06/03/2009 - Celebration of success in Further Education and Skills at Next Generation Learning Awards
New awards scheme celebrates the innovative use of technology in education. Specialist Colleges scoop awards.
At the Becta Next Generation Learning Awards 2009 presented in London on the evening of Wednesday 04 March two of the seven awards were scooped by Specialist Colleges.
Oakwood Court College, Devon won the Furthering My Learning Award for which they were nominated by one of their students.
Henshaws College, Harrogate won the Independent Specialist Award.
In addition the National Star College in Cheltenham also received high commendation in the Independent Specialist Colleges Award.
PRESS STATEMENT
6th March 2009
Oakwood Court College Win an Award
A Devon based Independent Specialist College has won an award at a prestigious national ceremony held at London's Science Museum on 4th March. Nominated by one of their students, 25 year-old Jemima Lock, Oakwood Court College based in Dawlish, became the first winner of the "Furthering My Learning" award at the BECTa Next Generation gala event hosted by celebrity Sandi Toksvig.
One of only seven from a host of learning providers recognised for its work in this way, the judges praised the College for the outstanding way it develops individualised learning for each student. Principal, Paul Collings, says, "The award celebrates the way College has developed Integrated Technology to create inclusive and independent paths for each student". He adds, "That working together, students and staff are constantly in search of new ways of learning and exploring possibilities and choices that build for a self-determined and fulfilled life."
Ably coordinated by Karen Kelly-Markwick, Integrated Learning Technology tutor, students have discovered new ways of communicating; opening up a whole new world of opportunities to make their own life choices.
The Managing Director of Phoenix Learning and Care Ltd who run the College says that he is proud of Jemima and the achievement of the College. Keith Burley adds that this reward is recognition of the hard work and dedication of the staff. It also recognises the contribution our students can make through the development of IT and Oakwood's ability to adapt to the ever changing and diverse needs of our students.
Not wishing to rest upon its laurels, the Principal adds that further research and partnership working is planned so as to disseminate best practice across the sector.
At the recent BECTa conference, a number of much larger learning providers voiced their wish to emulate Oakwood Court College, proving perhaps the vital place of Independent Specialist College's within today's Educational System.
Paul Collings
Principal Oakwood Court College
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