Students at Derwen College, a specialist provision in Shropshire, have been celebrating successes in the local community.
The residential and day college for young adults with special educational needs and disabilities, and autism, has been recognised for achievements for students in both Horticulture and Performing Arts.
The Horticultural team at work on the award-winning display at Aico
Oswestry in Bloom award
The Horticulture team were delighted to hear that a collaborative project with Aico, a local business, has won an Oswestry in Bloom award.
Aico, in Oswestry, was recognised as Best Commercial Premises at the regional annual awards ceremony.
Will Lyon, Derwen College’s Garden Centre Supervisor, and a team of Horticulture students helped to plant shrubs and flowers as part of an ongoing partnership.
Will Lyon said: “Our partnership with Aico has not only benefitted Horticulture students by providing them with valuable work experience, but has also contributed to Aico’s success in achieving the Best Commercial Premises award.”
The Derwen Dance Crew celebrate their successes with dance teacher Opal
Successes galore for Derwen dancers
Additionally, Performing Arts students won armfuls of trophies when the college’s Derwen Dance Crew (DDC) attended a street dance competition.
A team of 10 students showcased their skills in contemporary, street dance, and musical theatre jazz at Audacity Ultimate Dance Competition in Cannock. They won first place for their group performance in Music Theatre and second prize for Street Dance, as well as many individual awards.
Dance teacher Opal Trevor praised students for their professional performances and hard work.
She said: “Being part of Derwen Dance Crew is a big commitment, which takes a lot of rehearsal time and effort, and an expectation that students arrive for sessions and competitions prepared, dressed appropriately and with a professional attitude.
“For many students, this was their first-ever experience of a competition, so it was nerve-wracking for them, but they absolutely smashed it!”
Teacher Paul and student Scott get planting
Vocational pathways
Students at Derwen College learn the skills needed to prepare them for adulthood, including learning and work placements to progress towards employment and a greater degree of independence.
Students, aged 16–25, choose vocational pathways in Horticulture, Performing Arts, Retail or Hospitality & Food, or join more bespoke programmes if they are not yet ready for work-based learning.
Derwen College also focuses on independence skills, health and wellbeing, and care, as well as fun and experiences for a more enriched life.
Get in touch
Find out more about being at student at Derwen College at www.derwen.ac.uk
