More than 40 policy makers from foreign countries ranging from Nigeria to India recently attended a seminar held by the British Council and Association of Colleges and hosted by Derby College Group (DCG).

The seminar focused on the future challenges and opportunities for TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) across the world.

After an introductory day in London, the delegates spent two days based at DCG’s Roundhouse Technical and Professional Skills college in Pride Park.

The itinerary included delegate visits to three employers who have close links with DCG – Rolls-Royce plc, HUUB which is a market leader in triathlon kit design and Derbyshire County Cricket Club.

Delegates also gained an insight into technical and vocational training at the Roundhouse, the Joseph Wright Centre post-16 Academic and Arts College and Broomfield Hall Land-based and Leisure college in Morley.

DCG Chief Executive Mandie Stravino said: “We were honoured to be invited to be the host of the seminar at the Roundhouse and the feedback from delegates was that they thoroughly enjoyed their time in the city, at the College and meeting some of our partner employers.

“This was an opportunity to showcase our extensive vocational curriculum through which we strive to bring real-world learning into the classroom and create a future workforce of technical professionals with higher-level skills, knowledge and behaviours.

“The delegates were particularly interested in our innovative approach to bring together curriculum professionals and employers to co-design and co-deliver our vocational offer.

“Every student has the opportunity to be involved in employer-led masterclasses and special projects, taste the world of work through visits and work placements and be best placed to progress onto higher education, the world of work or to set up their own business.

“All these activities connect educational experiences to real-life opportunities to get students excited about what they are learning and develop transferable skills that will be in demand for employment in the future.”