Walsall College colleagues celebrate teacher education qualified status

A group of Walsall College staff were part of the graduate procession at the college’s 2022 Higher Education Graduation Ceremony.  Three lecturers and a student support staff member celebrated the completion of their Diploma in Education and Training and Post-Graduate Certificate in Education.  The qualifications are delivered by the college in partnership with Birmingham City University.

The ceremony was held at Walsall Arena with each graduate receiving a certificate from the college’s Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma CBE DL.

These included:

Richard Cartwright – Lecturer in Business and Law

Lucie Fellows – Learning Mentor

Leanne Reynolds – Lecturer in Early Years

Ryan Richards – Lecturer in Automotive

While studying her qualification and working as a learning mentor at the college, Lucie Fellows has secured a role as a lecturer in fashion at Sandwell College.  She has also been guest lecturing on the MA Fashion Management course at Birmingham City University.

“I gained a lot from working with the lecturers at Walsall college whilst supporting students with learning needs,” said Lucie.

“The PGCE course has given me so much in my development as a FE lecturer; a sector that appeals to my creative background.  I’ve been in the fashion industry for eight years and have wanted to extend my knowledge and experience into supporting the next generation of creatives.

“It’s a privilege to support students and create a link from school – where the arts aren’t always promoted – into higher education and industry jobs.”

Lucie added: “My advice is for anyone thinking of entering the world of education is to go for it!  Everyone has something they can give to the younger generations and they can make a big difference.”

Lecturer, Ryan Richards progressed into his role after joining the college as a technician.

“I never saw myself as a lecturer, but after several years at the college, I now see a clear career path into teaching,” he said.  “To have completed the qualification and graduate has surpassed anything I thought I could do. If I could advise anyone thinking of going down this route, I’d say ‘take the jump – it’s worth it’.”

Other Walsall College staff attending the ceremony graduated from the CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management and the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship Standard.