Principal’s Update

On Friday the first of March we held the Whole College Self-assessment Panel with representation from the States, our new Minister Rob Ward, CYPES Director and quality link, parents, students, and employers.

The outcome was a “good college with many outstanding features” – Student Support outstanding,  Apprenticeships and planning outstanding and elements of outstanding in other areas.

This year we will start the work on the new Strategic Plan 2025 to 2029, so this stands us in good stead for future developments. Funding for adult and apprenticeship training, plus accommodation challenges are limiting factors.

This week at SLT we will be focusing upon teaching and learning again, including development in digital and coaching for growth mindset. We have a whole staff meeting where I will update you on College projects and wider initiatives, you will meet new colleagues and we will sign our Climate Letter for Sustainability.

The external review of the work of our Governing Body is coming to an end. Every year the GB self-assess and tri-annually, have an external review. Julie Acey, the Governors, and I look forward to receiving the report and working collaboratively to implement new approaches.

Before the end of this month, our colleagues will be taking part in the Peer Review of UCM (Isle of Man College)  together with Guernsey College; Guernsey have recently been through OFSTED (tailored to island context) so we should benefit from their learning.

I hope you have a great week and look forward to seeing you at the staff meeting.

As a parent said today, “don’t ever forget the effect you have on students’ lives, yes there’s lots of percentages and numbers to measure it, but I’ve seen my child thrive in a way he has never done before. The support at Highlands is amazing.”

Jo