Chris Tunningley has been appointed as Leeds College of Building Assistant Principal for Adult Learning and Higher Education. Chris, formerly the Head of University Centre for Architecture, Engineering & Construction at Leeds College of Building, succeeds retiring Assistant Principal Brian Duffy. “I am thrilled to start in this post at
To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week 2020, Leeds College of Building has announced it is teaming up with The Guinness Partnership, managers of the new housing development opposite the College’s South Bank Campus. Construction is due to start on the new development near Leeds Docks and the Royal Armouries Museum
BDC 319 : Aug 2024
Chris Tunningley has been appointed as Leeds College of Building Assistant Principal for Adult Learning and Higher Education. Chris, formerly the Head of University Centre for Architecture, Engineering & Construction at Leeds College of Building, succeeds retiring Assistant Principal Brian Duffy. “I am thrilled to start in this post at Leeds College of Building. I’m passionate about how education can raise prospects and know that gaining a sought-after trade or profession while attaining maths, English, and digital skills can be life changing. Studying part-time or following a vocational higher-education pathway like a degree apprenticeship is a hands-on and economical route that ultimately leads to the same successful career destination as traditional academic routes,” commented Chris. Chris has over 33 years of experience in the Building Services Engineering industry and Further and Higher Education sectors, initially qualifying as a gas engineer. After 19 years in engineering, Chris transitioned to teaching in 2008 when he became a lecturer in Building Services Engineering & Construction at Leeds College of Building. “Huge congratulations to Chris after a competitive selection process against a high calibre of candidate. Chris succeeds outgoing Assistant Principal Brian Duffy, who worked at the College for many years before retiring in December. Brian was critical in the growth of our higher education provision, and I know that Chris will be instrumental in building on this success. May I join others in wishing Chris well as he moves into this role,” added Leeds College of Building Principal & CEO Nikki Davis. Following this, Chris was appointed Curriculum Manager for Building Services & Civil Engineering and then Assistant Faculty Director for HE, Construction Design & Management at the College. Chris will oversee adult learning and funding to combat regional skills shortages, plan for future skills needs (such as sustainable construction), and widening participation in education. Chris will also lead on higher education strategy, which incorporates the new Leeds College of Building University Centre, and work closely with employer partners and other professional bodies. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week 2020, Leeds College of Building has announced it is teaming up with The Guinness Partnership, managers of the new housing development opposite the College’s South Bank Campus. Construction is due to start on the new development near Leeds Docks and the Royal Armouries Museum later this year. This will be the largest development in Guinness’s 130-year history and will provide 928 homes as the basis for a dynamic community for local people and residents. Guinness is committed to working with the College to develop opportunities for students, including career talks, employability skills, site visits, work placements and apprenticeships. Two areas that the housing provider is looking to focus on are addressing the national skills shortage and diversity in the workplace – key elements of the College’s strategic objectives. This year is the 13th annual National Apprenticeship Week, coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service, which is an annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships across England and is a time to recognise and applaud apprenticeship success stories across the country. The College currently has 2,500 apprentices on programme, with 2,250 of these training in Leeds, and a large number of apprentices progressing from the College’s 16-18 study programme provision. Strong links with organisations that can support students with their career choices (such as Guinness) is vital. Derek Whitehead, CEO & Principal at Leeds College of Building, said: “Whilst classroom and workshop studies are essential, there is no doubt to the importance of site visits, work placements and job opportunities. Projects such as these give our students incredible insight into new developments within the industry; they benefit immensely from seeing what life is like on a live site”. Catriona Simons, Chief Executive of Guinness, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Leeds College of Building to promote high quality training through apprenticeships in the community we serve in Leeds. Apprenticeships are a key way of promoting skills development and increasing diversity across the construction and housing maintenance sectors. This partnership will enable students to gain real experience and insight into the careers available, while contributing to the delivery of affordable homes in the Leeds area.”
