Derwen College’s mission is to create a world without barriers for people with special educational needs and disability (SEND).

When the pandemic hit, the college didn’t just survive: it thrived. Staff across curriculum, care and support came together with parents, carers, supporters and industry partners to ensure work, independence skills, health, fitness, sports and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award all continued, despite the challenges.

Throughout online delivery, the college constantly sought feedback from students and learners, and adapted resources and delivery to ensure their needs were met.

Rochdale Sixth Form College wins at the FE Awards 2021

Norfolk County Council wins at the Tes FE Awards 2021

ELATT wins at the Tes FE Awards 2021

The college also set up an on-site charity shop, an online eBay shop and a new takeaway service to ensure that work placements for students continued, and staff worked tirelessly to host annual events virtually, including open days, a prom and graduation ceremony.

Tes FE Awards 2021: Derwen College announced as specialist provider of the year

As a result of staff commitment, the new Telford satellite campus opened as planned in September 2020 and, today, is delivering much-needed provision to students with SEND in the area.

Tes FE Awards 2021 lead judge Lynette Barrett said: “During such adverse and difficult times, this college has shown how it has remained focused on student achievements and outcomes. The pandemic did not hold this college back; it initiated new projects, which meant student outcomes could be achieved, and learners remained safe and engaged in their education.

“The staff worked relentlessly to remain open and create new ways of working, which allowed some of the most vulnerable young people in society to achieve their outcomes without compromise.”