Dr Jack Fawbert is a retired academic with an extensive and distinguished career in Sociology and higher education. Beginning as a part-time lecturer at West Suffolk College in 1985, he quickly progressed to full-time roles, ultimately becoming Head of Sociology and Course Director for a range of A-Level and Access courses. During this time, he developed and taught on the BA (Hons) Combined Humanities/Social Sciences programme under Anglia Ruskin University’s Regional Student Scheme. He also undertook further qualifications, including a Master’s in Sociology at Essex University and a Cert. Ed. (FE) at Anglia Polytechnic. Later, he moved into senior lecturing roles at Leeds Metropolitan University, De Montfort University, and the University of Bedfordshire, and completed a PhD which contributed significantly to the academic community as an external examiner for both the University of Northampton and the University of Ulster.
After retiring from full-time academic work in 2013, Jack has continued his academic contributions as an Associate Lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University, teaching postgraduates, as well as becoming a tutor for the Workers Educational Association and the Open University. He has remained active in delivering guest lectures and presentations. Jack’s career is marked by his commitment to teaching and passion for delivering lifelong knowledge.
What made you choose to join West Suffolk College?
Initially, I was invited to teach sociology to a GCE ‘O’ Level group in an evening class as there was no tutor. I was then offered hours to teach ‘A’ Level Sociology during the day, and it snowballed from there until I was offered a full-time post in 1989.
Having been a part of West Suffolk College for over two decades, are there any standout moments from your time with us?
I especially remember certain students who went on to achieve great things. Further education colleges like West Suffolk College give mature students in particular the opportunities to fulfill their potential far beyond what they think.
Looking back, what advice do you wish you had received earlier in life that could benefit our students now at EEG?
I left school with just one ‘O’ Level in woodwork. After 20 years of working in the industry, I went to university and graduated with a joint honours degree in my 30s. West Suffolk College provided me with the opportunity to develop my knowledge and skills. It’s never too late to achieve.
