🔹Principal’s Update

Dear Colleagues,

As we head full steam towards the end of term, things are certainly gathering pace. We now have an outline in place for both staff development activities and end-of-term arrangements for staff and students. I know this can be both a joyful and stressful time as we support our students across the finish line. I wish you all the very best in your efforts to coach and guide them toward achieving their full potential.

Last week, I had the honour of attending the Buckingham Palace Garden Party, celebrating colleagues across the UK who work in education and skills. The sun was shining, and it was a glorious day. I was joined by headteachers from our island, service leaders, and of course, Sean O’Regan, Director for Schools and Colleges, along with our partners and +1s.

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Pictured: Jo and her daughter

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This week, I’ll be speaking at the Longevity Conference, accompanied by two students from our University College Jersey programmes. The conference explores the benefits of longer life and how we can live and learn for healthier, more fulfilling outcomes.

Rob Moy will be climbing Scafell Pike this week and has taken leave to support the efforts of the Gurkha Trust. Rebecca Stephenson, our Digital Lead, is also part of the intrepid climbing party. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for good weather and a safe journey for them all.

I’m also looking forward to the Creative Arts Showcase, which opens with a private view at 5pm on Thursday 29 May. Please do take the time to visit and celebrate the incredible creative work of our students.

This week’s SLT will focus on the Succession Planning project and our progress on the College’s Quality Improvement Plan. We’ll also be finalising the detailed programme for the upcoming staff development days. I’ll be meeting with the Principals of Guernsey and University College Isle of Man as well as prepare for next week’s Governing Body Finance and Risk Subcommittee.

Thank you to everyone who joined our two all-staff meetings today (19 May). For those not in college on Mondays, check the bulletin for the slides.

Also on Wednesday, we’ll be hosting the second University College Jersey Research Festival, led by Dr. Sue Le Masurier. In addition, UCJ has recently completed a successful periodic review of our partnership with London South Bank University. Congratulations to all staff and students involved! A special thank you to Kate Hobbs, who has been acting as Head of Department for UCJ in recent weeks. We look forward to welcoming a new Head in September.

Wishing you a productive and enjoyable week ahead.

Best wishes,
Jo