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Search forVision of enrichment is key to community award
Tuesday, September 30, 2008, 08:59
Brixham College is such a shining example of the government's Children's Plan for its work in community integration that it has been given one of only six awards in England called Future Vision Awards.
And Education and Families Minister, Ed Balls, may be joining a party of 80 influential educators and business leaders touring the college tomorrow.
Head teacher Chris Turner said: "It's all about enrichment.
"We are one of only six campuses in Britain to be selected for the Future Vision Awards and a personal tour by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust whose theme this year is community engagement.
"We are absolutely delighted at the recognition.
"It shows the college has come of age in its innovative mission to become a true learning community, aiming to enrich the lives and futures of as many individuals and families as we can."
The trust, the lead body for the government's specialist schools and academies programme, singled out several factors before making its announcement.
They include the college's close relationship with its feeder primary schools which helps promote stable communities, facilities for special needs students, international links, arts support, the pioneering ACE disabled adult charity and the use of its sports hall as an health aid by local doctors.
Deputy principal Richard Burden is keen to make the VIP visit memorable.
Up to 80 of the country's most influential opinion-leaders and policy chiefs on the tour will be greeted by four 'living statues' on the college driveway.
White-draped and white-faced students will pose motionless, representing the four houses of the college — Phoenix, Inspire, Pioneer and Venture.
He added: "The award is evidence of success.
"We are convinced that we can enrich people's lives through creativity and challenge.
"Recognition by the trust to be included on their tour is a fantastic accolade.
"It will be great to show a group of very high-powered people a taster of some of the incredible opportunities that the local community can get involved with. This is education at its best."
Chairman of governors, Mike Morey, said: "We pride ourselves on integrating closely with the local community. I must praise the hard work of the staff over the past five years in realising this ambition which will be for the benefit of past, present and future students.
"This award will also open the door to other beneficial local partnerships."
The Children's Plan incorporates a key focus on Building Brighter Futures which puts schools at the centre of their communities, encouraging joined-up services, better professional co-operation and innovation.
Unlocking the potential of every child is the ultimate goal of Labour's education policy including providing a safety net for the most vulnerable.
Brixham's award affirms is 'outward facing, at the heart of a learning network and committed to both the education and welfare of young people'."
Cllr Morey added: "The college's progress and now this latest award is a great source of pride for everyone involved."
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