College Opens Beach Classroom
Cornwall College's new facilities on a beach in Newquay have been officially opened in Spring sunshine.
The launch took place on Wednesday 28th April, with former British Surfing Champion and Surf Co-ordinator for the National Trust, Robyn Davies, opening the venue at Tolcarne beach.
As she unveiled the plaque featuring the building's name, "skians ryb an mor" (Cornish for 'knowledge by the sea'), Robyn said: "Surfing is central to the local economy here in Newquay. Well-qualified and experienced graduates are essential to maintain that industry. Not only are the views from here amazing, but students will have access to one of the most wonderful outdoor classrooms around."
The building will be the main location for all of the classroom-based teaching on Cornwall College Newquay's Surf Science & Technology Foundation Degree. It will also be used by Marine Conservation Foundation Degree students for fieldwork, and by those on the new Applied Ecology Foundation Degree, being offered in Newquay from this September, all of which are approved by the University of Plymouth.
Andrew Smart, Head of Cornwall College Newquay, said: "A great deal of effort has gone into creating this facility and it is a particular pleasure for me to be here as I recognise the value it represents to our students' learning experience." He thanked Kate and Nick Bryant, from Tolcarne Beach, as well as partners including the British Surf Association, UK Pro Surf Tour and Era Adventures, who work with the College to provide specialist training for students in areas such as lifeguarding and coaching.
Dave Linnell OBE, Principal of Cornwall College, said: "We are constantly looking for new ways to improve the high standard of teaching that already exists at Cornwall College. By opening the new facility at Tolcarne we are able to provide students with a teaching location highly relevant to their subjects and provide a base for fieldwork for Newquay's courses. This development will really boost the students' experience."
Cornwall College Newquay comprises two buildings, in addition to the new classroom, adjacent to Newquay Zoo, offering specialist courses in animal science, zoology and wildlife media. Applications are being taken now for courses starting this September. Call 0845 22 32 567, email enquiries@cornwall.ac.uk