GrassRoots issue 26 by Reaseheath College

Raising Standards Inspiring Achievement

The latest news from Reaseheath College

Chancellor George Osborne applauds new build

Issue 26

In this issue

See page 3

Congratulations from Kate Humble See pages 4

Machinery dealerships support silaging See page 9

Raising funds for RAG See page 22 Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/reaseheathcollege Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/reaseheath

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The value of Reaseheath Reaseheath College has a significant positive impact on its main stakeholder groups: students, society, taxpayers and the local business community. This was one of the main findings in the latest analysis of the social and economic impact of Reaseheath by Economic Modelling Specialists International (emsi) Here are some key points:

Beneﬁts to Students

Beneﬁts to Society

Reaseheath’s mission is to deliver excellence to its students. The experiences they receive at college have the power to shape the rest of their lives and put them on the path to becoming happy and productive members of their communities. Reaseheath also plays a key role in helping them increase their employability and achieve their individual potential.

Students paid a total of £2.5 million to cover the cost of tuition fees, books and supplies in 2012 -2013. These students also lost £21.9 million which they would have earned had they been working instead of learning In return, they will receive £178.1 million (present value) in increased earnings over their working lives Every £1 that students pay for their education at Reaseheath yields £7.30 in higher future wages – an 18.9% annual return on investment

Society as a whole invested £66.8 million in Reaseheath through direct outlays and the loss of potential output from students who were studying rather than working. In return, society will receive £401.3 million (present value) over the course of the students’ working lives through higher taxes and social benefits such as reduced crime, lower unemployment and increased health and wellbeing. Society will receive £6.00 in return for every £1 invested in Reaseheath – an annual return of 18.4%

Platt Hall, our newest accommodation block

Income created by Reaseheath College Impact of added workforce skills

£65.7 MILLION Impact of College and staff expenditure

£19.6 MILLION Impact of non-local student expenditure

£407.6 THOUSAND Total income per year

£85.7 MILLION

Beneﬁts to Business ‘Reaseheath College benefits the local business community by boosting consumer spending and stimulating income growth. Not only does it spend money within Cheshire & Warrington and employ a large staff, it also trains learners to be valuable employees in the region’s workforce. These roles all add value to local businesses by increasing their level of outputs and generating a need for further jobs, creating additional income.’ -

For every £1 spent £7.30

gained in lifetime higher earnings

£6.00

gained in added income and saving to society

£4.10

gained in added tax receipts and avoided costs to taxpayers

The skills and qualifications acquired by former students bolster Cheshire & Warrington's economy by increasing employer outputs and adding around £65.7 million in income to the regional economy per year

The expenditure of Reaseheath and its staff contribute to knock-on effects throughout the economy, generating approximately £19.6 million in new income to the regional total output per year Non-local students add £407.6 thousand in new income to Cheshire & Warrington's economy per year by spending on goods and services Altogether, Reaseheath contributes approximately £85.7 million in additional income per year to the local business community. This is equal to around 0.3% of Cheshire & Warrington's total economy and represents roughly 3,426 average wage jobs

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Chancellor applauds plans for national centre George Osborne chats to arboriculture students

George Osborne talks to Dairy Herd Manager Steve Small in Reaseheath’s dairy parlour, accompanied by Farm Manager Mark Yearsley, Head of Agriculture Iain Clarke, Meredydd David, Deputy Chair of Governors Richard Ratcliffe and MP Stephen O’Brien

Chancellor George Osborne has congratulated Reaseheath on its efforts to help food producers meet the challenge of world population growth and climate change. Cutting the first sod on the site of our new £8.5 million National Centre for Food Futures and the Environment, Mr Osborne said: “Reaseheath College is rightly renowned for the quality of the education it provides, especially in the agriculture industry. I always try to provide funding for projects like this. “One of the key elements of our long-term economic plan is to deliver the best schools and skills for young people in all

sectors so the next generation can succeed in the global race.” The industry-led project will enable us to support the government’s agri-tech strategy, which aims to make the UK a world leader in agricultural technology, innovation and sustainability. The Department for Business Innovation and Skills, through the Skills Funding Agency, has allocated £5.8m of capital grant for the project, with the remainder coming directly from Reaseheath. The building will provide a national centre for horticultural production, environmental management and conservation

George Osborne with Reaseheath Vice Principal Dave Kynaston and MP Stephen O’Brien

and renewable energy, and will be the leading one of its type in the country. It will include a visitor and interpretation centre and a schools unit and is the latest of a string of world class facilities to be built on campus. In a second project, the college, in partnership with Cheshire East Council, is to develop a state-of-theart centre for students with learning difficulties and disabilities. This £1.5m project, funded by the Education Funding Agency, will develop desperately needed specialist facilities for students from the Cheshire East area. Both developments are to be sited on our former golf course. The buildings have been designed with input from industry advisors and are planned to be open by September 2015. We also plan to renew our existing turf based sports pitches and build new 3G and multi-use artificial sports areas,

along with a sports centre for students and the local community. Space released by the relocation of the horticulture department has been earmarked for further halls of residence, with construction planned to start this summer. Welcoming the Chancellor’s visit, Principal Meredydd David said that Reaseheath was delighted to be involved in the development of another world class educational facility. He said: “I am thrilled that the government has identified Reaseheath as their preferred location for investing capital to develop this national centre. This will ensure that Reaseheath can continue to deliver specialist technical and educational training to next generation leaders.” Mr Osborne was accompanied by local MP Stephen O’Brien and MEP candidate for the north west Kevin Beaty.

George Osborne cuts the first sod watched by Principal Meredydd David, MP Stephen O’Brien, MEP NW candidate Kevin Beaty and Martin Smout, executive chairman of construction partner GB Building Solutions

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Proud Day for Reaseheath Graduates

First Class Honours graduates Jillian Griffith and Sarah Forrester and Dairy Technology student of the Year Pedro dos Santos celebrate with Kate Humble and Meredydd David

Reaseheath graduates celebrated gaining their degrees at a ceremony enjoyed by families, employers and our local community. Dressed in gowns and mortar boards, our graduates spilled out of St Mary’s Church in Nantwich for photographs with television personality Kate Humble, who was guest speaker. The ceremony marked the achievement of over 150 students who had completed degrees in agriculture, equine science, food technology, horticulture, machinery dealership management and countryside management, delivered in partnership with Harper Adams University. Particular celebrations

were in order for three graduates who achieved first class honours degrees: Sarah Forester and Jillian Griffith (BSc Equine Science) and Adam Fox (BSc Food Technology). Another highlight was the graduation of 23 dairy technologists who gained a globally recognised Foundation Degree in Dairy Technology. This qualification has been developed in partnership with leading companies and is delivered solely by Reaseheath. These technologists are among the significant proportion of undergraduates who earn their degrees while working in industry. Dairy technologists Navpreet

St. Mary’s Church is packed with graduates and families

Double celebration for engaged couple Alana Robinson (Foundation Degree Equine Science and Management) and Peter Dewhirst (Foundation Degree Food Industry with Management)

Kaur Sidhu and Pedro dos Santos, who work for Muller Wiseman Dairies, received ‘Student of the Year’ awards along with their degrees. Will Astley, a finalist in the RABDF Young Dairy Farmer of the Year competition, was among our agriculture graduates. Describing the ceremony as the highlight of the academic year, Principal Meredydd David said that high level education and skills was a hugely important economic driver which in the last decade had become more accessible. A degree was a passport to work and a successful career. He emphasised that rural industries offered a fantastic future, particularly for skilled and capable people who could

help solve the challenges of energy, water and food security and the impact that these industries had on the countryside. The specialist technical education and skills training offered by Reaseheath had resulted in 90% of last year’s graduates being in related employment within six months on an average starting salary of £21,200. Reaseheath currently has 710 students studying on full and part-time degree level courses. This year a further 73 animal management, adventure sports management and food chain technology undergraduates completed degrees validated by the University of Chester.

Foundation Degree Countryside Conservation and Recreation Management graduates are joined by Kate Humble

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Foundation Degree in Agriculture graduates celebrate with Kate Humble and course manager Jane Richardson

Garden and Landscape Design graduates Angharad Rees, Daniel Guy, Ged Washington, Thor Wyles, Jess Hughes, Hannah Timmis, Rob Frost and Rick Tomlinson

Natalie Howell, Heather Cooper, Alana Robinson and Rebecca Graham (Foundation Degree in Equine Science) and Megan Watson (Foundation Degree in Equine Science, Complementary Therapy and Natural Horsemanship) celebrate

Foundation Degree Food Industry with Management and BSc Food Technology graduates celebrate with Kate Humble

Foundation Degree Machinery Dealership with Management graduates

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Apprentices are good for business Reaseheath is helping an increasing number of employers to boost productivity through tailormade apprenticeship training programmes. We train over 450 apprentices who work in businesses throughout Cheshire and surrounding counties. Most attend college weekly and spend the rest of the week earning and training in the workplace. Although the majority are aged between 16 and 24, Reaseheath also offers apprenticeships for those aged over 25. The scheme is supported by 226 employers including councils, golf clubs, garden maintenance companies, kennels, pet shops, livery stables, florists, farms and the food, construction and timber industries. Speaking at our apprenticeship awards ceremony, Vice Principal Dave Kynaston congratulated the apprentices and their companies for investing in meaningful and valued qualifications which would boost productivity and ensure the future of the UK’s skilled workforce. He emphasised that apprenticeships had gained favour with employers and the government and that recruitment was at a record high. Guest speaker John Hurst, who is responsible for The Co-operative Farms apprenticeship and graduate training schemes, said that his company was working with Reaseheath to ensure there was a succession of trained and skilled employees to fill skills gap when older workers

Top apprentices Adam Hughes and Lyndsay Jones

Top joinery apprentice Edward Oliver with his employer Craig Hallworth

retired. Also on the podium was last year’s ‘Apprentice of the Year’ Jordan Kenyon, who described his progress as a herdsman with dairy farmer Martin Wheelton. He now oversaw staff and was looking forward to managing a dairy unit or possibly studying business to a higher level. Top honours of the evening went to Apprentice of the Year Adam Hughes, 20, a plant maintenance engineer for Gunn JCB, and to Advanced Apprentice of the Year Lyndsay Jones, 47, a production operator and machine setter for Aimia Foods, a food and beverages manufacturer. Both were selected for their commitment to their studies and for their outstanding contribution to their employers’ businesses. Other principle winners were: Best Agriculture Apprentice: Adam Brown, 26, who works as an Anaerobic Digestion technician on Reaseheath’s demonstration AD plant.

Successful Cheshire East horticulture apprentices Anthony Gosling, Wesley Hutton, and Andrew McKeith with horticulture lecturer Dave Black and Operations Manager for Cheshire East Council Charlie Griffies

Adam’s duties include guiding tours for local farming and community groups, allied businesses and undergraduates. He is also employed on his family’s dairy farm. Best Construction Apprentice (Brickwork): Charlie Emms, 19, who is employed by M E Parker, a specialist in steel shed erection on rural farms. Best Construction Apprentice (Joinery): Ed Oliver, 18, who works for Hallworth Construction (Cheshire). Ed is one of five apprentices from the company to have completed qualifications with us.

Best Horticulture Apprentice: Marcus Burke, 25, a member of the landscape services team at Halton Borough Council. Reaseheath trains apprentices for many local authorities including Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council and Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council. Best Food Apprentice: Stephen Halliwell, 30, a blending operator with Aimia Foods For further details visit www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ apprenticeships

Agricultural apprentices Dave Swinnerton, Adam Brown, Harry Clifton, Shannon Belfield, David Taylor, William Brocklehurst, Peter Marrow and Joshua Flood

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Reaseheath acquires DART Training Reaseheath has increased its provision of apprenticeships and work based learning by acquiring DART Training, a specialist private training company. Like Reaseheath, DART is a recognised leader in apprenticeship training and is known for its strong involvement in and support for rural communities. A well established Derbyshire company, DART works closely with small and medium businesses throughout the Midlands and Yorkshire. The company has become a wholly owned subsidiary of Reaseheath but operates as an independent arm of the college.

DART works with young people, adults and employers to provide tailormade training in the workplace in the industries of horticulture, agriculture, horse and animal care, veterinary nursing, sports turf, environmental conservation and arboriculture. Welcoming the acquisition, Principal Meredydd David said: “This is a great opportunity for both Reaseheath and DART to work together to sustainably grow and expand our training offer, penetrate new markets and develop a long lasting, successful future. DART is highly respected by employers and has a great reputation in Derbyshire and surrounding counties. It also has a very

Reaseheath Principal Meredydd David and DART Managing Director Anne Morgan sign the final contract, watched by Reaseheath’s Director of Finance Graeme Lavery, Vice Principal Dave Kynaston and Chair of Governors Emily Thrane

good Ofsted report. “Reaseheath and DART have a great synergy. Both organisations share the same values, education and training focus and both are highly respected within the landbased industry. Our mission values and philosophy are closely aligned and we are equally passionate about the education and training of young people and adults.” DART Managing Director

Anne Morgan said: “Our new partnership will give us a vastly increased range of training and further education opportunities to offer to the land-based sector. DART has always been quick to respond to employers’ needs, challenges and pressures and has successfully grown its apprenticeship provision year on year. We are now confident that we can expand further into new markets.”

Speed car pioneer inspires engineers One of the fastest men on earth urged our motor vehicle and engineering students to reach for the stars by focusing on careers as professional engineers and scientists. Richard Noble OBE, former holder of the world land speed record and director of the

Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) Project, described the tremendous opportunities which exist in research, design and build as he launched our state-of-the-art motor vehicle technology department. Our automotive workshops have received a £1million

Level 3 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair students Debra Bligh-Wall, Corey Walton, Will Blackshaw and Cody Brookes meet Richard Noble in our new automotive workshops

upgrade and are fitted out with the latest diagnostic equipment. Richard chatted to students working on modern vehicles including our own hybrid car. He also admired an eco challenge car, built by visiting school pupils. Congratulating us on our drive to encourage young people to develop technical knowledge, he said: “The facilities and training here are exactly what the future is all about. Britain’s car fleet is getting increasingly more complex and Reaseheath is consistently raising the bar for next generation engineers. “It’s been fascinating to meet so many students who are confidently looking towards the future and are keen to learn. There’s a nice buzz about the place and the workshops are superb. What’s notable is that these young

people already have many of the technical skills they require to get on in the industry.” Richard also gave an inspirational talk to 250 motor vehicle and agricultural engineering students about the advanced technology which will support his attempt to set a new land speed record of 1,000 mph with BloodhoundSSC. Representatives from the Blue Bell Group, Car Transplants, Smiths Autoparts, Auto-mobile, Swansway Garages, the Institute of Advanced Motorists and other supporters attended. A replica of BloodhoundSSC was a highlight of our Family Festival. The car remained with us for a week and was visited by local schools each day. Further details: www.bloodhoundssc.com

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Motor vehicle focuses on the future Keeping pace with industry, our Motor Vehicle Technology team has purchased a Toyota Prius Hybrid to support the teaching of Levels 2 and 3 Vehicle Technology students. We hope that the new purchase, along with the recent £1million investment into our vehicle technology department, will help drive our vision to provide training of the highest technical level and to become the region’s centre of excellence. We are currently the only FE college in the area offering students specialised training

in hybrid vehicle maintenance, oscilloscope use, electronic fault diagnosis, digital four wheel alignment and F-Gas (Air Conditioning) certification in addition to their main course. It is recognised that students with this high level of technical competency are more employable. Future plans within the department include developing training courses for mature learners at Level 4 (Master Technician) and providing training in F-Gas Certification, advanced diagnostics and hybrid vehicle

Our new Prius hybrid arrives in the workshop

maintenance to local and national garages. These new programmes aim to keep pace with the increase in sales of hybrid and electric vehicles, which are now being produced by market leaders. The Prius, which we bought from Toyota RRG Stockport,

won’t spend all its time in the workshop. Watch out for the vehicle at shows and events and also out on the road, as it will be used for workplace visits by our work based assessors and tutors.

Supersonic car impresses motor students Our motor vehicle technicians got close up and personal with Thrust 2 and Thrust SSC, the cars developed by Richard Noble OBE, during a visit to Coventry Transport Museum. Both cars set world land speed records and Thrust SSC still holds the world record of 763mph. The aim of the visit was to look at the development of road transport from bicycles to the fastest cars on earth.

In another trip away from college, 29 students from our IMI Level 2 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair course joined Porsche enthusiasts from around the country for an exclusive Porsche Only Track Day at Oulton Park. The event offered owner drivers the chance to develop their driving skills safely on the prestigious circuit. Many drivers offered our students passenger

Vehicle Technology students enjoy a supersonic day out

rides so they were able to experience a range of different models. The visit gave our students a better understanding of the motorsport sector and

the modified vehicle sector of the industry. For many it was their first time at a circuit and for almost all it was their first time ever on a racetrack in a car.

Grass track racer is first off the mark Motor vehicle student Aidan Arrowsmith certainly hasn’t been allowing the grass to grow under his wheels. One of the UK’s most promising young grass track racers, he finished in sixth position in the British Autograss series and was third in the North of England championships. Aidan has been racing autograss cars in the Junior Special class since he was 12. Now 17, he’s looking forward

to handing over his race car to younger brother, Jordan, and moving on to his first season in Class 1 racing a Mini Cooper. Aidan’s also been first off the grid in choosing to study at our motor vehicle department. An IMIAL Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles student, Aidan plans to progress to Level 3 and eventually wants to build F1 race cars. Winning streak: Aidan Arrowsmith with his race car

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Machinery dealerships support silaging Our agriculture students had the privilege of operating an amazing £1million-worth of cutting edge technical machinery during the first silaging operation of the season. The machinery and equipment was kindly loaned to us by local agricultural machinery dealerships who are supporting our efforts to give our students an outstanding experience. All 140 of our first year agriculture students got the chance to operate the machinery and a carefully selected group of 30 joined the full time harvesting team under supervision, enabling the harvest of first cut grass silage to be carried out more efficiently. The students were involved in all parts of the operation, from mowing and raking to ferrying it to our silage clamp.

The dealerships included RVW Pugh Ltd. which delivered a top of the range Fendt tractor and a Massey Ferguson tractor with a trailed Vicon mower conditioner. Speaking for all our dealership partners, Area Sales Manager Bob Cooper said: “We were delighted to help Reaseheath on this project. These students are the next generation of farmers and they will be our future customers. It was only fitting that they should be able to see first hand the enormous technological advances which are being made within the industry.” Other dealerships to support us were Malpas Tractors, John Bownes, Stamford Agricultural Services, Morris Corfield, Gunn JCB, Harry West, Agricultural Machinery Nantwich and CLAAS.

Students trial alternative to soya Our agricultural students helped to carry out a trial to replace soya with a more sustainable UK grown protein in ewe feed. Thirty Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture students assisted Sheep Unit Manager Oliver Bagley and Course Manager Richard Wheeldon to run the trial during our lambing period. Data is being evaluated to see if replacing soya with alternative sources of protein affects the growth rate and weight of lambs. Traditionally soya is imported from South America and is often fed to pregnant ewes. Experts believe that the UK needs to produce its own sources of protein to improve the long term sustainability of its sheep production. The project was funded by EBLEX, which represents the beef and lamb industry in England, and run by ADAS, the agricultural and environmental

Research trial: Callum Pitchford and Laura Bellis fit an EID tag to a lamb

consultancy. It was offered to Reaseheath through our partnership with the National Sheep Association. The trial involved feeding different rations to six groups, each containing 40 twin bearing ewes. Richard Wheeldon explained: “We encourage our students to complete investigative projects and to look at the many science based careers within the industry. Taking part in a handson trial like this also gives them the unique opportunity to deliver results which could benefit the industry.”

Students, staff and dealers gather together for our silage operation

Double success for farm

Mark Yearsley and Arable Foreman Richard George show off their silage trophy

It was no surprise to our elite dairy herd– but now we have official recognition that our peas and barley wholecrop silage is the best after winning the Non Grass Silage category in the Cheshire Grassland Societies Silage Competition. We gained top marks for quality on analysis, milk from forage and clamp management. This is the third time in four years we have won this category. The crop was introduced by Farm Manager Mark Yearsley, who feels that peas and barley silage provides a well balance feed when mixed with maize and grass silage. Last year we harvested 65 acres of the crop,

with our students helping in the seed bed preparation. • Balanced nutrition, along with attention to detail with our breeding policy, helped Reaseheath Holsteins win Best Large Herd (Production Inspection) in the Cheshire Dairy Herd Competition for the second year running. We were also reserve best large Holstein herd (production) and reserve champion (herd production). The competition is open to all herds in Cheshire which record with the Cattle Information Service or National Milk Record and attracts entries from some of the top farms in the county.

The dairy team Sam Walton, Steve Small and Sarah Cammack with the dairy herd trophy

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Rare breed ponies help to educate students Two rare breed ponies are helping animal management undergraduates to understand how the equine mind works. Exmoor ponies Yasmin and Yohan are being handled and trained by students studying for degrees in Animal Behaviour and Welfare or Zoo Management. The ponies, which were bred by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, began their education at our equestrian centre and were featured in several

programmes of the popular TV series. Adam has since donated the filly and gelding to us and they have joined other rare breed paddock animals which are used to teach students about their care. Many Reaseheath students go on to work in zoos and farm parks and find the experience an invaluable preparation. The students are training the ponies in a round pen using natural horsemanship methods. Hopefully they will be entered in regional

Students go orange for orangutans

Chester Zoo’s Penny Rudd receives the donation from animal care students Ashleigh Goldstraw and Robbie Kelly

Animal management students went orange to help save one of the world’s most endangered apes. The students dressed in orange and asked others to do the same to raise funds for the ‘Go Orange for Orangutans’ campaign being run by Chester Zoo as part of its “Act for Wildlife” initiative. Two groups of students took part and their combined efforts raised over £300. Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care students were sponsored by family and friends while members of Reaseheath’s Conservation Society held

a social event in the student bar. This included the free services of DJ Sam Walton of Moo Media UK. Chester Zoo’s appeal will provide camera traps in Borneo, the last stronghold of the wild orangutan. Our students took the opportunity to educate their peers about the habitat loss which is threatening the species. Penny Rudd, Chester Zoo’s Registrar and Internships Coordinator, said: “It is wonderful that Reaseheath students are so keen to become involved in a real conservation project. “Orangutans face a very uncertain future, mainly caused by the widescale production of unsustainably farmed palm oil. Along with Reaseheath, Chester Zoo aims to actively encourage and educate young people who will have the power to influence the future.” See www.actforwildlife.org.uk

BSc Animal Behaviour and Welfare student Sophie Dockray makes friends with Exmoor filly Yasmin

agricultural shows this year. Hoofstock Keeper Kerri Robson is setting up a Showing Group for students who are interested

in preparing and exhibiting animals for the showring. Students may also get the chance to show our rare Golden Guernsey goats.

Get a buddy for your bunny

Lovematch: Bluebell and Beau share some broccoli under the watchful eye of keeper Emma Hunt

Every bunny needs some bunny to love! This was the message from our animal management department in support of a national campaign encouraging owners of lone rabbits to find them a companion. True love has definitely been in the air for Bluebell and Beau, two of the 25 rabbits we use to educate students about correct care. The former unwanted pets have become inseparable. Rabbit keeper Emma Hunt, a member of the Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund, believes that every rabbit deserves a companion. She says: “Rabbits are social animals but unfortunately many spend their

lives in solitary confinement at the end of the garden. They are bored, lonely and ignored, and this can lead to behavioural and health problems.” In line with leading animal charities, Emma is urging owners of singletons to find a buddy for their bunny by contacting their local rescue centre. She says: “Rescue centres will normally help with the bonding process, as this can be difficult. Don’t be too disappointed if it’s not love at first sight.” Reaseheath supports the neutering and vaccinating of rabbits and does not support their casual breeding

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Skillbuild success for construction students Three construction students proved they have outstanding skills by impressing judges at an Olympic style competition to find the nation’s most talented young tradespeople. Advanced carpentry apprentice Matt Williams, 18, won the senior carpentry and joinery section in the north west regional round of Skillbuild and qualified for the national final in September. Winners from there may go on to represented Britain in WorldSkills International, a global event which in 2015 will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Advanced bricklayer Dave

Ford came third in the senior bricklaying section and remains in contention for the final while advanced bricklaying apprentice Leonard Thomas impressed the judges but missed out on a place in the same section. The regional round attracted entries from colleges from throughout the north west. The contestants had to interpret a drawn plan and demonstrate a range of skills on different challenges. Matt, who attends Reaseheath on day release, is a site joiner for Ewson Contractors of Malpas. He said: “A lot of good

Apprentices inspired by Ecobuild

Advanced construction apprentices visit Ecobuild

Thirteen advanced construction apprentices caught up with the latest innovations in sustainable design and build when they visited the Ecobuild exhibition in London. Ecobuild is the world’s leading event for sustainable design, construction, energy and the built environment and is in its 10th year of championing a greener built environment. Themes this year included ‘Championing the need for change in the way we interact with the Environment’ and’ Nature and the Built Environment’. The apprentices, accompanied by tutor Andy

Gould, enjoyed a packed programme of conferences and seminars and networked with exhibitors showcasing the latest products. Our group was particularly impressed with the ‘Practical Installer’ live arena, where suppliers showed how installers can benefit from Renewable Heat Incentives. The demonstrations included before and after scenarios illustrating how the installation of specific products can improve the energy efficiency of a property and save money on energy bills.

Skillbuild success: apprentices Matt Williams and Leonard Thomas

joiners took part in the competition and I was really surprised to win. I just tried to remember all the tips that my tutors had taught me.” Dave Ford, 19, is a fulltime construction student at Reaseheath while Leonard, also 19, is a bricklayer for Farmer and Tapley Ltd of Market Drayton. Construction Instructor

Danny Collins, who organised Reaseheath’s Skillbuild team, said: “The students represented Reaseheath extremely well and the whole department is very proud of their achievements. We were delighted that the outstanding quality of their work was recognised by the judging panel.”

Luxury living for tortoises Level 2 bricklayers and plasterers have been busy at our zoo replacing our giant tortoise house with a purpose built, cavity wall building. The students received the specifics from Deputy Animal Centre Manager Amy Dunbar and planned, priced and risk assessed the project. The tortoises need to be kept in a constant temperature throughout the winter and, as the original shed was not economical to heat, cavity walls and an insulated floor were factored in. The students organised the materials, prepared a work schedule, cleared the site of the original shelter and are now well on into the new build. Bricklayer Tom Phillips said: “This has been great because it’s been a proper

real life experience working with a client. It’s completely different from working.” As a reward for their hard work, the students got to hand feed our ring tailed lemurs. The project has progressed so well that there are already plans to improve the porcupine accommodation next year.

Josh Reale, Tom Phillips, Danny Farmer and Jack Jefferies buld the tortoise house

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Global eco experience for countryside students Eight first year students from our Countryside department are to join environmental projects abroad as part of their summer training. The students, who are studying for their Level 3 Diploma in Conservation and Wildlife Management, will gain practical experience in eco-tourism and in conservation, environmental and woodland management during a four week funded work placement. They won the opportunity after successfully applying to Grampus Heritage and Training, a non-profit making organisation which gives UK

students and young workers essential management experience and practical skills. Our students gained placements against strong competition from applicants from colleges nationwide. Adam Bailey-Rimmer, Alice Hardwell, and Floris Stoter, are going to Skálanes Nature Reserve in Iceland, where they will help to create a centre for Icelandic environmental and cultural history. Alice Martin and Jasmine Salmon are off to the Czech Republic to study organic horticulture and permaculture systems while John Humphreys and Richard Laurence will join

Fishy business under scrutiny

Hylates Limited, an ecotourism company which is developing environmentally friendly facilities for visitors in Cyprus. Rhys Donnell will join preparations for the annual Woodfest in the Dübener Heide Naturpark, Germany, and will also carry

out heathland and forest management. All Level 3 Diploma students have already completed one month’s work experience this year with leading countryside bodies like the National Trust, greatly enhancing their CVs.

Conservation and Wildlife Management students look forwards to working abroad

Countryside help to rescue a bog

Ryan Richardson, Regan Reynolds and Ben Cook catch fish in the specimen pool

Fish management students were in line for some prize catches when they carried out a survey of specimen fish at the Coole Acres Fishery and Fish Hatchery, Nantwich. The students, who are studying for their Level 3 Diploma in Fish Management, investigated the species and scale of population in the specimen pool. The scale of the haul was soon apparent with the capture of over 500 lbs of fish, the biggest individual weighing in at 18 lbs. Most were large carp with a handful of smaller roach. All the fish received a health check and were returned safely. This was the first time the group had used seine netting, a system which relies on good teamwork and communication. Our students enjoy weekly practical sessions and have also been carrying out

revetment improvement on a tributary of the River Weaver for Greenspaces South Cheshire, a not-for-profit company dedicated to improving the local environment. Explained Course Leader Peter Bryan: “It’s important that our students learn practical skills and work in the industry. These are the attributes which employers look for and which help our students when they move into employment.” Our new fish management course has attracted students who are hoping to work for the Environment Agency or progress into commercial fish farms management. Students on our Level 2 Diploma in Countryside and Environment course also study fish management. Further details: email peterb@reaseheath.ac.uk

Countryside management students at work on Fenn’s Moss

Level 3 Countryside Management students have been helping to restore one of the UK’s biggest and best raised bogs. Fenn’s, Whixall and Bettesfield Mosses make up a 948 hectare National Nature Reserve in Shropshire which is of international importance due to its range of wildlife. The mosses were almost destroyed by large scale peat extraction and by drainage to allow for forestry and agricultural use. Bought by the government in 1990, the site has been restored since then by Natural England and Natural Resources Wales. Our students have been

playing their part by helping to prevent scrub invasion of Fenn’s Moss. Using their skills in pesticide application, they have limited the regrowth of trees and have also cut and removed excess plant material. This has allowed more light to reach the ground and rare plants have restablished, in turn helping endangered invertebrates including 29 species of dragonfly and damselfly. The mosses are also home to thriving communities of lizard and Britain’s only venomous snake, the adder. Our students’ efforts were much appreciated by Ranger Peter Bowery.

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Equestrians on a world class stage Two world class equestrian personalities offered a unique insight into Olympic sport during a masterclass at our Equestrian Centre. Hundreds of visitors and equine students from several colleges watched as showjumper Geoff Billington, who has represented GB at two Olympics and three European Games, pitted his wits against international course designer Bob Ellis. Bob, who was the leading course designer for the London Olympics 2012, challenged Geoff to jump

Olympic-size fences on his advanced show jumper Cruise Control. Earlier in the day the pair gave a lecture to 80 equine students in our dedicated Higher Education and Business Centre. They described the hard work and dedication it takes to compete on a world class stage and looked at the development of show jumping and the job opportunities available. This was just one of a number of events aimed at giving students an insight into potential careers.

Racing careers could be a good bet for equine students

Tara Taylor tries out her jockey skills on ‘Flicka’ the mechanical horse, advised by Sarah Beattie of the Northern Racing College

Some of our equine students are keen to kick on into horse racing careers following an action packed event focused on the industry. Jobs from jockey to media specialist were described by key members of Cheshire’s thriving horse racing industry at a careers day organised by the Cheshire Racing Hub and held at our Equestrian Centre. The range of opportunities seemed a good bet for the 120 students who attended, many of whom were eager to learn about related careers such as bloodstock breeding, farriery, physiotherapy and

equine nutrition. They also learned about apprenticeships and graduate traineeships. Speakers included former Grand National jockey Carrie Ford, point to point trainer Oliver Greenall, National Hunt trainer and bloodstock specialist Will Kinsey, the Northern Racing College’s Sarah Beattie, the Hampton Veterinary Group’s Head Nurse Jo Miles and Lucinda Dutton from Chester Racecourse. The event was organised by the Cheshire Racing Hub as part of its ‘careers in racing’ initiative. Education partners include Reaseheath, the University of Chester and the University of Liverpool’s Veterinary School. We are introducing aspects of this key industry into our courses to prepare students for the many career opportunities available. See www. cheshireracinghub.co.uk

Equine degree students Steph Hamilton, Sonia Laughton, Amelia Kenyon, Hannah Luke and Emily Cockerill and Reaseheath’s Equine Events Co-Ordinator Becky Erskine join Bob Ellis and Geoff Billington in the college’s indoor arena

Reaseheath’s equine students have worked with Bob Ellis for several years to provide the arena party at the Horse of the Year Show and Bob regularly visits the college to inspire the students and help them run their own shows. Equine event specialist Alan

Beaumont Management, which organised the event, is also a supporter and mentors the students at the Bolesworth Classic showjumping event where they provide the arena party. Geoff Billington has also shown interest in developing training opportunities with us.

Undergraduates to attend key scientific conference Six equine undergraduates have won bursaries to attend a key International scientific conference. BSc Hons Equine Science students Amy Porter, Charlotte Woolley, Marie Gellion, Jess Irving and Megan O’Loughlin and Foundation Degree in Equine Science and Management student Emily Westwood will be delegates at the International Conference on Equine Exercise Physiology. The conference, which aims to advance understanding of the physiology, function and health of the equine athlete,

is viewed as one of the top scientific forums and gives academics the opportunity to share best practice. The bursaries were offered through the Cheshire Racing Hub. The undergraduates will join delegates from Britain’s veterinary schools and equine colleges. All six are considering careers in scientific research and will use the opportunity to learn more about the mentoring available to postgraduate students and junior scientists.

Conference bound: BSc undergraduates Amy Porter, Charlotte Woolley, Marie Gellion and Jess Irving

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Young bakers’ cakes are fit for a Queen Budding bakers from across the region were crowned winners in a hotly contested schools challenge laid down by our food department. Reaseheath’s Year 9 Schools Bake Off Competition attracted 120 entries from 45 schools in five counties and culminated in a grand finale in our specialist Food Centre. Contestants had to bake a cake or pastry with a royal

theme. The judging panel of professional chef Brian Mellor, Cheshire WI judge Mary Hignett and Peter Wright, Chairman of sponsors the Wrights Pies Food Group, were looking for originality, presentation and taste. Our food technologists selected the finalists after visiting schools throughout Cheshire, Staffordshire,

Burgers get top marks for taste

Level 1 students Sam Owen, Adam Timmis and Stephen Cook sample the burgers

Innovative burgers made by food technology students won bronze awards in the first round of the EBLEX ‘England’s Best Burger Challenge’ Recipes for our chilli beef and minted lamb burgers were designed by Level 3 Diploma in Food Technology and Management students as part of their studies in meat science. The burgers were made by Foundation Level 1 Food Preparation and Cooking students. EBLEX represents the beef and lamb industry in England and runs the prestigious competition biannually as part of its campaign to boost quality and innovation. The contest is open to any catering or butchery establishment and attracted

record entries. The students had to follow specific guidelines and strict control measures and the burgers were tested in raw and cooked form. Butchery lecturer Doug Ewen said: “This was a fantastic result for the students as there is no guarantee that you will receive any award, especially on the first attempt. It was an excellent achievement which the student can add to their CVs.” We are launching a Level 2 Diploma in Professional Butchery course, aimed at school leavers, in September. More details: www. reaseheath.ac.uk/subjects/ food/level-2-diploma-inprofessional-butchery

Manchester, Wirral and mid Wales to view and taste the cakes and to test the knowledge of the young bakers. Overall winner was Charlotte Parton, 13, from the Grove School, Market Drayton, who won a £100 cash prize plus two iPads for her school. Styled on the hit TV programme ‘The Great British Bake-Off’, our competition

Winner Charlotte Parton with her entry ‘Fit for a Queen’

was so popular that we plan to repeat it next year, this time with a savoury meat theme.

Food students impress with tasty children’s meals

Stephanie Bacon, Jenna Cree (Greencore New Product Development Manager), Kim Capstick (Greencore New Product Development Controller) and Kris Woods (Greencore Innovation Chef) join food technology students who have developed children’s ready meals

Food technology undergraduates impressed industry experts by developing a range of tasty and healthy children’s meals for the supermarket shelf. The Foundation Degree in Food Industry with Management students were tasked with developing chilled ready meals suitable for a new Tesco range. They had to follow a complex brief following strict retail industry standards including research into nutrition, portion sizes, costing and package design, then prepare their dish. The final step was a product presentation before a judging panel headed by Tesco Product Development Manager Stephanie Bacon and new product developers from the Greencore Group, which produces and supplies

ready meals for the retailer. Dishes which particularly impressed the judges included a chicken dinner made by Dina Silva, a sausage and baked bean casserole produced by Alex Mangnall and a chicken curry from Nazreen Dwada. Said Stephanie Bacon: “We were very impressed by the thought and effort which the students put into this project. The overall standard of the products was excellent and every student produced a meal which was healthy and flavourful.” The students researched and prepared their products in the industry standard food halls which are part of our £7.3 million Food Centre, one of the best equipped food processing teaching and practical facilities in Europe.

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Young entrepreneurs impress with their business idea Future business leaders from Reaseheath won an amazing four awards in this year’s Young Enterprise competition with their quirky idea to recycle glass bottles by turning them into household items. Aptly named ‘New Generation’, the Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies students attracted praise for their idea of converting used glass bottles into candle holders, flower vases, pen pots and sweet holders. They won

awards for the best overall company and for the best trade stand in the Cheshire East leg of the competition and went on to collect two more for innovation and creativity at county stage. The team organised a display, prepared a presentation and took sales orders from staff and students, families, friends and local outlets to prove that their business was financially viable. Said Managing Director Shannon Tew: “The competition was very exciting and we

New Generation members Victor Parker, Sammy Clare, Shannon Tew, Chris Davidson, Jess Wareham, Ty Clynes and Luke Rimmer with their winning stand.

learned a lot about running a real business. The judges gave us some really good tips.” Business Studies lecturer Julie Boulton added: “I’m very proud of the way the team worked together to come up with an attractive product and produce a business plan. Their presentation was excellent and

they did really well to get as far as they did.” The annual Young Enterprise competition encourages business talent in young people. Our business students regularly take part in competitions, visit companies and go on study tours to increase their industry and commercial experience.

Students are bowled Financial tips for over by cricket visit students Students from our Foundation Degree in Rural Events Management and Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business Studies were bowled over by a behind-the-scenes tour of Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC). Guided by Peter Ash, General Manager for Conferencing and Events, our group visited ‘The Point’, LCCC’s £12 million conference and event suite. ‘The Point’ can accommodate 1,000 guests and has been the location for high profile events such as Sir Alex Ferguson’s 25th year anniversary as

manager of Manchester United. Our students viewed hotel rooms, conferencing facilities and corporate boxes and looked at the media and security operations. They were also treated to a tour of the players’ facilities. One student, Sam Thurlow, so impressed LCCC staff with his enthusiasm that he was invited to apply to work for the club. He said: “It’s brilliant to think my interest in the club might lead to a job there. What a great trip!”

Rural event management students enjoy a day at LCCC

Our ‘Built for Business’ winners celebrate with Cerys Jones

Our students received top tips from Barclays bank managers and other financial experts during Barclays Money Skills Week, a money management programme aimed at increasing our students’ knowledge and confidence in managing money. All Further Education students had the opportunity to take part in activities ranging from putting together a business plan to learning how to protect their personal finances. The activities were supported by ‘College Champions’ from our Business Studies courses, who helped to run peer learning sessions about budgeting, savings and independent living.

‘Built for Business’ workshops, in which teams had to develop a product, service or social enterprise with a £10K budget, attracted 25 groups from all courses. Winners were Level 2 Diploma in Horticulture students Mark Samadram, Thomas Read, Michael Smith and Jess Collier with their exciting idea for urban community gardens. They suggested involving deprived communities in projects to regenerate allotments and gardens where fruit, vegetables and garden plants could be grown sustainably. Their business plan could be selected for the national finals.

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Life behind bars Our public services students found out about the harsh realities of prison life during a day of insightful workshops with national educational charity ‘The No Way Trust’. The Trust's raises awareness among young people about the causes, consequences and penalties of crime and the effects of antisocial behaviour. Its work is of particularl interest to our students as some are considering careers in the police or armed forces. Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Public Services students heard presentations from National Co-ordinator Malc Parkes, a former prison officer, and from ex offender ‘Matthew’ and took part in some lively discussions. Said Malc: “We set out to dispel the myth that prison life

Malc Parkes and ‘Matthew’ chat to students Kaleisha Emmens, Chris Powell, Luke Stringer and Georgia Barrs.

is easy and hopefully to stop young people getting into prison. We also need to show them that crime is not always related to gang culture, drugs and guns. Anyone can go to prison if they break the law. “We’ve also used the opportunity to explain how the prison service works, what jobs are available and what they entail. The students were very interested, particularly in Matthew’s story, and asked a lot of relevant questions.”

Flowers make for success Talented florist Natalie Stanyer, who represented Reaseheath at the WorldSkills competition in Japan, is growing her own floristry business. Natalie’s Florist in Newcastle is earning a reputation for its international designs and wedding arrangements. Natalie, now aged 28, has become so successful that she and her business partner employ a third full time florist plus floristry apprentice Chloe Elkin. Chloe, 23, attends Reasheath one day a week and spends the rest of her

RHS students celebrate success

RHS students celebrate their success

Around 100 part-time horticulture students who gained Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) qualifications with us this year have celebrated their achievements. The students include professional horticulturists who want to further their careers, career changers and keen leisure gardeners. Reaseheath is an RHS training and examination centre and offers separate theory and practical qualifications at both Level 2 and Level 3. Once both theory and practical qualifications are achieved,

these awards convert into a well respected RHS Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture. We offer the Level 2 and Level 3 theory qualifications as a day or evening course while the practical courses are day-time only. The RHS Level 2 practical course, in particular, has had such an enthusiastic response that it is offered on two days a week to a total of 38 students. For further details on Reaseheath’s RHS courses email suepa@reaseheath.ac.uk

Reaseheath Flowers …..for wedding and events

Floristry apprentice Chloe Elkin

time working for Natalie, helping to make designs for weddings and special events. Natalie competed at the WorldSkills competiton in 2007, when she was fourth in this international showcase of the vocational skills of young people. See www.nataliesflorist.co.uk

Our team of highly qualified and professional florists will work with you to create stunning floral designs for your special occasion, ensuring you receive the best quality product and service. Contact us for a friendly consultation on 01270 613185 or email suep@reaseheath.ac.uk

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Talented James is Apprentice of the Month Talented Crewe Alexandra Under 18s captain James Jones was selected as apprentice of the month in a national competition ‘The 11’ run by the Football Education (LFE). James, who studies at Reaseheath as part of his apprenticeship, was chosen over entrants from clubs nationwide because of the excellent progress he has made in both his sport and academic studies and for making a positive contribution to his club. He

will be one of 11 football apprentices to go through to the national final. James was put forward after impressing Reaseheath Lecturers in Sports Performance Nina Ross and Louise Finney, Head of Education at Crewe Alex Dave Whiteside and regional officer for the LFE Keith Leighton. Apart from captaining the Under 18s, James has played fixtures for Crewe Alex’s Under 21 reserves. He also coaches the under

Sport Roundup

in good performances. Our men’s basketball team was rewarded with a mid-table finish after winning several matches and our netball team has recorded improved results in its matches. We have also moved into indoor cricket, finishing a close second in a regional tournament at Salford City College. We hope the team takes its good form into the outdoor season. Our students have tried out many other sports including zumba, rush hockey, touch rugby and badminton. Our new gym offers a wide range of high spec equipment. In addition to providing a great teaching facility, the gym is open to all students and staff.

Our women’s football team concluded a great season by finishing third in the British Colleges Sport (BCS) North West League. Hopefully this success will continue, as we have some very talented players. The team also played in four local tournaments organised by Cheshire FA, winning three and finishing runners up in one. Both our men’s first and second football teams have faced very strong opposition but have scored good results and are concentrating on building up for next year. Our men’s rugby team has also faced very competitive teams but has put

Talented – Reaseheath’s Ladies Football Team

Promising Crewe Alex apprentice James Jones with lecturer Nina Ross

12 and under10 age groups at the Crewe Alex Football Academy. He is also a triple distinction student at Reaseheath, where he and fellow apprentice study for one and a half days each week. James said: “This competition reflects well on me and the club, and

particularly on the education the apprentices get.” Nina added: “We selected James because his general conduct and attitude is outstanding in both his academic work and in his football training. And he’s proved through his coaching that he’s willing to put himself out for the sport.”

New strip for Crewe Ladies

Reaseheath-sponsored strip for Crewe Ladies Football Team

Crewe Alexandra Ladies under 18s football team are over the blue moon with their new kit, which is sponsored by Reaseheath. The stylish new blue strip proved lucky straight away for the talented teenagers, who scored a 9-1 success at the expense of Frodsham Juniors shortly after taking delivery.

A team spokesperson said: “All the team members were delighted with the new strip and we’re really grateful to Reaseheath for their sponsorship.” Crewe Alex Ladies are always on the lookout for new talent and several of our Sports Performance students have trialled for the team.

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Harry helps Cheshire school get full marks for gardening Chancellor George Osborne has given full marks to a Cheshire school mentored by Reaseheath’s Master of Horticulture Harry Delaney. The Chancellor visited Comberbach Primary School in Northwich to help pupils and staff celebrate their Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Level 5 Top School Gardening Award. The accolade has been achieved by just 16 schools in the north west and is awarded to outstanding gardening projects which are used for teaching and

learning and involve pupils, staff and the community. Comberbach Primary School has a flourishing kitchen garden and pupils grow fruit and vegetables for their school dinners. Mr Osborne, who has the school in his constituency, watched as RHS North West Regional Schools Advisor Anne Gunning handed over the award to Garden Project Leader Babirye Gregory. Babirye is a former RHS student at Reaseheath and Harry Delaney advises on the project. After harvesting rhubarb

Young gardeners get the plot Pupils from Watermill School in Stoke-on-Trent have been learning horticultural skills as part of our Vocational Opportunities Programme for 14 to 16 year-olds. We have worked in partnership with Watermill, which caters for pupils with needs related to cognition and learning, for around six years. It is always a pleasure to welcome these pupils on site, as they respond so positively to learning practical skills out of doors. Many successfully gain their City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills and some progress onto our Foundation programmes. Said Reaseheath’s Pre-16 Learning Manager Graham Morgan: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in their final two years at school

Harry Delaney, Chancellor George Osborne, Babirye Gregory and Anne Gunning join pupils Euan Hargraves, Logan Crowley and Katie Shepherd in the school garden

and tasting home-made crumble Mr Osborne said: “It’s wonderful seeing this brilliant introduction to gardening. This is a great initiative from the RHS which has been led very successfully by Babirye Gregory with support from Reaseheath College.” The project is part of the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, which aims to

draw young people into horticulture. Commented Harry: “Gardening sessions at school inspired me to take up horticulture but this part of the curriculum has gradually disappeared. It’s really encouraging to see this vital educational link restored between pupils, the soil and cropping plants.”

Zoo prize for Bury pupils

Watermill School puils help out in our demonstration vegetable garden

to receive a practical, workrelated experience as part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum. It’s an opportunity for them to do something different from the subjects they are offered at school and to benefit from the facilities and expertise which Reaseheath can offer.’’ Over 300 school pupils study at Reaseheath on a weekly basis on our Vocational Opportunities Programme. They can choose to study horse care, horticulture, agriculture, construction, motor vehicle, animal care, food studies or adventure sports while continuing to study for conventional GCSEs.

Lucy Tyrer and friends meet Milky Eagle owl ‘Nzito’ and bird of prey keeper Mitch Doyle

Budding scientists from Bury Church of England High School saw their lessons come to life during a behind-the-scenes visit to our zoo. Twelve pupils from Years 9 and 10 helped to feed ring tailed lemurs and meerkats and flew birds of prey during their action packed trip. Lucy Tyrer, 15, won the chance to join our zoo keepers at The Big Bang Fair, an event aimed at encouraging young scientists and engineers. Lucy was accompanied by 11 fellow pupils, all of whom had achieved CREST (Creative

Science and Technology) awards. Hoping to become a vet, Lucy said: “This was a really good experience. All the colleges near us are in towns so being out in the country and meeting all the animals was amazing.” Chemistry teacher Amy Jackson said: “Our pupils, particularly girls, are become more interested in science. This was a great opportunity to spend time outside doing practical activities. The facilities here are stunning. The whole group had a really good learning experience.”

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International recognition for Food Centre Reaseheath’s Food Centre has become the first and only educational institution in Britain to achieve an internationally recognised British Retail Consortium (BRC) certification. The Food Centre has been awarded BRC certification at Grade A, the highest possible quality mark within the food industry’s global standard for food safety. The certification was approved after an audit showed that food manufacturing systems were operating under highly controlled conditions and to the highest industry

standards. Areas inspected included hygiene procedures, cleanliness, food safety controls, quality systems and the traceability of ingredients. The accolade is particularly prestigious as many food businesses strive for, but never achieve, the elusive certification. The successful bid was led by Technical Manager Katharina Vogt. Food Centre Head ToniAnne Harrison said: “This was a tremendous achievement, gained through hard work and dedication and by an understanding of how procedures and practices

Tesco team gets a training taster

Reaseheath Food Technologists Jane Gilman, Andrea Winkler, Laura Broome and Penny Masters and Technical Manager Katharina Vogt (centre) show off their BRC accreditation

underpin everything that we do. “I am extremely proud to head up such a fantastic team, where individuals from both the commercial and educational worlds work so tirelessly together to move the department forwards. Our students are fully immersed in industry standards and practices, and understand the value that is placed on ensuring these standards are both maintained and continuously moved forwards. “Gaining the BRC will create

enormous opportunities for our students. It will also further strengthen Reaseheath’s reputation for being at the forefront of teaching and learning within the food sector.” See www. reaseheathfoodcentre. com or contact (training enquiries) Julie Bent julieb@reaseheath.ac.uk or (commercial enquiries) Katherine Tunnicliffe katherinet@reaseheath. ac.uk

About Rada Taste time: the Tesco team sample their yoghurt

A technical and development team from Tesco’s dairy category received a practical overview of production processes during a bespoke training event. The team of five from Tesco’s head office in Hertfordshire spent two days receiving theory and hands-on training in our Food Centre’s processing halls. They also used our conference facilities for team building. Category Technical Manager for Dairy Claire Lindsay, Product Development Manager Amanda Sankey, Cheese Technologist Anne-Sophie Stutzinger, graduate Food Technologist Thea Lawson and Technical Administrator Sue Featley work together with suppliers to develop products and check food standards.

The training allowed the team to gain knowledge and develop practical production skills, culminating in the manufacture of yoghurt. Said Claire: “Reaseheath has a great deal to offer, particularly on the production side. The ‘hands-on’ training has been very useful because we have been able to see the whole process. This has allowed us to appreciate the bigger picture and will enable us to work more closely with our suppliers and help us solve issues together.” Reaseheath runs specialised and bespoke training days for blue chip companies including Kraft Foods, Tetra Pak and Arla Foods.

The aim of Reaseheath’s Agricultural Development Academy (RADA) is to improve the profitability and efficiency of farms in North West England 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 the training and advice which the farming community needs in order to be profitable and sustainable. This includes providing support on managing businesses, technical farming

issues and environmental matters. Its experts also inform the rural sector and its policy developers. RADA runs a FREE programme of events including talks from specialists, animal health demonstrations and Cattle AI courses. It also manages the John Platt Travel Scholarship, which enables young people employed in Cheshire’s agricultural or related industries to widen their horizons through travel. Further details: email lesleyi@reaseheath.ac.uk

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Reaseheath student to join USA horse breeding project Equine undergraduate Charlotte Woolley has won a prestigious internship at the world’s leading equine breeding and research centre. Charlotte, 21, who is in the final year of her BSc Hons Equine Science degree, will spend this summer working and studying at the Virginia Tech State University, USA. The university specialises in breeding and producing top quality sports horses. Charlotte

will be trained in veterinary techniques and will help with research into nutrition, reproduction and parasitology. She will also help to prepare youngstock for the show ring. The three month internship is offered through the British Equestrian Federation and is open to all veterinary related institutions in Britain. Charlotte was judged to be the top candidate after writing a 3000 word paper on equine obesity

Career chat inspires

Simon Maddock and Luke Harding with the joint chairs of RHES Josh Flood and Nathan Brookes-Bennett

Former animal management students Luke Harding and Simon Maddock described their adventures with some of the world’s rarest reptiles and amphibians when they talked to our Herpetological and Entomological Society (RHES). Luke, 25, and Simon, 24, have gone on to become specialist herpetologists since completing their Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management in 2007. Working closely with London Zoo, Luke has been involved in a project to reinstate an endangered species of frog to the islands of Montserrat and Dominica in the Caribbean. Called the ‘Mountain Chicken’, the frog used to be Dominica’s national dish. Frog populations on both islands have been hit by disease, illegal hunting and habitat loss. Scientists are trying

to save the species through a captive breeding programme and by raising its profile locally. After studying at Reaseheath, Luke completed an internship at Chester Zoo and then worked as a herpetologist for Marwell Wildlife and at Colchester Zoo. He has also taken part in a research project on Komodo dragons in Indonesia. Equally well travelled, Simon has been involved in research projects in India, Ecuador Papua New Guinea and the Seychelles. He is currently based at the Natural History Museum in London, where he is researching for a joint PhD on the evolution and conservation of amphibians and snakes in the Seychelles in collaboration with the University College London. On leaving Reaseheath Simon gained a degree and Masters degree in zoology.

and discussing its welfare implications. Aiming to be a veterinary research scientist, she says: “This is a very exciting opportunity and perfect preparation for my future career. I enjoy learning and my ambition is to have a job that is continually challenging and mentally stimulating. My passion is research - it genuinely fascinates me. “This internship will build

Wheely good future ahead for Tom Foundation Degree in Adventure Sports and Management undergraduate Tom Woodington is off to America this summer to be an instructor at a summer camp. Tom has been busy polishing up his mountain biking and leadership skills in preparation for a nine week placement at Island Lake Summer Camp in Pennsylvania. As well as being a mountain bike instructor, Tom will be a camp counsellor. A skilled mountain bike racer, Tom, 18, plans to become a professional instructor and

Off to Virginia Tech – Charlotte Woolley

on both my academic and practical skills and broaden my horizons in terms of my current knowledge of the equine industry. I know that it will be a truly life changing experience.” eventually run his own training company. He’s currently studying for his National Governing Body Leadership Award and has gained health and safety qualifications in addition to his degree. Although he’s not been to America before, Tom has joined fellow students on residential trips to Scotland and Snowdonia, where he’s been introduced to hill walking and scrambling, and he’s also tried sailing. A first year student, Tom says, “I’m really looking forward to putting the skills and experience I’ve gained at Reaseheath into practice.” Tom’s placement is with CCUSA, an international work adventure specialist.

Off to the USA – Tom Woodington

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Data collection in Peru Animal management undergraduates helped survey wildlife in the most biodiverse place on earth when they visited Peru. Twenty-three students who are on degrees in Wildlife Conservation and Ecology, Animal Management or Animal Behaviour and Welfare spent 16 days in Cusco, Manu National Park and Manu Learning Centre in the rainforest. Apart from surveying

the wildlife, our students processed biometric data, helped researchers to collect ecological data and assisted on a pilot study of woolly monkey feeding behaviour. Manu has many and diverse species and our students had the opportunity to gaining unique skills which will be invaluable in their future careers. Trip highlights included seeing woolly, titi and night monkeys and experiencing the rainforest.

European excellence for engineers

Agricultural engineering at CLAAS headquarters

Agricultural engineering’s annual study tour to European manufacturing centres of excellence gave students a valuable chance to go ‘behind the scenes’. Thirty one students visited agricultural machinery related organisations in Holland and Germany and learned more about manufacturing processes, the second hand tractor market and some of the history of agricultural machinery. This popular tour included its regular visit to Koop van der Wal, a world wide Dutch agricultural machinery importer and exporter. As usual, our students were welcomed into the workshops and parts

department and talked to the mechanics and technicians. They also spent a day at the Museum voor Nostalgie en Techniek, a privately owned collection of agricultural machinery. The group then moved on to Germany where they were privileged to tour the production line at the global headquarters of CLAAS and meet designers and craftspeople. The students enjoyed a demonstration of CLAAS equipment accompanied by an explanation of the features of each machine. The group also visited Kemper Headers, a manufacturer of crop cutting headers for forage harvesting machinery.

Undergraduates on our visit trip to Peru

The project is run by the CREES foundation and aims to encourage sustainability in the Amazon. It involves multiple universities throughout the

world. Now links have been made we will hopefully be able to offer students annual opportunities for data collection and other projects.

International links are key to study tour Reaseheath’s international links within the food industry ensured Level 3 Diploma Food Technology and Management students enjoyed top hospitality during a trip to Denmark and Sweden. Our students’ ten day tour included visits to the Swedish headquarters of Tetra Pak, a leading food packaging and processing company, and to two factories and the Danish headquarters of dairy food producer Arla. Both companies use our Food Centre for staff training and product development and were delighted to show our students round their facilities. At Tetra Pak our group toured a factory which produces food

manufacturing equipment. At Arla’s first factory they gained an overview of hard cheese production, from milk intake to final product and packaging, and also caught up with Michal Brzysk, an Eden student at Reaseheath. The second Arla factory visit concentrated on the manufacture of mozzarella cheese and included a talk on lean manufacturing. Eden student Jess Davies, who works at the plant, met up with the group. Our students also visited Kold College, which has close links with Reaseheath. The trip was sponsored by long time supporter Bernard Lloyd of Central Catering Ltd.

Food students visit Arla’s headquarters in Aarhus, Denmark

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RAG Rules! Student life is not all about work and academic progress. Supporting and raising funds for local charities is a big part of the Reaseheath Experience and many students get involved in social events and charity fund raising. This year our students chose St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice as their charity and raised a magnificent £900 during RAG (raising and giving) Week alone. Our Students Association worked hard to organise 35 events, giving students a real focus as well as the opportunity to have fun!

fancy dress, doing the conga and in wheelbarrows and quite a few dogs joined in with their owners. Around 80 people took part, completing a total of 150 miles and raising £102.65, divided between Sport Relief and RAG.

Tractor Pull One of RAG’s most successful and well known activities, with even Principal Meredydd David joining in. Teams from many departments battled it out to see who could pull a tractor the furthest along on a set track.

Animal management staff and their furry friends prepare for Sport Relief mile

supermarkets and the annual Three Peaks Challenge by students and staff from our construction department. A big Thank You to the Students Association for raising a huge £1,908 for RAG over our lambing weekends through

face painting, car washing and car parking duties. And to our motor vehicle department for raising £52 by running winter car checks. And to the many other departments who are busy raising funds.

New life saving kits for campus

Our mascots and students line up for Sport Relief Mark King hands over a defibrillator to Chaplain Drew Walker, watched by Student Welfare Officers Amanda Pointon and Carys Jones

Here is a snapshot of the activities.

Sport Relief Mile Students and staff donned their running shoes to run one, three or six miles around campus. There were entries in

Staff Versus Student Football An eagerly anticipated event on the RAG calendar, this year saw the student team carrying off an impressive 10-4 victory. Last year the match ended in a 2-2 draw, with staff claiming victory after a penalty shootout, so the students’revenge was particularly sweet.

Rag Ball The biggest event of the week, this year’s theme was Casino and the student bar was decorated with a James Bond theme. A band and a DJ provided entertainment, resulting in this being the most successful RAG Ball ever!

In the Pipeline It’s heave-ho in the tractor pull

A raft race on the college lake, bag packing at local

Reaseheath has become the first college to purchase defibrillators from The Oliver King Foundation. Eight of the potentially life saving kits have been placed around campus and will be used to give essential first aid in the ‘golden’ four minutes following a cardiac arrest. Thirty-eight staff members are trained to use them and many more will undergo training. The Oliver King Foundation was set up in memory of a 12 year old who died from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS), which causes sudden death in apparently healthy young people. Nineteen youngsters a week are lost through the condition. We raised over £10,000 for

The Oliver King Foundation when it was our RAG charity in 2012. The foundation aims to put defibrillators in community areas, colleges and schools, throughout the north west and then nationally. Our Chaplain, Drew Walker, oversaw the project and invited Oliver’s dad Mark King, the charity’s founder, to hand over the equipment personally. Drew said: “Having the defibrillators readily available on campus will help us in our efforts to provide a completely safe environment for our students, staff and visitors. We’ve already had lots of positive feedback from our involvement with the scheme.”

www.reaseheath.ac.uk

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The future is bright for Reaseheath students

Reaseheath at a glance

Reports on what our Further Education students do after completing their studies paint a very positive picture. Current data reveals: • 90% of FE students who gained their qualifications in July 2013 are now either in employment or education • 100% of Entry and 83% of Level 1 students progressed onto another course • 70% of Level 2 students moved onto another course and 23% gained employment • 42% of Level 3 students became employed, 25% progressed onto degrees and 22% moved onto another Level 3 programme • 96% of FE students were satisfied with their course and experience

Further and Higher Education

SUBJECT AREAS - Adventure Sports - Agriculture - Animal Management - Business and IT - Construction - Countryside and Conservation - Engineering - Entry and Foundation Programme - Equine - Floristry - Horticulture - Food Technology - Greenkeeping and Sports Turf - Motor Vehicle - Public Services

The future is bright for Reaseheath students

Progression reports for our Higher Education (degree) students and our apprentices are also very positive. These facts demonstrate that

Get connected join Reaseheath Alumni We hope that our new Alumni Association will encourage former students to keep in touch so we can report on their progress and offer career support and guidance if required. A growing community of former students, graduates, staff and friends have been contacting us to tell us what they’ve been up to and where they are now. Our Alumni Officer, Katie Burt, has been catching up with former students and 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.

- Dairy Champion National Skills Academy for Food and Drink

Alumni Officer Katie Burt

You can help celebrate the launch of Reaseheath Alumni by joining us at the Cheshire Show on June 17 and 18. Come and see Katie on stand R1 and tell us how Reaseheath changed your life! Find out more by visiting www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ about-us/alumni or contact Katie at alumni@reaseheath. ac.uk / 01270 613219

we are achieving on of our key goals: to equip our students with the skills, knowledge and understanding that they need to have a successful future.

National Training Contracts Horticulture and Countryside - National Trust

- Sports Performance and Excellence

ASSOCIATE COLLEGE OF

TOTAL STUDENTS Further Education (full-time/part-time): 2,500 Higher Education (degrees): 710 Apprenticeships and work based learning: 700

ESTATE

Agricultural Engineering - Construction Plant

College grounds: 21 hectares

Mechanics (Construction Skills) - Case IH / New Holland - CLAAS UK - A-Plant - JCB Construction - JCB Landpower - Bombardier

Land leased to Crewe Alexandra Football Club: 6 hectares

Food Centre - Tetrapak International Dairy Trades Federation (Eden programme) - Arla Foods - Dairy Crest - First Milk - Milk Link - Muller Dairies - Robert Wiseman Dairies - Cotteswold Dairy - Rodda’s Creamery

Owned and rented farm land: 330 hectares

TURNOVER Academic year 2012/13: £26.4 million

FACILITIES On-site accommodation for 705; 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.

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

Lambs herald Spring at Reaseheath Hundreds of families flocked to Reaseheath for our two lambing weekends. Visitors were able to meet the newborns and some were lucky enough to experience a live birth. Our campus zoo was also open to the public. Reaseheath’s lambing weekends have been a community highlight for over 20 years. We have a commercial flock of 500 sheep which produce 1,100 lambs over a three week period. As well as meeting the new families, visitors watched a screen showing highlights and saw demonstrations of the special skills required during delivery and aftercare.

A spiky newborn with attitude has been wowing visitors to our college zoo. The baby porcupine, known as a ‘porcupette’, was born in March to one of our three female porcupines. The youngster, a male, has quickly become independent and is showing his rather grumpy character! The porcupette is on display in the zoo’s courtyard enclosure, along with his mother, grandmother and other family members. Other newborn zoo animals include a pancake tortoise and a muntjac faun named

Come and see us May 2014 24 – 1 June Zoo open 25 Cheshire Young Farmers Rally 25 – 26 Farm Feast at Claremont Farm, Wirral 26 – 30 Cheshire Science Festival 28 – 29 Staffordshire Show

June 2014

Hannah Roach (centre) and friends Ellie and Hannah Horsley make new friends at the lambing event

There were also plenty of activities at our zoo. All our animals were on show and there were children’s arts and craft sessions and other fun activities along with educational

talks by Reaseheath zoo keepers. Visitors also got the chance to reduce their carbon footprint by joining the Pole to Pole campaign.

Spiky newborn makes appearance

The porcupette enjoys a snack with his mother.

Diary Dates...

Marius. A two year-old male Asian Small Clawed Otter called Wonga has also joined our collection from a visitor attraction in Devon. The newcomer is settling in well with female otter ‘Ying’ and can be seen in the otter enclosure. Our animal collection also includes meerkats, spider monkeys, ring tailed lemurs, a serval cat, birds of prey and many reptiles, amphibians, fish and companion animals. After touring the enclosures and joining in educational activities, families can help us by filling in a visitor survey which

could influence future plans for our zoo. The survey was created by Foundation Degree in Zoo Management students during a workshop with Cassandra Murray, Evaluation Co-ordinator form the Zoological Society of London. Reaseheath Zoo is open to the public during school holidays. Our Jungle themed maize maze is open for the summer too. More details visit www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ jungle

8 Open Farm Sunday at Reaseheath 12 – 15 Bolesworth International Showjumping 14 Great summer garden event Sansaw Hall, Shrewsbury 17 – 18 Cheshire Show 26 – 27 Reaseheath FE Awards 28 Comberbach Rose Fete

July 2014 2–3 Livestock Event NEC 5–6 Weaver Wander Charity Classic and Sports Car event 8 Big Bang Fair NW for young scientists and engineers, Liverpool 12 Newport Show 19 Reaseheath maze opens 21 – 24 Royal Welsh Show 23 – 27 RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 26 Zoo opens 30 Nantwich Show

August 2014 3 Cheshire Game and Angling Fair, Peover 12 – 13 Anglesey Show 15 HE Clearing 21 Denbigh and Flintshire Show 22 FE Clearing 27 Jungle Book on the lawn Chapterhouse Theatre Company 01522 569 222.

September 2014 5–7 Nantwich Food and Drink Festival 17 UK Dairy Day 18 – 19 Derbyshire Skills Festival 20 – 21 Midlands Game Fair 24 Derbyshire Skills Festival, Buxton 24 Cheshire Ploughing Match 26 HE graduation, Nantwich

October 2014 8 – 12 Horse of the Year Show

November 2014 8–9 Your Horse Live

December 2014 Welcome to our maze this summer

6,7,13,14,20,21 Zoo opens

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