EXECUTIVE Director Lily Raynor-Blundell is relishing the prospect of her first full academic year leading Wiltshire College & University Centre’s Lackham campus.
Appointed in November last year, the role marked another step in the career of Wiltshire-born Lily, who first joined the College 11 years ago as a variable hours lecturer.
Although she had originally had her sights set on becoming a PE teacher after leaving school, she had to change her plans when she fell pregnant at 17. With the additional responsibility of a young son but still with the ambition to study, she completed a degree in Criminology before teaching part-time at the college.
“Being a single mum changed things a little bit and I thought about working in the criminal justice system after I got my degree but after I applied for a few police officer roles, I realised that it’s not exactly the most family friendly job,” she said.
“I’d always wanted to be a teacher so I thought ‘maybe I can teach this subject instead’.”
She soon progressed from part-time to full time and completed her teaching qualifications alongside her role. “I’ve enjoyed every role I’ve done but being able to just teach criminology and psychology day in and day out was amazing,” she said.
She believes her experience gives her an insight into the situation many young people face when a life-changing event sends their career plans awry. “I think we’ve got to understand that major life changes or events happen, and it’s a really challenging time for teenagers as it is,” she said.
“Picking what you think you want to do for the rest of your life, that’s a big decision at 16 because you’re still finding out who you are at that age. It’s important that we tell them that it’s okay, we can help them make the right choice.
“We’ve also got to appreciate that young people can be a lot more resilient than we give them credit for. Our job is to give them the opportunities, to support them and to be there if it doesn’t work out to suggest a plan B, C or D and then be at their side, hopefully, to celebrate at the end of it, knowing exactly how much hard work has gone into it.”
Lily progressed from teaching to Deputy Head for Public Services and Criminology, during which time she completed a master’s in Criminology and Criminal Psychology, while developing new curriculum.
She then spent the next three-and-a-half years as the Head of Faculty for Engineering, Automotive and Motorsport, leading curriculum reform, enriching the student experiences and growth in achievement.
“That was obviously very different to anything that I’ve taught before, but I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and being able to influence improvements across the faculty,” she said.
As Executive Director, Lily oversees a campus offering a diverse range of courses and facilities. “All of our campuses are different, but I think Lackham is the most varied,” she said. “We’ve got agriculture with a working farm and dairy, animal management, horticulture and equestrian as well as the Wiltshire Business School, the Green Skills Centre Innovation Centre, public services and criminology.
“I’m here to make sure that we’re doing all of that to the best of our ability, leading on student achievement, progression and into the future.”
As part of the college’s Senior Leadership Team she’ll also be advocating for Lackham across the sector as she builds relationships with partners inside and outside the college.
“I feel privileged to have a role that is so varied,” she said. “When I drive in I’m still pinching myself and as we start the new academic year I’m excited about getting my teeth into the new year, and working with our incredibly talented and knowledgeable staff.”
Find out more about what Lackham has to offer at Wiltshire College & University Centre’s next Open Event. Explore the campus, discover the courses available and speak to staff about your options.
