Passing the Candle, Lighting the Torch

Our Principal, Darren Hankey, often reflects on and recites these words from Irish playwright and George Bernard Shaw: "Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations."

This philosophy finds its perfect expression in this story of Steve Sowerby and Cameron Wren. After 34 years of teaching, Steve is retiring, and his former student Cameron is stepping into his role as a lecturer. It’s a tale of mentorship, dedication, and continuity, and epitome of our mission to transform lives,

A former student is stepping into the shoes of his teacher at Hartlepool College of Further Education. Cameron Wren, once a student in Steve Sowerby's class, will now take over as lecturer after Steve's retirement this December, highlighting the College's commitment to transforming lives through education. During his 34 years of service, Steve remembers Cameron well.He said: “The thing that made Cameron really stand out was his no-fuss approach. He consistently did what was asked of him without needing much help or encouragement.”

After completing his BTEC Extended Diploma in IT at Hartlepool College, Cameron pursued his passion for technology by earning a first-class honours degree in computer games design from Teesside University. He further honed his skills through internships in the games industry and at the university, where he helped develop cutting-edge software using technology like the Microsoft HoloLens.The 23-year-old has now returned to Hartlepool College as a graduate lecturer, a role that initially felt “quite weird while I was shadowing the same lecturers that taught me,” he quipped. Cameron soon adapted and has brought his industry experience and enthusiasm to the classroom.

Steve feels that passing the baton to a former student is particularly special. He said: “It feels good to be passing the baton on to someone whose development I've observed and had some part in.” Steve is now planning to dedicate more time to his hobbies, such as playing musical instruments, fell walking in the Lake District, and developing his interests in astronomy and photography. He said: “One of the most gratifying things is receiving emails from former students telling me what they're now doing in the computer industry. I am, though, really looking forward to enjoying more free time, having spent more than three decades teaching.” The handover in the classroom perfectly illustrates Hartlepool College’s mission to transform lives through education.

Gary Riches, Vice Principal, said: “Steve has been a fantastic asset to the College for many years. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement. We are very proud of our 175-year history, and we would love to see more people passing on the baton.”

Those words of Shaw are especially fitting in this master-and-apprentice story, and the College is delighted that Cameron is now holding this particular candle. Gary added: “It’s inspiring to see a former student return as a lecturer. Cameron’s experience and enthusiasm will be invaluable to our students.”