News
Pembrokeshire College appoints new Principal

PEMBROKESHIRE COLLEGE is pleased to announce Dr Barry Walters as its new Principal following a rigorous two-day selection process. Barry took up the role with immediate effect after a period as Interim Principal following the retirement of Sharron Lusher at the end of June last year. He takes over the helm at an exciting time for the College with plans in place for a £7 million development at the Merlins Bridge campus.
Following the appointment by the Corporation Board, the Chair of the Board, Caroline Oakley, commented: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Barry Walters as the new Principal of Pembrokeshire College. We are confident that Barry will continue to work to ensure that the learners of Pembrokeshire receive the best educational opportunities possible and to lead the College in its next stage of growth and development.”
With a PhD in Electrochemistry, Barry has undertaken research projects in universities in China and Sweden. Prior to joining Pembrokeshire College, he worked for Kingston University with his final role as Head of School of Business and Information Management. He joined Pembrokeshire College in 2000 as Head of Faculty for Business, progressed to the role of Assistant Principal in 2002 and Deputy Principal in 2011.
Barry has a broad range of experience in both further and higher education sectors and is a Director of the College University Skills Partnership with Swansea University and the Darwin Centre for Biology and Medicine and is Vice Chair of a Local Primary School Governing Body. He sits on a number of other boards including the City & Guilds National Advisory Panel for Wales, Pembrokeshire’s Public Services Board and the Regional Learning and Skills Partnership’s Provider Group.
Speaking after the announcement, Barry commented: “I am extremely proud to have been chosen to lead one of the best performing colleges in Wales. We have a strong Estyn profile for both further education and work-based learning and continue to put learners at the heart of everything that we do.“
“There are challenging times ahead for post-compulsory education and training but we have an outstanding team of staff who are committed to helping our learners to achieve the skills that will allow them to progress to higher levels of study or to employment. I am particularly keen to continue the partnership work with the local authority to ensure education in Pembrokeshire offers the best opportunities to the young people of the county. At the same time, we are committed to working alongside local employers to ensure that we are doing everything we can to support them to prosper and grow.”
Community
Funeral arrangements confirmed for popular local entertainer, Matt Baker

THE FUNERAL arrangements have been announced for Matt Baker, affectionately known as ‘Mr Good Times’ of Haverfordwest.
Matt passed away on March 15 aged 49. He was the much-loved son of Phyllis and stepson to Aad, and son to the late Paul. He was a devoted brother to Reuben, his wife Cath, and Simeon, and a beloved uncle to Aston, Dylan and Axel.
Matt was well known in the local community for his cheerful nature, positive outlook and ability to bring people together. His presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
His funeral service will take place on Saturday, April 12 at 11:00am at Pembrokeshire College Theatre. This will be followed by interment at Freystrop Cemetery.
Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Matt, in aid of mental health causes, can be made via a donation box at the wake following the interment.
All enquiries should be directed to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors on (01437) 763821.
Charity
Emergency services unite for charity at Pembroke Dock Fire Station

A CHARITY car wash at Pembroke Dock Fire Station drew crowds on Saturday (Mar 29), raising money in support of The Firefighters Charity.
The event, organised by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, ran from 10:00am to 4:00pm and saw a steady stream of local residents turning out to support the cause. Visitors were able to get their vehicles washed by firefighters, with all proceeds going towards helping fire service personnel and their families.
Among those showing support were local police officers, with PCSOs 8020 and 8112 from Pembroke Dock and Pembroke Police making an appearance. The officers not only lent their encouragement to their emergency service colleagues but also had their police vehicle given a good hosing down.
“It was very busy with lots of local people supporting such a good cause,” a police spokesperson said. “Well done to Phil and the team, and a special thank you for hosing down our police vehicle whilst we were there.”
The event highlighted the strong sense of camaraderie between emergency services in the area and the ongoing support from the community for their efforts.
For more information on future events and ways to support The Firefighters Charity, visit tancgc.gov.uk or mawwfire.gov.uk.
Education
Supported employment learners take off on airport adventure

A GROUP from the Pembrokeshire Supported Employment Programme (PSEP) enjoyed a memorable day out at Haverfordwest Airport this week as part of their continued education activities.
The visit gave learners the opportunity to explore a wide variety of aircraft and gain hands-on experience with the airport’s emergency services. Highlights of the day included sitting inside a fire truck and trying on some of the firefighter uniform.

The group said they particularly enjoyed learning new facts about aviation and seeing planes up close in real life – a first for many. The trip helped build independent learning skills and teamwork in a fun and engaging environment.
A spokesperson for the team said: “Everyone had a great day! It was an exciting and educational experience for all involved. Thank you to Haverfordwest Airport for allowing us to visit the site.”
PSEP, supported by Norman Industries, continues to offer valuable opportunities for people with disabilities in Pembrokeshire to gain life skills, explore new interests, and build confidence.
Photo caption: Taking flight: Learners from the supported employment programme enjoyed their day at Haverfordwest Airport (Pic: PSEP).
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