Did you know that Wiltshire College & University Centre is now part of the Centre of Excellence programme?
The Centre of Excellence has been developed by two giants in the training industry, NCFE and WorldSkills UK. The programme aims to promote technical education in the UK by giving educators an insight into global skills and expertise through training. By improving the standard of teaching in technical education, the programme aims to progress the skills and careers of both educators and students, increasing their aspirations and improving their outcomes.
In 2020, Wiltshire College & University Centre won a bid to take part in the programme. Over the past 10 months, a group of teaching staff from across our departments have been receiving regular training from NCFE and WorldSkills UK.
Automotive maintenance lecturer Steve Cottle said: ‘The sessions are thought provoking and interesting... I have gained a different way of looking at my students and how they learn.'
The sessions encourage educators to think about their teaching practice and introduce new methods and ideas.
Keileigh Thomas, lecturer in Beauty and Media Makeup, said: ‘I am really enjoying the sessions and find them inspiring... I am very excited to implement what I have learnt into my lessons. I feel that this is a great opportunity for myself and my colleagues to gain insight into standards within the hair and beauty industry and ensure that our learners are working to their utmost potential.’
So what does this mean for the College, and for Wiltshire? Wiltshire College & University Centre is the largest provider of technical education at all levels in the county, teaching students as young as 14 as well as upskilling professionals and awarding degrees from well-known universities.
By investing in improved teaching and skills, we are helping employers across the South West region who use our training services for their staff or who have apprentices with us. Improved technical skills teaching in the College will mean stronger businesses with more skilled employees, and ultimately more competitive industries in Wiltshire.
Most importantly, it means that students who come to us will continue to receive an education that is at the leading edge of industry, giving them the best first-step possible into their careers.
