Double Gold for Derry's North West Regional College at major UK Awards

North West Regional College (NWRC) has won two major gold awards at UK competitions over the weekend.

Health Studies lecturers from NWRC won the Gold Award for ‘Further Education Team of Year’ at the 2022 Pearson Teaching Awards, while Foundation Degree Science student Rory Deehan won the Gold Medal in Laboratory Technician Skills at the Worldskills Uk Finals.

NWRC also had two lecturers as finalists in the Pearson Further Education Lecturer of the Year Awards with Sports Lecturer Ivor Neill and Health Lecturer Jacqueline Turner achieving Silver awards, while Level 3 student Morgan Nutt won a Silver medal in Floor and Wall Tiling at Worldskills. 

The BTEC Level 3 Health Studies team who have spent decades preparing students for careers in the health sector were praised by the judges for their “focus and passion.”

Dr. Lynda Hegarty, Head of Health, Sport and Science at NWRC said: “Our Health Studies team are making a real difference with their commitment, passion, and dedication to our students. The BTEC Level 3 course is an alternative to A-levels and prepares students for careers such as nursing, midwifery, radiography, and a range of other health roles. 

“The health courses at NWRC open doors for our students and the impact of teaching at the college is evident by the huge numbers of former students who are now working locally in Health professions.

“If you were to go into any healthcare setting, you’re sure to meet a former student. 

Rory Deehan, Foundation Degree student in Medical and Applied Science who won the Gold Medal for Laboratory Technician at Worldskills UK.

“This is what we do at NWRC – teach the practical skills our students need for future careers. 

“I am enormously proud of the achievements of our all teams in Worldskills and the Pearson Teaching Awards.  The passion and dedication of our staff has no doubt transferred to our students and we are very proud of them.”