Nikki’s first teaching role was as Course Leader for Business & Economics at Calderdale College in 2002, before moving back to Park Lane College as Curriculum Manager for Business and Enterprise.
A role at Kirklees College as Head of Department came next, managing various departments from Hospitality to Business Development, before a move to Assistant Principal at York College leading the apprenticeship programme.
Promotion to Vice Principal for Technical and Professional programmes followed, which included leading the successful bid for the Yorkshire and Humber Institute of Technology. The move to Leeds College of Building in May 2019 came just prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Under Nikki’s leadership, Leeds College of Building is focussed on improving diversity in construction. Ensuring everyone has access to the amazing opportunities offered by construction is crucial to building a truly inclusive sector.
In 2022, the College celebrated an unprecedented flurry of student award successes - with female students leading the way. Nikki said:
“We are immensely proud of all our students and apprentices who have achieved recognition at so many prestigious national awards. These competitions are often the pinnacle of construction specialisms and only recognise the very best young talent in the industry. Having so many female students and future role models making such an impression on the sector is phenomenal too.
“Congratulations also goes to our dedicated staff working tirelessly to unlock the capabilities of our students. They offer endless encouragement across diverse subjects from civil engineering and transport planning to trade crafts and surveying. The skills that students gain from college and hands-on work experience with our exceptional employer partners is truly transforming lives, and helping to boost the skills needed for a robust regional and national economy.”
