We cannot speak highly enough of the Chesterfield College Uniformed Public Service Students that I have witnessed working this week at the Linnet Clough assignment residential 2011.
They have achieved so much in a short time (4 days and nights) within this period they have proved to be a hard working, focused cohesive team that has achieved, improved or complimented assignment grades and academic profiles. This they have achieved through the utilization of activities which have been both academic and practical. Their resolve has been relentless, as a result of being removed from home and everyday distractions (Facebook, Nintendo, Xbox and like) on the residential their focus has been project talk and assignment work in an atmosphere that promotes learning in a fun inclusive environment.
Monday: Interviews monumental task of moving 70 tons of hardcore and the others started identifying how they could improve their grades. They changed round after lunch and by the end of the first day each student had a clear goal of what units they wanted to achieve.
Tuesday: mixed tasks (Project & assignment work) during the day the students were introduced to a tailor made bridging assignment which had been written specifically to match the students’ needs and upgrade criteria and individual goals.
Wednesday: was designed to give the students time to reflect on their assignment goals and to work on practical projects and exercises.
Thursday: Today the students participated in a practical exercise which had been designed as an assessment tool for ongoing work as well as retrospectively completing or closing gaps within previous units. The day was long (07.30 to 18.30) but a true reflection of a public service day.
Friday: Completion of both assignment of project tasks, cleaning, packing and handover.
