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At Harlow College we recognise we have a responsibility to provide careers education to our students, offering them access to impartial careers information, advice and guidance.
We take our Students learning seriously, providing a great range of courses to equip them with the skills needed to prepare for the workplace, an Apprenticeship or for further study at college or university. Our teaching staff have industry expertise and this is matched by industry standard facilities, including specialist workshops, classrooms with the latest technology, as well as great social spaces to relax.
We are graded Good by Ofsted and have won awards for our innovative approach to learning. We have been recognised as an Apple Distinguished School for 2022-2025 for the third time, after first being named as an ADS in November 2017. This latest recognition celebrates the College's ongoing approach to transforming learning, teaching and assessment. Apple Distinguished Schools are centres of innovation, leadership, and educational excellence that use Apple products to inspire creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. They showcase innovative uses of technology in learning, teaching, and the education environment and have documented results of academic accomplishment.
In September 2023 the college will be unveiled the brand-new South-East Institute of Technology on the college campus. IOTs offer higher level qualifications and training in core STEM subjects, helping to ensure that the courses we offer are based on what the economy and local communities need and that our students have the best possible career prospects.
Stansted Airport College is a partnership between London Stansted Airport and Harlow College - the first of its kind at any airport in the country. Opened in September 2018, the College offers an exciting range of technical and professional courses, in the disciplines of Aviation, Engineering, Hospitality and Events Management. Our aim is to recruit a pool of talented young people who are keen to progress their careers in the aviation industry.
The Centre builds on the reputation of Harlow College for consistent high quality and excellent student progress. Harlow College is one of the top colleges in the country for academic and vocational progress according to DfE performance tables. This means its students do better than if they had studied in a college or sixth form elsewhere.
The £11million College, situated directly alongside the main runway at Stansted Airport, is the first of its type to be built in the Uttlesford District. The two-story campus is located on the Airport's land directly opposite the Novotel. It has purpose built, industry standard facilities providing training for 500 young people per year.
To find out more, visit our website: www.stanstedairportcollege.ac.uk
We are proud of our reputation and popularity. Visitors to the College frequently comment on its purposeful yet friendly and happy atmosphere. Our recent Staff Survey identified that many staff working here are very passionate about Harlow College and have a strong identity with their team.
We educate and train over 6000 people. We are graded “Good” by Ofsted and have won awards for our innovative approach to learning. Our students get great results, for example, 80% of A Level grades achieved were A*-C. 54% of our BTEC Extended Diploma students achieved DDD (triple distinction).
The safeguarding and Well-being team are a solution focused, proactive and extremely supportive team. We work on understanding every human being is different, meeting them where they are and supporting by signposting to professional agencies.
We feel privileged to support the students in their journey, often at times in their lives that are very challenging and offer a safe protected environment. We supplement our knowledge by looking at best practice nationally, this helps forward our awareness and evolve new practice.
The safeguarding and Well-being team are a solution focused, proactive and extremely supportive team. We work on understanding every human being is different, meeting them where they are and supporting by signposting to professional agencies.
Sallyann
If you are looking for a team that is committed to providing exceptional quality teaching and learning within the plumbing and heating industry, then our team is the perfect fit for you. Our team is dedicated to staying up to date with industry standards. To achieve this, we provide continuous professional development and upskilling programmes to all our members. We believe that keeping our staff upskilled will, in turn, benefit our students and help them achieve the best possible outcomes.
With long-standing team members who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, our team maintains the highest of standards. We have built a supportive and helpful team culture, where we encourage our members to go above and beyond to ensure that we offer the best possible services to our students. Our state-of-the-art workshop facility is equipped with the latest and most advanced equipment, helping us maintain our commitment to excellence.
Our team is excited about the future of the industry, which is why we have invested in a range of new technologies, including renewable energy systems such as Mitsubishi Ecodan units to train our students in air source heat pumps. We also have a range of iPads and digital platforms that we use to create a modern and exciting learning environment for our students and staff. We pride ourselves on our glowing EQA and moderator reports from awarding bodies, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Come join us, and be part of our commitment to providing exceptional education in the plumbing and heating industry.
Declan Jackson
Assistant Academy Manager
Plumbing
The teaching facility we have at STAC is unique in this country, being based adjacent to an international airport, partnering over 40 industry organisations and where each member of the team has a background and passion for teaching aviation to the next generation. Over 85% of our students are successful in gaining a career in aviation related roles after completing their programmes with us, as we work closely with specialist aviation to ensure the skills, knowledge and qualifications they will gain at STAC are exactly what are required in the industry. Our academy team work together to ensure mutual support, agree best practice in our teaching approach and enjoy the opportunity to gain further industry experience and professional development during each academic year.
Ruth Gray
Deputy Head of Centre - STAC
Join us and share our deep passion for technology and a strong desire to provide the opportunity to educate and empower students, helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in today's digital world. Teaching IT at Harlow College would allow you to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and witness the growth and progress of students as they grasp complex concepts and apply them in practical scenarios.
Contribute with us, to build a collaborative and engaging learning environment, encouraging students to think critically, solve problems, and develop a lifelong love for learning. Modern computers, fresh air conditioning systems, and extensive redecorating have been purchased by the IT department to better align it with actual IT workplaces.
So, join us and help make a positive impact on the lives of our students and broader community as they navigate their careers in the dynamic field of information technology.
Nav
Assistant Academy Manager - IT & Digital
In the hair and beauty department the team use their skills and knowledge to mould the next generation in this industry, with over 85% of our level 3 learners getting jobs within the industry.
We have a 95% course satisfaction from our learners.
The Salon at Harlow College is a training establishment providing Hair and Beauty services to the public. We have two industry standard premises, located on campus and in Harlow Town Centre, which are set up with all the equipment needed for a hairdresser, barber and beautician. Which allows our students to work with real life experience and the confidence to go straight into work once they have gained their qualification.
You will be joining a well-established team who have years on industry and teaching experience. We work collaboratively with industry experts to give the learners the knowledge and skills they will need in the future. Also all staff and students have access to iPads for college work and to support them on placements. This is help with the learners IT skills for when they are in the work place.
Jack Taylor
Assistant Academy Manager - Hair and Beauty
As a full-time teacher, you may be assigned to teach both day and evening courses with students ranging from 16-18yrs as well as adults on evening courses and apprenticeship programmes. The level of courses you will teach include Level 2 and Level 3. Level 2 courses are usually considered intermediate, while Level 3 courses are more advanced and often equivalent to vocational or technical education.
In addition to teaching on full-time courses, you may also have the opportunity to teach apprenticeships at Level 3. Apprenticeships are a form of employment-based training, allowing students to work and study simultaneously to gain practical experience and industry-specific skills. Students on apprenticeship courses attend college 1 day per week and attend work 4 days.
A critical aspect of your teaching role would involve understanding and addressing student learning needs. This includes recognising individual differences, adapting teaching strategies, providing appropriate support, and facilitating inclusive learning environments to ensure students can effectively engage with the course material and achieve their learning goals.
Nick Goodhew
AAM - Electrical
Experienced staff: Harlow College boasts a team of experienced staff who possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of electrical engineering. Working alongside these professionals provides an excellent opportunity to learn and grow, and to contribute to the collective expertise of the department.
Great sense of teamwork: The electrical department at Harlow College fosters a great sense of teamwork and collaboration. This collaborative environment allows teachers to work closely with their colleagues, exchange ideas, and develop innovative teaching methods. This sense of camaraderie creates a supportive and motivating workplace culture.
Support young people to develop a career: By working in the electrical department at Harlow College, teachers have the privilege of supporting young people in their journey to develop a successful career in electrical engineering. Teachers can provide guidance, mentorship, and valuable industry knowledge to help students achieve their goals and secure employment opportunities after graduation.
Skills for life: Electrical engineering skills are highly valuable and can be applied in various industries and sectors. As a teacher in the electrical department, you have the opportunity to equip students with skills that will serve them for a lifetime. By imparting practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and problem-solving abilities, you are empowering students to pursue fulfilling and sustainable career paths with a solid foundation.
Staff development opportunities: Harlow College is committed to the professional development of its staff. Teachers have access to various development programs, training sessions, and workshops. These opportunities enable teachers to enhance their teaching skills, stay up-to-date with industry advancements, and continuously improve their expertise.
New renewable technology centre: Harlow College is equipped with a state-of-the-art renewable technology centre that can provide hands-on training and practical experience to students. As a teacher in the electrical department, you will have the privilege of working in this cutting-edge facility, which enhances the quality of education and prepares students for real-world challenges.
Employer engagement: Harlow College maintains close ties with local employers and industry partners. This engagement offers teachers valuable networking opportunities and helps to bridge the gap between education and industry. Collaboration with employers can lead to guest lectures, industry placements, and work experience opportunities for students, enriching their educational journey.
In summary, working as a teacher in the electrical department at Harlow College provides a fulfilling and rewarding experience. It offers the chance to work with experienced staff, promote teamwork, support young people in their career development, impart skills for life, enjoy a host of employment benefits, access staff development opportunities, and make use of excellent facilities like the renewable technology centre.
We are an accomplished Team of subject specialists with years of teaching and relevant industry experience between us. We are proud that we offer 21st century sustainable education, innovative, creative and inclusive. Join us and share our deep passion for enabling young adults to reach their full potential and a strong desire to provide the opportunity to educate and empower students, helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in today's modern world.
We aim to inspire young people become world citizens able to offer their knowledge and skills locally, regionally and globally. We are passionate about people and we work together to transform lives and communities. We believe that teaching is more than a job. It is a profession of care, trust and integrity, open to like minded individuals who share the same passion about learners and learning.
Contribute with us, to build a collaborative and engaging learning environment, encouraging students to think critically, solve problems, and develop a lifelong love for learning.
So, join us and help make a positive impact on the lives of our students and broader community as they navigate their careers and gain a competitive advantage to succeed.
Sotirios Adamopoulos
Assistant Academy Manager - A Levels
Working with the construction team at Harlow College means that you will be part of a close knit team that has many years' experience both in their trades and in teaching. Our department is proactive and forward thinking. We put students at the heart of what we do and many of our learners enter the trade as a result of completing course with us.
We have purpose built workshops with industry level tooling and equipment which enables us to give the learners the most realistic experience possible. We have excellent links with employers and our apprenticeship scheme is outstanding. If all of this sounds interesting and you want to be a part of shaping young peoples lives and the future of the construction industry then apply now.
Tom Stokes
Assistant Academy Manager - Construction
Join our team as a Full-Time Tutor and be part of a dynamic and innovative educational institution.
Here's why you should consider applying:
Commitment to Excellence: Harlow College is renowned for its dedication to delivering high-quality education and empowering students to achieve their goals. As a tutor, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives and contribute to their success.
Professional Development: We believe in continuous learning and provide extensive professional development opportunities to our staff. This ensures you can enhance your skills, stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods.
Electric Vehicle Training: We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. As an added bonus, Harlow College offers training in electric vehicles, allowing you to develop expertise in this rapidly growing field and contribute to a greener future.
Green Focus: Embrace the future of transportation with our electric vehicle training program. Harlow College is at the forefront of sustainability, preparing students for the growing field of electric vehicles. Gain expertise in this exciting area and contribute to a greener future.
Apply now and become an integral part of Harlow College, where education meets innovation and where you can shape the future of students' lives while expanding your own horizons. Don't miss out on this rewarding teaching opportunity.
Dave Ward - Assistant Academy Manager - Automotive
Business Apprenticeships (including Stansted Academy)
The team always come together and support each other, whatever we get given we take it with a smile and yet go above and beyond for our colleagues and learners. Ensuring the best outcome is always achieved, staying true to the colleges core value, students at the heart.
A group of people who work so hard and care so much in providing a great learner experience for our learners, from a 16-year-old starting their apprenticeship to an adult who needs support to get back into employment.
Anyone who joins our team would be proud to work for us!
Below are a few quotes from the team:
“Existing staff who have come from industry, bringing specialist knowledge to the team”.
“The team is extremely friendly and happy to help in any way they can”.
“I think we are supportive of each other; we help out when required. In general, were all on the same page as to our work ethics and conduct, ultimately, we strive to do the right thing for our learners, create an inclusive environment”.
“We always try our best for learners. Quick to action, no messing around”.
“The most supportive and fun to work with team. Very warm-hearted souls”.
“We all care about our learner's (and each other's wellbeing), go the extra mile to help people achieve, we make sure nobody starves by provision of unhealthy goodies and all willing to share knowledge/skills. Oh... and why wouldn't you want to come and join us!”.
Kerry Simm - Assistant Academy Manager
Here is why you should join our ESOL team
Meaningful Impact - You will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals who are learning english as a second language. Helping these young people to improve their language skills, integrate into society, access further education and employment opportunities. We are an ever-growing team who are continuously changing to the local needs supporting a high number of unaccompanied children seeking asylum.
Personal Growth - Working in the ESOL team can contribute to an applicants personal growth, enhancing teaching skills, develop effective communication strategies and gain experience in working with multicultural populations. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other professionals including Essex mental health team, social workers and support workers therefor broadening your own professional network. Joining the ESOL team will also expose applicants to ongoing learning opportunities, such as staying updated with new teaching methods, cultural awareness and the latest resources and technologies.
Personal Fulfilment - Helping vulnerable learners to learn and succeed can be highly rewarding, working within our team can bring a sense of fulfilment and purpose to your work. The gratitude and appreciation expressed by students who have overcome language barriers as well as trauma within their lives can be truly inspiring.
The ESOL team are overall amazing the teachers and the learners 😉
Rebecca Hyland-Hawkins - Assistant Academy Manager - ESOL
All our Health and Health and Social Care students go on work placement in the Princess Alexandra Hospital, residential care homes and soon in local GP practices. Our learners go on to study nursing, social work, occupational therapy, teaching and a range of Allied Health professions.
90% of our applied science learners go on to University to study undergraduate programmes such as biochemistry, biomedical science and environmental science. We have a realistic working environment suite including a hospital ward, therapy room and domiciliary care flat. Here learners can work on skills and behaviours needed in the health and social care sectors.
Launched in September 2023, we have a VR suite for all our T level health and Level 3 health and social care learners. Here they will be able to interact with 'patients' and 'residents' who have a range of health and social care needs such as dementia and cardio-vascular disease, further embedding the knowledge and skills required in the care sector.
We have an excellent and very active guest speaker programme and superb support from science, health and social care professionals. In 2022/23 academic year we had 33 guest speakers come to talk to our students. These included nurses, midwives, radiographers, pharmacists, speech and language therapists, social workers, police officers, pathologists.
We have excellent links with the NHS, including supporting learners with volunteering, apprenticeship programmes and future career pathways.
We look forward to you joining our team.
Philippa Bennett - Assistant Academy Manager - Health and Science
Why you should work for Visual Arts at Harlow College
We run full time UAL courses from Level 1 to Level 4 and students experience transformative and experiential teaching, learning and assessment. We also run a small number of short community courses in ceramics, printmaking, photography and textiles. We have a great studio and workshop set up with 2 large kilns and dedicated ceramics and 3D workshops. We have a vibrant and busy print room set up for relief, intaglio and screen printing. All students are encouraged to use the print room at some stage of their course. We have a well-equipped sewing room with pattern cutting tables, domestic and industrial sewing machines, steam irons and over lockers. Students are taught pattern cutting and production to a high level and the year is rounded off with a runway fashion show which is a great team building exercise as students take on the roles of dressers, makeup artists and models. Ex-students often return from university to help out. We have professional photography studios with lighting and flash set ups. We have preserved our dark room and loading room which enables students to experience traditional wet processing and printing. All courses have a dedicated base room and we are located upstairs from the college library which has an extensive art and design section.
We love alternative learning environments and events, which includes live briefs and competitions. We are past winners of both Wool4School and ROH Design Challenge. We took part in prestigious live briefs to design sculptures for EHAAT and art work for the remodelled reception at PAH. We recently took part in the Harlow Open at the Gibberd Gallery and worked with Canal and Rivers Trust. We are always inviting in speakers from industry and universities to run workshops, portfolio reviews and give talks. Our closeness to London means we can take groups of students to the main museums and galleries as well as any block buster exhibitions. We also love a research location trip - recent destinations have included Kew Gardens, Rochester Castle and Colchester Zoo. Students are encouraged to present their work in ever changing displays in the iHub, in corridors and in the end of year exhibition. The Level 2 Art and Design students produce an innovative Mad Hatter's Tea Party every year to raise money for a charity of their choice.
We are lucky to be near the Excel Centre in East London and visit Create Your Future every year. Students progress to university in a wide range of specialisms- illustration, interior design, fine art, photography, costume design, fashion design, fashion promotion are the most popular. Students go to university both near to home such as ARU, UH and UEL and further afield: NUA, Nottingham Trent and Swansea School of Art for example. Students are encouraged to be experimental, produce original work and embed current issues in their work. We have been successful in having student work selected for the UAL Origins exhibition for the last 4 years.
Karen Harrison - Assistant Academy Manager - Visual Arts
Childcare and Choices Team
The childcare and choices team are committed to helping students achieve their full potential. Most students on our level 1 and 2 programmes move on to the next level and all our level 3 students move on to either full time employment in the sector or university. The majority of our Choices students move on to other programmes in the college, many of which have been successful in education for the very first time thanks to the dedication and care that the team provide for them.
We use a variety of digital resources that create enthusiasm and engagement in the students and work effectively with settings who engage them with our placements and employer fairs.
The Team are well established and enjoy working together in a collaborative way sharing good practice and supporting each other to be the best teachers they can be whilst also having fun! We use a variety of digital resources that create enthusiasm and engagement in the students, which also results in good outcomes for them.
Ruth Anodin - Assistant Academy Manager - Childcare & Choices
Games Design Team
Our Game Design & Development team cultivates a collaborative and inclusive culture where everyone's ideas are valued. We believe in the power of diverse perspectives and actively encourage open communication and idea-sharing. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside exceptionally talented Teachers from various backgrounds, benefiting from their expertise and insights in teaching learning and assessment. We foster an open plan classroom environment and industry standard equipment from Alienware to a range of apple products that inspires creativity, encourages innovative thinking, and promotes continuous learning. By joining our team, you'll be part of a vibrant community where your ideas can shape the future of our students.
Our team is at the forefront of cutting-edge projects delivered to our students that have a real impact with an achievement rate above the 95%. We tackle complex challenges and develop innovative solutions that make a difference within the fast-growing Gaming Industry. Whether it's navigating or developing ground-breaking technologies, designing fun outstanding lesson plans and creating a curriculum with your colleagues, you will also have an opportunity to contribute to enrichment projects that matter for all learners. We embrace ambitious goals and provide the necessary support and resources to help you excel with the learners. Working with us means being part of a team that is passionate about making a positive impact to student success and progression to work or high education within the Games Design & Development industry.
Delta Muntean - Assistant Academy Manager
The College is led and managed by our Principal, Deputy Principal, 2 Vice-Principals, collectively called the “Principalship” and other senior managers called the “Executive”.
Click on the staff images to learn more about our team.
I am delighted that you are thinking of joining our fantastic team of staff that makes Harlow College both a successful College and great place to work. I look forward to working with you. To help you settle into your new job as soon as possible, the HR team are on hand to help you with any questions you have and will provide you with an Induction programme, to help you on your way. Our strategy is to recruit, develop and retain the best possible staff in order to achieve our vision of being a high quality education provider to our local community.
I wish you every success in your application and hope you are as happy as I am, working here.
Karen Spencer MBE, Principal
Thank you for showing in interest in working at Harlow College. I have been employed at the college since August 1999. I joined as a Lecturer in Construction, before swiftly rising up the career ladder in various roles including Head of Academy, Executive Director and Vice Principal, before being appointed to my current role of Deputy Principal in August 2018.
Prior to joining the education sector, I worked in the construction industry managing my own company. I gained my teaching qualification whilst continuing to work, which is something we are happy to help our staff achieve. We look forward to you joining our team.
I always wanted to be a Teacher! Following University where I did a PGCE, I went straight into secondary education for 6 years as a science teacher. I progressed to Head of Biology and Key stage 3 science. I have taught GCSE and A Levels in schools and in 2000, joined Harlow College where I have taught various degree programmes and initial teacher training . I have successfully progressed through many roles here including, Head of Academy, Assistant Principal and my current role of Vice Principal.
Outside of work I have a love of fitness and I leads regular Yoga lessons within the college which are always very well attended.
I joined Harlow College in 2005 as an Employer Engagement Officer. Since then, I have had many roles within the college including Director of MIS & Admissions and Executive Director for information, data, and Support, before securing my current role of Vice Principal in 2018. There is plenty of progression opportunities at the College, it is certainly a great place to work.
I would like to personally thank you for showing an interest in working at Harlow College and hope this is the start of a long and enjoyable employment journey with us. I have worked at the College for 13 years and really enjoy the true team ethos here and the passion all our staff show in providing the best possible experience for all of our learners.
We value our staff at the college and my HR Services Team has designed a great induction plan for you when you join. It will provide you with the essential information on how the College works. The HR Services Team, deals with every aspect of employment including the recruitment and selection of staff, managing your pay and benefits, advising on the implementation of all your terms and conditions of employment and offering our programme of health and wellbeing events. Please do not hesitate to contact us or the recruitment team with any queries you may have. I wish you the very best of luck on your application process.
My name is Kelly Edwards I am the Executive Director of Quality here at Harlow College. My current key areas of responsibility are Staff Development, Initial Teacher Training, Quality Assurance and Quality Improvement. I completed an HND in Leisure Management at the London Metropolitan University and then completed my degree in Work-Based Education at Middlesex University. I worked for many years in the Fitness Industry and started my career as a Personal Trainer and Assistant Gym Manager for David Lloyd In Chigwell. I enjoy working at the College as there is a growth-mindset orientated culture and a real can-do attitude from all staff. I would encourage anyone to work in Further/Higher Education as the knowledge and skills you must share with others is vital in terms of developing our future workforce. We look forward to welcoming you to Team Harlow!
I am Deanne Morgan Executive Director at Harlow College. My current key areas of responsibility are Finance, Audit & Risk and Management Information Systems (MIS). I qualified as an ACCA accountant in 2002. I have worked many years in the accounting profession, including in Education, Social Services, Banking and Retail. I really enjoy working at the College as the students are so diverse and I like the people I work with. The generous annual leave entitlement at the College allows me quality time with my two children to enjoy outdoor activities and holidaying. Working in Further Education is so varied as there are always different activities or challenges. It is also rewarding as you contribute to the students' development and career advancement. We look forward to welcoming you to Team Harlow!
I am Simon and my role is Executive Director of Student Services. I have worked for Harlow College for over 20 years, originally as a teacher within the art & design area before moving away from the curriculum and into support services.
Within my current role I am responsible for some of the wider student support areas including the tutorial & enrichment programmes, careers guidance, admissions, and marketing. I see my role as an opportunity to contribute to a positive and supportive experience for our students outside of their main area of learning.
Over the years the College has provided me with so many opportunities to develop myself professionally as well as allowing me to work with a rich and diverse group of people I would call friends as well as colleagues.
The Further Education sector is here to offer you many positive challenges and opportunities and will ensure that no working day is ever the same again!
My name is Sallyann Abdelmoula and I work at Harlow College as an Assistant. Principal. My areas of responsibility include safeguarding, student well-being and equality, diversity and inclusion.
I joined Harlow College in 1992 after I came back from working in the Middle East. My background area is beauty therapy and I wanted to be able to share my knowledge and help develop future therapists. I've learned a lot from my travels and wanted to be pass on that experience. I loved working with people and being able to shape the future industry was really important to me.
I started my career as a part-time lecturer and I've been really lucky that the college has supported my development through my degree, postgraduate training, teacher training, and many other forms of training. I love what I do as I'm able to make an impact in people's lives and influence society positively. I've been able to use my transferable skills and customer service knowledge to support students who might be experiencing difficulties.
I work with a wonderful team who are really proactive and positive; they match my core values. The role is challenging at times but knowing I have their back up and support helps. No day is ever the same, and I can truly say that it's a varied, interesting and totally fulfilling role that I have.
I have worked in many varied roles since first starting as a part-time lecturer, and if anyone had told me back then that I would end up in part of the college Executive , I wouldn't have believed them. The college has supported me with opportunities and ongoing training. In my different management roles I've now also been able to nurture, develop and support others in their career like the college has done with me.
So, my question for you is, if Harlow College has developed my career like it has, what could it do for you?
My name is Wendy, and I am an Assistant Principal here at Harlow College. My current key areas of responsibility are Adult Education, including Access, Higher Education, E-learning, Professional training, and courses for the Unemployed. I completed my master's degree in management and leadership in Education in 2008. I started my career as a Sports Physio working for Arsenal Football Club and moved into teaching Sport in 2006. Since then, I have gained numerous promotions prior to securing promotion to assistant Principal 5 years ago. The college is an excellent place to work, and I really enjoy working with a fantastic group of individuals, that are truly passionate about inspiring others and working together to create a positive environment for our learners. Since making the transition to work in Further Education I have never looked back. I have been at Harlow college for 10 years now and the college has been hugely supportive in providing me with opportunities to progress my career. I would encourage anyone to join Team Harlow and start their journey to changing the lives of others through education.
I am a highly experienced Assistant Principal with over three decades of dedicated service in the field of education. My journey to this role began after a successful career in hospitality management, where I honed my skills in management and customer service. Transitioning to the world of education, I embarked on a journey of learning and growth, ultimately earning a Master's degree in Curriculum Development & Management.
Currently, my responsibilities as an Assistant Principal span across a diverse range of academies, encompassing Engineering, IT, Construction, English, mathematics, and more. In the ever-evolving landscape of education policy, one constant remains: the unwavering commitment and teamwork of my colleagues. Harlow College, where I proudly serve, is not just a workplace; it's a second home that genuinely cares for its students and staff.
What makes my role truly fulfilling is the opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of our students every single day. At Harlow College, we place students at the heart of everything we do. Every decision we make, whether big or small, is driven by the principle that it must ultimately benefit our students. This ethos sets Harlow College apart and attracts like-minded people.
Outside of my professional life, I find joy and relaxation in various activities. I am an avid walker, a passionate traveller, and a dedicated Stand-Up Paddle Boarder. When the snow falls, you'll find me on the slopes, indulging in the thrill of skiing. Balancing my commitment to education with these pursuits brings a sense of balance to my life, enriching both my personal and professional experiences.
My name is Kirstie Craig I am an Assistant Principal here at Harlow College. My current key areas of responsibility are Apprenticeships and Exams. I completed my degree in Sport Science at the University of Johannesburg and started my career as a secondary school teacher, delivering Economics and Management Sciences. In 2008 after completing my PGCE, I joined Harlow College as a teacher in Sport Science. I would encourage anyone to work in Further/Higher Education as the knowledge and skill you can impart on our future generations is immeasurable. We look forward to welcoming you to Team Harlow!
My name is Julien Sample I am the E-Learning and Projects Manager here at Harlow College. My current key areas of responsibility are managing externally funded projects, business development and organising our e-learning provision. I completed my degree in Leisure and Recreation and started my career as a sports teacher. I really enjoy working at the College and I would encourage anyone to work in Further Education, the opportunity to share your knowledge and experiences with adults and young people who are keen to learn is very rewarding. We look forward to welcoming you to Team Harlow!
Come back soon for information about me!
I am currently Chair of the Corporation, a role that I have held since October 2020. Before this I was Vice-Chair of the Corporation and Chair of the Standards and Curriculum Committee. I worked in the FE sector for over 30 years including over 10 years at senior management level mainly in curriculum development and quality improvement. I was also an Ofsted additional inspector for the sector concentrating mainly on the quality of provision, leadership and management and safeguarding.
I am passionate about the FE sector as this is the sector that enables young people to develop skills and careers and gives adults that second or third chance to do the same. These are key values of Harlow college. I am proud to be a member of the Harlow college board and represent, at board level, both the hardworking staff who are providing first class teaching, support and facilities and the students who are fantastic ambassadors for the college.
Retired I now have the time and opportunity to use my experiences with the College as well as spending precious time with three grandchildren and pretending to keep fit!
I have volunteered as a governor at the College (where my two daughters studied) since October 2020 and currently fulfil the following roles:
I am in full time employment with Interpath Ltd, a financial advisory business, where I am an associate director working in the restructuring part of the business. I specialise in legal entity rationalisation and corporate simplification projects and have worked in financial advisory for 38 years.
My main hobbies and interests are yoga and getting out in the fresh air running, going on long walks, and cycling (I am a keen member of Harlow Cycling Club).
I joined the board of Harlow College in 2018 and am the Vice Chair. I have also been chair of the Search Committee since October, 2022 and was the chair of the Quality and Standards Committee from 2018 - 2022.
I was born and educated in Shanghai, and worked as a teacher and manager having outstanding success which led to my arrival in the UK in 2005, in a post initially funded by The British Council and subsequently by Essex County Council, to build education partnerships between Essex and Jiangsu Province, China.
I then went on to work for Edison Learning where I worked as Business Development Manager for China and Vice President at a joint venture with Wake Forest University, before joining Excellence First Enterprise Consultancy (EFEC) full time in 2013. Meanwhile I have also gained a master's degree from Cambridge University.
I am CEO of EFEC, leading its development by building on its success in creating UK - China education collaboration, to the wider field of partnerships for growth in business, innovation, skills and careers. My business focus means that I am particularly keen on the relationships the college can develop with employers to enhance the part Harlow can play in the 'Innovation Corridor' as a key hub for industry between Cambridge and London.
You may think the construction industry is dominated by men but we talked to two inspiring women making their impression on the industry. Melanie is a Level 2 Carpentry student and former Senior Architectural Designer Rain is Assistant Academy Manager for our T Level Construction course.
Melanie, aged 17
Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery at Harlow College
My interest began when I was younger and used to help my dad with DIY around the house. I always thought it was great fun. I love the idea that one day I will create a building from scratch and walk past it and think I've built that!
Right now, all I want to do is be on site and get stuck in with the build. I would love to get loads of different trade skills under my belt, like joinery and bricklaying. My next step is to move onto an Apprenticeship to get some onsite experience. In 10 years time I know I'll still be onsite doing what I love.
At first it was my dad who inspired me. Since starting College my tutors have been amazing. They have been fantastic at motivating me and pushing me to develop my skills. They have given me great career advice and encouraged me to progress from Level 1 to Level 2 Carpentry and I'm so glad I took their advice.
Just do it, because you are never going to know until you try! You may have doubts about whether you can physically do it because it is demanding. I did think the boys were going to be better at it, but they aren't! The physical side is fine and I'm doing well.
If you've got doubts like I had, take it from me, you'll probably never encounter them.
Just do it, because you are never going to know until you try! You may have doubts about whether you can physically do it because it is demanding. I did think the boys were going to be better at it, but they aren't! The physical side is fine and I'm doing well.
My two personal heroes are Architect, Artist and Designer Zaha Hadid and Architect and Engineer Julia Morgan. Both have been leaders in their field and trailblazers for women.
I would say go for it. Being a part of a process that creates spaces for people is such a great feeling. Construction is for all, if you enjoy the physical element of building, go for it. if you enjoy designing spaces, go for it. There is a role for any female in construction as long as there is passion!
So, it is clear that the landscape for women in the construction industry is looking positive with role models like Melanie and Rain taking on the challenge to inspire the future workforce.
At Harlow College we offer full-time courses, Apprenticeships and T Levels in a variety of construction trades. For the latest information on Harlow College events and to look at our course offer please go to: www.harlow-college.ac.uk
The HR Team constantly works to improve the range of benefits we offer to staff. Our “20 reasons to work for Harlow College” are detailed below; Whilst there is not enough room here to explain, each of them in detail, here are some details of some essential ones:
Your Holiday Entitlement is listed in your Contract of Employment which could be as much as 42 days per year plus bank holidays for a full time Teacher! Which I am sure you will agree is fantastic! The college holiday year runs from 1st August to 31st July each year and is administered via the HR system. On your first day at the college a member of the HR team will provide training on how to request and book annual leave. In addition to your entitlement the College also allows staff to 'buy' additional leave, and give you a day off on your birthday!
The college offers employees the opportunity to obtain a new bike and cycling equipment through the cycle to work scheme provided by Cycle Solutions. The scheme is supported by the UK Government to promote cycling and enables employees to make big savings on the retail cost of cycles and equipment. The Cycle to Work scheme is a hire scheme, with the cost of the bike and equipment being taken from your monthly salary before National Insurance and Income Tax contributions are deducted.
Every year the college celebrates the success of its staff, through our Staff Awards where you can nominate your peers to recognise their contribution to the college.
We work with our external partner Tusker to bring you this fantastic benefit. As an employee of Harlow College you get to offset some of your salary in exchange for a brand new car.
We want all of our learners to achieve their ambitions, contribute to a positive and productive society and to have happy and purposeful lives. At the core of our intentions are our values:
