Three generations at Gateshead College

For the Wyles family, Gateshead College isn’t just a place to learn, it’s part of their lives.

Fiona’s journey began nearly three decades ago. “I wasn’t very academic at school,” she says, “but I was creative. Performing Arts felt right, and Gateshead College gave me the space to grow.” She enrolled at the Broadway Centre, completed a BTEC Extended Diploma, and was named Student of the Year. After travelling the world, Fiona returned to help with an after-school dance club. That was 27 years ago, and she never left.

Now a curriculum leader, Fiona reflects on the college’s 80th anniversary with pride. “I don’t know all 80 years of history, but my 27 have been a journey of growth. The college wants to be better, and I believe it is.” For Fiona, it’s always been about the people. “From cleaners to principals, I’ve had a great rapport with everyone. And the students, year after year, they’re what make this place special.”

Her proudest moment? Teaching her own daughter, Mia. “I stepped back as a mum and let another staff member support her. Watching her thrive was incredibly special. That’s thanks to Gateshead College, not me.”

But Fiona wasn’t the first Wyles to find her calling here. Back in 1992, her mum Lucille walked through the college doors looking for a fresh start. “I was going through a tough time and needed something different,” she recalls. Encouraged by Fiona, she joined an evening class and discovered a whole new world.

Lucille embraced every opportunity, from acting and singing to dance. She earned top grades, became Student of the Year, and even stepped in to teach when a lecturer was absent. “I loved it. When I walked into the classroom, nothing else mattered.” For nearly two decades, Lucille created unforgettable experiences, from pantomimes that united the college to showcases celebrating talent and inclusion.

Even serious illness couldn’t stop her. “The college supported me every step of the way. They made me feel wanted, and that allowed me to make my students feel wanted too.” Her advice? “If you’re thinking of coming, hurry up! It’ll change your life.”

And now, the third generation has joined the story. Mia grew up watching her mum’s shows, sitting in the theatre, chatting to staff, and dancing on stage. “I studied here, and now I’m back working here,” she says. “I didn’t get to see my grandma when she was here, but she always spoke so highly of her time. And then there’s Mum—she was my course leader at one point! It wasn’t weird for us, but probably for the other students.”

For Mia, the college will always be part of the Wyles family. Three generations, countless memories and one shared belief: Gateshead College changes lives.