Conor McKerlie - Group Student Recruitment Co-ordinator

Conor McKerlie looks after the student recruitment team and is responsible for making sure that all of our schools have a named contact. He looks forward to being able to make a difference. He remembers what it was like to be a school leaver and feel the uncertainly of which direction to take.

Originally from Leeds, he moved to the area and landed a job as a business administration apprentice at the College. Many years later he remains a valued member of the team and now it’s his job to help students make the right choices for them.

“Seeing the students and knowing that you are helping them to make a decision, that’s the best bit,” he said. “It is an achievement to see students’ progress, to hear their success stories and to know that you have played a small part in that.”

Abi Shepherd - Student Recruitment Officer

Abi is the newest member of the team only recently graduating from Newcastle university after studying philosophy. Abi applied to join the schools team because she has a keen interest in education and believes that getting young people on the right path for them is extremely important.

Abi said “Although I am new to the college I feel at home and I am excited to help students choose their next step.” Abi’s advice would be: “Find a subject you enjoy and try make a careers out of it. There is nothing better than having a passion for the job you are doing, it helps to keep you motivated.”