Current and former staff say cheers to West Suffolk College and Eastern Education Group during centenary dinner in Bury St Edmunds
Former staff and students have shared their memories of West Suffolk College during a centenary dinner.
About 75 guests attended the celebratory event, which took place at the Edmunds restaurant on the main college campus in Bury St Edmunds.
Attendees included Penny Stevens, a current member of staff who has worked for the college for 40 years, and Pauline Barsby, who interviewed the current director of business Phil Stittle over 20 years ago.
This year West Suffolk College, which is part of Eastern Education Group, is marking 100 years since its formation.
CEO, Dr Nikos Savvas, was joined by other current staff members as they welcomed guests. He then gave a speech thanking everyone for the roles they played whilst giving an historical overview of the college group.
During his talk, he said: “It is my honour and my great privilege to welcome you all to this truly momentous occasion: the centenary celebration of the Eastern Education Group.
“We do not simply mark the passing of time. We celebrate 100-years of transformation - of lives changed, of communities served – and of an institution that has stood the test of time through every challenge, every innovation, and every generation.
“Here’s to the next 100 years.”
Other guests included Jason Rampling, from Rattlesden, who praised the college for helping him become the person he is today.
Mr Rampling said: “I got kicked out of school and they picked me up, built my confidence and built my career. I’m now a painter and decorator – but also a professional musician playing weddings and holiday parks up and down the country. Long may the college keep going.”
Former staff member Barbara Beaton from Market Weston spent three decades working for West Suffolk College after a career at Marks & Spencer.
Barbara said: “I was here for 30 years in total. Started as a part-time assessor and ended up as the faculty head of higher education and professional development. We worked hard and had great times. It was a very good place to work. The people and the ethos make this place special. It’s amazing the way it has evolved.”
This was the first of three celebratory centenary dinners for people connected to the college. The next two will be taking place in October and December.
A big birthday bash in the form of a free family fun day will also be taking place on Saturday, September 20, in and around the grounds of West Suffolk College.
