Derby College Principal David Croll has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours list in recognition for his services to education.

David, who since being appointed Principal at Derby Tertiary College: Wilmorton in July 1995, has led in the transformation of further education in the city and surrounding area.

Wilmorton merged with Mackworth and Broomfield Hall colleges in 2002 to form Derby College which is now one of the largest and most successful further education colleges in the UK.  It then merged with South East Derbyshire College in February 2010.

David’s vision for creating 21^st century learning facilities for students has led to the development of such iconic campuses as the Joseph Wright Centre A level and creative arts centre and The Roundhouse – the award-winning £48 million development of vocational facilities with the world’s largest restored roundhouse at its heart.

David (59), who lives in Ashbourne, said: “I am obviously delighted to accept the OBE on behalf of everyone at Derby College who has worked so hard over the years and continues to do so to make this an astounding centre of excellence for further education.

“Having brought four colleges together under the Derby College banner and ethos over the years, raised standards and invested heavily in developing state of the art facilities for our staff and students, this is a wonderful testament to the recognition and value that is put on our achievements.”

Derby College Chair of Governors Janet Morgan concluded: “David has taken a lead role within the education sector to bridge the gap between employers, education and training – listening to and engaging with local businesses in planning educational provision which has recognised and addressed the skills gaps that many of them had experienced.

“His commitment to high standards in education – whether by working in partnership with other organisations or investing in first class facilities – has led Derby College to be at the heart of the city’s successful regeneration and this is well-deserved recognition for him and the College as a whole.”

CITY shops excluding those in Westfield saw visitor numbers rise by more than a quarter in the run-up to Christmas.

According to figures released by Derby City Council, footfall in the city centre, outside of the Westfield shopping centre, was up 25.6% last month compared to December 2010.

When Westfield opened in October 2007, other shopping areas in Derby saw a dramatic slump in visitors.

It has taken years for areas like the Cathedral Quarter to recover.

Simon Ingham, managing director of Bennetts department store, in Iron Gate, said: “We were certainly very … Continue Reading →

Derby College is one of the first in the country to be awarded Academy status by national organisation Sports Leaders UK .

Around 300 Derby College students a year achieve Sports Leaders Awards and in recognition of its success in supporting learners, college Principal David Croll was presented the Academy status plaque by Sports Leaders UK Chief Executive, Linda Plowright.

Derby College Assistant Principal Sport and Leisure Peter Gordon explained: “The Sports Leaders Award is a valuable addition to students’ learning programmes.  Not only does it boost their Personal Statements for … Continue Reading →

Derby College has teamed up with the Prince’s Trust and Balfour Beatty to run a special programme for young unemployed people who are keen to get a foothold into work.

Thirteen young people aged 16 to 24 have completed the four-week ‘Get into Construction’ programme which has included practical training sessions in plastering, painting and decorating, brickwork and joinery at Derby College and work experience at Balfour Beatty Construction sites in Derby.  They have also completed health and safety training to gain the CSCS card which allows them to work … Continue Reading →

A new independent shop specialising in British made cards, stationery, gifts and homewares has opened in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter.

Ink & Thread in The Strand is run by Emily Baker who said: “’I have always had an interest in design and interiors and have thought about opening my own shop for a long time and it just felt like the right time to set up my own business.

“My passion is supporting British designers and producers – mainly smaller companies who focus on quality rather than quantity.

“As I started to source … Continue Reading →