As part of our 80th anniversary celebrations, we’re proud to spotlight the students who’ve helped shape Gateshead College’s legacy and continue to inspire others through their work.
One such student is Jack Holmes, a former Business Start-Up learner whose entrepreneurial spirit has flourished into two successful ventures: Spinning Superiority Records and Keep It Spinning DJ.
His journey began at Gateshead College, where ambition met opportunity and a love for music found its business edge.
“I’ve always been passionate about music,” Jack shares. “I grew up surrounded by Northern Soul, disco and soul from the age of 12. But it was at Gateshead College where I realised I could turn that passion into a business.”
Jack’s time at college was more than just education, studying Business Start-Up gave him the tools to shape his ideas and the confidence to pursue them.
“I knew I wanted to start a business, but I didn’t know what. The teaching staff were incredible, they helped me figure out that I wanted to open a record shop.”
One standout moment for Jack was being given the chance to sell records directly from the college reception. “It was a real-world opportunity to test my idea. I got to see how people responded, and it gave me the push to make it happen.”
The relaxed, supportive atmosphere at the college also played a key role. “It was a great environment to learn, make friends and grow. It didn’t feel like pressure it felt like possibility.”
Now, Jack has come full circle. He’s returned to Gateshead College not as a student, but as a lecturer in Business Start-Up. “It’s amazing to be back. I want to inspire the next generation to just go for it. Whatever idea they have, I want them to believe it’s possible.”
Jack takes great pride in seeing the lasting impact Gateshead College continues to have not just on its students, but on the wider creative community.
“Gateshead College is doing brilliant things in the music scene – live performances at the Metrocentre, involvement in Sunday for Sammy, and so much more. The college and the music industry go hand in hand.”
His advice to future students and staff? “Whatever your idea is, good or bad, give it a go. You don’t need loads of money to start a business. You just need passion and determination.”
Looking ahead, Jack hopes to see even more student-led businesses thriving in the Gateshead area. “I want to see these amazing ideas come to life and flourish. The college has built a culture of creativity and ambition, and I’m proud to be part of that.”
For Jack, Gateshead College can be summed up in three powerful words: inspiration, experience, and opportunity.
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