Art Exhibition - Not such a push overStudent reps - PrincipalAnti-bullying - BerlinMaking a positive contribution

Media students in Berlin See page 12

Contents PageNote From Editors ..................P3Your Thoughts ........................P4Principal’s Welcome .............. P5Who’s Representing You ? ....P6-7Not Such A Pushover ..........P8-9Art Exhibiton ..................P10-11On The Road ..........................P12The Gap-Year Guidebook 2010 P13Laying The Way ....................P14Not Standing For It ...............P15Getting a Taste For The Business P16Heads For The Future ...........P17Beauty in the Community ......P18Longcroft Hall Restaurant .....P19Top Car Maintenance Tips ....P20Do You Dare Face The Guy? ...P21Taking The Plunge ..............P22Energize Yourself ..................P23Enrichment..........................P24

Welcome To The New and Re-designed STUDENT NEWSLETTER

Hey,

Welcome to the new student newsletter, designed, edited and created by the students, and now called”Student Life”. Inside you will find us finding out about to the bravery of childcare, the the kindness of bricklayers and successes of art, plus much more being divulged. We allow you to meet our learner representatives, and catch up with our Principal, Derek Branton. Before we give too much away we’ll let you carry on to discover the secrets of the newsletter but if you spot anything we missed or you would like to put into the next issue get in touch.

Thanks for reading

Katestudentmag@eastridingcollege.ac.uk

Make It YoursThe student newsletter is for you, the students. So here’s your chance to get involved. If you feel that the newsletter should have something added or an event that is or has taken place and you want people to know about it, well here you are. Simply e-mail the editors with your ideas and they will contact you and see if it can be done.

WHAT YOU THOUGHT WAS GOOD:• The student newsletter is good• You feel the College is a safe place to be, and that you knew who to speak to if you had a concern or were being bullied• The support that you receive from your tutors is very good• Teaching and learning activities are varied and interesting• You know how you are being assessed and are familiar with your assessment schedule• You use Moodle regularly and find it very helpful• Those of you that participate in enrichment activities enjoy them

WHAT YOU THOUGHT COULD BE BETTER:• Allow access to certain web sites that are currently blocked by Barracuda to help you with your studies• Enable you to access the internet via Wi Fi when at College• Improve upon the range of “snack” food available at St Mary’s Walk and display the prices more prominently• Improve the access routes to St Mary’s Walk

WHAT WE’RE DOING:• Letting you know how you can access your files on the College network from home• Working with your head of curriculum area to identify any sites that are safe for you to use and helpful in your studies that are currently blocked by Barracuda• Considering a Wi Fi pilot at St Mary’s Walk• Reviewing our tutorial policy and group tutorial activities• Working with the LRC staff to enable them to better support you when using Moodle• Working with the local authority to improve access routes to St Mary’s Walk

Your ThoughtsEAST RIDING COLLEGE STUDENTS’ FEEDBACK FROM A RECENT SURVEY

Principal’s WelcomeWelcome to this, the second edition of your student newsletter. Again, I would like to congratulate all those involved in putting together this excellent edition which demonstrates the range of talent we have at East Riding College. Thank you also to those who have contributed their ideas for articles and their photographs.

I feel very strongly that involving students in our development is an essential part of a successful College. Here, we ask for your views on your course and the College as a whole through learner focus groups, student perception of course surveys and informal feedback arrangements. We are keen to hear about the positive aspects of your experience as well as those areas where we could do better. This term we have introduced a tutorial brief to report to full-time learners the actions that we are taking in response to the feedback that you have given us.

At this time of year, many of you will be working hard to complete your course to achievethe best grades possible. Good luck with this and don’t forget to talk to your tutor if you need some additional support.

• Congratulations to our “Vinvolved” Youth Action Team on being awarded the Diana Certificate of Excellence, an outstanding achievement.

EAST RIDING COLLEGE STUDENTS’ FEEDBACK FROM A RECENT SURVEY

Who’s Representing You???

It is important that learners have the opportunity to play a full and active part in College life.

In addition to formal representation on college committees each full time course nominates a learner representative to attend a Curriculum Area Focus Group meeting each term, with a representative from each curriculum area then invited to attend a College Learner Focus Group meeting, one at each of the College’s main sites.

We want to hear your views, not only about those things that work well for you but also those areas that we need to improve upon, and then work with you to ensure that we are providing you with the best possible learning

Who’s Representing You???

experience. Your views are important to us.

New for this year is the Learner Parliament, early indications are that you want to be involved in community activities and fundraising. We will be working with you to progress this. A meeting of the Learner Parliament is planned and this will be an ideal opportunity to discuss fund raising activities for Haiti and Sports Relief, something that we know is important to you.

We’re also planning to relaunch the Student Association in September and will be working with you on this, watch this space for further news on this exciting development.

Around June 2009 my nana’s flat was burgled at around 10.30pm. I was on my way to the shop when I noticed someone in the doorway of my nana’s flat without the light on so I entered the kitchen door and came face to face with a strange man of six foot tall, so I asked him who he was and what he was doing there. He replied “Who are you?” I thought this very strange so shut the kitchen door and put the light on, this was when I noticed the TV was gone and there was another person crouched behind the kitchen table. I then shouted for my nana and she rang the police. I managed to hold the burglars back for long enough so the police could catch them as they ran off.

The two burglars, were arrested due to evidence left behind at my Nana’s flat; DNA from where I had hit out with my dog lead and caught one over the nose and a hair slide that fell out the girl’s hair, plus they had dropped a key belonging to their flat in my nana’s kitchen. This was enough to convict them both of aggravated burglary and they were imprisoned for three years each for numerous other offences.

NOT SUCH A PUSHOVER!By Jodie Smith, National Diploma in Childcare

I was awarded £250 from the public funds by the High Sheriff of the East Riding of Yorkshire, and awarded a commendation for bravery and recognition of a valuable service to the community on the 20th Feb 2010 in the Council Chamber at Bridlington Town Hall. Along with the High Sheriff and his wife other VIP’s who attended were The Lord Lieutenant of the East Riding of Yorkshire, the Honourable Mrs Susan Cunliffe-Lister, Councillor Christopher Matthews, Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Cyril Marsberg, Mayor of Bridlington, Mr Peter Saxby, Chief Executive of Bridwatch, Mrs Jennie Byass, Chairman of Bridlington Magistrates and a representative of Humberside Police.

NOT SUCH A PUSHOVER!By Jodie Smith, National Diploma in Childcare

Art ExhibitionBy Rachael Nicholson, BTEC Certificate in Art and Design

On Wednesday the 13th of January 2010, the Bridlington campus art department held an open evening to celebrate and display the fantastic achievements created by the students during the first term. Works on display ranged from print making, fashion/ textile creations, and painting work. The event was opened out to the public, as well as friends and family of the artists.

The open evening provided the perfect opportunity to display the crème de la crème of works selected by tutors to be sent for possible exhibition at The Ferens Art Gallery situated in Hull; this being in relation to the “Connect and Create” Project aimed at connecting art students from across the East Riding to the local history of the area in which they live; the general theme being “Maritime.”

Art ExhibitionBy Rachael Nicholson, BTEC Certificate in Art and Design

The event proved a success, with a lot of proud parents wondering about the place, as well as an unexpected troop of visitors, who happened to stumble upon our exhibition to get a quick sneak peak before the official opening time. The print making room seemed ever popular, with some people even enquiring about prices of work.

It was definitely a rewarding experience to see all the selected entries presented in frames at the centre of the exhibition! As to whether any of the work has made it through the selection process we are yet to hear, however, as the project is open to all local areas, York, Hull, Scarborough etc, the competition will be fierce, so fingers crossed for the all the entries.

A very big well done to the art students and department for putting on such a good show!

On The Roadby Jason Bennett, Foundation Degree in Applied Digital Media

After travelling to Berlin with East Riding College, I had a great time that allowed me to grow individually as a person while having fun with my peers; the hostel we stayed in was fun and relaxing while also maintaining a high standard of accommodation and facilities.

While spending my time in Berlin I sampled the life style and culture Germany had to offer, learning as I went along experimenting with different types of foods and drinks available to me.

The Media conference (Pen to Pixel) was very informative with interesting people from which I have learnt a lot.

For example meeting the director of the recent film Franklyn (a box office hit). He parted with a lot of useful information for young film makers such as myself which since the event I have been putting into use when making my short films.

From the overall experience I have grown as a person developing my own skills. I am thankful for the opportunity to go to Berlin and grateful for the experience I had there.

Employers and universities actively seek to recruit former gap-year participants, who can demonstrate that they have developed key life-skills such as teamwork, project management, negotiation skills, cultural understanding, and language and communication skills.

The key to a successful gap-year is detailed research and preparation – meaning careful planning with reference books such as the gap-year guidebook is essential. Students will be rewarded with an exciting, challenging and valuable experience that will change their lives forever.

Now in its 18th year, the gap-year guidebook offers: • Guidance on internships, work experience and seasonal employment • Information on volunteering projects around the globe • Impartial advice, free of commercial bias • Tips from professionals • Comprehensive directories listing learning opportunities in the UK and abroad

The Gap-Year Guidebook 2010

Visit http://johncattbookshop.com

Orders made through the John Catt Bookshop using Promo Code: GAP-ONE will receive the book at a special discounted price of £9.99.

A group of construction students from East Riding College raised £140 for charity by laying more than 1,500 bricks in less than six hours.

Seven students aged from 16 to 28 laid a total of 1,630 bricks using 1,630kg of mortar over five-and-a-half hours in the construction workshop at the College’s St Mary’s Walk campus in Bridlington.

The proceeds of the event will go to Help for Heroes, which supports wounded armed forces personnel, and Cancer Research UK.

All the students are on the Pre-Diploma in Construction Trades course, which involves learning about skills such as brickwork and plastering.

Tutor Richard Perkins said: “The total of 1,630 bricks was a fantastic achievement, espe-cially as all the work was done to industry standards, with no corner cutting.

“I’d like to thank everyone who supported the students’ effort and I’m sure the donations we make as a result will be gladly received by our chosen chari-ties.”

Laying The Way

The College staged a range of events to tie in with National Anti-Bullying Week.

Staff at the College wore T-shirts bearing the slogan “Bullying - don’t stand for it, stop it!” to highlight the issue and giving out stickers and wristbands at stands at the Beverley and Bridlington campuses.

The aim of the events was also to raise awareness of the College’s firm stance on bullying and the ways in which students can report bullying, including a dedicated text number and email address.

Enrichment officer Tracey Heywood, who organised the events, said: “Bullying can take many forms, whether it’s verbal or physical, or newer forms, like by text, email or on social networking sites.

“We work really hard to ensure bullying does not happen but if it does we want our students to know how they can get help from us.

“This year we have launched our ‘Don’t stand for it, stop it!’ slogan, as well as the text number and email address, as part of our anti-bullying work.”

Along with the anti-bullying events, “Staying Safe Fortnight” also saw visits from guest speakers from Victim Support, PODAS (Prevention of Domestic Abuse Service), fire safety officers and road safety officers.

Not Standing For It!

On 12 December 2009 all the Business Administration students from East Riding College, Bridlington, went to Cadbury’s World in Birmingham. This was a visit organised by our tutors Sally Elliott and Ros Windley to promote our understanding of a business.

We set off by coach at 8am and arrived at approximately 12.30pm. It was a long journey but well worth the trip! All the students found it a very interesting and enjoyable day, particularly with so much chocolate to eat!! We were given a really interesting tour around the site and each area we went into offered a free sample eg. Chocolate bar, chocolate drink etc. We even went on a mini ride in a car which was really exciting and had our photo taken at the end which we could buy. Then we were given the opportunity to buy any goods from the chocolate shop which was fantastic, particularly as it was nearly Christmas and cheaper to buy than in the shops!

All the students agreed that this trip really helped the group to bond more as we were away from college and doing something completely different. It was also nice to mix with another group and get to know other students.

We were very grateful to our tutors for organising this trip for us and hope to do another trip before we finish in July 10.

Getting A Taste For The Business

Entrepreneurs of the future have been getting tips about starting a new business as part of their course. Peter Connor, a director of performance improvement business consultants Connor Newman Ltd, worked with the BTEC National Diploma Business students on business ideas, business plans and investments.

Every student came up with a business idea and each will present their businesses to a ‘Dragons Den’ style panel at the end of their module in May.

Jess Horner said: “I feel that having Peter Connor come into College really helped me to gain a detailed view on how to potentially start up a new business.

“Participating in certain activities and group research has enabled me to broaden my ideas and have a lot of confidence in what I would like to achieve in the future.”

Danny Bullement, said: “I thought Peter’s talk was extremely beneficial towards not only my course but also my future career. He seemed a very successful, friendly man and I have learnt a lot from him.”

Mr Connor said: “This was a very enjoyable session, with time well spent in developing initial ideas and thoughts for starting a new business.

“The student group took a full part in the workshop and I was very pleased with the way they interacted and generated ideas.”

Heads For The Future

When working with the community it benefits the less fortunate and those that cannot access salons.The clients that I have worked with at the Millers in Beverley, look after disabled or terminally ill family members and our monthly pamper day is a lovely way to be able to reward them for the work that they do. It also gives them a chance and to be able to talk away all the problems as best as they can, or to be able to just have some time to themselves.

I also took part in “Breast Cancer Research, Mini Manicures at BOOTS” to help Boots raise money for the research.

Both of times that I have been lucky enough to do volunteering work with the public has greatly benfited me and I would advise anyone in the same position to do the same thing. It’s a great way to get experience with members of the public and all of this can go on your CV to help you get work in the future!

Beauty in the Communityby Angela MelvinBeauty Therapy Student Rep

Longcroft Hall Restaurant

Opening HoursTuesday’s 12pm till 1pm

Wednesday 12pm till 1pmThursday 12pm till 1pm

Thursday 7pm till 7:30pmFriday 12pm till 1pm

Price ListStarters £1.50

Main Courses £3.50Sweets £1.00

Tea or Coffee 75pAll Courses £6.25

Call 01482 306662 for details

*Prices exclude Thursday evenings

1. Check your oilCheck your oil once a month. Wait until the car has been stationary for five minutes so the engine is cool, and open the bonnet for an accurate reading. Make sure the oil level is above the minimum mark and below the maximum mark. Top up accordingly – check your vehicle handbook for the correct oil.

2. Check the coolantOpen the bonnet and ensure your water levels are topped up correctly.

3. Check brake fluidIt’s important to see if your brake fluid is at the right level – but don’t change it yourself – leave this to the professionals. Don’t open the container or touch it yourself. If a bit of dirt gets in this can damage the whole system.

4. Get regular maintenance checksYou wouldn’t get into an aeroplane which hasn’t been checked regularly by an engineer, so why not do the same for your car?Try and make sure your car gets checked regularly, and have an awareness of its condition.

5. Check your tyre pressureThis will extend the life of your tyres and you’ll save up to ten per cent on fuel if your tyres are pumped up correctly. Under-inflated tyres on a bike will make it harder to pedal – cars are similar.

6. Check the tyre tread depthThe minimum legal requirement is 1.6mm of tread depth which is a safety requirement too.Worn down tyres can skid – if this happens it’s likely your tyres are nearing the end of their life. Try and get them changed as soon as possible.

Top Car Maintenance Tips

by Robert Tullock, motor vehicle maintenance and repair diploma

Do You Dare Face THE GUY?

Having had the new enrichment activity, table tennis, running for a few weeks we decided that it was time to step up to the table and see what all the fuss was about.

For the past month or so I have constantly been told about table tennis and now that I have experienced it I can see why.

Being an amateur myself I thought it wouldn’t entertain me in the slightest but to my joy it did. After a few friendly games to warm up though, the challenge really began. We were all entered into a knockout tournament.

After many exhilarating and intense matches our champion was discovered but this was not the end. Our champion still had to defeat his last remaining opponent. The GUY!

John Guy, media tutor and organiser, has played every champion without a defeat. Unfortunately today was no different.

SO WE NEED YOU! Amateur or pro, we don’t mind. All is fun in love and war as we say and this is war

HELP US DEFEAT THE GUY.

In January, the National Diploma Sport students from both the Beverley and Bridlington campuses of East Riding College set out on a three-day adventure that they would never forget.

Their destination was the East Barnby’s outdoor education centre, which offers an amazing range of activities for people of all ages and abilities, with a number of trained instructors available to help guide you through the experience.

The students were given the opportunity to sample some of the most exhilarating, adventurous activities the centre had to offer, such as beck scrambling, canoeing, mountain biking and orienteering.

The trip went mostly without any hiccups but there was one “You’ve been framed” moment when Chris Hill, Gareth Parkinson and Michael Felice capsized out of their canoe and regained their composure enough to get back in, only to fall into the water again moments later.

The students conducted themselves superbly throughout the duration of the trip. Everyone had an amazing time throughout and not even the less than friendly weather conditions could dampen the spirits of the students.

Taking the Plunge!By Daniel Thomas and Stephen Stylianou Year one National Diploma Sport

The Energize fitness suite at St Mary’s Walk is now free to students on Wednesday afternoons as part of enrichment.

The gym boasts the latest in cardiovascular and resistance equipment, with a fantastic range of rowing machines, bikes and weights, and is staffed by fully qualified instructors who will conduct a fitness assessment with new members and develop a personal exercise programme tailored to their needs.

Fitness suite manager Rachel Mason (prictured)said: “Student membership is increasing steadily and it’s great to see that students are using this excellent facility to keep healthy.

“Please remember, students can use the gym for just 50p per session most of the time and for free on Wednesday afternoons, so it’s great value for money.”

For more information, opening times or to book an induction, call 01262 455215 or pop into Energize on the first floor at St Mary’s Walk.

Energize Yourself!

EnrichmentDate Activity Cost 18 March White Water Rafting £10 25 March Climbing at Rock City £3 1 April Karting £10 22 April TBA £10 29 April Paintballing £8 2/3/4May Weekend in the Lake District £156 May Learn Scuba Diving £10 13 May “Go Ape” high tree assault course £10 20 May Sailing and JetSkiing and BBQ £8 3 June TBA 10 June Rock Climbing, picnic and sketching £317 June “Go Ape” high tree assault course £1024 June Sailing and JetSkiing and BBQ £8

To get involved email Tracey Heywood on:- Tracey.Heywood@eastridingcollege.ac.uk