National recognition for two Deeside College lecturers

Two Deeside College tutors are celebrating today after beating off tough competition from across Wales to win National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) 'Tutors and Mentors Inspire' Awards.

The awards were presented to Alison Curtis and Liz Williams at a glitzy national awards ceremony on 27 November 2007, at the Orangery, Margam Park, Port Talbot, where the tutors were joined by celebrities and senior politicians.

Alison Curtis, a sugarcraft and cake decorating lecturer, has been awarded the Open College Network (OCN) sponsored 'Inspire' Tutor Award for her dedication and commitment to students. Alison, from Holywell, started at Deeside College as a student herself, and then progressed to teaching others in 2001.

Alison has won a number of awards over the years including 'Best of Class' in numerous national culinary competitions, and her inspiration and encouragement has helped many of her student to go on and win silver and bronze awards in similar competitions.

Ann Blakemore, one of Alison's Students said, "Alison is an inspirational tutor, who encourages a hands-on approach that builds student confidence and self belief. Nothing is too much trouble for her and she is always willing to show you over and over again until you get the techniques right."

Her nominator, Deeside College Senior Project Manager, Carolyn Preece, added, "Alison has an excellent rapport with students of all ages. She develops their talents and skills to a high level whilst ensuring the activities they undertake are both innovative and achieve the desired learning outcomes." Carolyn went on, "Her commitment to students is shown, for example, by her willingness to extend her evening classes from 2 to 3 hours, to fit in with her students' other commitments."

Health and Social Care tutor, Liz Williams, has also won a NIACE Tutors and Mentors Inspire Awards for her work with students at Deeside College that spans 18 years. Liz, who teaches a range of courses within Health and Social Care, was nominated for the award by former student Leah Jade Anthony. Leah said "Liz is exceptional, she motivates you, makes you believe you can achieve your goals, and is completely committed to her students."

Despite having experienced a period of ill health, Liz continued to support her students, and has a particular insight for helping students who are experiencing traumatic times. Liz's line manager, Frank Mellers, added, "When Liz was unwell, she was determined to ensure that her students made the grade and she supported them with such commitment. The Further Education sector can be a second chance for adults who have had a negative experience of education. It is testament to her tutoring and rapport with students, that many of her ex students return to see her and proudly show her their certificates and achievements from employers and higher level training courses."

Deeside College Principal David Jones, added, "Everyone at Deeside College would like to congratulate Alison and Liz on their thoroughly deserved awards. They are shining examples of the outstanding quality of teachers at Deeside College and demonstrate our commitment to providing students with the best learning experience they can get."

Tutors nominated for the NIACE awards include those who 'go the extra mile' for students, and are judged to be 'outstanding' in their chosen area. The awards are open to tutors who have been involved in the provision of adult learning in Wales for the last three years.

For further information, please contact Sally Ann Wilkinson or Owain Roberts on 01244 834531.

www.deeside.ac.uk