Sue Rhodes

Membership Grade: Member QTLS
Current Position: Development Manager CPD
Reserved Seat: FE Colleges

My background…

I consider myself to have a thorough knowledge of the FE sector having been employed within the Sector since 1986, for the last 19 years at Knowsley Community College.

My vocational area is Hospitality and taught within this section until two years ago when offered the role of Development Manager CPD. I have been a member of the Teacher Education team since 2000 and have found this to be as rewarding as my time within the hospitality section. I have experience as a Principal Examiner, Principal Moderator and as an EV.

Although working within FE, I appreciate too the philosophy of the HE and Compulsory Education sectors and how these impact upon FE.

I care about...

I am passionate about my teaching and others’ achievements with a strong desire to make a difference, this I would like to do as the representative for FE colleges.

I joined the IfL in 2006 – I welcomed this organisation that was going to have a significant impact on teaching staff within the FE sector, they were to recognise and build upon the skills, professionalism and good practice that already existed.

The IfL is ‘about the members for the members’ it seeks to promote then maintain a professional workforce with continued improvement of teaching and learning. I have the interests of all members at heart and am not fearful of voicing their views,opinions and concerns, as well as my own, when appropriate.

Having ‘discovered’ REfLECT in November 2007 … I volunteered Knowsley as a pilot centre for training - I wanted us to beat the forefront of this new and challenging phase in FE. Our trainee teachers use REfLECT for their Professional Development planning.

Why me?

I am intrinsically motivated, enthusiastic and positive and I care deeply about teaching and supporting anyone who wants to learn. I am, I have been told, approachable, understanding and willing to help. I have worked closely with colleagues in their CPD Recording, Declarations and those having gained QTLS through Professional Formation in 2009.

I vigorously believe in leading by example and hope that this helps motivate others. I tend to suggest “If I can do it, it can’t be that difficult.” I have helped visiting staff from other colleges and organisations who have expressed an interest in our systems and use of REfLECT.

Keeping in touch with members…

I would use e-mail, telephone, online systems – REfLECT! Whenever possible though, use personal contact to keep in touch.

I maintain contact with work colleagues by e-mail, telephone, intranet and VLE. However as I consider myself to be a ‘people person,’ I prefer to support and share information on a personal level as for me this is an important communication channel.I have contacts within other organisations which have developed throughout my career, I would ask for the support of the CETTS and Volunteer Connections.

I am a member of the North West CPD Group which has a large membership; I would seek to liaise through those meetings when appropriate.