Motivational speakers form just one facet of Newbury College's student enrichment programme and last week, students on higher education and Level 3 programmes had the opportunity to meet Penny Mallory.
Penny became the first woman in the world to compete in World Rally Car. With over 20 years' experience in sporting and business success, Penny shared her unusual, yet inspiring story. Penny has coached elite athletes and is also an accomplished keynote speaker, event host and TV presenter. She is the perfect embodiment of what can be achieved with will, determination, focus and commitment.
Course leader, Julian Bellmont, said: Penny was an inspiration to my students ' some of whom could relate to her story. It made them realise that there are no boundaries to what they can do. We feel privileged that Penny visited us three times in one week to reach a variety of students and are very grateful to her for giving up her time.
BBC Breakfast's sports presenter, Mike Bushell, was guest of honour last night at Newbury College's graduation and award ceremony. The event celebrated the achievements of students completing higher education courses (level 4 and above) and rewarded some of its exceptional further education students.
Students were invited on stage to accept their certificates and awards from Mike Bushell and Newbury College Principal and Chief Executive, Anne Murdoch and representatives from many local organisations who helped sponsor the event.
Our event enables students to celebrate their successes and achievements with their family and friends and each year we invite a special guest speaker, explains Anne.
Mike spoke about his career and how he got started in journalism, he also explained how the educational experience can be enhanced by trying a range of different activities and how this can often open up new career avenues and possibilities. He also talked about how sport and education go hand and hand, highlighting that it's never too late to try something new.
Other guests in attendance included Ellen Crumly, Town Mayor of Thatcham, Quinten Webb, Chair of West Berkshire Council, Shaun Wood, Hungerford Town Council, and members of Newbury College's governing body.
Sponsoring companies included: AWE, Bluebird Care, Busy Bees, Conservatree, Corn Exchange Newbury, David Lloyd Clubs, Heart, Hitachi Capital, IED, Jewson, M&B Hair & Beauty Supplies, Midguard, MWS Media, Parkway, Resonates, Salon Services, The Castle School, The Living Rainforest, The Vineyard and West Berkshire Council.
Click here to view the photographs from the event.
On Saturday 19 November, Newbury College played host to Thatcham Rotary's Young Chef Competition.
This national competition is open to young people aged 17 years and under. Contestants must create a healthy meal for two people for no more than £15. Everyone who takes part has the opportunity to experience what it's like working in a commercial kitchen. As part of their entry, contestants must also be able to show the judges their work sheets and costings. The winners of each of the regional heats are put through to a national final.
The winner was Harry Hutchins from Trinity School.
Commenting on the standard of the entries, judge and Newbury College catering tutor, Malcolm Baggott, said: The contestants used some advanced skills to produce their menus, including the filleting of fish and removing meat from the bone, and under the tight time constraints of the competition, this was an impressive achievement. The food was presented to a professional standard and it was very apparent that the contestants had plenty of practise beforehand.
Sheila Ellison, Thatcham Rotary, said: We are very grateful to Newbury College for once again hosting our competition and for giving the entrants a taste of what it's like to be a professional caterer. It was clear that all those taking part (including their families) enjoyed the experience thoroughly.
Newbury College HNC students, George Collins and Christopher Prozzo, have both been awarded the Institute of Engineering Designers (IED) annual student award for their final year projects.