Principal’s Welcome

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Ihope you all had a restful half term break, and managed to take advantage of the good weather. It’s certainly nice to be able to visit places and eat out again, and it’s wonderful to see our students back in the City Salons welcoming clients. I look forward to the City Restaurant opening to the public again in September, and all our services getting back to nearly normal.

As you might have seen, the Skills and Post16 Education Bill was published on 18 May. It confirms the government’s view, supported by all the political parties, that FE colleges have a critical part to play in the country’s economic recovery. We are already working with employers in and around Bristol to upskill their workforce, and with the DWP to reach out to unemployed adults.

At the same time, we’re vigorously promoting our apprenticeship offering and guaranteeing all school leavers a place to study with us next year. We’re determined to do our bit to help local people improve their qualifications and advance their careers.

Just before half term, we welcomed Metro Mayor Dan Norris and Bristol South MP Karin Smyth to our Advanced Construction Skills Centre. They found the visit informative and enjoyable, with the highlight being speaking to students about their studies and their view of the new Centre.

We were also delighted to feature on BBC Points West recently. Level 2 Site Carpentry student Brady Gould shared his story about coming to the College to study a course when he couldn’t secure an apprenticeship. With our support, Brady will complete his studies this summer and has already got an apprenticeship with Hudson Carpentry Ltd. On 26 June, we will be welcoming a new batch of prospective students to the College. They will at last be able to physically view our facilities and meet tutors in person. This event is key to supporting our enrolment and I know you will do a great job presenting what we have to offer.

Our first face-to-face Staff and Student Awards for some time are taking place on 30 June. These awards are celebrations of your achievement and hard work, and I encourage you to nominate colleagues following the

information provided by our HR Team.

The Collab Group, which we are a part of, has recently completed a report called Reflections from Further Education Leaders on the Impact of Covid-19. This is an interesting read, based on interviews with college leaders – including myself – on a range of topics. If nothing else, it reminds us of just how big an upheaval we’ve all experienced, and how remarkably well we’ve coped with it all. Recognising all you’ve been through during this period, we are inviting teams to apply for funding for “Pause and Reflect” events at the end of this year, as a practical way of thanking you for all your ongoing hard work and commitment during the pandemic. You’ll be receiving e-mail information about how to apply for this, and I hope you all take advantage.

Andy Forbes

Principal and CEO