Category: Staff Bio

It’s #MeetTheTeam time!

Name: Matt Lumb

Job Title: Food Tech Teacher

Time in the role: Almost 6 years!

What’s something people don’t know about you? I love cycling and gaming

Your role in a nutshell: I deliver practical food tech sessions, encouraging all pupils to understand cooking on a budget and also exploring foods from around the world. Pupils work towards completing a number of AQA unit award qualifications which develop their future independence and life skills, building confidence and self esteem.

Why do you like working for YCC? I enjoy working with a great team and helping vulnerable and disadvantaged young people.

What’s one of your favourite work memories? Cooking Christmas dinner for everyone at Brian Jackson College (Heckmondwike) and just seeing the appreciation and enjoyment from all the kids and staff.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering working at YCC? Be ready to think on your feet and ALWAYS have a backup plan.

Contact details: [email protected]

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It’s #MeetTheTeam time.

Name: Rebecca Whitehead

Job Title: Financial Education Teacher

Time in the role: 2 years.

What’s something people don’t know about you? I used to be a tv/film extra!

Your role in a nutshell: I teach financial education to years 10 and 11 at BJC in Heckmondwike- this course gives them education on financial matters and how to be a successful adult once they leave school which includes politics, paying bills etc, I also teach finance, life skills and employability to year 9.

Why do you like working for YCC? I came to work at BJC for 3 months on supply and was lucky enough to never leave after gaining the permanent role in September 2020. It’s an amazing place to work, the college is like a family and every day is different, there’s always something going on to make you smile.

What’s one of your favourite work memories? When I returned in Sept 2020 after being on furlough since March 2020 (through supply agency) and I got a round of applause and a cheer from the students that I was back. It was wonderful.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering working at YCC? You have to be prepared to go above and beyond every day, it’s never easy but it’s always different. I love teaching anyway but it’s so rewarding to teach at the college as the students need us and what we offer, so much more than in mainstream.

Contact details: [email protected]

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It’s #MeetTheTeam time.

Full Name: Tony Kirton

Job Title: Maintenance Coordinator

Time in the role: 5 Months

What’s something people don’t know about you? Home is like a farm with all the dogs and cats!

Your role in a nutshell: Fix things (or ask other people to!)

Why do you like working for YCC? I’ve always enjoyed having a go at various projects at home – building, plumbing, etc. so it’s like a bigger house here with more varied (and stranger sometimes!) requests!

What’s one of your favourite work memories? Finally navigating the buildings and not getting lost!

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering working at YCC? Make sure you wear a Fitbit (alternative makes are available!) so you don’t waste walking up and down the stairs!

Contact Details: [email protected]

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It’s #MeetTheTeam time.

Full Name: Samantha Latchayya

Job Title: Leadership Team Coordinator

Time in the role: 10 Months

What’s something people don’t know about you? I absolutely love languages and can speak French, Spanish and Mauritian Creole.

Your role in a nutshell: I work with the Leadership Team and Board of Trustees to coordinate all meetings, projects and events, to ultimately facilitate the effectiveness of the charity. I’m also in the Safety Group and Employee Forum. Finally, I run the charity’s social media channels which is really fun!

Why do you like working for YCC? I’ve always loved to plan and organise things– inside and outside of work, so this role suits me to a tee. Every single day at Fresh Futures is different, which makes the work really exciting. Finally, the people who work here are so friendly that I always look forward to going into the office!

What’s one of your favourite work memories? I really enjoyed the Staff Thank You event that was held in Summer 2021. We took over an entire pub’s venue and ordered in dozens of pizzas! The theme of the event was VIP and we all had VIP wristbands and a red carpet to walk down. It was a great opportunity to unwind with our colleagues and have a good catch up after a tough year.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering working at YCC? Prepare to be very busy, but also to have lots of fun at the same time! One great thing about Fresh Futures is that the hierarchy is really flat, so you can put forward your ideas and opinions and make a real difference – which is massively rewarding!

Contact Details: [email protected] | 07546 307 658

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