Archives for April 2020

Derwen College students continue to work hard at their vocational and independence skills whilst at home and will be joining the nation in celebrating National Gardening Week 27^th April to 1^st May. Horticulture students will be utilising their skills in their own gardens, students from the Creative Arts department are creating a piece of artwork from items they find in their garden and Derwen’s Hospitality and Housekeeping students are showcasing their skills with fruit and vegetable creations as well as researching dishes using herbs from the garden. Those students based on site will also be taking part in the week long activities.

“The response from students has been fantastic as they continue to learn at home and share their achievements on social media – helping to inspire others! Last year we celebrated National Gardening Week at college with activities based on Edible Britain and this year the students will be once again be putting their skills to showcase how gardening is a great way to look after their health and wellbeing” said Jennifer Fawcett-Jones, Curriculum Manager at Derwen College. 

Derwen College has been shortlisted for two awards in the 2020 Natspec Awards. Natspec, the voice of specialist further education announced the shortlist earlier this week.

 Derwen College has been shortlisted in the categories for Innovative Use of Technology and Partnership Working. The winners will be announced in October.

 The Natspec Awards recognise and celebrate excellent practice in the specialist further education sector. They also help to promote continuous improvement and raise standards in the sector.  2020 is the inaugural year of the awards, recognising six areas of practice where specialist providers are doing amazing and incredible things. Shortlisted entries will now go forward to be considered by an independent panel of experts chaired by Nigel Evans former lead HMI for High Needs.

Clare Howard, Natspec’s Chief Executive said  “At Natspec we greatly value the skills and talents of staff working in the specialist further education sector. Their work deserves to be recognised and celebrated and the Natspec Awards provide the perfect opportunity to do this.

The entries covered a great variety of work illustrating the diverse and innovative practice across the specialist further education sector.

Overall, the standard of entries was high, and some difficult decisions had to be made when finalising the shortlists.

I am pleased to announce the shortlisted entries for each award category. Many congratulations to all who have made to the shortlists and many thanks to everyone who sent in entries this year.”

Principal at Derwen College, Meryl Green commented on hearing the news “ We are delighted to be shortlisted in both of these categories and they truly highlight the innovative work Derwen is carrying out in these areas as well as the commitment from all our colleagues in providing outstanding learning here.”

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