Tees Business Tees Business Issue 20 | Page 96

96 | Tees Business LIGHTING THE WAY Etc. is the new Tees Valley college group that incorporates Stockton Riverside College, Redcar and Cleveland College, Bede Sixth Form College, NETA Training and The Skills Academy T he name has been introduced to more accurately reflect the diversity of the college campuses and it marks the culmination of an exciting first year since the decision was taken to merge Stockton Riverside College and Redcar and Cleveland College last summer. Just like the personalities and backgrounds of their campus principals, each college making up the Education Training Collective – or Etc. – offers a unique learning experience. But all bringing something different to the table, it is the college collective that, without question, results in something extra special – meeting the needs of students, businesses and the wider community. MEET THE ETC. CAMPUS PRINCIPALS Jason Faulkner, campus principal, Redcar and Cleveland College When it comes to inspiring others, there are few better placed than Redcar and Cleveland College’s campus principal Jason Faulkner. A true advocate of changing lives, raising aspirations and the value of further education, he has his sights set on a brighter future for the borough. Describing himself as a Jason Faulkner. typical Teesside lad who came away from school with we provide an offer that meets their just a handful of qualifications, he says: “Look at me. I never dreamed I would needs. We will continue to invest in our be principal of a college but here I am.” facilities and resources to ensure we He’s good at it too, already helping maintain pace with industry.” The college has invested in turn the tide, with increased student attendance, retention and higher chemical and advanced manufacturing aspirations. And there’s more to come. technologies, its foundation skills and sports facilities. Jason is most proud Jason explains: “Redcar and Cleveland has faced some turbulent of the progress the college has made times but the green shoots are already to ensure its place at the heart of the showing.” communities it serves. He believes the college can help. He adds: “We as a college must provide an educational experience that “We want to provide programmes enables our students to be the best that develop real skills for real jobs, they can be.” working with employers to ensure