Devon & Cornwall Training Providers Network (DCTPN) members united to enjoy a summer networking event hosted within the beautiful grounds of Duchy College, near Callington in Cornwall.
Providers and key stakeholders from across the region enjoyed a day of sunshine (and showers!), together with a range of activities to test their skill, speed and mental ability.
Oh, and of course there was a fabulous barbecue lunch cooked to perfection by local catering company the Hungry Hog.
The event theme of ‘A Day in the Country’ was taken up with enthusiasm by the providers, with most guests sporting checked shirts, cowboy boots and Stetsons!
Brad Goldsworthy of the Strategic Development Network, who was channelling his inner Clint Eastwood (think A Fistful of Dollars) took the ‘Best Dressed Man’ award, while Annette Davey from Skills Group scooped the ‘Belle of the Barn’ accolade for her outfit.
There were awards for quiz winners and for a ‘Hobby Horse’ challenge, both of which were highly fought over. Competition was fierce but the eventual Champion Jockey was City College Plymouth’s Mike Jones, with Cosmic’s Emma Moore taking the runner-up spot.
Rob Bosworth, Principal and CEO of Cornwall College Group, dropped by to welcome everyone to Duchy and extended an invitation to network providers to reach out to share ideas around future partnership working.
The work of the Network and its value to the College and the FE sector as a whole was also recognised. Marie Woodger, Chair of the DCTPN Board of Trustees, commented: “It is so positive to hear how our work impacts so positively, and how well-regarded we are within the sector.”
The event – which was held to bring together the provider base in an informal, relaxed setting to facilitate greater partnership working – received excellent feedback, with guests heading off into the sunset clutching not at straws but their winning hampers, rosettes and a few of the inflatable Daisy the Cows used to dress the event!
