Hosted by Principal Carl Riding, the event brought together alumni from a wide range of educational backgrounds, including A Levels, apprenticeships, higher-level professional qualifications and Skills Bootcamps, alongside members of the College’s Employer Connect Advisory Board.
The breakfast provided an opportunity to reflect on the diverse journeys taken by former students and to explore how education, industry partnerships and lifelong learning continue to support professional success.
Addressing guests, Principal Carl Riding said: “This morning has given us a valuable opportunity to pause and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our alumni. Their stories demonstrate that there is no single route to success. Whether through A Levels, apprenticeships, professional qualifications or adult learning, their journeys highlight the transformative power of education and the opportunities available here in Cornwall.”
Among those recognised were Molly Kirton, now a qualified Financial Adviser and Operations Manager at Azets Wealth Management; Matt Newman, whose Leadership and Management apprenticeship helped support progression into project management roles safeguarding approximately £90 million of revenue; and Christian Dove, a Senior Developer at Hertzian and one of Cornwall’s recent 30 Under 30 recipients.
Former student Lois Craze, winner of three Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards in 2022, reflected on how the skills gained during her apprenticeship continue to support her role as a Safety and Support Duty Manager, while Jess Sinnott described how a Digital Marketing Skills Bootcamp provided the confidence and knowledge to launch a successful STEM education business reaching thousands of families.
Among the alumni celebrated were two whose careers have come full circle. Emma Mills, now the College’s Head of Teaching and Learning Development, and Tim Moody, who works within the College’s Careers Team, both first walked through its doors as students before returning years later to help shape the experiences of today’s learners.
Emma studied A Levels at Truro College before embarking on a successful career in teaching, returning in 2006 as a Sports Lecturer and progressing through a range of leadership roles. Reflecting on her time as a student, she said: “I really did feel a sense that I could achieve and be anything I wanted. I will always remember the human element and the amazing support from the staff at College.”
Tim, who studied at the College between 1993 and 1995, went on to build a career in careers education and guidance across Cornwall before eventually returning to the College. Together, their stories highlight the lasting impact of education, demonstrating how the confidence, ambition and support developed as students can inspire future generations and ultimately bring alumni back to support the next generation of learners.
Tim said: “One of Truro and Penwith College’s great strengths has always been its ability to help students see beyond challenges and focus on what is possible.”
Guests also heard from keynote speakers James Strongman, Technical Director at Petrolab, and Mark Holden, Company Director at Inn Cornwall, who spoke about their own experiences as former students and the role the College played in helping them build successful careers.
The event reinforced the importance of the College’s Employer Connect initiative, which brings businesses and educators together to shape curriculum development, create opportunities for learners and help Cornwall’s workforce meet future skills needs.
Principal Carl Riding added: “While their futures may have started here, our alumni’s learning journeys have certainly not ended. We are proud to continue supporting individuals and businesses through apprenticeships, professional qualifications, Skills Bootcamps and workforce development opportunities. Together, we can help inspire the next generation and ensure Cornwall continues to thrive.”
The Principal’s Breakfast concluded with a call for alumni and employers to continue engaging with the College through its Partnership Pledge, helping current students gain valuable insights into the opportunities available across the region.
As prospective students and their families prepare to explore their options at the College’s Open Events, the stories shared throughout the morning served as a powerful reminder that great futures really can start at Truro and Penwith College.
