Dale Smith
"I have been a Corporation member almost continuously since 1974 when the College was still Council run, and as Chairman of the FE Panel I was Chair of the Bradford College Governors. I saw the 5 colleges of FE and HE in the district go eventually into 3 and I been involved in the transformation of Bradford, Shipley, Bingley, Keighley and Ilkley, and I have also worked with 5 Principals at the College, so I believe that I contribute, in a positive way, a very long-term perspective.
I have always been interested in education and I have been
directly involved since I was first elected to the Ilkley Council in
1963. I believe that education is the door-opener to the future.
Health is the most precious gift but education is the other gift you
can give and must cherish if you have received it. My mother,
grandmother and various aunts were teachers and my father left Belle
Vue School at 14 and then was self-educated, so I was brought up to
value education and attended Bradford Grammar School and St Andrew's
University.
I was a part-time student at Bradford
College 25 years ago, studying Computer Studies and Human Resources.
The College’s value to Shipley Paints, the company my father started,
was invaluable as what I learnt was sufficient for me to make our
systems fit for purpose, and the Council and local schools benefited as
I devised various computer programmes for them to understand Local
Management of Schools. I still regard every day as a ‘learning day’
and I genuinely believe that I learn something and share something new
with someone every day.
I serve on the Audit Committee but I am also heavily committed as a Conservative Councillor, currently being Deputy Leader. I am a governor of 6 schools, elected member of the Bradford Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of Abbeyfield in Menston and have various directorships. I like to think that I have my finger on the general pulse of Bradford and that as well as bringing all this experience to the Corporation, I am an advocate for the Council, young people, education and the community.
Whilst I recognise the overriding priority is that young people gain the skills and qualifications they need, which is particularly important with a growing population in Bradford, we need to instil working ethics and respect. These may be old fashioned words but these values are crucial. Notwithstanding this, I do regret that more people don’t realise that the College is a huge stepping stone in education and in life, especially for those who had not made the best start in school. I believe there are 3 aspects to the College’s work that are essential to the regeneration of Bradford. Providing young people with skills and academic attainment; as a stepping stone for the older population to develop themselves and so help the community; and the social context and wellbeing aspect of bringing people together to enjoy learning. Government policy has curtailed the third aspect and made the second more difficult. The College has no choice but to make cuts as it can’t manufacture money and funds must be directed into a particular channel of activity. I believe that Michele has been a breath of fresh air at the right time and the College is heading in a positive direction. The new building programme is both thrilling and exciting. Educational buildings have to be transformed for the 21st century. People’s attitudes and expectations have changed and aspirations are higher. New technology is available and is transforming teaching and work. The College has an important role to play among the district concerning cohesion, respect and race relations. I am determined that we should be recognised as a beacon in that regard. Young people, especially women, have the chance to bring about a positive transformation of this city."