10/04/2024
Hello all, I’d like to introduce myself, and give a little background. I’m a mature student, coming to the end of my second year part time, studying for BSC Geology. As I never went to university (joining the forces at 17), this is a lifetime ambition and I already pass on my knowledge with free workshops for children in our wonderful north Pennines.
I came through the ranks from very humble beginnings, retiring at 38 to join civil aviation. I was a member of several safety committees when serving and am relaxed in the company of the highest and lowest ranks in equal measures. I became a pilot rep almost immediately on joining my first airline, and in the airline I joined as a startup, I was instrumental in getting BALPA recognised by the company, achieving huge improvements in pilots conditions and pay.
On retirement, I joined a Crisis Intervention company attempting to give new hope to severely damaged or exploited young people in care, then briefly as an outreach worker for the county council. Latterly I was a freelance mountain instructor mainly teaching and assessing Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
I have never been a single-issue representative, and have no particular drum to bang. Looking at the manifestos of all the candidates for every post I feel there are enough single issue champions there! However, if handed a particular baton and feel it worth running with, I will do so like the wind!
So, please don’t look at me as the old boring candidate, I’m far from it! Just look at me as someone who can cast an experienced ear to several arguments and contribute considered opinions to any debate, and help guide the new reps in thier roles if asked. I would attempt to represent the England students rather than work to my own personal agenda.
One final note: I have noticed in my dealing and experiences with the SA that it does seem to lean heavily towards Humanities and the more subjective subjects. I am now going to shamelessly pitch for the incredibly underrepresented STEM vote! 😬 Unlike some other, rather passionate candidates for all the posts, I prefer to think like a scientist; objective, considered and taking all things into consideration. Perhaps that’s the benefit of being A Fully Paid Up Member of the Been About a Bit Club!
Thank you for reading.
