Former college students go back 50 years after leaving

From left: Dawn Ward CBE, college principal, Jeffrey Stutt, Keith Marsh, Pete Sales and John Beaty, vice principal

THREE former Burton and South Derbyshire College students marked the 50th anniversary of completing their studies by returning to the college.

Jeffrey Stutt, Keith Marsh and Pete Sales, who were mechanical maintenance apprentices between 1969 and 1971, are now appealing to former classmates to come forward for a wider reunion.

As apprentices, the trio worked at Cottam Power Station near Retford. After completing their studies, they went on to continue to work in the power industry before pursuing separate careers in the prison service, mechanical maintenance/industrial management and HGV management.

All three are now retired and living in the Retford area.

For their reunion visit, the three friends had the opportunity to view the college’s current facilities and enjoyed a meal in its Mulberry Restaurant. Speaking about the reunion, Jeffrey said: “We were overwhelmed with the hospitality and warmth afforded to us on our visit to the college. We thoroughly enjoyed our day, marvelling at the high standards of teaching and the calm, professional attitude of staff and students. We took from it a sense that in this, our old college, the future of our young people is being carefully nurtured to ensure that they deliver their best when joining their chosen path.”

He added: “It was very clear to us that the college offers a valid alternative to today’s common practice of the ‘university route‘, with the option of university level courses.

“We are of the opinion that some young people are missing a wonderful opportunity to pick up and develop technical and vocational skills that will enhance their career prospects and provide them with the skill sets for an ever-changing work environment.”

The three alumni are appealing for any of their former classmates to come forward for a wider reunion.

If you attended the college from 1969-1971 and would like to reconnect with Jeffrey, Keith and Pete, please email marketing@bsdc.ac.uk