Learning and networking at the TEC Partnership staff development conference
I was privileged to be the keynote speaker of the first TEC Partnership staff development conference in Grimsby on 6 July, followed by a tour of the Grimsby Institute. The TEC Partnership is one of England’s largest providers of further and higher education, bringing together eight organisations. And it definitely felt like that when I entered a wonderfully light room full of buzzing staff enjoying a day of development and networking. Looking around, I saw artwork celebrating pride. The symbols and language of inclusion were very strong themes throughout the day.
Leading with a growth mindset
Ann Hardy, CEO, kicked off the day with the organisation’s new strategy. I was encouraged by how she used the growth mindset to discuss her vision for staff development. Her opening speech set a useful context for me to discuss my take on how further and higher education interact now and in the future, the importance of embedding professional standards within any workforce development activity and the importance of the ETF working closely with the sector to ensure we meet the needs of those we serve. Ann is a passionate leader of further education, and she is clear about reminding everyone that she has spent most of her career driving quality and leading excellence in further education. For her, FE is the place she calls home.
Learner-focused facilities
My afternoon was spent on a tour of the Institute with Quality Manager Shaesta Butt. It was excellent to see the breadth and depth of the programmes the college offers, from construction and motor industry to hospitality, art and design. Shaesta’s favourite is the nursery provision, so we spent some time talking to the team and visiting their great facilities. The art and fashion section was full of great ideas and creativity, as you would expect, but I did not expect pink flamingos and colourful parrots on the walls, so that was a pleasant surprise.
Although my visit to Grimsby was short and I did not get a chance to taste the best fish and chips in the country, I did hear with interest all the stories that shaped this place. I saw how the college and partnership as a whole is involved in delivering for the community throughout a very large geographical area with a great commitment to its heritage and passion for the future.