LOCAL employers are supporting a college’s bid to broaden students’ horizons through world travel.
Last year Darlington College secured more than £600,000 from the Turing Fund to send students globe-trotting.
Students visited a host of countries including Thailand, Cambodia, Brazil and Tanzania, as well as European destinations, on a work experience programme that proved life-changing.
This year the college managed to secure the maximum bid offered of £205,000 from the fund but in recognition of the value of the scheme a number of businesses and organisations have agreed to sponsor some of the trips to enable more learners to go.
Sports students will set off for Brazil this month and hair and beauty will again visit Thailand, along with catering colleagues, supported by office furniture specialists Workwell.
Workwell business development associate Lily Parker said: “At Workwell, we recognise the importance of real-world experiences in preparing students for their future careers. We are proud to support the students’ international learning opportunities which help foster curiosity, innovation and global awareness, qualities that are essential in today’s world.”
Adavo Workspace is supporting a Business and Travel and Tourism trip to India and Darlington Rotary Club, Darlington Building Society and KBG cleaning services have also made contributions.
President of Darlington Rotary Jane Bradshaw said: “We are really pleased to be supporting Darlington College as a corporate member of Rotary, strengthening our links with young people in the town and working together on projects that make a difference. The college’s international programme is inspiring and forward-thinking, providing ways for students to broaden horizons and giving them access to invaluable new experiences.”
A spokesman for KGB Cleaning & Support Services Northern Ltd said: “We are proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Darlington College and to support the exciting international opportunities being offered to students this year. Experiences like these are invaluable in helping young people build confidence, independence and a global perspective that will benefit them throughout their future careers.”
Darlington College’s head of marketing and engagement Claire Hankey said: “Last year this initiative proved life-changing with students coming back from their overseas travels with new mindsets.
“The trips gave them an enhanced sense of perspective and made them appreciate not only the opportunities beyond these shores, broadening their understanding of the world.
“We are thrilled that stakeholders across the region recognise the value of such travels and have decided to support us this year as we strive to offer this amazing opportunity to as many students as possible with the funding we received.”
Anyone wanting to sponsor any of the trips or contribute to the Turing initiative should contact the college at marketing@darlington.ac.uk.