Among them are Dhirajlal Chauhan, who has been with the College for 43 years, and longest serving member of staff, Julie James, who is celebrating 46 years at the College.
Julie started as a receptionist in 1979, a year when the average house price was £13,650, a pint of milk cost 15p, and Michael Jackson released his landmark album, Off the Wall.
Now working in Customer Service Support, Julie has been a friendly, familiar face to so many during her time at the College, earning her an Employee of the Year award in 2021.
She remembers feeling shy on her first day, with a sense she had a lot to learn, but in such a public-facing role, she soon developed more confidence and a problem-solving attitude.
Julie said: “The college is like a huge community and it has been the people – students, staff, visitors – that truly makes it a good place to be. I feel glad that I have been able to be part of this – in a way it is like an extended family.
“Sometimes, it has been the small things which have meant the world, such as a ‘thank you’ or hearing that a student has achieved something which is so special to them.”
Following closely behind Julie are Louise Cerio and Tina Wainde, who have both been with the college for 39 years.
Tina is Team Leader of Learning Support at the Hinckley and Harrowbrook campuses and has worked at four other campuses during her time with the college.
In 2007, Tina received a national STAR award, which celebrate the unsung heroes in Further Education and the skills sector, and was presented with her award by television presenter and now Baroness, Floella Benjamin.
Tina said the biggest change she has seen over the years is greater recognition of young people who need additional support, whether that is academic, emotional or pastoral, meaning that holistic support within education has taken on a much greater role to ensure leaners develop resilience and independence alongside qualifications.
Tina said: “The College has evolved into an organisation that places a strong emphasis on wellbeing, inclusivity and removing barriers to education. Being part of that journey – helping students overcome challenges, celebrate their successes and grow into more confident individuals – continues to be a source of great pride and motivation for me.
“I have remained at the College for many years because I genuinely enjoy my role and the opportunities it has provided me, both professionally and personally. Working with young people has always been the most rewarding aspect of my role.”
NWSLC is bucking the trend when it comes to staff retention – a 2024 report published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies reported that almost half of college teachers leave the profession within three years of starting.
Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive at NWSLC, said: “We commend these exceptional and committed members of staff who have all played a part in making the College what it is today.
“Over the years, they have demonstrated a willingness to adapt to change; have been unwavering in their focus on students’ success and wellbeing; and have deepened their knowledge and expertise so they have become invaluable assets to the College.
“For students and fellow colleagues alike, having that constant of seeing familiar faces builds all-important trust and connections. These dedicated and loyal members of staff are an intrinsic part of college life.”
The long service afternoon tea included 25 members of staff reaching significant milestones, including seven marking 20 years of service; 15 individuals celebrating 25 years, two reaching 30 years of service and one member of staff who has worked at the College for 35 years. The group includes 39 lecturers and 57 members of support staff.
The celebratory afternoon tea was held on June 11 at NWSLC’s Nuneaton campus, providing an opportunity for colleagues to reminisce and celebrate each other’s achievements.
