Nurturing Talent: Joe Collier’s Journey So Far at Runshaw College
Joe Collier’s journey at Runshaw began as an apprentice, where he has gained invaluable hands-on experience within the Adult Education team, supporting adults seeking to upskill. Joe has embraced every challenge with dedication, which has led to a permanent position within the team. Now, driven by a passion for growth and leadership, he is eager to take the next step in his career and transition into a leadership role, continuing to make a positive impact on the learners he supports.
At Runshaw, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of talent. Our focus on future-proofing our reputation for excellence ensures that young people have access to professional development opportunities and the guidance of experienced practitioners, empowering them to secure impactful roles and thrive in their careers.
How did your career journey begin, and what were some of the early experiences that shaped your path?
“I began my career by jumping straight into work as a technician at a law firm, where I spent two years developing strong IT and problem-solving skills. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for my professional journey and helped me understand the value of adapting quickly, thinking on my feet, and delivering under pressure”.
How has your time at Runshaw College as an apprentice changed your perspective on career development?
“I took on an exciting opportunity at Runshaw College as a Business Administration Apprentice. During my apprenticeship, I developed a wide range of skills including customer service, time management, administration, communication, and the ability to manage multiple systems and processes effectively. It gave me a deeper understanding of how an educational organisation works behind the scenes and allowed me to really grow both personally and professionally”.
Are there any unique skills or experiences you’ve brought into your role from outside of work?
“Outside of work, I’m a semi-professional referee—a role that’s really sharpened my ability to stay calm under pressure, make quick and fair decisions, and communicate with clarity and authority. These skills naturally carry over into my day-to-day job, especially when handling challenging situations or supporting others effectively”.
What qualities do you admire most in the colleagues you work with, and how have they influenced your own approach to teamwork?
“I work closely with two fantastic leaders – Sharon Tuck and Mark Heaton – who are both incredibly supportive and inspiring role models. They’ve helped shape my understanding of strong leadership and teamwork. We’ve also taken part in team-building days that have boosted our collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and team morale”.
Which achievements are you most proud of, and what have they taught you along the way?
“Some of the achievements I’m most proud of include earning a Distinction in my apprenticeship, securing a permanent role within the adult education team, and contributing to a department that consistently delivers outstanding quality of education. Each of these milestones has reinforced the importance of continuous learning and being part of a team that’s truly committed to making a difference. They’ve also shown me that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and seizing new opportunities”.
In what ways has Runshaw supported your growth and helped you take the next steps in your career?
“Runshaw has played a big part in supporting my development. I’m currently studying for my Level 3 Leadership and Management qualification, which has been fully funded by the college. That kind of investment in my growth has really motivated me to push myself and start preparing for a future leadership role. I’ve always been passionate about progressing in my career and embracing new challenges, and having the encouragement of my team behind me has made a real difference”.
What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
“What I love most about working in Further Education is being able to support adult learners as they take their next steps – whether that’s advancing in their current career, changing direction entirely, or simply building the confidence to try something new. It’s such a varied and people-focused role; no two days are ever the same. Being that first point of contact and knowing that I’ve helped someone take a step closer to their personal or professional goals is what makes this role so rewarding”.
What makes Runshaw College a special place to work, and how would you describe the culture to someone considering a role there?
“Working at Runshaw College is a real pleasure – the campus is beautiful, the sausage rolls and breakfast wraps are top-tier, and the people here are genuinely kind, helpful, and passionate about what they do. One standout feature I’d highlight to any potential candidate is just how welcoming and supportive the staff are. You really do feel at home here from day one”.
What advice would you give to someone applying for a role at Runshaw or just starting their career in education?
“Be confident, be yourself, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine!”.
