New Diploma in environmental and land-based studies

THIS week, the next generation of employees and professionals in the North West will begin studying the new Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies for the first time as it is launched in schools and colleges across England.  This qualification is aimed at 14 to 19 year olds.   The new Diploma can be studied alongside GCSEs and A Levels. That means far more young people in the North West will be able to study a subject that is interesting and relevant to them!  Liz Pridgeon, Development Manager for Standards and Qualifications at Lantra Sector Skills Council, said:- “The Diploma is a great way for young people to explore this varied and exciting sector. Students will enjoy hands-on practical learning, as well as covering core subjects such as ICT, English, maths and other skills universities and employers value, like teamwork and problem solving.”

It has been developed with employers to provide an additional route into further and higher education and employment, combining academic and practical learning to give students the knowledge and skills they need.  Pridgeon continued:- “There are many opportunities for young people looking for a career in the environmental and land-based sector but whether pupils are thinking about going to university or straight into work, it offers a fantastic opportunity to develop the crucial skills and confidence that lead to success. "  Bob Fiddaman, Crops Farmer and Chair of the Diploma Development Partnership added:- “It’s critical that employers of all sizes recognise this as an opportunity. You don’t have to feel as if you have to give up days of your time - you can simply offer your time as a telephone contact or visit your local school to talk to the young people directly. The Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies will help to encourage young people into our sector and ensure they are fit for work when they’re qualified. Employers have been asking for this for a long time so now is the time to get involved.“  Pridgeon concluded:- “The sector needs really well rounded, well qualified, well informed people to come into our industries and the Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies is going to be a good way for young people to develop the knowledge, skills and experience needed.”  To find out more about the Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies, speak to your Connexions advisor, visit diplomaelbs.co.uk  or email  or free phone Lantra Connect on:- 0845 707 8007. For more information about the wider changes to education and the courses and qualifications available for young people in the area, visit:- direct.gov.uk/14-19prospectus.

Superstar Boudoir – All the Fun of the Fair

ON Thursday, 17 September 2009, sees the re-launch of Superstar Boudoir – Southport. The old Glasshouse on West Street has undergone a quick re-furb in line up. Just over a year on from the massive launch the team is about to raise the bar again with an event packed weekend.

Southport’s nightlife has been tarnished of late with under age drinking and the venue wants to be one of the first to pro-actively work with the Police to keep underage drinkers out of the venue. The venue has teemed up with Dune 107.9fm to bring the “Search for a Star” competition. For 10 weeks 2 lucky karaoke winners will go through to the grand final in November for the chance to win a £1000 cash prize plus much more, in front of our celebrity judging panel. All you have to do to enter is turn up at the venue between 10-2 each Thursday. The panel will select the best 2 from each heat.

Saturdays see’s the Superstar Boudoir team up with Liverpool’s hottest DJ, Ian Longo. Juice FM’s Ian has become the number one DJ in the area over the past few years and can be heard between 9-3 at the venue each and every Saturday night live. So as the venue kicks off again with the Superstar promo team and the new roller skaters outside the venue it evolves into what the audience of the region really wants.

Paul German Head of Promotions for the S.B.Comments:- “The demand for weekend passes for the Re-launch of the venue has been unbelievable and we have already got confirmation from some the regions celebrities and movers and shakers. With more surprises lined up over the weekend we would advise people to get there early.”

New Southport Access For Everyone Forum date set

THE next meeting of the Southport Access For Everyone forum will be held at the Community Room of the Southport Fire Station at the corner of Manchester Road and Lord Street, on Thursday, 24 September 2009 at 7.00 pm.  
People who experience access problems to the town's facilities because of a disability are welcome to attend and discuss their problems. The premises are fully accessible for wheelchair users. Enquiries:- 01704 567046.