RoSPA AWARDS 2017: CALDERDALE COLLEGE
CONSISTENT ACHIEVEMENT
In conversation with Ray Newell, Health & Safety
Manager at Calderdale College.
Q Tell us about Calderdale College; your history
and capabilities as one of the UK’s leading further and
higher education facilities.
“Calderdale College is the largest provider of further
education (post-16) courses and work-based learning
(Apprenticeships) and the sole provider of higher education
awards in Calderdale, a Metropolitan Borough in West
Yorkshire.
“The original college facility (Halifax Technical College)
was founded in 1893 and classes began in 1896. There
were just 1000 students, 23 part time teachers, one full
time teacher and, presumably, a Principal. Halifax Technical
College offered courses in textiles, engineering, chemistry,
commerce and ‘women’s work’.
“Today, Calderdale College accommodates approximately
400 staff and around 6000 full and part time students. With
a thriving curriculum, the college offers a wide range of full
and part time courses in addition to work-based learning
opportunities.
“In recent years, the college has been redeveloped, with
additions including a new sports hall, a full size 3G pitch
and dual purpose grass sports pitch built to Sport England
standards. The college has also gained a £1m state-of-the-
art purpose built Brick Workshop supported by members of
the Guild of Bricklayers.
“On top of that, we’ve established a £6m Technology
Centre with Plumbing, Electrical & Engineering and Metal
Fabrication Workshops.”
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HSE INTERNATIONAL
Ray Newell, Health & Safety Manager at Calderdale College
Q Congratulations on your recent success as RoSPA
Health and Safety Award Winners! The College achieved
the Order of Distinction which is quite a feat. What are
the secrets of your continued success?
“The RoSPA Order of Distinction is presented to
organisations who have achieved a minimum of 15
consecutive Gold Awards.
“It is a very prestigious honour for Calderdale College
as the award recognises our success in winning 21 Gold
Awards! The Order of Distinction is indicative of the efforts
of all the College staff in continuously maintaining and
delivering Health and Safety across the Campus.