Macclesfield College celebrates exceptional year
16 Jan 2020 11:48
Published by:
Kian French
Happy New Year and welcome back to Macclesfield College for 2020! We had a fantastic year in 2019 with lots of successful occasions.
Last year, Macclesfield College enjoyed a 10% increase in applications, apprenticeship achievements rates 7% above the national average, a 60% growth in financial income from its employer arm, Maxim Business Training, a trio of award wins and the launch of three significant academy partnerships. It is the best overall performance of the past five years and reflect a continued focus on quality since the college was awarded its 'good' Ofsted rating in 2017, which was followed by a 'good' financial health rating earlier this year.
Innovation is at the heart of the organisation and the Macclesfield Manifesto, launched in April, delivered an additional 100 apprenticeship opportunities for local young people in just 100 days. The Macclesfield Health Academy, in partnership with the Local Trust, was nominated and shortlisted for NHS 'Partner of the Year' awards. The partnership developed specialise training to support internal progression and learners on the Level 3 BTEC qualification. spend two days per week within the trust gaining valuable industry experience to address skills gaps.
September saw the launch of The Whites Chef Academy, headed by Michelin-starred celebrity chef Aiden Byrne which will provide skilled chefs to the growing Cheshire food and drink sector. Partnership with Stockport County FC and Macclesfield Town FC have also increased learner numbers and will provide a range of skills identified by the local business community, whilst getting to compete in various footballing competitions.
Other notable moments form the last year include exciting performances from our Performing Arts groups, including a scary flash mob on Halloween; two of our tutors embarking on a rewarding trip to China; a fantastic Christmas Carol performance by the Caravanettes and not forgetting the cheeky antics of Excitable Edgar and Kevin the Carrot, which saw us engaging with retailers John Lewis and Partners and Aldi via social media.
Principal and chief executive, Rachel Kay, explains: "We've had an amazing year and we are really beginning to see the foundations we've laid over the past few years come to fruition. We continue to focus on quality and improving our offer to reflect the needs of the local community, working in partnership to give businesses the skills they require and providing young people with opportunities to succeed on their doorstep.
"We've invested in talent, our facilities and worked hard to build partnerships across industry to ensure our offer reflects what is happening in businesses. Our reputation is growing and that is reflected in our application numbers.
"We won't stand still however, the entire team is focused on our vision to become an 'outstanding' college and we will continue to work hard to achieve this."
During the year, Rachel Kay was named the North East Cheshire Business Person of the Year, Maxim Business Training won Cheshire Team of the Year and the college was named the East Cheshire Chamber Business and Educational Provider 2019. In addition to this, Rachel has been nominated by Apprenticeships 4 England, as an 'Inspiring Woman' within the Apprenticeships sector and Business of the year over £1million Silver Award.
These are just a handful of memorable moments from an unforgettable year and Macclesfield College looks forward to progressing with our accomplishments.
Following a successful year last year, Macclesfield College has already undergone an excellent first week of the new year. We have some brand new adult courses up and running to kick start this year, as well as our old favourites. Enrolment has been successful.
This week we have also continued preparations for our first Open Evening of 2020, which is just under two weeks away. With our first open event of this academic year being a huge success, we hope that this evening follows suit. This event is for everyone, whether you are due to be a school leaver or thinking of being an adult learner, we have a range of courses available for you to explore. Doors are open from 5pm until 8pm so please do come and visit us and get the chance to speak directly to our knowledgeable staff members.
We have already hit the ground running this year with our White Chef Academy students having the opportunity to learn from Colin Starkey, who is the Executive Head Chef at Alderley Edge Hotel and Restaurant. This is just one of many exciting events to be seen here at Macclesfield College this year.
Finally, thank-you to all who continue to support us. We also look forward to welcoming many more on board with us. We hope to make this year another one to remember and we could not do it without you.
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