50 Years of Hugh Baird College: The Story of Tracey James
Tracey James, a dedicated member of staff at Hugh Baird College, has been part of the Hugh Baird family for the past 40 years. Currently a Lecturer in Mathematics, Tracey has played an integral role in shaping the lives of generations of students since she first began her career at the College in 1997.
Tracey's journey with Hugh Baird College started when she joined the College as a student in 1986 at age 16, to complete resits for a selection of O-Levels (GSCEs). After successfully obtaining her qualifications, she then went on to study a BTEC National Diploma in Nursery Nursing before unexpectedly becoming pregnant with her son. Not letting the impact of single parenthood deter her, she returned to the College in 1997 to complete a Higher National Diploma in Health and Social Care. During this period her tutor, Lisa, put her forward to become an Academic Support Worker (ASW) alongside her studies.
Determined to further achieve, Tracey continued her educational journey by completing a degree in Social Welfare Studies at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in Preston, while maintaining her work as an ASW. It was at this time in 2000 that she won the coveted Tim Curtis Award for Outstanding Performance. This prize is awarded in memory of Tim Curtis, a former director at UCLan who was passionate about providing access to higher education to those who may have missed the opportunity earlier in their life.
Now on a trajectory of success, Tracey went on to complete her 7307 Teaching Qualification and Certificate of Education in 2001. Throughout this time, Tracey continued her work at Hugh Baird College, firstly as an ASW in the Learning for Life department under the management of her mentor, Paul Balch. After the completion of her teacher training, she progressed to become a Lecturer in the same area.
Tracey finally settled as a Lecturer in the Maths and English Department, where she remains to this day, nearly 40 years after first setting foot in Hugh Baird College.
Her passion for education is apparent and her talent for making mathematical concepts accessible to students led to her to her current role.
Reflecting on her four decades at Hugh Baird College, Tracey said:
"It has been an incredible journey to see the College grow and evolve; especially the support and opportunities we now offer our community. I’ve had the privilege of teaching so many bright and talented students who have gone on to achieve great things, even when others had given up on them. Mathematics is often seen as a challenging subject, but I’ve always tried to show students that with the right approach, it can be both fun and rewarding. It is amazing to see my student’s blossom.”
Tracey continued:
“Hugh Baird College gave me a second chance at education; my tutors consistently believed in me even before I believed in myself. I am proof that you can be a young, single-mother and with the right support you can go on achieve your dreams and pay it forward.”
Looking ahead, Tracey remains committed to her role and passionate about teaching:
"I’ve always said that as long as I’m still enjoying it and making a difference, I’ll keep going. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Tracey’s 40-year journey at Hugh Baird College is a testament to her dedication, resilience and love for education, making her a valued part of the College community. As she continues to inspire future generations of students, the impact of her work will undoubtedly be felt for many more years to come.
Do you have a memory of Hugh Baird College to share? Visit www.hughbaird.ac.uk/50years.
