Meet a Chamber member: Paul Rolfe

Can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I have a dual role - I am the Director of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT), as well as the Associate Principal Employers and Stakeholders for the Chichester College Group. My role at the Institute of Technology is to support our education partners (Chichester College Group, NESCOT, Brighton University and Sussex University) as well as our industry partners to ensure that our exciting vision for the IoT is realised. I also work closely with Gatsby, the Department for Education as well as other Government departments to ensure we are leveraging every opportunity for our region.

How has your job changed over the last year?

The Chichester College Group merged with Greater Brighton Metropolitan College (GBMET) in August 2022, which almost doubled the size of the organisation! My role was enhanced to take on additional responsibilities including the leadership of T-Levels and the Institute of Technology. With the IoT, I am delivering a £14.5m new build in Crawley as well as supporting the capital projects at each of our educational partners. The IoT opens its doors for its first learners in Sept 2023 which is very exciting.

What is the Institute of Technology and how did it come about? How can employers get involved now?

The Institute is a collaboration between Universities, Further Education colleges, and industry partners across Sussex and Surrey. We work together to provide students with a new kind of education, designed to prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow.

Our courses cover a range of areas, from engineering and manufacturing to digital and construction, all designed with the future in mind. We offer apprenticeships, short-courses and higher education programmes, giving learners the chance to gain valuable experience and make industry connections.

There is a variety of ways employers can get involved:

• Careers support for learners
• Supporting curriculum co-creation and co-delivery
• Hire an apprentice
• Sponsorship opportunties

How are you planning to embed contributions from local employers into the curriculum?

At the heart of our Institute of Technology is a commitment to innovation and collaboration. We are built on a network of leading industry partners and academic institutions, with a focus on developing practical, real-world training and development to address the challenges faced by businesses. Students will have access to the latest technologies and cutting-edge research, as well as opportunities to work on real-world projects and collaborate with industry professionals. We also work closely with local businesses and organisations to ensure that its programs are relevant and responsive to the needs of the local economy.

How do you see technologies like AI changing the future of the Institute of Technology?

Technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence) and AR/VR (Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality) are expected to have a significant impact on the future of the Institute of Technology. These technologies can revolutionise the way students learn by providing immersive and interactive experiences. Virtual reality can create simulated environments where students can practice complex procedures or experiments without the need for physical equipment. Augmented reality can overlay digital information onto the real world, enhancing understanding and engagement in various subjects. AI-powered adaptive learning systems can tailor educational content and pace to individual students' needs.

Thanks to Paul Rolfe, Director of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology.

The IoT is the sponsor of the July Chamber Breakfast. You can view all our events, designed to inspire and build your network, on our events page.

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk