University College Isle of Man (UCM) recognises the hard work of tutors and support staff who have recently retired from their roles after working for the institution for over 120 years, cumulatively.
The University College said a fond farewell to four staff members who have been loyal and committed throughout their time at UCM. During their careers, these individuals have developed in their roles, with each member of staff being required to complete significant Continual Professional Development (CPD) courses to ensure students are given the latest skills and knowledge.
Lecturing staff and faculty members forge relationships with industry which provide significant benefits to students through guest lecturers, visits to businesses, and work experience; often resulting in gaining full employment once they finish their qualifications.
Jackie Giffiths joined in 1970 when UCM was known as the ‘College of Further Education’. During that time, Jackie worked in various different areas of the organisation, completing her career in the Foundation Learning department, working with students with additional needs.
Art lecturer Adrian Cowin joined in 1987 in a part-time role, before becoming full-time in 1989. Many of Adrian’s students have progressed into quality employment, including Rachel Miles who has recently won a BAFTA.
Claire McMahon, who joined UCM in 2001, has progressed from part-time, to associate lecturer, to full time lecturer. Claire also completed her Art Foundation degree.
Library Assistant, Wendy Bridson, joined UCM in 1999, having worked for the Department of Education, Sport and Culture for 35 years.
Commenting on their time at UCM, Adrian said: ‘I have worked with some brilliant staff at UCM and have thoroughly enjoyed my time teaching. I’m proud to say that 19 current UCM staff members have been taught by myself, including the current principal, Jesamine Kelly.’
Claire added: ‘I have worked with some lovely colleagues, and in the main, I have really enjoyed my teaching career at UCM, more importantly, I am happy to have made a positive impact on my students over the years.’
During their tenure, these long-standing members of staff have seen lots of growth and developments, including the change of names from ‘The College of Further Education’ to ‘the Isle of Man College in 1991’, merging with The Isle of Man Business School in 2012 and rebranding to ‘University College Isle of Man’ in 2016.