Name: John Milne

Job Title: Founder & Principal

Company: Bristol International College

Member Since: 2019

How will covid change our industry, I think the quality operators will thrive as clients seek institutions that provide quality assurance and good outcomes.  This ‘shake-down’ will ensure UK education comes out of the global pandemic much fitter and stronger

Tell us a bit about your role and how it supports the business?

As one of the founders of Bristol International College and its Principal, I’m fully immersed in the growth of the school and thoroughly enjoying shaping our future. 

What has been your career highlight to date?

Founding a school is an enormous privilege and a challenge.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

“Do one thing every day that scares you.” — Eleanor Roosevelt  This was not given to me personally by Eleanor Roosevelt!

If you were not working in this sector what other industry would you have pursued a career in?

Sports management     

What are the emerging trends within your sector?

I think there is a growing desire for online, accredited learning.  Nothing will ever change the face to face experience but there is a growing need for online; bite size, affordable and flexible with clear outcomes.

What is coming up for your company in the next 12/18 months?

BIC is launching its online courses, globally, in 2021 and opening its physical doors in September, 2022, having had to delay due to the global pandemic.

Covid-19 has had a huge impact on our industry, what is the one thing that you have learnt personally or professionally during this time?

Thinking creatively and shifting focus has been key.  Supporting peers – above all else – has given me a sense of satisfaction and helped others through a very difficult time.

As we head towards recovery what do you think the challenges and opportunities are for our sector?

The challenges will be restoring trust in the UK as a safe haven once again and providing clients with the confidence that the UK education is still one of the best investments they can make in their children’s future.

How do you think Covid-19 will change our industry (if at all)?

I think the quality operators will thrive as clients seek institutions that provide quality assurance and good outcomes.  This ‘shake-down’ will ensure UK education comes out of the global pandemic much fitter and stronger.

Find out more about BETA Member Bristol International College here

Published 01 July 2021