Post 4 : Final Day 1st Dips

First Diploma learners celebrating their achievement ?














Linnet Clough Debrief: A tutor’s perspective
Matt Newbould

As 34 learners departed up the main ‘drag’ carrying ironing boards bin, bags ,kit bags and for most a big (if not weary!) smile, it was time to reflect on the previous few days exertions and activities.

Linnet Clough proved a taxing environment for all the First Diploma students and with a mix of skills and attributes, finding the ‘best fit’ to tackle the course as a team proved fruitful. We all know that ‘you can’t be good at everything’ and finding a way of pulling together and helping others get through was the key to a successful outcome for these young people at Linnet.

All in all the students performed well for the duration of the course picking up the basic skills fairly quickly, and showing that with a little determination (almost) anything is possible! Of particular note were the whole courses PT sessions. The level of effort and determination shown during these periods increased as the course went on with many individuals surprising themselves with their own abilities.

The night exercise went without a hitch, and the night navigation and signals skills were of a good standard, particularly as most students had had little or no experience in this area.

As the course came to an end there was a definite sense of achievement from all, and an understanding of what it means to work hard towards a common goal. For many this was a well deserved pass on the course, and for some it was the basis for which to improve.

The students attending Linnet work hard, of that there is no doubt, and for this particular group the passing of Linnet Clough is not the end but just the beginning!


‘Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference’.

Winston Churchill





"Get On Parade"





Matt Newbould putting the First Diploma students through their fitness assessments.




Dave White checking all is fair in the team game session


Chesterfield College second year national diploma students assist with running of the Linnet Clough UPS induction event.

This supports and provides them with a vital insight and understanding of teamwork , understanding discipline and communication. Whilst at Linnet the team prepare for their role in running a major incident simulation as part of their Command and control assignment.

Attention to detail 2nd Year National student preparing lunch. Joe and the support team prepare and provide over 650 meals and snacks per week.