The competition was organised by Cherrelle Parnell, College Sport Maker for BCoT and QMC and Sally Lewis from Basingstoke Sports Centre.  It was sponsored by Cllr Dan Putty JP.  Cherrelle said:

"The competition was really all about taking part and having fun, but we were all really impressed with the levels of talent on display, and there was certainly a will to win!" We now hope to run this as an annual event to encourage young people of all abilities to have a go at badminton and encourage them to take part in sport."

After the initial group stages, competitors were divided up into two groups; one to win a cup, the other to win a plate. All participants received a sports rucksack, water bottle and free No Strings Badminton Session voucher to use at Basingstoke Sports Centre.

Results were:

Plate:

1st Place- Andre Coelho (BCoT)

2nd Place - Jack Price (BCoT)

3rd Place - Jack Mason (BCoT)

Cup:

1st Place - Sam Kearsley (QMC)

2nd Place - Jack Reeder (QMC)

3rd Place - Ashish Senchury (BCoT)

Cherrelle said:  "I'd like to say a huge well done to all the competitors who took part - it was great to see so much enthusiasm for the sport and these young people really were great ambassadors for the colleges they were representing.  I was very proud of them."

The College purchased the empty property, a stone's throw from the rear of the College, two years ago and put into motion plans to restore the building to its former glory. 

Over 500 learners from the College's Construction department, supervised by their lecturers, have spent two years renovating the property.  This involved stripping it back to basics and transforming it into a modern family home whist retaining the building's Victorian charm and character.  

Head of the Construction Department, Alan Dilly, said: 

 "It's been great to give learners across all of our building trade courses a real, live project to work on. Everyone involved is really excited about the final result - they should be very proud of the exceptional high-quality work produced here.

 "May Street has also given learners a history lesson in building  as they have worked on things like the Victorian staircase, walls twice as thick as those in modern houses, original fireplaces and sash windows. It's an experience they wouldn't have got on a modern building site."

 Anthony Bravo praised the craftsmanship of the students' work saying: 

"This project has been an innovation for the College, and a wonderful opportunity for our learners to gain the skills and experience they need to enter the industry.  Whoever ends up  buying this property is very lucky indeed."

Dallas was unable to complete her GCSE's at school due to ill health, but was determined  that this setback would not stop her progressing into Further Education.  She enrolled on the Directions course at BCoT which she describes as "a great re-introduction to education."  Not only was she able to begin studying and achieving academically again, her confidence and social skills began to improve and her self-belief returned again.

At the end of her first year, Dallas' hard work and commitment paid off.   Although she did not have the complete list of required qualifications to enrol on the BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Applied Science, Programme Manager Ann Grant considered Dallas' case on an individual basis and decided to take a chance on her.

 "At this point, I really started to believe that things were going right for me.  The faith that Ann showed in me was humbling, and there was no way I was going to let her or myself down.  I quickly settled in, worked hard and made great friends.  I became involved in the BCoT Learner Parliament, represented the College as a student Ambassador and really threw myself into College life.  For the first time in ages, I felt like I belonged," says Dallas.

Unfortunately, at the end of the academic year Dallas fell ill again and was diagnosed with ME.  However, with the help of her tutors she was able to progress onto the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Forensic Science and is now on course to read Law at the University of Reading in September 2013.

"My whole BCoT journey has been amazing, if somewhat personally challenging at times.  I could not have done it without the support network which has surrounded me during the past four years.  Despite everything, I did not know what the outcome would be at times, but I can honestly say that I'm finally really proud of myself and what I've achieved.

I think it's very easy to become paralysed by fear and indecision when confronted with a difficult situation.  But I've always held onto my dream of going to university, and with the unwavering support of the BCoT team, my friends and family, this dream looks like it will finally become reality."

Pupils must be referred by their school for entry onto the VSPs and working towards GCSEs.  Once started, there are opportunities to progress onto the next level at the end of Year 11. Entry is by selection and interview, and pupils must have a good track record of attendance and behaviour.  They will come to college one day a week.

BCoT currently offers VSPs in a range of subjects, including: Automotive, Hair and Beauty, Construction, Childcare, Hospitality and Engineering. From September 2014 the College is also looking to offer programmes in Creative Media and Fashion.

VSPs give pupils a taste of what college life is like as well as focus and aspirations.

Here are the views of two current VSP students, and what they think of their BCoT experience:

Charlea Coughtrey, 16, Testbourne Community School

Light Vehicle Maintenance - Level 2 Diploma (VSP, one day a week)

"When we were given the option in year 9 to come to study at BCoT for one day a week, I thought why not! Most of my family are mechanics so it made sense for me to try it too. I've always had a passion for cars and really enjoy working on them.

It's great that I can actually do a college course in mechanics. I've learnt so much during my time at BCoT - looking at cars in much more depth, learning about different parts and how they work. I like the structure of the course - it's well planned out and the teachers stick to the plan. What you see is what you get! I found the exams a challenge but took extra time out and worked really hard to achieve the grades I wanted, and the teachers have been a good support. The next step for me is a Level 3 course at BCoT or perhaps an Apprenticeship. I'd say to anyone who is thinking of doing a VSP go for it! It's a chance to work in an area that you really enjoy."

Marcus Cook, 16, Cranbourne Business and Enterprise College

Engineering - BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma 

"I did a Young Apprenticeship in Performing Engineering Operations at BCoT for one day a week and enjoyed it so much that I decided to study Engineering full time once I'd finished school. I'd like to go to university after BCoT, so the Level 3 Extended Diploma was the perfect course for me. The teachers are really friendly and treat us like adults. Everyone on the course gets along; we all have shared interest in Engineering and work together when things are more challenging.

We went on a trip to Prague which was great, visiting a power plant and the Skoda factory. Studying as a Young Apprentices at BCoT gave me the foundation for studying Engineering full time. My passion for the subject has grown and now I want to continue my studies at university. I've found the course worthwhile and have learnt so much. I wouldn't change a thing!"

http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/10433589.BCoT_students_put_their_heads_together_to_solve_a_case_of_poisoning/

This article appeared in the Basingstoke Gazette on 25th May 2013.

Click on the link below and read some of the inspirational learner success stories as they appeared in today's Basingstoke Gazette ....

http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/10272860._Apprenticeships_work_for_us__/

As part of the qualification process, the BCoT for Business Apprenticeship Department had to undergo a rigorous assessment process conducted by experts working in the Creative Industries. Only apprenticeships that have the strongest links with industry and provide the highest quality mentoring and academic support are awarded the quality mark.

What does the Tick mean for BCoT?

The Creative Skillset Tick is a quality kite mark awarded only to apprenticeship programmes which most effectively prepare learners for a career in the Creative Industries. 

Apprenticeships awarded the Tick must prove they are keeping up with the rapid pace of creative change whilst apprentices benefit from using the latest technologies and having the best support and tuition throughout their studies. 

Apprentices who want to work in the Creative Industries can identify the best colleges and private apprenticeship providers simply by looking for the Tick. 

What is the Creative Skillset? 

It is the industry body that supports skills and training to ensure the UK Creative Industries maintain their world class position. 

It has an important role in developing qualifications, including: GCSEs, A-levels, Apprenticeships, Diplomas, Key Skills, Technical Certificates, National/Scottish Vocational Qualifications (N/SVQs) and other vocational qualifications.

Creative Skillset works with awarding bodies and the regulatory authorities to ensure that vocational and occupational qualifications being developed for use by the Creative Industries will meet the needs of employers and individuals.

Sarah Folan, training consultant for the Apprenticeship department who was involved in the quality assurance process for Tick, said:

"The whole team is delighted to be awarded the Tick in recognition of work we do with the Creative Digital Media apprentices and the companies who support them.  The Tick is a testament to the quality of the apprenticeship programme offered by BCoT and the commitment of the forward-thinking employers we work with.

It also confirms that apprenticeship training is really in demand by local businesses. So many companies now want trained employees in-house to do graphic design for their marketing campaigns.  Accountants, sports centres, digital marketing agencies and estate agents are just a few types of businesses that now have a creative and digital media apprentice working for them - this is definitely the way forward for this industry."

BCoT's Hospitality and Catering learners benefit from excellent facilities at the College, serving the public in the onsite Restaurant at BCoT. This provides the opportunity for real life industry experience day to day as part of their course. All of the staff in the department are industry trained and bring their experience to the classroom. Many learners go on to achieve great things, for example Mark Kempson, who is now a Michelin Star chef at Kitchen W8 in London.

Anthony is now in his fourth year as Principal at BCoT and is very proud to pick up the award. He said: "I'm absolutely thrilled to receive this accolade. This is an award that shows the hard work and determination from my whole team at BCoT. As a College we are committed to educational and social inclusion for all."

The Friends of BCoT Association aims to connect with past learners and with others in the community who wish to keep in contact with the College. If you'd like to stay in touch, you can join Friends of BCoT and be kept up to date with news, events and successes. You'll also receive special offers and discounts and the chance to network with your old classmates.

Everyone who signs up before 28 March 2013 will be entered into a prize draw to win a dinner for two in the Restaurant at BCoT.

Here are some examples of some ex BCoT learnerswho keep in touch and where they are today:

Mark Kempson

Mark was a Hospitality and Catering learner at BCoT before he went on to work in some top restaurants. He is now the Head Chef of the Michelin starred Kitchen W8 in London.

Mark came back to the College in February as a Guest Chef; he says: "I love coming back to BCoT - for me this is where it all began.  My inspiration was Ian Pitt who still runs the kitchens at College.  He was my mentor, a great tutor and still remains a close friend and confidante.

When I was at BCoT, our Guest Chef was Phil Yeomans who is now Head Chef of the Avenue Restaurant at the Lainston House Hotel in Winchester.  He showed me where you can go if you work hard and have the determination to succeed.  I hope I can inspire the next generation of young chefs by sharing my knowledge, skill and passion for food with them."

Being back in the Restaurant at BCoT gave Mark the chance to see what our current learners are made of. He was impressed with their determination in the subject: "Everyone here has the opportunity to progress onto a career in the hospitality and catering industry. There are many learners who've really impressed me and have the drive to go a long way. The industry encompasses everyone; the range of opportunities out there is huge - they are for the taking."

Angie Tzvetomira

Angie studied the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Travel & Tourism and went on to complete the HND in Travel and Tourism Management whilst at BCoT. She said:

"Both courses gave me a full understanding and required knowledge for a successful career in the industry."

The most enjoyable parts of the course for her were visiting the Virgin Atlantic Training Centre, travelling to New York City and practicing in a classroom with fully fitted aircraft seats and equipment. Following completion at BCoT, Angie went on to work for Thomas Cook Airlines and now works as a crew member for Virgin Atlantic Airways. Her plan is to develop her career in the industry further by working within recruitment or training airline cabin crew.

"I would recommend a career in the travel and tourism industry to anyone; it is a fulfilling job which allows you to travel the world and enjoy different experiences every day," Angie added.

Charlie Barsby

Charlie came to BCoT to study Public Services and applied to become a Special Constable at the end of his first year at college. He underwent a series of interviews, written and fitness tests, each time passing with flying colours to the next stage. Once he had successfully passed his medical and background checks, Charlie became a fully-fledged Special.

Charlie says: "I decided that this course would provide a good insight into life in public services, and I was right!  It was really interesting; our tutor Gareth Yeomans was a great support, especially when I was trying to become a Police Special Constable (PSC). 

The skills I learnt during my time at BCoT have definitely helped me with the transition to becoming a Special Constable, especially the Law unit of the course as this relates to my job directly. I am now a fully-fledged PSC and absolutely love it! The thing I enjoy most is knowing I am helping people."
Charlie is hoping that his experience as a Special Constable will lead him into a full-time career in the police force. He said: "Being able to do something I have always wanted to do, and knowing I will have a lifelong career as a result makes every day a great day." 

Alex Hughes

Alex has never wanted to do anything other than pursue a career in the army. He said: "Ever since I was little I have wanted to put on my uniform and become a soldier. I am now a part-time reserve soldier in the 3rd Battalion 'A' Company Princess of Wales Royal Regiment and absolutely love it."

Studying at BCoT on the Public Services course gave Alex the stepping stone to that career he always dreamt of. "I am receiving the best training in the world and being paid the same rate as a full-time soldier when I am on duty. I can also have a life outside the Army, which is important to me.  Life could not be much better - it's great to have a career which I enjoy, with the flexibility to keep my career options open whilst I am young." 

Vikki Soanes - lecturer in Creative Arts and Technologies at BCoT

"I came to BCoT initially to study the Level 3 Music Technology course ten years ago as I wanted to continue learning after my son was born.  Prior to this I worked as a Sound Engineer and Media Analyst in London.

Inever really planned to continue onto university after BCoT, but fate took its course and I went to the University of Surrey to read Music and Recording (Music with Computer Sound Design). I finished with a first class honours degree and continued to do my Master's degree in Music. 

I then went on to gain my teaching qualification, at which point I approached my former lecturer Jim Lynn to see if I could come to BCoT to gain some practical teaching experience.  I ended up with a job as a full-time technician and from there am now teaching Music, Photography and Media - you could say I have been on a journey!

The best thing for me now is that I am totally self-sufficient and can provide for my son and me without claiming any benefits.  It has not been easy, doing a dissertation with a five year old running around is certainly challenging, but you have to dig in deep and keep going.

The support I have had from all my tutors along the way has been incredible and I now feel I want to offer the same for my learners.  I could never imagine doing anything else - I love it.  I am able to use my industry experience alongside practical teaching to prepare learners for the workplace - they know that a deadline is a deadline, no excuses!  The more resources you put in, the more the learners get out and although this takes a lot of work, the end result is really worth it."

Acting as the link between the apprentice and the employer, the Apprenticeships department, BCoT for Business, offers everything from help with interviews, CV writing, to being the point of contact about pay.

Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining internationally recognised qualifications, workplace experience and practical skills. As an employee you will earn while you learn. Apprenticeships can take between one and four years depending on the level of apprenticeship, ability and industry sector. Usually they take 12 - 24 months.

Creative and Digital Media has recently launched an advanced Apprenticeship. This is proving popular with local businesses within the creative and marketing sectors, and trains employees in graphic design, website development and video production/editing.

Here's what some of our Creative and Digital Media apprentices have to say:

Sam Lakhdar
Creative and Digital Media Apprentice
BCoT Marketing Department

"I always wanted to work in design. Going to college and studying art and graphics made me realise it was graphic design I'd like to pursue a career in. I didn't really know about Apprenticeships until I looked on the National Apprenticeship Service website and saw that you could do Graphic Design. I found the position at BCoT on there and went for it!

I am learning new things every day and love that I get the chance to do design for my job. Working with an experienced graphic designer is great; I get the support when I need it. I now have a much better understanding of design programmes such as InDesign and Illustrator.

Once a week I have a one to one tutorial session which I find really valuable as I learn more than I would in a class; it's concentrated on me and my individual needs. Jim Lynn is a great tutor too; he breaks down the questions for my NVQ which can often be complicated.

It's good to get the support from the Apprenticeships department, BCoT for Business. Sarah comes to see me periodically and we discuss how I'm getting on and if I have any issues I know I can bring them up there.

I'm not sure what I'll do at the end of my Apprenticeship; I was talking to my tutor Victoria, who suggested applying for university. It was something I'd thought about but I used to think you needed A Levels to go. Now that I know that I can go after my Apprenticeship, I'm definitely going to apply!

I think the Creative and Digital Media Apprenticeship is a great opportunity to do what you enjoy whilst working and getting experience. I would definitely recommend it."

Dan Blight
Creative and Digital Media Apprentice
Ginger Multimedia

"Before my Apprenticeship, I had an office job that really wasn't for me. I have always had a passion for making videos and had a big interest in the creative media industry as a whole. Ultimately, my biggest aim was to be making videos on a daily basis and getting paid for it. The Apprenticeship offered me the perfect opportunity because not only does it involve a job I'm passionate about, but it also allows me to achieve the qualifications I need to actually work in this field for the rest of my career.

What I like most is the fact that what I'm learning has a direct effect on my progression with my job; it's extremely satisfying to put my newly developed skills into action immediately. Although I still have plenty to learn and improve on, I can take a lot of satisfaction in looking at how my knowledge has developed since I started. There are many other things I have learnt that have helped me to develop as a photographer and videographer.

I was 23 when I started the Apprenticeship. I was concerned that I was a bit old as there were a lot of younger apprentices, but I was wrong and have since found out that people of all ages are doing it. My tutor Vikki Soanes has been fantastic; she's very supportive of me and is always on hand to offer help and assistance. It was her advice that instantly helped me improve my performance in written assignments and go beyond what I thought I could ever achieve, which has really boosted my confidence. Vikki is very knowledgeable of the industry so is great at giving good tips to help me and other learners improve skills and techniques which will be of benefit in the future.

The support I have had from BCoT for Business has been brilliant, I couldn't be happier. Any concerns are dealt with, and I'm never in a position where I don't know what's going on. All my questions are properly answered.

In the future I want to repay the faith shown in me by my current employer and have a long and successful future there. Not only do I really enjoy working for the company, I feel I owe them lot for giving me the chance to show what I can do. If I follow the targets set for me then in a few years it might be me sat in a managerial chair and taking on a new apprentice - how exciting!

I would highly recommend the Creative and Digital Media Apprenticeship. It has changed my life completely. I'm doing a job that I love, whilst enhancing my skills on a weekly basis and knowing that I'll finish my two years with real qualifications. I'm delighted to be in the position I'm in now so can only encourage those who want to do the same to go ahead and do it, they won't regret it."

The competition involved designing and making a weight powered vehicle which then had to be tested for the distance it travelled in front of a panel of judges.  There were three levels of entry:

Foundation (ages 11-14)

Intermediate (ages 15-16)

Advanced (ages 16+)

Throughout the morning, teams worked hard on their design and build concepts.  Year 9 learner Emma Ritchie from Fort Hill School said:

"I was quite nervous about coming along to BCoT today, but have really enjoyed it.  We quickly realised it's all about teamwork - working together to ensure the vehicle moves in the final test run!"

Linda Lawson from the Rotary Club was delighted with the enthusiasm of all the young people taking part, saying:

"Today is all about learning and having a sense of achievement at the end of the session.  It's great to see these young people working together to produce a model they are proud of and develop their skills and knowledge whilst they are here."

At the end of the tournament, Mayor Martin Biermann presented the winning teams with their trophies.  Winners were:

Foundation:  Fort Hill Team 2

Intermediate:  Fort Hill Team 3

Advanced:  QMC Team 2

The Mayor congratulated the winning teams, adding that all the learners who took part were "winners for having-a-go and displaying the courage and determination to succeed."

Lisa-Marie Bridger, Co-ordinating lecturer at BCoT explains:

"A lot of people feel that after 19 they can't go to college and study, particularly if they did not gain the qualifications they wanted at school.  Access courses at BCoT are designed to give learners an opportunity for a fresh start and a career change.  Many ex-access learners are now studying Honours degrees in Teaching, Nursing, Social Work and Midwifery."

Former learner Nicole Williams is testament to how life-changing Access courses can be.  Once an HGV driver, Nicole wanted a complete change of career but had no idea how to go about this.  She says:

"I wanted to pursue a career in Healthcare and began by searching courses that would set me on the right career pathway. I discovered Access courses at BCoT, and after getting advice from really helpful lecturers, enrolled on the Access to HE Diploma in Health."

Nicole spent a full year on the course gaining essential experience through seminars and group sessions.  The subject areas covered included Sociology, Psychology and Health, exposing her to the many options available within the healthcare industry.

"The course was the best thing I could have done and has enabled me to go to Middlesex University.  It was hard work but extremely rewarding and gave me the skills I needed to take my career in the direction I wanted to go" she added. She urges anyone thinking of returning to education to do so, and not let anything stand in the way. 

"I would highly recommend Access courses to anyone who wants a change of career or is thinking of going to university.  It has changed my life, and I am now doing something I have always dreamt of but never thought possible."

Another learner who opted for an Access course was Harvey Wood. Having studied A-Levels, Harvey took a year out to explore his options. It was during this time that he volunteered at a local school helping in the classrooms.  As a result of this experience, he decided he wanted to become a Primary School teacher and enrolled on the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Primary Education at BCoT.  He says simply, "It's the best thing I ever did."

He continues, "The Access course was so beneficial as it gave me an insight into the practical aspects of Primary Education through my placement as well as the specific academic skills I needed for University."

"When I started at Roehampton I was surprised that most of the other learners didn't know what Harvard referencing or  Reflective Practice was, yet the teachers at BCoT made sure I was an 'expert' at these things!"

He says the support he received at College was "amazing," particularly the help with University applications and personal statements. He believes the course really gave him a head start and is now in his second year at Roehampton studying Primary Education with PE as his specialism.

To find out more about the range of Access courses on offer call the College, please visit our website www.bcot.ac.uk or call 01256 354141.

In conjunction with Barnado's, BCoT is running a 12 week course for young mums to help them gain a Level 1 Edexcel certificate, called Parents with Prospects. The project is funded by ESF and Barnardo's provide a project worker to support the young parents whilst on the course offering tailored IAG.

The learners spend three hours at college each week covering subjects such as Developing Communication and Literacy, Developing Relationships and Play, Healthy Eating, Keeping Children Safe and Well, and Positive Parenting Skills. Course tutor Natalie Smith says:

"The course is a short reintroduction into education, meeting new people, gaining new skills and knowledge and offers the option of free childcare. We will be looking in detail at the implications of these subject areas, and the practical skills the learners can use with their babies."

One of the learners enrolled on the course is 19 year old Lauren Alston, who has baby Kieran, 19 months old.  She said:

"I am so glad I took the opportunity to do this course.  It gives the mums a chance to get together and learn new skills, and the babies can go to the crèche and be well cared for whilst we are studying.  I was a bit nervous about coming to College, but the whole process was made really simple for me - someone even came to house to sort all the enrolment paperwork, so it was very easy."

Alex Chapman, who was previously at BCoT doing a childcare course, has a 16 month son Jacob.  She said:  "I'm really enjoying the course, it has given me my confidence back, and it's really good for Jacob to mix with other children.  I am very keen to gain the qualification and get a job at the end of the course. 

Nineteen year-old Kimberley Slade who has Finley age 16 months said: 

"Coming on the course gives us a head start with our education, and it's nice to meet up with other mums in the same situation and support each other.  I would like to move onto a full-time course and then secure a job.  I feel really grateful to BCoT and Barnardo's for giving me this opportunity to do this course."

If you would like to find out more about future courses the College will be running for teenage mums, please contact Natalie Smith on 01256 306213 or email her at natalie.smith@bcot.ac.uk.

CDG deliver the Work Choice programme, a government initiative launched to support individuals with a health condition or disability who need a more intensive specialised support to find and stay in employment. Barry Bridges, an Assistant Site Supervisor in the Estates team at BCoT, is supported by CDG.  His manager, Hazel Jones, Head of Estates & Facilities said 

"We are thrilled to win this award.  It was an honour to be nominated for Employer of the Year in recognition of the support we have given Barry over the last year, but to go on and win is fantastic.  I was delighted and very proud to accept the trophy and certificate on behalf of the College."  

Learners had the privilege of working alongside Mark Kempson, Head Chef of the Michelin starred Kitchen W8 in London and his sous-chef Dan Waghorn 

Mark was a former Catering and Hospitality learner at BCoT and for him, returning to the College is always a time to reflect on how his journey as a chef really started.  He said: 

"I love coming back to BCoT - for me this is where it all began.  My inspiration was Ian Pitt who still runs the kitchens at College.  He was my mentor, a great tutor and still remains a close friend and confidante. 

When I was at BCoT, our Guest Chef was Phil Yeomans who is now Head Chef of the Avenue Restaurant at Lainston House Hotel in Winchester.  He showed me where you can go if you work hard and have the determination to succeed.  I hope I can inspire the next generation of young chefs by sharing my knowledge, skill and passion for food with them."

For two days, Level 3 Hospitality learners worked alongside Mark and Dan to prepare the highest quality cuisine. The menu for the evening included:

Venison kebab and black pudding scotch egg

Canapés with smoked beetroot dip

Roasted onion juice with whipped aged gruyere and toasted rye crumbs

Barbeque glazed breast of quail with Yorkshire rhubarb and seared foie gras

Caramelised Orkney scallop with buerre noisette

Pear, Swiss chard, hazelnut and roast chicken skin

Roast feather blade and glazed check of Pata

Negra pork with sage polenta, celeriac Chou croute, charred lettuce, sweet and sour prunes

Salt caramel parfait with chocolate milk puree, roasted peanut ice cream, praline and lime

The evening was hailed a huge success by all diners lucky enough to be part of the special event.  Diners described the food as "exquisite, the best I have ever tasted, sublime."

One learner who relished the opportunity of working with Mark and Dan was Ben Vermeulen, studying the Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery. He came from Zimbabwe to study at BCoT. 

"I came to BCoT in 2011 on the Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery. I looked at the whole of the UK for the right course and chose BCoT as it has such a great reputation for Level 3 and progression; someone like Mark Kempson is just such a great icon for me."

Since I've been at BCoT, I've found work experience with some fantastic chefs, including Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck, Alan Murchison at L'ortolan and Daniel Glamiche at The Vineyard at Stockross. I've learnt so much at these Michelin starred restaurants; it's made me realise how much I'd like to achieve a Michelin Star myself one day.

 I now work full time at The Black Rat in Winchester, alongside my full time course at BCoT. I've been there for 5 months and I'm learning something new all the time. All I care about is what's on the plate; it's my life! Hopefully after BCoT I'll gain further work in the industry and one day I might return to Zimbabwe and be the first person to get a Michelin star there!"

Mark was equally impressed by Ben and his fellow learners, adding: 

 "Everyone here has the opportunity to progress onto a career in the hospitality and catering industry. There are many learners who've really impressed me and have the drive to go a long way. The industry encompasses everyone; the range of opportunities out there is huge - they are for the taking."

Course tutor Ian Pitt, added: 

"Guest Chef Evening is a fantastic opportunity for our learners to work with top chefs who are masters at their trade.  There is so much to be learnt from these experts and it gives our learners a real insight into where they could be in a few years if they work hard and display as much drive and passion as Mark.  They really could be the next Michelin star chef who started their career at BCoT."

Brian Martin and his guide dog Gus came to the College to chat to learners, together with Ellen Young from the Guide Dogs Association, who bought along one of the dogs she is currently training, Enzo.

Brian explained to the learners how a dog is trained, the procedures involved, and the timings. He also spoke openly about his personal experiences of becoming blind, and how Gus has quite literally given him his life back.

"I simply cannot tell you what Gus gives to me in terms of quality of life," explained Brian.  "I would never be able to do the things I do without him.  He makes everyday things possible like going to the supermarket.  To me he is priceless and to be able to trust him as I do is a gift I never take for granted."

During the session Brian gave practical examples of how to assist a visually impaired person across the road.  One of the learners involved, Jack Curry said:

"Brian really made me think about the impact guide dogs have on a blind person's way of life.  It's amazing to see just how much he can depend on Gus to keep him safe and assist in general day-to-day living.  It was also really interesting to hear how the dogs are trained, and what happens when they retire.  I had no idea there was a waiting list for retired guide dogs, but seeing Gus today, I can fully understand why this is the case!"

Brian and Ellen explained to the learners that the Guide Dogs Association is solely dependent on donations, and receives no government funding.  "This is why I do everything I can to raise both money and the profile of the charity."

Matthew Simonds, lecturer in Animal Care at BCoT said:

"It was great to welcome Brian and Ellen to College.  It was an opportunity for learners to find out more about guide dogs, their training, and the financial elements involved.  It also gave learners the chance to ask questions such as the best way to help a visually impaired person across the road.  Brian was open and frank with learners and they came away with a great deal more knowledge and understanding of the workings of a guide dog and his master."

Mark is a football coach at Portsmouth FC and plays for England's Beach Soccer Team. He also goes to America to coach at a Soccer Camp where the majority of children are Hispanic. "This is what spurred me on to learn the language.  I want to be able to speak to the children and also understand what the parents are shouting from the side-lines!" says Mark.

After searching unsuccessfully for a Spanish Beginners course in his local area, Mark looked online and saw the wide range of part-time courses offered by BCoT.  He says:

"I was very impressed with the choice of days and times available at BCoT and the fact that I could enrol for one term of 10 weeks at a time."

Mark really liked the flexibility of the course and found the College really helpful when he had to swap from an evening course to a morning one. "My tutor has been really supportive and has gone out of her way to help me learn Spanish words I need for my job."

He has enjoyed the introductory course so much that he intends to continue his studies and enrol in the second term in January 2013.  "I've learnt so many key words already and am looking forward to adding to this next year.  The kids will be shocked when I return to the States and understand them all - that will be great!"

If you would like to find out more about the part-time courses starting in January 2013, please visit our website www.bcot.ac.uk/part-time or call us on 01256 306484.

As part of their Music Performance Unit, the students had the chance to try their hand at a variety of drum percussion, from the conventional such as tambourines and Latin drums, through to instruments created out of rubbish including drinks bottles and plastic trunking.

Paul also tested the students' creative skills by getting them to create a "live" improvised track using a sampling and loop pedal.

Paul Boddy, lecturer in Sound and Music at BCoT said:

"It was fantastic to see the students become really involved with the session and challenge themselves with new instruments and techniques.  Paul inspired them to try new things and push the boundaries, and I was delighted with their enthusiasm and the high quality of their performances."

Bearing in mind the weather forecast for Friday 18^th January and the travel disruption that is likely to occur, the college will be operating at a reduced capacity.

Some classes will be running as normal, others have been cancelled - please see the schedule at the end of this message.  Where a class has been cancelled, learners should log onto Boodle and complete the work that has been set for them.  All cancelled classes will be rearranged and run at a later date.

The college will be partially open on Friday 18th January, as follows:

Open:

All buildings

Learning Resource Centre

BCoT Nursery

Closed:

Hair and Beauty salons

The Restaurant at BCoT 

Classes

Each department has considered the classes scheduled for Friday 18 January and made a decision on whether they will run or not.  In many cases we have decided that, as disruption is inevitable, it would be more effective to plan a lesson that can be undertaken remotely on Boodle, rather than hold the lesson at BCoT.

If your class is listed below as ''cancelled' then you do not need to come into college, but you should make arrangements to access Boodle and complete the work assigned.  You can, of course, come into college if you wish and study here, we will be open.

If your class is listed as 'Running' then you should come into college - we are confident for these classes that the teacher will be in and that the majority of learners can get into college. 

All provision for our 14-16 aged learners has been cancelled today

All learners

The college will be open, you can come in and work if you wish to.  The Learning Resource Centre will be open and there will be staff available to assist you.  The canteen will be open and the full IT systems will be operating.  If you are due to attend a work placement on Friday then you should contact the placement and confirm with them if you should attend. 

Advice for anyone travelling to college

You should travel only if it safe to do so.  Use public transport if you are worried about driving in snow and ice.  You should have a contingency plan in case you are not able to get home.  Dress sensibly for the conditions and do not take unnecessary risks. 

List of classes - Friday 18^th January 2013

This list is being updated throughout the afternoon of the 17^th January.  Please check later for any updates:

Classes running

Classes cancelled