What does it take to build a college culture where people belong, grow and lead with care?

In this episode of The Culture & Leadership Podcast, host Guy Walker chats with Lisa Capper MBE, Principal & CEO of the Sandwell Collegse Group.

Lisa shares her journey from adult education and government policy to leading one of the UK’s most diverse and ambitious colleges. She talks about creating the “One Team” culture, embedding the CARE values, and why wellbeing and empowerment are central to success.

Key topics include:

• Balancing big-picture strategies with hands-on action to make real change

• Building a “One Team” culture that unites staff and campuses 

• Why values-driven leadership empowers both staff and students

• Creating inspiring learning environments that keep students motivated and thriving

• Adapting Further Education to meet changing demands for young people and adults

Whether you’re an educator, college leader, or interested in how education can shape communities, this episode is packed with practical strategies, inspiring stories and insights from the heart of the Sandwell Colleges.

00:00 Intro

00:03:45 Lisa’s career journey and leadership philosophy

00:08:20 Building a “One Team” culture and strategic plan

00:14:10 Embedding CARE values in staff and students

00:19:35 Staff wellbeing, mentorship, and professional development

00:25:50 Innovation in learning environments and student retention

00:31:15 Preparing for demographic changes and adult learning

00:36:40 Leadership lessons and advice for future FE leaders

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#educationleadership #collegeculture #furthereducation #staffwellbeing #studentoutcomes #teacherdevelopment #eduleadership #learninganddevelopment #cultureineducation #leadershippodcast

What does it take to lead a college that truly serves its community? In this episode of the Culture & Leadership in Education Podcast, Guy Walker talks with Mark Bolton, Principal of Yeovil College, about how values-driven leadership, strategic vision and a focus on local businesses create meaningful outcomes for students, staff and the wider region.

Mark shares how he builds a culture where learners leave better than they arrived, staff are empowered, and local businesses thrive.

Key topics include:

- How values-driven leadership motivates staff to go the extra mile

- Embedding mission, vision, and strategic goals into everyday practice

- Supporting high-value, forward-thinking industries through skills and apprenticeships

- Creating a culture of recognition, engagement, and continuous improvement

- Personal development, mentoring, and lifelong learning as the foundation for leadership

Whether you’re an educator, college leader or interested in building meaningful community impact, this episode is packed with insights, practical strategies and inspiring stories from the heart of Yeovil College.

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#educationleadership #leadingwithkindness #collegeculture #furthereducation #eduleadership #studentoutcomes #teacherdevelopment #learninganddevelopment #edutech #aiineducation #staffwellbeing #leadershippodcast #cultureineducation

What really drives success in education?

In the first episode of season two of the Culture & Leadership in Education Podcast, Guy Walker, CEO of Dovetail & Slate, sits down with Andrew Green, Chief Executive of Chichester College Group, to reveal the leadership philosophies and culture strategies that are truly changing lives.

From turning disengaged students into confident achievers to creating a workplace where staff thrive, Andrew shares the secrets behind Chichester College Group’s extraordinary impact on 25,000 learners across seven colleges.

He dives into:

- How kindness, trust and empowerment shape culture and boost performance

- Balancing leadership visibility, staff motivation and personal wellbeing

- Leveraging AI to save time while keeping teachers at the heart of learning

Whether you’re an educator, leader or just curious about what makes high-performing organisations tick, this episode is packed with insights, practical strategies and inspiring stories that prove leadership is about people first.

dovetailslate.co.uk

#educationleadership #leadingwithkindness #collegeculture #furthereducation #eduleadership #studentoutcomes #teacherdevelopment #learninganddevelopment #edutech #aiineducation #staffwellbeing #leadershippodcast #cultureineducation

In the latest episode of the Culture, EVP & Leadership podcast, Grant Glendenning, CEO of the Education Training Collective (ETC), shares his 25-year journey in Further Education, the importance of a values-driven culture, and how ETC is shaping the future of skills and social mobility in the North East.What to expect in this episode:- Grant’s career path from ESOL lecturer to CEO and his leadership philosophy.- How ETC’s unique “Tone of Voice” culture drives belonging, consistency, and impact across six colleges.- The challenges and opportunities of leading in a sector undergoing rapid change, including AI integration.- The strategic vision behind ETC’s outstanding Ofsted rating and ongoing commitment to local communities.Grant’s advice for aspiring FE leaders: embrace responsibility, stay grounded and lead with purpose.A must-listen for anyone passionate about education, leadership and community impact!dovetailslate.co.uk#Leadership #Education #Culture #EVP #FurtherEducation #TSCG #Podcast #ValuesDrivenLeadership #CommunityImpact #PeopleFirst #FEsector #EmployeeEngagement

In this episode, we’re joined by Rachel Nicholls, CEO of Inspire Education Group - a passionate, purpose-driven leader with deep roots in Further Education.From the power of teamwork to the challenge of leading through change, Rachel shares candid insights into what it really takes to lead well in FE today.We cover:- Why teamwork is more than collaboration — it’s empowerment- The FE leaders who shaped her career and values- How AI is being used innovatively in governance and education- The challenge of growth, funding, and managing constant change- Why humility and connection are at the heart of impactful leadershipHer advice to future FE leaders: stay grounded, stay hungryPlus: the books that inspire her, the podcasts she loves, and what she’s doing to keep learning at the top of her game.Whether you’re in education, leadership or just curious about the real world of FE, this is a masterclass in people-first leadership.👇 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.www.dovetailslate.co.uk#FurtherEducation #Leadership #Culture #EVP #AIInFE #FEVoices #PurposeDrivenLeadership

In this episode, we’re on campus at Leeds City College with two brilliant leaders in Further Education:Lee Pryor – Principal at Leeds City College (Printworks Campus)Nicky Davis – Principal and CEO at Leeds College of BuildingFrom their unique routes into FE (including a background in the NHS and apprenticeships), to their honest reflections on leadership, values, and staying grounded, it’s a real look into what makes FE such a powerful, people-centered sector.We talk about:- Why FE is more than “just a job”, it’s a purpose- The real challenges FE faces: funding, space, and system agility- What “living your values” actually looks like in a college setting- How culture is shaped by everyone, from leaders to cleaners- Advice for future leaders: resilience, reflection and real connectionWhether you’re in education, HR, or leadership, this episode is packed with insight on building trust, leading with authenticity, and creating impact that lasts.👇 Like, comment and subscribe.dovetailslate.co.uk #FurtherEducation #Leadership #Culture #EVP #ValuesInAction #FEVoices #LeedsPodcast

In this episode of the Culture, EVP & Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, one of the UK’s leading independent apprenticeship providers for electricians and plumbers.Chris shares his fascinating journey, from 33 years in the British Army to leading in the civilian education and skills sector. We talk leadership, values, the future of skills and why investing in vocational training isn’t just a budget line, it’s nation-building.What we cover:- Chris’s transition from the military to skills education- Why apprenticeships are essential to the UK’s infrastructure and green energy goals- How JTL creates a high-performing, values-led culture- The real challenges facing the skills sector—funding cuts, regulation overload & talent shortages- Why one-size-fits-all policy doesn’t work in vocational training- The case for seeing education as *investment*, not *cost*💬 Plus:Chris opens up about his leadership philosophy, what makes JTL special, and how culture is built not through slogans, but through everyday actions, visibility and trust.If you’re interested in leadership, culture-building, education reform, or the future of work, this one’s for you.👇 Like, comment and subscribe for more insights from the people shaping the future of work.dovetailslate.co.uk#Leadership #Apprenticeships #WorkplaceCulture #EVP #SkillsTraining #VocationalEducation #ChrisClaydon #JTL #EducationInvestment

In the latest episode of the Culture, EVP & Leadership podcast, James Scott, CEO of TSCG, shares his inspiring journey in FE, the power of values-led leadership, and why colleges are at the heart of community transformation. What to expect in this episode: - James’ personal story and what drew him to Further Education. - The cultural transformation at TSCG and how values shape leadership at every level. - The power of clear career pathways and building inclusive workplaces. - Leading with authenticity and navigating difficult decisions with integrity. - James’ advice for aspiring leaders: take care of yourself, stay true to your values, and don’t be afraid to ask for support.A must-listen for anyone passionate about education!dovetailslate.co.uk#Leadership #Education #Culture #EVP #FurtherEducation #TSCG #Podcast #ValuesDrivenLeadership #CommunityImpact #PeopleFirst #FEsector #EmployeeEngagement

In this episode, we explore the power of authentic leadership and the philosophies that shape meaningful connections within teams, with Neil Coker, the CEO & Principal of Barnet & Southgate College. Neil shares his leadership journey through significant change, and reflects on how visibility, empathy and vulnerability play a crucial role in building trust and inspiring others.What to expect in this episode:- Neil’s leadership evolution and the pivotal moments that shaped his approach.- Why being seen as a leader goes beyond presence - it’s about connection and resonance.- The role of empathy, small gestures and acknowledging others in building strong relationships.- Embracing change, personal growth and the courage it takes to lead with integrity.This episode offers valuable insights for anyone passionate about leadership, education, and creating genuine human connections in an ever-changing world.dovetailslate.co.uk#Leadership #Authenticity #FurtherEducation #EmpathyInLeadership #ChangeLeadership #Culture #Connection #Podcast #EducationLeadership #ValuesDrivenLeadership

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of leadership, culture and employee value propositions with Janet Smith, the CEO & Principal of Nottingham College. Janet shares her incredible journey in education and leadership and opens up about her passion for further education and how it has the power to transform lives.What to expect in this episode:

• Janet's personal story, from humble beginnings to becoming a leading voice in further education.
• The challenges of navigating constant change and the importance of agility in leadership.
• How Nottingham College has cultivated a values-driven culture with a focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation.
• Insights on leadership, building strong organisational cultures, and why education plays a crucial role in societal progress.

This conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in leadership, education and creating impactful cultures in their organisations.dovetailslate.co.uk#Leadership#Education#Culture#EVP#FurtherEducation#NottinghamCollege#Podcast#ValuesDrivenLeadership#EmployeeEngagement#ChangeManagement