprentices throughout Cheshire and surrounding counties and also provides a valuable recruitment service for employers. We have extended the delivery of our apprenticeship programmes across the East Midlands working with our partner DART Training, a specialist land-based training provider. Over 1,000 apprentices in land based industries are trained by Reaseheath Training and DART. DART has had exceptional results over the past year: • 53 out of 54 (98%) agricultural apprentices completed on time - 30% above the national average!

For details of apprenticeship vacancies, or if you are an employer looking for young talent visit www.reaseheath.ac.uk/apprenticeships or call Reaseheath Training on 01270 613221

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Top engineering award for Paige Reaseheath trained engineer Paige Carter carried off the top awards in a competition to find the nation’s best construction plant apprentices.

The 18 year-old became the first female apprentice to win the prestigious title of ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the Construction Plant-hire Association’s Stars of the Future Awards held at PLANTWORX, a showcase event for the UK’s construction industry.

As well as taking the overall national title, Paige was also awarded ‘Level 2 Apprentice of the Year’. Nearly 600 construction plant apprentices were eligible for the competition.

Paige, a trainee construction plant apprentice with A-Plant, specialises in powered access plant such as scissor lifts and cherry pickers. She has now progressed onto her Level 3 block release training programme with us and aims to move into management.

Paige has received technical training in mechanical, electrical and hydraulics systems and in welding both at college and in the workplace. She said: “I think engineering is a great career which I would really recommend to girls.”

Reaseheath Engineering is one of the UK leaders in construction plant training. We currently train 172 apprentices and are the preferred trainer for blue chip companies including A-Plant, JCB, Clee Hill Plant, Morgan Plant Hire and J.S. Berry.

Course Manager Simon Keen commented: “Paige is a very

Apprentices featured in Countryfile Agriculture apprentices featured in a BBC Countryfile programme celebrating the launch of Apprenticeship Week.

Level 3 apprentice Jason Smith was joined by popular presenter Matt Baker as he carried out the duties of assistant herdsman at his family’s dairy farm. Matt also discussed the benefits of on-job training with Jason’s father, Adrian, and watched as Reaseheath Training assessor Anna Hughes checked Jason’s portfolio.

The tv crew also filmed on Reaseheath’s campus, following Jason and fellow apprentices during a classroom session on cattle genetics and

deserving winner who thoroughly deserves the recognition. She has outstanding practical and theory skills, supported by very positive feedback from her employer. She is definitely future management material who will continue to raise the bar for all apprentices.”

as they learned new practical skills.

Jason is the third generation of Smiths to raise and manage the Pedigree Holstein Bostock Herd and hopes eventually to take over the farm’s management.

He said: “Filming with Countryfile was a brilliant learning curve and great fun.

I’d like to thank Reaseheath for suggesting me for the programme.”

Anna Hughes explained: “Jason is an outstanding student who is both hard working and entrepreneurial. He is typical of many next generation farmers who are learning their skills with us and we had no hesitation in putting his name forward.”

Jason chats to Matt Baker during a break in filming

Paige celebrates her awards at PLANTWORX

MP builds on skills Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson built on his skills when he joined construction apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week.

said: “Our growing economy requires a skilled construction industry. These young people have very valuable skills to offer and have a great future ahead of them.

The Minister for Children and Families tried his hand at bricklaying and joinery in our tailormade workshops and chatted to apprentices who are learning their trade at college and in the workplace.

“It’s good to see Reaseheath putting apprenticeships at the heart of their education and training offer. These training programmes provide a fast route into employment and also offer real life experiences. They are an excellent option for both students and employers.”

After working alongside bricklaying and joinery apprentices, Mr Timpson

MP Edward Timpson watches joinery apprentice James Lewis at work

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Record RAG raises funds for Macmillan “We have been very impressed with the dedication, determination and passion shown by the Student Association. This money will make a huge difference to people affected by cancer.”

Macmillan Cancer Support is one of Britain’s largest charities and provides specialist healthcare, information and funding to people living with cancer.

President Rob Sparkes, RAG Chair Katie Gibson and Vice President Fenna Ball hand over the cheque to Macmillan Fundraising Managers Louisa Walmsely and Mandy West, watched by members of the Student Association

Our caring students and staff raised a record £25,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support and other charities this year.

An amazing £20,000 cheque was handed over by Student Association members to representatives of the cancer charity at the student summer ball.

Macmillan fundraisers were so impressed at the success of our RAG (Raising and Giving) activities that they asked our

students to write a RAG Guide advising other colleges and universities who are considering supporting them. And, hearing the story, our local paper the Crewe Chronicle put our Student Association forward for a community award.

Our Student Association organised 24 fund raising events in RAG week alone including a masquerade ball, a staff versus students football match, a raft race on the college lake, a tractor pull and the Yorkshire Three Peaks

Challenge, plus some fantastic social events in the student bar.

Student Association President Rob Sparkes said: “We had a brilliant team of members who worked hard to put together activities which everyone could enjoy while raising money for a good cause. All departments and academic staff have supported us and I am so proud of what everyone achieved.”

In addition to fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support, we raised a further £3,000 for the Poppy Appeal and £1,370 for the Epilepsy Society. Over the past 27 years students and staff have raised an impressive £215,000 for local charities.

Fundraising Manager Louisa Walmsley said: “Macmillan Cancer Support is hugely grateful to Reaseheath’s students and staff for raising such a phenomenal amount of money.

Students tackle the cycle and row challenge

It’s heave-ho in the tractor pull

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Loving the action at the Masquerade Ball

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Reaseheath welcome for royal visitor A right royal welcome awaited Sophie, Countess of Wessex, when she visited our award winning stand at the Cheshire Show.

Her Royal Highness, who is Show President, chatted to staff and students and admired our mechanical horse and a pizza oven built by construction students. She was also keen to find out more about apprenticeships.

Stand organiser Stephanie Owen said: “The Countess was very knowledgeable and supportive of land-based industries and asked questions about our work with rural businesses. She was obviously enjoying carrying out her duties at the show.”

Our visitor friendly stand had earlier taken the top award in the education section, with judge Marie Birkenhead paying tribute to our range of activities and our enthusiastic and well informed staff.

Mrs Birkenhead said: “Reaseheath’s stand really met the criteria, which is to educate and inform visitors about the countryside. But what was most outstanding was the wonderful welcome awaiting the visitors.”

Our agriculture students were busy in the cattle classes showing heifers and a dairy cow from the Reaseheath Holstein herd. They won first place in the ‘tidy lines’ competition.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex, joins Stephanie Owen and agricultural lecturer Mark Walton at the Cheshire Show.

Our run of success continued at the Nantwich Show, where we were runner-up ‘best professional trade stand’ and our agriculture students again won the tidiest exhibit in the cattle lines.

We also continued to support our agricultural community at the Royal Welsh Show. We repeated our sponsorships of the Wales Young Farmers Clubs competitions, the All Wales YFC shearing final and a dairy youngstock championship.

Winning line-up in the cattle marquee at Cheshire Show: Matt Gilbert, Liberty Turner, Siobhan Rutter, Kostja Vezanovs and Sarah Howie

Triple gold for technologists at Nantwich International Cheese Show Reaseheath trained dairy technologists struck gold three times at the Nantwich International Cheese Show.

in Dairy Technology which includes practical training in our industry standard dairy processing halls.

The students, who are studying on our unique Eden programme, won gold awards in the Specialist Cheesemakers section in classes for cheddar and territorial cheeses and another in the highly competitive Student Cheesemaker class. They also took a further silver and three highly commended awards.

The Nantwich International Cheese Show attracted record entries and the students’ entries were up against world class competition. The Student Cheesemaker class was newly sponsored by Reaseheath.

Eden is an education initiative driven and supported by leading dairy companies who recognise the importance of investing in talented employees.

The technicians attend college on a block release basis to study for a Foundation Degree

Eden students Sarah Roberts, Peter Clark Sarah Hinchliffe and Joe Wainwright and Food Technology student Sam Clarke celebrate their awards at the Nantwich International Cheese Show

Apart from competing, the Eden students demonstrated the process of cheesemaking at the show, giving families the chance to see how the nation’s favourite food is produced.

Level 3 Diploma in Bakery and Patisserie students were also part of the action in the cheese marquee, supporting celebrity chefs as they cooked in front of an appreciative audience.

Celebrity chef James Martin with commis chefs Elysha Emberson and Kieran McLean

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Student success at RHS Tatton A giant aphid helped to put Reaseheath’s garden under the limelight at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park.

The aphid provided an eye catching centrepiece for ‘The Leaf’, an educational feature which took visitors on a journey through the structural layers of a leaf and showed how the plant might try to avoid predators.

The garden, which was designed and built by Foundation Degree in Garden and Landscape Design undergraduates Matthew Kent, Nigel Barber and Sam Lawton, was featured on regional and national tv and caught the eye of many of the 80,000 visitors at the show.

Matt said: “We wanted to step outside the box and design something which was young and interesting. We enjoyed watching the reaction of visitors – they were really interested and asked lots of questions.”

The garden was sponsored by Pochin, who are the contractors on our £8 million National Centre for Food Futures and the Environment (see page 2).

The aphid was manufactured

by Nantwich firm Harbrook Engineering.

Ian Lloyd said: “The stand was immaculate and the finish and presentation were excellent.

The whole exhibit was a real credit to Reaseheath’s students and all the judges were extremely impressed.”

Three Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture students competed in the WorldSkills UK Landscape Gardening semi-finals at RHS Tatton. Chris Shore qualified for the national finals while India Hill and Finin Talbot just missed out.

Reaseheath was also a partner on Cheshire’s Gardens of Distinction and ran a series of demonstrations in the Discover and Grow section.

Floristry student Robyn Longden shows off the RHS Tatton Park Floristry College of the Year award

• Within days our aphid and a new planting scheme had been relocated at ‘Dig the City’ in Manchester, where it was awarded a silver gilt medal and caught the eye of TV celebrity Diarmuid Gavin, who listed it among his show favourites.

Reaseheath floristry students were also celebrating after winning the RHS Tatton Park Floristry College of the Year for the second year running.

This prestigious competition is open to UK based floristry colleges and training providers and showcases the talent of students. Level 3 Diploma in Floristry students Carol Edgington, Robyn Longden and Rachel Collinson-Fletcher also won a silver gilt medal for their stand.

The students, who were commended by Chairman of Judges Ian Lloyd for their contemporary design skills and for the impeccable condition of their flowers and foliage, have now qualified for the ‘Floristry College of the Year’ national finals at Chelsea Flower Show 2016. We took the ‘runner-up’ title at Chelsea in 2015.

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India Hill and Chris Shore compete in the WorldSkills UK semi-finals

A giant aphid takes pride of place on our garden

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New gym praised by Olympic gymnast Britain’s greatest female gymnast Beth Tweddle MBE raised the bar when she opened our £1 million high tech gym and sports science laboratory.

The London Olympics 2012 bronze medallist, who has represented GB at three Olympic Games and is a triple World Champion, now travels the world as a sports ambassador, inspiring young people to take up gymnastics as part of a healthy lifestyle. She described the impact sport had had on her life and career to an enthusiastic audience of sports students, local

school pupils, staff and governors before touring our sports science facility.

During her visit Beth admired our gym’s high tech equipment, which includes a strength and conditioning zone equipped to the same specification as the 2012 Olympic village. She also watched as athletes completed tests in the sports science lab, which has over £40,000 worth of equipment.

Our gym and laboratory are used to train sports performance and public services students and are used by elite athletes including

Talented George is Apprentice of the Year Reaseheath Course Manager Lauren Goff, Head of Education at Crewe Alex Dave Whiteside and LFE Regional Officer Keith Leighton with his attitude.

Crewe Alex forward George Cooper with Reaseheath sport lecturers Louise Finney and Lauren Goff

Crewe Alexandra FC forward George Cooper was crowned ‘Apprentice of the Year’ for League 1 in a national competition run by the League Football Education (LFE).

The talented first team player was chosen over entrants from clubs nationwide for the outstanding progress he made in both his sport and academic studies while he has been an apprentice at the famous Crewe Alex Football Academy.

Our sport department and Crewe Alexandra FC have worked together for some years to deliver the academic programme for the Football Academy.

George completed his Level 3 Diploma in Sport Performance and Excellence qualification with us while continuing his football training with the club.

He was put forward for the competition after impressing

Lauren explained: “We put George forward because he has worked hard and shown maturity by coping with the demands of continuing his education alongside his career as a professional footballer.”

George said: “I was surprised and very pleased to gain this award. Although I enjoy playing football, being a member of the Academy and coming to college has given me the chance to study subjects like nutrition and coaching. Thanks to the support from my tutors I have achieved qualifications which will help widen my career choices after I’ve retired from professional playing.”

Reaseheath has launched Ladies’ and Men’s Football Academies in partnership with Crewe Alex to give talented young footballers the chance to enhance their football skills while studying for a sport qualification.

We also have a new Ian Woosnam Golf Academy.

For further details visit www. reaseheath.ac.uk/sportsperformance or email kate. humphrey@reaseheath.ac.uk

Beth Tweddle is joined by sport students Lily Moreland and Jim Kelly as she officially opens our gym

Crewe Alex FC players.

Beth said: “It’s brilliant that Reaseheath’s sports students have access to such great facilities and can also work alongside elite athletes. Sport

transformed my life and it’s good to know so many enthusiastic young people are considering it as a career. It’s also great to see all students being encouraged to keep fit as part of their daily routine.”

Track cycling brings out sporting spirit Level 3 Diploma in Sport Performance students had the rare opportunity to try out track cycling on one of the world’s finest indoor tracks at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester.

The students were introduced to the basics of the sport by highly qualified coaches before trying out their new skills on the Olympic standard track at the Manchester Velodrome. The group so impressed the coaches that they were allowed to compete against each other on lap timings, with many building up impressive speed.

Oliver Davenport, who is internationally ranked as a sailor, changed sports seamlessly to clock a single lap time of under 21 seconds – an excellent result for his age and lack of experience. Said Oli: “The whole experience was awesome. We all felt we were very lucky to have such a great day.”

The trip linked to areas of study such as sport risk assessment and sports psychology, and encouraged our students to apply the theory they’d learned in a practical setting.

Sports students try out new skills at Manchester Velodrome

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Elite dressage judge inspires enthusiasts The world’s most senior and well respected dressage judge, Stephen Clarke, helped competitors, trainers and judges take their knowledge to a higher level when he gave an inspirational lecture demonstration at our equestrian centre.

Stephen Clarke with Event Co-ordinator Heather Cooper, rider Helen Smith and Chinook

As Dressage Judge General of the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the international governing body for all Olympic equestrian disciplines, Stephen creates and co-ordinates discussion among judges world-wide with the aim of ensuring consistency in marking

Equine students provide arena party at world class events

John Whitaker MBE joins arena party members Charlotte Gunn, Molly Ford-Lewis and Ben Wynne at HOYS

Our equine students were commended for the professional way they provided the arena party for two world class events Bolesworth International and the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

Students and staff worked alongside international course designers Bob Ellis and Kelvin Bywater at both events, learning new skills and making new contacts. Competitors included elite showjumpers John and Robert Whitaker, Nick Skelton, Scott Brash and Ben Mayer.

Our students also provided the arena party for the Equestrian.com intermediate dressage to music class at Bolesworth, which saw London 2012 British team gold medallist Laura Tomlinson going head to head with 2013 European team medallist Michael Eilberg.

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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.”

Bob Ellis commented: “Yet again, Reaseheath’s arena party was exceptional and helped us to put on a superb show at both venues.”

Reaseheath’s arena parties have built up such a reputation that we were also asked to provide a team for the British Show Jumping National Championships at Stoneleigh Park – and we’ve already been booked for Bolesworth and HOYS in 2016.

A team of Level 1, 2 and 3 students also stewarded the dressage and showjumping arenas at Kelsall Hill for British Eventing.

Watch our equine team and hear Bob Ellis’ comments as our students prepare the course for Bolesworth International http://bit.ly/BI_15

and equality in standards. He was President of the Ground Jury at the London Olympics 2012 and has judged at all major competitions including three World Cup finals, three European Championships and the World Games.

His lecture attracted dressage enthusiasts from across the region, with tickets selling out months in advance. Four competitors rode tests ranging from novice to Prix St George, with Stephen awarding marks and advising the riders and his audience.

Reaseheath Equine Events Coordinator Heather Cooper said: “We were delighted to welcome Stephen to Reaseheath and extremely pleased that he was complimentary about our indoor arena and surface. Having such a well respected and prestigious judge here was a great coup for us and much appreciated by spectators.”

For details of Reaseheath’s competitions, events and short courses see www. reaseheath.ac.uk/reaseheathequestrian-centre

Sophie wins ‘Young Employee’ accolade Equine graduate trainee Sophie Keepax has won a prestigious award for her efforts to raise our Higher Education (HE) profile in equine science and research.

She took the ‘Young Employee of the Year’ title in a competition run by the Rotary Club of Crewe and Nantwich Weaver. Local employers are invited to nominate young people who have made great personal progress in their organisation and who are considered excellent assets to the business.

Sophie, 23, joined our HE Faculty in 2013 after achieving a first class (Hons) degree in Equine Management at the University of Greenwich. Since joining us she has completed her Postgraduate Certificate in Education and joined the HE equine team as a course manager and lecturer.

Sophie represented Reaseheath at a national conference run by the Saddle Research Trust, where she presented her own findings on the effects of saddles on horses’ movements. She was also the college’s lead contact for student ‘Advancing Equine Scientific Excellence’ projects, an initiative that champions collaborative working between the horse industry and academic establishments.

Sophie Keepax is congratulated by HE Equine Programme Leader Dr Jan Birch and HE Advanced Practitioner Kate Douglas-Dala

Advanced Practitioner Kate Douglas-Dala nominated Sophie for her commitment to supporting undergraduates through their studies and for her own excellent research skills.

Said Kate: “Sophie consistently goes above and beyond to help her students and colleagues. She leads on all aspects of equine biomechanical analysis research and has played a vital role in placing our equine department firmly on the map for academic standards.”

Sophie commented: “It was a lovely surprise to win the award.

I’m so grateful for the support and guidance from Kate and other colleagues. It’s fantastic to be working with such a great team.”

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NFU President applauds commitment to farming NFU President Meurig Raymond has paid tribute to our outstanding commitment to the advancement of the farming and food industries.

During a college visit, Meurig said that he was impressed by our investment into our National Centre for Food Futures and the Environment and our planned Advanced Agricultural Engineering Academy (see page 2). He also said he was delighted that Defra recognised our national status by naming us one of 11 Food Enterprise Zones in the country (see page 19).

Meurig emphasised: “The food and agricultural industry has a

£100 billion annual turnover and is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK with over six million employees, all of whom are dependent upon farmers as the primary producers.

Reaseheath plays a nationally significant role through its commitment to support this extremely important industry.

“It is of critical importance that the next generation of farmers are equipped with the scientific and technical knowledge which will allow them to compete on a global scale. By the end of this year there will be 9.6 billion mouths to feed in the world.

Those entering the farming and

Shepherds score hat trick Reaseheath agriculture students scored a hat trick by taking the top three prizes at the regional Young Shepherd of the Year competition.

Tom Bird, a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture student, took the top honours while fellow student Rich Bailey was runnerup and Rob Morris was third.

The students proved that they had the all-round skills to make successful commercial shepherds by completing five elements in the competition, which was run by the Central Region of the National Sheep Association (NSA). These included demonstrating correct techniques in sheep handling and health care, all terrain

vehicle handling and a written paper on flock management.

They also carried out an EBLEX lamb selection, proving they understand the requirements of the meat market.

The competition, which aims to encourage and inspire the next generation of shepherds, was held at The Winter Fair, Bakewell, and attracted entries from several counties.

As well as collecting a trophy and cheque, Tom qualified for the NSA Young Shepherd of the Year national finals in 2016. He said: “I really enjoyed the competition.

It was a great experience and certainly something to put on my CV!”

Young Shepherds Rich Bailey, Tom Bird and Rob Morris

NFU President Meurig Raymond with agriculture students Rich Bailey, Ross Towers, Ellie Gassor, James Davies, Sarah Howie, Philip Lawton and James Goodwin

food industry now will play a key role in helping to solve this challenge.”

Principal Meredydd David responded: “The NFU plays a hugely important part in influencing government strategy.

The food and farming industries

can gain great confidence from Meurig’s leadership, and we were delighted to welcome him here to address our local partners.”

Meurig was guest speaker at the inaugural meeting of the Cheshire branch of the Institute of Agricultural Management.

Robotics conference gives food for thought Over 100 farmers, vets, nutritionists and students attended our annual dairy conference to learn about the rapid progress of robotic technologies in farm production systems.

The gains and limitations of automated milking and feeding were addressed by four speakers from the dairy industry. All agreed that the use of robotics to standardise production processes had the potential to reduce variation and improve efficiency, but that it very much depended on the approach of the individual and on the farming systems already in place.

The speakers were The Dairy Group’s Nigel Hardie, Reaseheath’s former Farm Manager Mark Yearsley, Anthony Andrews who is Sales Manager for GEA Farm Equipment and Phil Ormerod, a progressive

commercial dairy goat farmer.

The conference was chaired

by George Fisher, Manager of the Reaseheath Agricultural Development Academy, who said: “There was a lot of positive but balanced discussion. I hope everyone went away with a better understanding of the technology involved and its place in profitability.”

The conference was followed by a visit to a local dairy farm where 400 pedigree Holsteins are milked using a robotic system.

Reaseheath’s Dairy Conference was sponsored by DairyCo, GEA, Lely, Genus Breeding, Advanced Nutrition, HSBC, For Farmers, The Dairy Group and Lambert, Leonard and May, farm veterinary surgeons.

For more on RADA events see www.reaseheath.ac.uk/rada or email Lesley Innes on lesleyi@reaseheath.ac.uk

Conference speakers Anthony Andrews, Nigel Hardie, Phil Ormerod and Mark Yearsley are joined by George Fisher and RADA knowledge transfer facilitator Lesley Innes

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Conservationists inspired by gorilla expert Influential conservationist Ian Redmond OBE gave an inspirational lecture to Conservation Society members during a visit to our animal management centre.

questions from students studying for wildlife related degrees and diplomas, many of whom have or will go on to complete field research with exotic species.

Renowned for his research on the mountain gorillas of Rwanda alongside zoologist Dian Fossey, who inspired the film ‘Gorillas in the Mist’, Ian has been involved with more than 50 television wildlife documentaries and is founder and chairman of Ape Alliance, an international coalition working for the conservation and welfare of apes.

BSc Wildlife Conservation and Ecology undergraduate James Wylor-Owen said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity to meet a conservation role model with an incredible background of in-situ research, particularly in human and wildlife conflict.”

During his talk, Ian described his experiences with apes and other species and discussed his concerns about climate change. He also answered

Touring our campus zoo, Ian commented: “Reaseheath has magnificent facilities and not only provides an excellent home for species found in national zoo collections, but is using them to train the biologists of the future.

I have been impressed with

Ian Redmond meets our ring tailed lemurs and Zoo Management and Wildlife Conservation undergraduates Ashleigh Ball, Daniel Collin, Harley Merrigan, Charlotte Daniels, Jack Wootton and James Wylor-Owen and Zoo Keeper Alan Woodward

the enthusiasm and evident knowledge of the students and their wish to make a difference to habitat and species conservation.”

Our Conservation Society has over 100 student members who enjoy educational visits, work with communities

on environmental projects and hold fund raising events. We also have a well supported Herpetological and Entomological Society and a new Birds of Prey Society.

Marine mammal emergency averted!

A beached pilot whale and several dolphins and seals were successfully ‘saved’ by animal management students during training for an internationally recognised qualification in wildlife rescue.

The one day course was offered to degree students and to Access to HE students who are studying science or animal management. After a morning of lectures and an afternoon of practical instruction on

our lawn using inflatable life sized models, all 37 students achieved their British Divers Marine Life Rescue “Marine Mammal Medic” certificate.

This award qualifies our students to help in day-to-day marine wildlife emergencies and will be a fantastic addition to their CVs. This was the third time we have offered this qualification to our students and it is so popular that we are planning a

‘wet’ course when students will get hands-on with the rescue of a live marine mammal.

Undergraduate Josh Bufton, was talent spotted by Animal Management undergraduates enjoy their marine mammal training the instructors, who suggested he been a great opportunity to should progress gain a qualification which will onto an advanced qualification. help me to decide what sector Josh, who hopes to work with I’d like to work in.” marine species, said “This has

Jack wins scholarship to explore fish behaviour BSc Wildlife Conservation and Ecology graduate Jack Wootton spent the summer studying

Fish behaviour research scholarship for Jack Wootton

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how fish respond to reflective stimuli after being awarded a research scholarship by the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW).

Jack, who is keen to improve the living conditions of fish in aquaria, applied for his scholarship while studying for his degree. He spent three months working with guppies at the University of Chester, recording whether and how the fishes’ behaviour was affected by the reflective surface created by standard glass.

His unique research is aimed

at improving the welfare of fish commonly kept as pets. He is currently working on a research paper which he hopes to publish in 2016 and is keen to continue the study with different species of fish.

Jack completed a Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management with us and then spent two years working in Borneo and in the UK industry before progressing onto a Foundation Degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, followed by a one year top-up to a BSc. During

his studies, he gained relevant work experience in the fish department of our Animal Centre.

Jack said: “I enjoyed working with UFAW and hope that my research will help to improve the welfare of fish in aquaria.

I found the scientific study incredibly interesting and would be keen to continue for a Masters degree or PhD. Being a Reaseheath student definitely played a major part in building my passion for aquatic life and furthering my career”.

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Arb students crowned climbing champions Level 3 Diploma in Forestry and Arboriculture students reached new heights at the UK finals of the College Climbing Competition, held at the Arboricultural Association’s (AA) ARB Show.

Our second year students were crowned UK College Climbing Champions in Group 2 (less than two years practical climbing experience) while our first year team were second in Group 1 (less than one year’s experience). The AA runs these climbing competitions exclusively for students, with

the aim of advancing climbing practice and safety within the industry.

Each team of three students had to climb to targets on the outer limbs of 60ft trees, in the process demonstrating branch walking and a log toss to a target area. The students were judged on three criteria: time, safety and best practice.

Our Group 2 winners were Leigh Dewey, James Walsh and Sam Watkiss while the Group 1 runners-up were Ben Worthington, James Fogg and

Ben Lacy. We qualified for the final after success in the 3ATC Northern and Southern Climbing Competitions.

This is our first year on the competition circuit and, needless to say, Course Manager Alan Mottram and his students are delighted at their success.

Said Alan: “These students are looking to enter the industry as tree climbers and the competitions have given them a fantastic networking opportunity as well as a great experience.”

Leigh Dewey went on to compete successfully at the Royal Welsh Show while former Level 3 student Dan Wheelan won the 100 foot pole climb.

Tree climber Sam Watkiss touches the target bell during competition

Game management students benefit from seed donation

Student wins award with floodplain orchard Countryside undergraduate Daniel Ackerley has won a national award for pushing the boundaries with his medieval floodplain orchard.

Daniel, who is studying for his Foundation Degree in Countryside, Conservation and Recreation, was a runner-up in The Conservation Foundation’s ‘Gardening Against the Odds’ Awards.

The competition seeks out horticultural projects which are inspirational, which benefit people who face physical, mental or environmental 'odds' and which also offer benefits to the wider community.

Daniel successfully grows over 100 fruit trees near the River Dee despite the land being flooded with up to six feet of water during the winter. He has planted heritage varieties of apples, pears, plums, quince, mulberries, walnuts and hazelnuts and is also growing endangered native black poplar and elm trees which he is monitoring as part of a national programme.

Daniel hopes that, as the plot matures, it could be used to educate young people in

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Daniel receives his award from actress Susan Hampshire, herself a keen fruit grower

conservation methods and would also like to promote community activities such as making juice.

The former engineer, who retired early from working on off shore oil rigs due to Crohn’s Disease, has found that the project and his college course has given him an alternative focus.

He said: “My course has enabled me to carry out the project scientifically and in a structured way, using both traditional and modern techniques. To do this successfully I need a good understanding of science and current legislation as well as practical skills.”

Director of The Conservation Foundation David Shreeve said: “Daniel is a great example of what ‘Gardening Against the Odds’ is about. The judges were really impressed with his story and what he is doing.”

Matt Goodall and game management students examine the growing game cover crop

Game management students are learning more about managing habitat for game birds thanks to a donation of game cover seed from Kings, leading specialists in game cover, conservation and cover crops.

Our students are establishing different types of cover crop in different areas on the college farm and will use them to run several shoot days as one of their assessments. The habitats will be managed by around thirty students, who will see first-hand how the crops benefits game birds by providing feed, shelter and safe areas.

Course Manager Matt Goodall explained: “The crops are a really useful teaching resource as they allow the students

to gain practical experience which backs up their theoretical learning. This is important because we’re preparing students for what they will encounter in their future careers. This knowledge will help them achieve their ultimate aim of rearing the best birds and getting the best possible shooting from the site. They’ll also learn about conservation and how Kings’ crops contribute to this.”

Meehal Grint, Central Technical Advisor for Kings, said: “Reaseheath’s game management students are the future custodians of our countryside and we feel we can contribute to their education. As well as donating the seed, we’ll give the expert advice that all our growers receive.”

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Reaseheath becomes flagship college for floristry software Reaseheath has become the first college in the UK to integrate a cutting edge software management system into its floristry teaching.

The Strelitzia software is an intuitive programme which incorporates all aspects of running a floristry shop. Used by the industry internationally, it enables shops and managers to communicate efficiently with each other and with suppliers through structured webbased systems. This speeds up processes from ordering and organising deliveries to completing invoices, preparing

reports and tracking marketing techniques.

Sue Poole, Programme Leader for Floristry, explained: “This software system brings the day to day running of floristry shops up to speed with today’s retail world. It is definitely the way forward and we are proud to be the first college to incorporate the technology into our courses. We view it as a very positive move, as these additional skills can only improve the employability and entrepreneurship of our students.”

Florists enjoy demonstration by leading expert Floristry students had the chance to learn from a leading expert when Diane Fair, an international floral demonstrator for the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS), gave a demonstration in our historic Old Hall.

During her demonstration Diane, who is also a qualified floristry judge and an award winning competitor at local and national level, created six contemporary and traditional floral designs. She also gave our students tips for their future careers. Students on both full time and leisure courses attended the event, gaining

Lecturer Vicky Venn updates colleagues Sue Poole and Fiona Davies on the Strelitzia software management system

Industry introduction in Holland

first hand knowledge of how a professional demonstration is organised.

This was the first time Diane had used a college as a venue, but not the first time she had visited our campus. She launched her floristry career as a competitor at a Young Farmers Rally at Reaseheath!

Said Diane: “It was lovely to be joined by so many keen young people and a great chance to tell them about the many opportunities in the industry.”

Floristry students Robyn Longden, Sophie Garratt, Bethany Allen and Pip Atkin enjoy a spectacular flower display in Holland

Our floristry students enjoyed an action packed day trip to Holland investigating the latest technical developments and commercial business practices in their multi million pound industry.

The group visited the Rijnsburg auction house which is part of Flora Holland, a company which processes over 12 billion flowers and plants annually.

Our students were privileged to tour the site and learn how the auction clock system works.

Diane Fair gives tips to students Edwina Lowe and Robyn Longden

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They went on to tour Heemskerk Flowers, a leading flower and plant exporter, and experienced life as a buyer. Our group inspected the picking

and logistics areas, where systems are mostly automated, and the bouquet department, where pre-ordered bouquets are prepared.

The students also visited lily and rose growers and were bowled over by the expanse of glasshouses and the quantity and quality of flowers being grown.

Despite their whirlwind schedule, students and staff had a brilliant time. Said student Jennifer Guyan: “The tours were a real eye opener, particularly into just how much the international floristry industry is worth.”

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Schools battle it out in Great Pie Bake-Off Budding food technologists from schools across the region battled it out in a baking challenge laid down by our Food Department.

The competition attracted 80 entries and the finals were held in our specialist Food Centre.

The originality and presentation of all the entries, which had to depict a sporting theme, stunned the judging panel.

Overall winner was Harry Brown from Fallibroome Academy, Macclesfield, with his ‘Two Flavour Bike Pie’, an artistic impression of a bike inspired by the Tour de France. Second was Maddie Stevens, a pupil at West Kirby Grammar School, Wirral, whose ‘Going for Gold’ savoury pie celebrated the Commonwealth Games.

Equal third were Ben Pratt and Connor Whalley from Sir Thomas Boughey High School in Stoke on Trent, and Megan Justice, a pupil of Great Sankey High School, Warrington. As a tribute to the Greek football team, Ben and Connor made Greek filo pastries while Megan chose the World Cup 2014 winner, Germany, as inspiration for her Black Forest Winner Pie. The judging panel consisted of Keith Fisher, Butchery Development Manager for the British Pig Executive (BPEX), Cheshire WI judge Mary Hignett and David Thomson, Sales Executive for Bako, a baking products and ingredients supplier.

Keith Fisher said: “I was very impressed with

Winner Harry Brown shows off his ‘Two Flavour Bike Pie’

the organisation and professionalism of the young people and with their passion and enthusiasm. Reaseheath’s food department should be congratulated on running such an inspired and exciting competition.”

Second placed Maddie Stevens with her ‘Going for Gold’ savoury pie

For further details of Reaseheath’s food courses, including our Diplomas in Professional Bakery and Patisserie and Professional Butchery, see www.reaseheath.ac.uk/foodtechnology

Pioneering FEZ will boost economic growth Reaseheath has been chosen as the hub for a Food Enterprise Zone (FEZ), a government pilot scheme which is pioneering a new approach to help food related businesses grow.

A Local Development Order offering a streamlined planning process will operate within the FEZ, making it easier and faster for local farmers, food growers and suppliers to develop and expand.

Reaseheath, which has a longstanding reputation for

its work with the agricultural, food growing and supply chain industries, will support the businesses through skills training and access to our specialist technical resources and facilities.

The FEZ status was secured

by Cheshire East Council with funding from Defra, and just 11 areas have been selected nationally for the initial trial.

It is hoped that if the FEZ at Reaseheath is successful, similar schemes will be established in other parts

of the borough.

Cheshire East Council Leader Michael Jones said: “This is great news for our local farmers and food growers. Having a Food Enterprise Zone based at Reaseheath will help to unlock the potential of our local producers, food and agricultural businesses.

“It will encourage enterprise and job creation, generating opportunity and innovation.

Reaseheath College is a beacon of excellence in the agri-economy of the UK and

is a glowing example of the breadth and depth of skills and innovation in and around the towns of Crewe and Nantwich.”

Principal Meredydd David said: “Reaseheath was delighted to work with Cheshire East Council on securing this FEZ status. It will help us to continue to support agricultural, food manufacturing and rural businesses within the subregion of the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership and surrounding counties.”

Aspiring butchers’ industry insight Our professional butchery students gained an invaluable insight into their industry during a behind-the-scenes visit to the meat wholesale company Weddel Swift.

The Chester depot, which offers a range of meat products and has a nationwide chilled and frozen distribution network, pulled out all the stops for our visit. Two managers and a director took the time to share industry knowledge and experience with our future

butchers and this was followed by a tour of the depot to see different aspects of meat processing and distribution.

Depot manager Jimmy Butler said: “It was a pleasure to welcome students to the depot and provide them with an insight into the meat industry.

We would be happy to organise another visit in the future, as we are keen to help support the students’ professional development.”

Professional Butchery students enjoy their trip to Weddel Swift

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Engineers help shape simulator technology Agricultural engineering staff and students helped to evaluate an innovative simulator which could revolutionise the way tractor driving is taught.

Tenstar Simulation, which already delivers simulation based training tools for the construction, forestry and transportation industries, approached us to evaluate how the technology could be developed for farm and construction plant operations.

The simulator, which proved a great hit with staff and students, performs a range of tractor operations, logs driving errors

and diesel use and offers constructive advice.

Agricultural Engineering Lecturer Mike Cullen said: “This proved to be a very valuable tool in terms of monitoring a student’s progress. Although you can’t beat the real thing, the computer version is very authentic and allows you to try activities from loading a trailer to mowing fields and collecting bales.

“It will be of great benefit to students with no previous experience because it allows them to become familiar with the tractor cab controls in

Agricultural engineering lecturer Mike Cullen takes students through the simulator programme

a safe environment before progressing onto the real thing. Students can progress at their own pace and you can download a report for discussion after the session.”

Tenstar UK Manager Simon Hogg commented: “I was

delighted to work with Reaseheath’s agricultural engineering department on this new, emerging technology.

The feedback was invaluable, allowing Tenstar to shape this technology further.”

Champion experience for motor vehicle students Our IMI Level 2 motor vehicle students were privileged to visit the British Touring Car Championships at Oulton Park as guests of Honda UK and SnapOn Tools.

The experience, which is part of the companies’ ‘Excellence in Education’ programme, included a garage tour where students were kitted up with pit radios so they could listen to the drivers during the qualifying round.

Our students had a front row view of the pit lanes and could also chat with the pit crew, gaining an insight into their roles, while the cars were pushed to the limit on track.

This was followed by a

debrief when the team principal described how the team started their careers in motorsport. Department head Ryan Johnson said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students and they came away with a better understanding of the skills, talent and sheer hard work that’s required to secure a career at the top end of motorsport.”

• In our own workshops, Level 2 and 3 students are developing their motorsports engineering skills by modifying and developing a l.6 litre Citroen Saxo VTR into a track day car. The vehicle, which was donated

by Car Transplants, our local car recycling company, will

have many performance and safety modifications. Once complete students will be able to test drive the car to see how the modifications have changed the performance characteristics.

• Pupils on our schools programme have also been learning about track day vehicles. Inspired by a trip to Demon Tweaks Motorsport, they put together individual budgets for their development ideas.

Students Tim Macallen, Aaron Cawley, Matt Rowlinson and Aaron Allen are joined by drivers Matt Neal and Gordon (Flash) Sheddon

Pupils provide drivers with equality of opportunity Key Stage 4 pupils on our motor vehicle schools programme have an exciting chance to help build off road buggies for disabled drivers, thanks to a new partnership with charity ‘Speed of Sight’ and kit-car manufacturers Blitzworld.

‘Speed of Sight' was founded by Mike Newman, the fastest blind man on the planet on land and water. It gives those who are blind, partially sighted or have other disabilities the chance to experience the thrill of driving at speed.

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The charity runs popular track days using specially adapted race cars and is now launching off-road experiences. One of their first venues will be Reaseheath’s own off-road track.

The buggies have dual controls, twin steering wheels and hand controls, and several will be built by pupils in our workshops.

Mike Newman, who made a promotional video of the off-road experience at Reaseheath, explained: “Our aim is to allow people of all ages with disabilities to enjoy

the excitement and thrill of motorsports. We are committed to the promotion of opportunity for all and like to focus on what people CAN do, rather than what they can’t do.

“We find that encouraging people with disabilities to take part in sporting or physical activities helps with their selfesteem, social interaction and physical and mental wellbeing.

We are delighted with our new partnership with Reaseheath.”

For further details see www.speedofsight.org

Speed of Sight drivers Zac Walwyn, Chris Fisher, Doyle Traynor and Mike Newman with car builder Ash Leese

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Skiing in the shadow of the Alps Our students spent a breathtaking week skiing in the shadows of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, the most famous mountains in the Alps, during our annual ski trip to Pila, Italy.

Fourteen students from our countryside, adventure sports, public services and business departments visited four ski resorts covering over 500 km of skiable terrain, improving their skiing ability and learning about careers in the snow sport industry.

Perfect snow conditions for our annual ski trip

British ski coaches put our students through drills on the slopes or in a freestyle park. One student, James Cooper, went from being a complete novice to

Travel beckons for ambitious dairy farmers Two ambitious young dairy farmers are off on their travels thanks to a scholarship run by Reaseheath and the Cheshire Agricultural Society.

Neil Roberts and Neil Quinlan were presented with John Platt Travel Scholarships, worth £2,000, at the Cheshire Show.

Neil Roberts, a dairy farmer and herd manager, will qualify as a ‘Cow Signals’ master trainer after attending a course about progressive cow housing in Holland. He will follow this by viewing advanced dairy facilities and receiving more training in North America.

Neil Quinlan, who helps to manage a dairy herd and youngstock unit, will visit dairy farms in the USA to identify successful strategies in heifer rearing. He will also attend a ‘Calf Signals’ course and visit heifer

rearing units in the UK so he can compare techniques.

Neil Roberts and Neil Quinlan both studied agriculture with us and have continued to expand their knowledge while progressing into responsible roles. They will share their findings with fellow farmers, Young Farmers Clubs and agricultural students.

The John Platt Travel Scholarship is in memory of John Platt, a former Chair of Reaseheath Governors and former Chairman, President and Honorary Life Warden of the Cheshire Agricultural Society.

Scholarships are awarded annually and are open to young people from a rural background who live or work in Cheshire.

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

Neil Roberts and Neil Quinlan receive their awards from, Cheshire Show Director Keith Thomas and Chair of Governors Richard Ratcliffe

completing his first black run while Rob Andrews and Jacob Dean were awarded the highest ski ability award (Level 5) and were videoed by Interski’s head coach for the chance to be selected for an academy that trains participants to become ski instructors for free.

Apres ski included eating gelato and pizza, whizzing round a local ice rink and mingling with other students at a disco. Apart from making new friends, our students even learned a few words of Italian! The trip was coordinated by our adventure sports department and was so successful that it’s already rebooked for next year.

Horticultural excellence in the Netherlands Over 40 horticulture students from all courses enjoyed a great week’s study tour in Holland and Belgium, visiting many renowned gardens and nurseries.

breeding, lilac and viburnum cut flower production and fruit, conifer and perennial production systems.

First major stop was at the international tourist attraction of Keukenhof – 32 acres of horticultural excellence including 70 million bulbs, 300 varieties of tulips, orchid and plant exhibitions and show gardens. Then it was off to Thijsse’s Hof, a pioneering garden of the naturalistic style of planting.

Next stop was Amsterdam, where many of the group took a trip to the floating flower market to stock up on unusual seeds and bulbs. This was followed by a visit to De Idee Tuinen (Idea Garden), which is home to 260 display gardens including conceptual, traditional and water gardens, conservation and green engineering displays and natural play provision.

Next day began early with a visit to Aalsmeer Flower Auction, the largest commercial building in the world selling around 20 million flowers daily.

The group then moved on to the nearby Nursery Museum and were guided through working exhibitions on rose

The final stop was at Esveld Nurseries, specialists in unusual trees, shrubs and perennials. The group even managed to call into the University of Ghent’s botanical garden on the way home for a final top-up of horticultural novelty!

Horticulture degree students and lecturer Craig Bailey ‘walk on water’ during their study tour

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African adventure for animal European excellence for undergraduates engineers

Animal Management undergraduates during their African Adventure

Animal management undergraduates carried out important wildlife surveys in Botswana and South Africa during their annual study tour.

Twenty-three undergraduates studying for degrees in wildlife conservation, animal management or animal behaviour and welfare spent a week monitoring species and carrying out field observations at Legodimo Wilderness within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, a cross border region between Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

Working alongside rangers and researchers, the undergraduates helped to collect scientific data which will help to plot the population size and migration of wildlife in the recently designated area. They also helped in a tree planting scheme aimed at reintroducing indigenous species such as the baobab and ‘sausage’ tree.

Similar duties were carried out by our group during a second week based in the

Mapungubwe National Park, South Africa, but on a lesser scale, with the majority of time spent attending educational debates and seminars on topical issues such as the social and economic importance of ecotourism, wildlife and human conflict and the contentious subject of trophy hunting.

In all, our undergraduates catalogued an amazing 300 species of animals and contributed to the future development of the two regions.

They also had some memorable experiences, such as watching elephants in the camp’s swimming pool!

Higher Education Course Manager Kevin Palmer, who organised the tour, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our undergraduates to practice skills such as species identification and team work in a relatively challenging environment. Hopefully these experiences will illustrate the wide range of careers which are available to them.”

Twenty-four final year Level 3 Extended Diploma students visited Iowa as guests of the Iowa State University of Science and Technology. This was a new academic partnership within our international studies programme and encouraged our students to gain a wider industry insight while enjoying fantastic hospitality.

Staying on the university campus, our group toured

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demonstrations and being briefed by technicians on the unique features of each machine. They also had a presentation on career prospects from graduate trainees.

Thirty-two students were welcomed by leading manufacturers and related organisations during a week’s visit to Germany, Holland and Belgium. New to this popular tour was a visit to Case New Holland’s impressive factory, where our students were privileged to have a technical presentation followed by a tour of the state-of-theart and highly automated manufacturing facilities.

Our students also enjoyed a technical demonstration of crop sprayers and a tour of fabrication facilities at Amazone’s main factory and made their regular visit to Koop van der Wal, an international agricultural machinery importer and exporter. They also visited the Wvan Schayik Langenboom museum for a full appreciation of just how far engineering technology has advanced.

Similar hospitality was offered at the global headquarters of CLAAS, where our group toured the production line and showrooms, watching

The high quality of this trip was due to our high profile within the industry and the fact that we train apprentices for all the top manufacturers.

Agricultural engineers enjoy their CLAAS visit

Agriculture’s American Dream Large scale farming and technical advances were on the agenda for agriculture students throughout their bi-annual study tour to the USA.

Agricultural engineering students had their eyes opened to opportunities within the international market during their annual study tour of European manufacturing centres of excellence.

three high yielding dairy farms (two with herds of over 3000 cows), visited a leading bull breeder who exports worldwide and looked at arable and beef production. They also toured a John Deere factory and an alpaca farm and wool processor.

said: “This tour helped students broaden their outlook and see how other countries operate their agricultural industry. It also brought to life the ideas we have developed in the classroom.”

• Nearer home, our Level 3 Subsidiary students focussed on dairy and beef research

in County Kilkenny, Ireland.

Their study tour included visits to Kildalton College, to the Moorepark Research and Innovation Centre and to a 300 cow greenfield research farm.

They even had the chance to stop off at Dublin’s landmark factory – the Guinness Storehouse!

Our students also enjoyed the American high life, joining the Iowa State University recreation team for a hike, mixing at a student BBQ and eating at a ‘cook your own steak’ restaurant.

Course Manager James Bickerton, who established the links with Iowa State University,

Our student group is joined at a giant maize clamp by Professor Leo Timms of Iowa State University

www.reaseheath.ac.uk

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/reaseheathcollege

New chair of governors Richard Ratcliffe has been appointed as our new Chair of Governors, taking over from Emily Thrane. Well known in agricultural and business circles and a long-time Reaseheath supporter, Richard farms locally and also operates a number of farming businesses across the UK.

Reaseheath at a glance

and I am looking forward to helping to shape its future and to continue to see first hand the positive effect it has on so many young people.”

Reaseheath’s governing board is made up of members of the public, staff and students who offer a wide range of experience and skills. The governors He said: "It’s a great honour support and challenge the to take over as Chair and a college leaders and make sure pleasure to follow Emily, who has that college stays true to its set some very high standards. mission, vision and values.

The Governors are part of We welcome hearing from the team who help to keep anyone interested in becoming Reaseheath at the forefront of a governor, particularly if higher and further education, both regionally and further afield. they have experience in the This is an important and exciting land-based industries or further education. The role is time for this wonderful college

-- Dairy Champion National Skills Academy for Food and Drink

SUBJECT AREAS Further and Higher Education and Apprenticeships -- Adventure Sports -- Agriculture -- Agricultural Engineering -- Animal Management -- Business and Events Management -- Construction Richard Ratcliffe

voluntary but expenses are paid and there are opportunities for personal training and development.

The Reaseheath STAR Award to the most outstanding staff member went to Director of Quality, Learning and Support Peter Green for his high professional standards, innovative approaches, creative initiatives, distinguished leadership and outstanding impact on our college.

Other ‘stars’ were: Individuals HE Advanced Practitioner Kizzy Beaumont (Innovation Award) for her dedication to introducing animal management students to opportunities and enhanced learning beyond the classroom.

Programme Leader for Floristry Sue Poole (Special Achievement) for leading her team to outstanding success in national competitions.

Welfare Officer Carys Jones (Colleague of the Year) for her commitment to helping students feel part of the Reaseheath family.

Estates Manager Steve Challinor (Leader of the Year) for helping his team to develop new ways of working to improve work practices.

Agriculture Course Manager Mark Walton (Giving Something Back) for passionately promoting Reaseheath within the community.

-- Entry and Foundation Learning -- Equine -- Floristry -- Horticulture -- Food Technology -- Public Services -- Sport

ASSOCIATE COLLEGE OF

TOTAL STUDENTS Further Education (full-time/part-time): 2,936 Higher Education (degrees): 691 Apprenticeships and work based learning: 1,000 (Including DART Training)

Transaction Accounts Supervisor Matt Kinnear (People’s Award) for developing processes to support colleagues in his own team and other college departments.

Timetable and Register Officer Diane Edwards (People’s Award) for going out of her way to help colleagues and students.

-- Countryside and Conservation

-- Motor Vehicle

For further details contact Jackie Schillinger, Clerk to the Governors, at jackies@reaseheath.ac.uk

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

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/reaseheath

ESTATE College grounds: 21 hectares Owned and rented farm land: 330 hectares Peter Green

Land leased to Crewe Alexandra Football Club: 6 hectares

TURNOVER Teams Food team (Educational Excellence) for their creativity, commitment and consistency in delivering excellent education and training to students and within industry.

Technical Services (Team of the Year) for providing significant support to students and striving to ensure they have the best experience.

Animal Management (Team of the Year) for working tirelessly to ensure students gain the most from their courses and taking the time to share knowledge.

Academic year 2014/15: £29,417,000

FACILITIES On-site accommodation for 802; five catering outlets; student lounge/ bar; learning resource centre, HE study area, sports hall, climbing wall, multi gym, sports pitches, equestrian centre, campus farm, campus zoo, licensed food factory.

STAFF 648 (including part-time and casual workers)

FURTHER DETAILS Visit our college website or please ask for a prospectus Reaseheath College, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DF

www.reaseheath.ac.uk

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Phenomenal success for Family Festival

Diary Dates...

Come and see us November 2015 12 – 15 Cake and Bake Show Manchester 14 Course Open Event (FE and degrees) 14 – 15 Your Horse Live Stoneleigh 19 – 21 The Skills Show Birmingham 21 – 22 English Country Fair Staffordshire

December 2015 5 Course Open Event (FE and degrees)

January 2016 23 Course Open Event (FE only)

February 2016 27 Course Open Event (FE only)

March 2016

Tyrone the T-Rex meets the crowds

Our action packed Family Festival, themed on science and technology, drew in thousands of families keen to enjoy the activities and displays on offer.

A giant Tyrannosaurus Rex proved a hit with young visitors

while TV personalities the Fabulous Baker Brothers, Tom and Henry Herbert, entertained crowds with their cookery demonstrations.

Another highlight was a display of natural horsemanship and daring trick riding by the Atkinson Action Horses.

Visitors to tried out our indoor climbing wall, operated a digger, had a go at tree climbing and bushcraft, tried brick laying and tested their skills on our high ropes course.

They also enjoyed tours of our food

processing halls, a calf show, sheep shearing, a farmers’ and craft market, riding displays, tours of our zoo, a fun dog show and displays of classic, agricultural and military vehicles.

Describing the event as ‘phenomenally successful’, Principal Meredydd David said: “It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying themselves. The whole day was full of the 'Reaseheath Experience' of which we are all so proud.”

Be there next year: Reaseheath’s Family Festival Sunday May 15th 2016

Isla and Oliver Wall say ‘hello’ to Chris the cockerel

The Fabulous Baker Brothers, Tom and Henry Herbert, enjoy the action

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5 – 6 Reaseheath lambing and zoo weekend 8 – 9 Skills Northwest Manchester 12 – 13 Reaseheath lambing and zoo weekend 19 Course Open Event (FE and degrees)

April 2016 23 Course open event (FE only)

May 2016 15 Reaseheath Family Festival

June 2016 1 – 2 Staffordshire Show 5 Open Farm Sunday at Reaseheath 16 – 19 Bolesworth International Showjumping 21 – 22 Cheshire Show

For the latest zoo opening dates and times see www.reaseheath.ac.uk/zoo

Atkinson Action Horses with Mike Collin, Georgia Plimbley and Candice Carbine

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