Digital trailblazer Curtis crowned UK’s highest user of CENTURY platform

South Staffordshire College is celebrating the achievement of motor vehicle learner, Curtis Burrows, who has been crowned the UK’s highest continuous user of the CENTURY platform this week.

Curtis, who studies level 2 motor vehicle at Tamworth College has chalked up an impressive 73-week streak of continued use of the CENTURY platform. His commitment to his studies and usage of the CENTURY has been extraordinary and has scooped him this coveted title!

Curtis has adopted an innovative approach to learning and looked to leverage digital tools made available to him effectively to enhance his learning. He has delved into the realms of Virtual Reality and the metaverse, showcasing a pioneering spirit in creating his own metaverse area dedicated to personal learning and studies.

Curtis’s commitment extends beyond his regular lessons. He actively supports his peers, generously sharing his knowledge and expertise. Notably, he dedicates his weekends to attending every college Open Day, where he demonstrates the applications of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) to prospective learners and parents. His engaging demonstrations serve as an inspiration to these prospective students, showcasing the transformative power of technology in education. The role that Curtis holds as a Student Digital Champion has not only elevated his own learning experience but has also enriched the educational journey of those around him.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Curtis has received a well-deserved award and recognition from CENTURY.

Senior Partnership Manager at Century, Paul Leahy said “What an amazing young man Curtis is. It was a real privilege to meet Curtis and be inspired by his energy, focus and love of all things Digital. CENTURY is very proud to play a small part in Curtis’s learning journey. He is a true CENTURY Digital Champion and today we are completely convinced his dream of becoming a Motor Vehicle Mechanic will become reality!!”.

Steve Wileman, Head of Digital Technology at South Staffordshire College said “Curtis is truly an amazing student, a digital trailblazer, and an invaluable asset to our college community. His enthusiasm, innovation, and commitment to advancing education through technology make him a standout learner and a role model for his peers. His proficiency in emerging technologies has not only set him apart but has also positioned him as one of the college’s most outstanding Student Digital Champions.”

Curtis Burrows said “I believe if you work hard and aim high for your goals you will achieve. Century has helped me achieve goals especially in maths and English. It has helped me along the way and use as a recap tool”.

Curtis is taught by motor vehicle tutor Kate Sollers-Dominey who said “Curtis has worked extremely hard over the last few years to improve his maths and English. For him to have passed his GCSE last year was a massive achievement. This also shows in his written work for his motor vehicle qualification. He goes above and beyond with everything I ask him to do. His work ethic is excellent. I am so proud of him”.

Head of English and maths, Craig Hancox said “We are all extremely proud of Curtis’ achievements and his dedication in completing over 70 consecutive weeks worth of extra English and maths study via the Century platform. This has allowed him to make substantial progress in English, moving from entry level 3 to a GCSE grade 4 in a 3 year period! He is now working hard and on track achieve in GCSE maths. In developing these skills, Curtis really has opened up his options in the world of work after college, well done Curtis!”

If you’d like to enhance your skills and learn more about how digital technology could enhance your learning experience at South Staffordshire College, come along to our next open day. To view the full list of courses on offer and to book your place visit southstaffs.ac.uk/open-days.