STORIES of success were shared by former students as they celebrated an anniversary of a college department which has helped many people achieve their ambitions.

Bolton College’s Star Deaf Unit celebrated its 30th year and to mark the milestone a special party was thrown to which former students and tutors were invited.

The unit, set up in 1987, provides specialist support for deaf students providing them with support from a team of experienced tutors and dedicated communication support workers to ensure that they get the most out of college and succeed when they move on to work, independent living or university.

Guests met current learners as well as deaf pupils from schools . They were joined by representatives from other organisations. They enjoyed performances from the college’s Sing and Sign choir. A film charting the history of the unit was also shown in the lecture theatre.

Cllr Hayes said: “I am honoured to be a part of these special celebrations, the unit has done some amazing work over the years and its reputation reaches far and wide”

Janet Bishop, Head of Learner Support at the College added: “The Star Deaf Unit has been our most enduring, successful area of support.

“Our 30 years represent hundreds of learners who have benefited from a wraparound package of support and I have seen, time and again, learners exceeding their own expectations and thriving both in their studies and relationships within the D/deaf community at Bolton College. I am proud to head the unit.”