Life for the Goodyers
college and it was a way of keeping in touch after we had left school. It always felt welcoming and not too big.
“I remember winning the Best Part Time Student for hospitality in 1982 and I was invited to a reception with my mum and dad.”
Now Rob’s daughter, Mia, is a student at the college.
She said: “I am really enjoying studying at the college and getting treated like an adult. It involves a lot more self-discipline to work in my own time than school.
“I am keeping my career options open for the future but would definitely like to carry on in education and go on to university.
“I think it’s really nice that my grandad, dad and brother all studied here. It’s weird to think about because the college has changed so much; it’s a completely different place now than it was when my granddad was here.”
The three were invited back to the college as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations. Technological advances have changed the way in which the college operates over the years.
When David and Rob studied at the college, the internet did not exist, while in Mia’s time, a vast amount of her work is done over the internet.
David said: “Things have changed so much over the years; we didn’t have computers or mobile phones back then.
“The college has grown so much and I cannot believe the fantastic facilities that are here now.”
Since finishing his career in the catering industry, Rob has trained as an assessor and has now returned to the college as head of business development and employability.
He said: “As you get older you realise what an important part the college has played in the economic growth of the community and how it has helped develop individuals, from young learners straight out of school to adults trying to improve their prospects and careers.
“My son also came here to study graphic design before going to university. It’s a great place to work and still has that friendly feel.”