As Gateshead College marks its 80th anniversary, few stories capture the spirit of its legacy quite like that of John Deary. Having first walked through the college doors in 1986 as an apprentice, John’s career has grown alongside the institution itself, evolving from student to senior leader over nearly four decades.
“I started at Gateshead College as an apprentice with Marconi Radar,” John recalls. “I was studying Electronic Engineering, two years for my ONC and two for my HNC. It was a vibrant time, with apprenticeships thriving across the region.”
When Marconi Radar went into liquidation midway through his training, John’s path took an unexpected turn. A lecturer offered him a temporary job in the college’s stores, allowing him to continue his studies while earning an income. That opportunity became a permanent role as a lab technician in the engineering department, and from there, his career took off.
“I moved into IT just as it was booming,” he says. “The college had invested in a state-of-the-art centre on Durham Road, and I became an IT technician, then a trainer, and eventually an IT lecturer. Teaching was never something I imagined doing, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.”
John’s progression through the ranks from lecturer to Head of Digital, and now Assistant Principal, reflects not only his dedication but also the college’s commitment to nurturing talent from within.
“What makes Gateshead College special is the people,” he says. “Some colleagues have become lifelong friends, one is even the godfather to my son. The culture here is shaped by shared values and a genuine sense of community.”
Reflecting on the college’s 80-year milestone, John sees it as a testament to resilience and relevance. “To remain established and thriving in a competitive educational landscape is a huge achievement. The college has had a lasting impact on the community and local employers.”
Among the many changes he’s witnessed, one stands out the move from Durham Road to the Baltic Quays campus. “It was a major shift: more central, more modern, and better aligned with the needs of our learners and partners.”
John’s story is filled with memorable moments, but one in particular stays with him: a student once classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) who went on to earn a first-class honours degree. “He started with no qualifications and achieved something incredible. That’s the kind of transformation we’re here for.”
Asked to sum up Gateshead College in three words, John doesn’t hesitate “Innovative, friendly and happy.”
As for the future? John hopes that “the college continues to uphold its morals and ethics, stays innovative, and remains ahead of the curve. My advice to anyone thinking of joining is to work hard. It’s worth it.”
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