A COLLEGE in Whitley has been awarded funds to help mark its 65th anniversary, which will see it teaming up with Reading Museum.
New Directions College saw a £10,000 boost from the National Lottery Heritage Fund which will support a series of events marking 65 years since it was established.
An exhibition is now set to show at Reading Museum’s Reading History and Community gallery from mid-November celebrating the milestone.
The college will also host classes and “Takeover” days as part of their partnership, where residents can engage with arts and wellbeing activities run by tutors.
The events are geared towards connecting existing residents with one another and providing an introduction to newcomers to the town while exploring some of its history.
The grant has funded research conducted to explore life-long learning in Reading and its contribution to communities in the town.
Documents from the Reading Local Studies Library (RLSL), Royal Berkshire Archives, and Reading Museum are among those uncovered by the research, including the RLSL’s ephemera collection, as part of its comprehension collection of resources from the last two centuries.
New Directions College has become the largest adult community learning provider in Berkshire since it was established as Reading Technical College in 1958.
Andrea Wood, New Directions College principal, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve received this support thanks to National Lottery players.
“This is set to be a marvellous celebratory exhibition of the story and impact of adult learning in Reading dating back 65 years.
“It will bring us to current day, where the college plays a pivotal role at the heart of our community, supporting thousands of adults to gain the skills they need for employment, further education or personal or social development.”
Cllr Ruth McEwan, lead councillor for education and public health, said: “New Directions College’s 65th Year Anniversary is a remarkable testament to the enduring spirit of lifelong learning in our community.
“This exhibition, made possible through the generous support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, not only celebrates the history but also paves the way for an even brighter future.
“It’s a unique opportunity for our residents to connect, learn, and celebrate the diverse talents that make Reading such a vibrant place to live.”
The New Directions College Exhibition takes place at Reading Museum from Tuesday, November 14, and runs until June.
More information about the 65th anniversary events at the college is available via NDC’s website: newdirectionsreading.ac.uk
