The University of Derby, Chatsworth House Trust and the Devonshire Educational Trust are to work together to generate new opportunities for students, and to benefit visitors to Chatsworth and local communities across the county.

A strategic partnership agreement has been signed by University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kathryn Mitchell, and Lord Burlington, University Chancellor and son of the Duke of Devonshire.

The agreement paves the way for students to take up a variety of work and volunteer placements at the stately home, to stage events there and deliver agreed activities.

Professor Mitchell said: “This agreement is an important and exciting development for the University of Derby, and builds upon the very positive relationship we have had with Chatsworth over many years now.”

“As the county’s only university we aim to make a positive impact on people’s lives. We want to open doors to opportunities and experiences for our students and our local communities.!

“We also want our students to become game-changers in their chosen areas of study and career, and this partnership will help to raise their aspirations and fulfil their potential to succeed.”

The agreement identifies opportunities for students to work, volunteer and study at the world-renowned visitor attraction in a range of roles, developing their skills in a busy working environment, such as the kitchens of the Chatsworth restaurants. Students will also undertake business development projects; applying their skills and knowledge to challenges and opportunities. The potential to connect learning and Chatsworth is immense, including business, humanities, hospitality, tourism, engineering and the environment. Students will be able to take up work placements and internships of up to 12 months, or carry out industry-led studies and projects at Chatsworth.

The University will also collaborate with Chatsworth and the Devonshire Educational Trust on marketing and promotion campaigns, funding bids, a plan which identifies the region’s learning and employment requirements, and to work more closely with deprived communities in the county.

University Provost (Academic), Professor Malcolm Todd, said: “As a TEF Gold university we want to offer the best possible educational experience for our students, with the aim of ensuring that, when they complete their course, they have the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.”

“Many of our students will now have the chance to develop those skills by working alongside the expert Chatsworth team, contributing to the day-to-day operation of a very successful business with a world-renowned brand.”

“Working in partnership, the University of Derby and Chatsworth will provide an academic experience which is unique in the UK.”

Lord Burlington said: “As Chancellor of the University of Derby I have seen first-hand what incredible energy the University puts in to delivering value for its students, and at Chatsworth we are proud to be formally recognised as a suitable partner in this objective.”

“Through activities that also include the Devonshire Educational Trust, the three organisations have exciting plans to improve learning and employment opportunities right across the region and I hope that this Strategic Partnership Agreement will have a positive impact for years to come, not only for students but for visitors and local communities too.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, and Lord Burlington, University Chancellor, signing the agreement at Chatsworth House. Credit: Chatsworth House Trust

Following a lengthy interview process, Chesterfield FC has appointed Lesley Brentnall and Alison Richardson as Associate Directors.

The pair, who are both from Chesterfield and lifelong supporters of the club, will attend board meetings and work on various initiatives.

Lesley, who is Department Head of National Sales for Biffa PLC, specialises in business transformation projects and customer excellence. Commenting on her new appointment, she said: “I’m very honoured to have been given the opportunity. I am looking forward to working with Alison to help build bridges between the board and the fans.”

Alison is self-employed with a background in business strategy, leadership development and business change, across a wide range of organisations. She is looking forward to her new role, saying: “It’s a way to merge my love of football with my interest in business. I’m really excited at the prospect of making a difference and adding some value to the club.”

Chairman Mike Warner admitted that the board had a very difficult decision to make when selecting the associate directors. He said: “All the candidates we interviewed were of a very high calibre so we were faced with a tough choice.”

“In the end, we felt that the skills and experience Lesley and Alison have to offer were what we needed to help improve the running of the club. I am looking forward to working with them both and receiving their valued input. I would like to thank all the other short-listed candidates for taking the time to apply and attend interviews.”

The Garden Secret Spa located in the grounds of Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa has opened their new spa terrace.

On Friday The Garden Secret Spa announced the opening of the first section of the phase two spa build. Opening in June 2018, the spa is still in its infancy. In August 2018 the spa was awarded the prestigious 5 Bubble rating from the Good Spa Guide, the first of which to be awarded within Derbyshire.

The latest announcement is the Spa Terrace development. The terrace wraps around the side and front of the spa, allowing guests access straight from the pool hall out into the gardens. Incorporating heaters and blankets it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind with a hot chocolate and watch the autumn leaves fall.

The terrace is the first step in bringing the spa into the gardens and there are more plans for this already award winning spa.

The Garden Secret Spa features a Vitality Pool, Herbal Sauna, Foot Spas, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Blossom Steam Room, Ice Fountain, Experience Showers, Relaxation Lounges, 7 treatment rooms and its own Brassiere.

For further information on The Garden Secret Spa, call 01246 284750.