NIACE Chief Executive to retire Friday, November 19, 2010 - 10:13

Alan Tuckett, Chief Executive of NIACE, said:

"I've had a wonderful time working at NIACE - so much so that I will have been here for 23 years of its 90 year history when I retire next year. Adult learning can transform lives, and we have focussed on making that possible for people who missed out earlier in their lives."

"It seems to me that despite the cuts, adult learning is well positioned for the next few years if, of course, the private sector does step in and replace space left by public funding cuts - and Train to Gain's demise offers one early opportunity. Demographic change will inevitably help - but so too will the coalition's commitment to a Big Society and to the value of a breadth of learning opportunities for adults."

"I'm confident, too, that NIACE is configured to play its role in advocacy and policy development, curriculum and staff development, and in fighting for equality and diversity."

"For myself, there will be the chance to practise more of what I preach - engaging in learning as a teacher and student, and to step back from organiser to supporter of NIACE's work. I won't lose touch with the wider field since I'll still, for a while, be the Treasurer of the International Council for Adult Education."

"It has been a privilege to work with such creative colleagues, our members and collaborators in a cause I really believe in."

Nick Stuart, Chair of NIACE's Company Board, said:

"Alan has made NIACE the heartbeat of adult education. He has put the case for adult learners tirelessly and with passion and with endless constructive ingenuity. It has been a privilege to work beside him over the last decade and to count him as a friend. He will be a hard man to follow, but we will shortly be launching a process to recruit a new Chief Executive of NIACE, who can carry on the values and commitment that Alan has embodied in NIACE, and which have endured over almost 90 years."