Principal’s Update
Staff Meeting Recap
It was great to see so many colleagues at the recent All-Staff Meeting. For those who were unable to attend—particularly those who do not work on Wednesdays—the PowerPoint presentation is below 👇
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Volunteering Info:
Volunteering policy for public servants in Jersey
Scrutiny Review Preparation
The Senior Leadership Team dedicated much of the first few days this term to preparing for the Scrutiny Review with the Children, Education and Home Affairs Panel. The focus was on lifelong learning opportunities and barriers. The public hearing was very successful and highlighted the significant contribution Highlands College and University College Jersey make to adult lifelong learning and training.
Quality Calendar and Learning Initiatives
Our Quality Calendar continues to guide activity this term. Learning walks will take place this month, and we will also hold a Personal Tutors’ meeting focusing on Cybersecurity and AI—exploring our readiness to embrace opportunities and address challenges in this fast-changing landscape.
Annual Governing Body Report
The Annual Governing Body Report for 2024–2025 has now been published and is available on the College website. Over the past two years, the format of this report has been updated to reflect best practice, as cited in the Auditor General’s report on governance and accountability prepared for the States of Jersey.
Investing in Jersey and Campus Development
This week, we will follow up on the “Investing in Jersey” initiative with the Government of Jersey, focusing on plans for a new campus and the rationale for relocating the College rather than renovating the current site.
Leadership Updates
I will be meeting with our former Chair of Governors, Julie Acey, and our new Chair, Matthew Corbin, to hand over current projects. At this week’s SLT meeting, we will receive an update on Health and Safety from Ben Smith and a regular HR update from Tyler, covering sickness and government policies reference job freeze etc.
Post-16 Options and Apprenticeship Funding
I recently shared the Post-16 Options Report and feedback from the Apprenticeship Funding Consultation. Both documents are well worth reading, and links are provided below. Highlands was positively highlighted in the Post-16 Options study, with students praising the range of support and guidance offered by staff.
Higher Education Student Finance
Definition of an independent student: CYPES have broadened the definition to include an individual who has completed 3 years of full-time employment in Jersey. Below is an extract from Student Finance’s social media posts on Facebook and LinkedIn published on 2 January. We were unaware of the proposed changes and were informed on the 5th.
Students classed as financially independent have their grant assessed on their own income instead of their parents’ income.
What has changed?
The definition of an independent student now includes students who have:
- Worked full time in Jersey for at least 3 years before starting their course.
- Work completed must have been undertaken as an adult aged 18 or over.
- Full time usually means 35 hours per week. If you work fewer hours for a valid reason, contact student finance as you may still be eligible.
- This change applies from September 2025. Students who meet the updated criteria may have their application reassessed for the current academic year.
- Students who have lived in separate accommodation from their parents for 3 years before their course start will continue to be treated as independent.
Questions?
Students who are aged 21 to 25 who may be eligible under the new definition.
They should contact Student Finance if they believe they meet the criteria.
The Role of Principal
I would like to confirm that I will be leaving the College in July. Some colleagues expressed surprise face-to-face as they were unable to attend recent staff meetings held on their non-working day. The recruitment campaign for my successor will run this term, led by CYPES. This position I hope and expect to attract interest from senior post holders both here and in the UK. I will share updates on dates and processes as soon as they are confirmed.
I want to thank everyone for the kind words and appreciative feedback regarding my time here. However, as we all know—and I firmly believe—the progress we have made in recent years has been hard-earned and delivered through the passion and commitment of all colleagues at the College – I am lucky to have been able to play a part.
With very best wishes for an enjoyable week,
Your Principal,
Jo