The STAC Advisory Board was set up to ensure the successful ongoing operation of the college and to provide a strategic oversight of the curriculum and quality of provision at Stansted Airport College as well as to help facilitate, develop and manage relationships with employers and other stakeholders.
The Advisory Board is made up of all key relevant stakeholders, including school, employer, local authority and student representatives.
Meeting between three and five times a year, the Advisory Group will support Harlow College and Stansted Airport College in its activities to advise and promote the College wherever possible. Robert brings with him a wealth of experience in both local and national government, making him ideally placed to lead the Advisory Group.
Speaking ahead of taking up his new role, Robert said: “As former MP for Harlow, I was very proud of my relationship with Harlow College, having visited over 100 times. It is a huge achievement that Harlow College is now one of the best Colleges in the country. That is why I am so pleased, and honoured, to chair the Stansted Airport College Advisory Board. It is wonderful to see this relatively new College become such a success. The only college of its kind in a major airport is an extraordinary achievement.
“The College has thrived, both because of its brilliant staff and students, but also due to its unique partnership with Manchester Airport Group and Stansted Airport. It is a model of how skills partnerships should work. This college is transforming the lives of students, with 85% of students going to work at Stansted Airport or other Airport employer partners.
“As Chair, I want to work closely with MAG and all the stakeholders, and the college staff to help the college to continue to thrive and expand. Above all, I want to seek more investment in the college. Stansted Airport College is building the social and skills capital we need. I look forward to my new role of supporting the college in the months and years ahead.”
Karen Spencer, Principal and CEO of Harlow College and Stansted Airport College, was looking forward to renewing her acquaintance with Mr Halfon: “There are exciting times ahead for Stansted Airport College as we plan to expand and grow. We are excited to have Robert on board to guide us through phase 2 of our journey. He has a real passion for supporting further education and students.”
Gareth Powell, London Stansted’s Managing Director, said: “We are thrilled that Mr Halfon has joined as the new chair of Stansted Airport College’s Advisory Group. He has been a huge advocate for education, skills and apprenticeships, making him the perfect choice to lead the group and help shape its future. We are all incredibly proud of the college and its groundbreaking partnership between education and industry. It's been a huge success since opening in 2018 and Mr Halfon's appointment reflects Harlow College's and London Stansted's ongoing commitment to providing world-class opportunities for the next generation of aviation professionals.”.
