Colin joined West Suffolk College in 2002, as an hourly paid NVQ assessor. This role grew and he became a full-time lecturer in 2005, with the intention of staying only for 5 years. He went on to become Assistant Head of School for Health, Social Care and Childcare, then Head of Faculty for Humanities and Health. Twenty-three years later, Colin is now Group Principal based at West Suffolk College, appointed in 2020. He looks back on many special memories of his time here at EEG.
What made you join Eastern Education Group?
I accidentally stumbled into the role when I was approached by the College in 2002 to become an hourly paid NVQ assessor, to assessor candidates undertaking the Operating Department Practice Level 3 NVQ at the hospital, where I was working at the time.
This grew from assessing into lecturing, then course-directing and teaching on the AMSPAR Medical Terminology course for Medical Secretaries, until I eventually joined the College as a full-time lecturer in April 2005. I only planned to stay for 5 years!
Do you have any special memories from your time with us?
Lots and too many to mention, but the top special memory was working with the 14-16 students on the school links programme at a local high school, and helping these students to achieve some of the best grades. When I was introduced to them, I was told, in front of them, that they were doing my course (Health and Social Care Level 2) because they would never make anything of themselves. All the pupils completed the course, with almost all gaining merits or distinctions. Some even when into the care industry!
I have met some amazing young people over the years as well as some exceptional colleagues.
Is there a message you would like to share as we celebrate our 100 years of history?
It has been, and continues to be, an extraordinary privilege to serve this Group – a privilege I have never taken for granted. Over the years, staff and students have contributed immeasurably through their achievements, dedication, and passion. As we celebrate this milestone, we should reflect on those contributions with pride and gratitude.
Our responsibility now is to ensure that the strong foundations we have built together remain solid for those who follow. By continuing to strive for excellence and innovation, we will leave a legacy that others can build upon and make even better. In doing so, we will secure a future where this Group thrives for another hundred years and beyond.
Lastly, do you have any advice for future students and staff at EEG?
To future staff and students: embrace the opportunities before you, honour the values that have shaped our history, and never stop striving to make this Group even stronger for generations to come. Take every opportunity that comes your way; you never know what tomorrow may bring, but most of all, enjoy what you do and always try to make a positive difference.
