We were thrilled to welcome Central Saint Michael’s star alumni back to bid farewell to Campus Principal Dr Matt Lamb ahead of his retirement.
The successful group of former students attended a special ceremony to pay tribute to Matt who set up our sixth form in 2011, and has led it ever since, as well as guiding many learners to A Level excellence in Politics.
A team of Business students organised and oversaw the official goodbye event, featuring a traditional English afternoon tea and a performance by the Central Saint Michael’s Band.
Our VIP alumni were Jessica Bridgwater, Jessica Greaney, Tamara Herrington, Yara Kanteh-Ndaw, Adrian Khodavardar and Daniel Townsend.
Yara, who is now studying for a Film degree at the University of Birmingham, spoke movingly about the support she was given during a prolonged period of illness. She said: “I am filled with gratitude for all the support given to me by Matt, Nav and Dave when I was ill. Matt has left a huge legacy here.”
Jessica, who is also studying Film at Birmingham, said: “It was such a relief to find there was this sixth form and to be able to express yourself freely. It felt like fate to be here. Thank you Matt for fostering such a great environment.”
Tamara, who has gone on to become a software engineer at Aviva, said: “Matt was pivotal in my career path. Because of his influence, I ended up studying Politics at Durham. It has been an absolute pleasure being one of his students.”
Adrian, who is reading Politics & International Relations at the University of Warwick, summed up with a moving tribute: “Matt changed the way I think. You’ll be missed more than you’ll ever know. You made us feel seen, heard and understood. You’ve left a mark that goes beyond the classroom.”
Dr Matt Lamb said: “One of the things I’ve always tried to create is somewhere people could come and be themselves. I’ve always tried to make a difference. I’ll always be wishing you well and wanting you to succeed.”
Matt, who never once had a day off due to illness during his leadership, plans to spend his retirement travelling. He has already visited 85 different countries and hopes to have travelled to 100 by the time he turns 60.
As the current Mayor of Worcester and a city councillor, he will still continue to make a difference in local politics.
CEO and Principal of the Sandwell Colleges, Lisa Capper MBE, added: “Thank you Matt for everything you have done to celebrate and develop this wonderful facility. You have left a legacy here, leaving your mark for the way forward for the future.”
