‘A privilege and an honour’: College Principal to step down
RETIRING: Mike Welsh
East Riding College Principal Mike Welsh is to retire next Spring after more than four years in the role.
Under Mr Welsh’s leadership the college has been recognised as a high performing education provider by both Ofsted and the QAA (Quality Assurance Agency).
It is currently rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted and Mr Welsh led the college through a successful merger with the TEC Partnership, which also includes Grimsby Institute.
He has also overseen numerous other significant developments at the college, including the construction of a new Institute of Technology (IoT) at its Flemingate campus in Beverley.
At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the college rallied to support its local communities, using 3D printers to make face shields for NHS and care workers, offering PPE to health centres, and giving food banks its supplies that were not needed as its canteens were closed.
Mr Welsh said: “It’s been my privilege and an honour to lead East Riding College on our journey over the past four years, initially as Principal and Chief Executive and, since our ground-breaking merger with the TEC Partnership, as Principal.
“There’s never a good time to leave and always so much to stay for, but on deep reflection with my family, we’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire.
‘SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION’: Mike Welsh and Kerri Harold
“I’ve given the FE (Further Education) sector, that I care so passionately about, many years of service. It’s now time for us to focus on writing our next chapter.
“I would like to thank my colleagues, governors, learners, partners and businesses for making East Riding College the positive, caring and ambitious place that it is.
“I wish ‘Team ERC’ every success in the future within the TEC Partnership. Together, we are a force for good, providing inclusive, high-performing and life-enhancing opportunities for many young people and adults who otherwise might not get such a chance.”
Kerri Harold, Chair of Governors at the college, said: “We wish Mike all the best for his retirement and thank him for his significant contribution to the FE sector, as well as his amazing work at East Riding College.
“He leaves us in an excellent position to move forward, with exciting plans for further growth and to meet the challenge of delivering future skills across the East Riding and the Humber.
“Under Mike’s leadership the college has gained a strong reputation as a key East Coast and Humber influencer, playing a major role as an anchor institution for stakeholders and businesses across the region.”
Read Mike Welsh’s interview about coping during the pandemic here.