In 1993, Colette began her professional journey at West Suffolk College, undertaking O-Level Biology and Human Biology to progress in her career from an enrolled nurse to a registered nurse. In 2000, she came back as a student to complete the Assessor award (D32/33); a year later, she achieved the Internal Verifier qualification (D34), and the 7307 Initial teacher training award. Her dedication led to a full-time role as a Lecturer and Course Director for health and social care apprenticeships and NTEC health programmes.
Whilst balancing education and teaching, she continued to work as a registered nurse, most recently as a Clinical Lead in the Vaccination and Community Support team at West Suffolk hospital. Even after semi-retiring from the classroom and teaching in 2017, she remained actively involved as an Internal Quality Assurer for Health Apprenticeship and teacher education courses.
Throughout her career, Colette’s deep connection with West Suffolk College has opened many doors, including becoming a published author of textbooks and other learning materials. She firmly believes that maintaining a vocational role alongside teaching has enriched her practice and had a positive impact on students and colleagues.
What motivated you to join EEG?
West Suffolk College was local to me, and it had an excellent reputation. I don’t believe that there was anywhere else where adults could undertake O-Levels back in 1982, which is why it was perfect for me!
Could you share what you’re currently doing now in your career and how your time with us influenced this?
I am still working at West Suffolk College, as mentioned. It was a requirement for me to achieve two further O-Levels in order to progress from an enrolled nurse to a registered nurse.
The assessor, verifier, and teacher training courses have been invaluable. The knowledge that I have gained from working and studying at the College has unlocked countless possibilities.
Do you have any family or other connections to the group?
My husband completed a Plumbing apprenticeship back in 1966 at West Suffolk College before we met.
Are there any special memories or standout moments from your time with us?
I have very fond memories of the Staff Association trips; I especially enjoyed Paris, Bruges and Amsterdam. It was lovely to mix and socialise with members of staff and their families and friends, as they were welcome to come along too.
As we celebrate our 100 years of history, what message would you like to share?
Thank you for the many opportunities that West Suffolk College has given me. I have worked with some wonderful people and students. It’s such a pleasure and privilege to see many of my former students as successful senior registered health practitioners themselves.
Do you have any advice or messages for future students and staff at Eastern Education Group?
Follow your dreams, work hard, and never give up. Seize every opportunity that comes your way. We all have difficult times and setbacks, try to rise above these, keep positive, and you will get there.
