Empowering Change Through Representation
Ewan's journey from the FE classroom to senior leadership, driven by a commitment to create meaningful change, highlights why representation and inclusive leadership matter for learners, colleagues, and the wider sector.
"Believe in the skills you already have and recognise that growth comes from developing those you don’t yet possess."
Ewan Mendez, Head of Learning Excellence
Empowering Change Through Representation
I taught in Further Education (FE) for 19 years before deciding to step into leadership. Throughout my teaching career, I often saw things in the classroom and across departments that I wanted to change. While I could influence some aspects as a teacher, I knew leadership would give me the ability to make a bigger impact. There was also a natural desire to progress, and I felt confident that I had the skills and experience to take that step. At the same time, I became increasingly aware of underrepresentation in leadership roles, particularly for Black men. Although diversity has improved over the years, senior positions in FE still lack representation. That reality made me more mindful of the importance of diversity and inclusion, not just for myself but for others who need to see leaders they can identify with.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
I know what it feels like when diversity is truly valued, and that experience has shaped how I work. As a Black man, I’ve always been proactive in advocating for underrepresented groups. In the classroom, I challenge stereotypes whenever they appear, whether intentional or not, ensuring everyone feels included and respected. Having benefited from environments that value diversity, I understand the importance of passing that mindset on to others. For me, inclusion is a daily practice - not just policy.
Breaking Stereotypes and Building Confidence
Because of my name, I’ve often noticed a disconnect between how people perceive me before and after meeting me. There’s an assumption about what I should look like, and when I don’t fit that stereotype, it surprises people. My progress in FE has been based on merit, not identity. This is something I’m proud of. My skills, professionalism, and ability to deliver results are what matter most and have shaped my career. These experiences gave me confidence.
One of the most influential people in my life was my school PE teacher. Although he was a white male, he showed genuine interest in my culture and brought diversity into the classroom. That level of awareness and respect stayed with me and taught me that being a role model isn’t about looking like your students - it’s about valuing diversity and showing interest in every learner’s background. I’ve carried that lesson forward in my own career, advocating for inclusion across all communities.
Why Representation Matters
There’s a natural tendency to gravitate toward people who share similar experiences. It gives you an immediate connection. For me, that connection is powerful. When learners see teachers who reflect their background, it builds trust and belonging. Representation goes beyond the classroom. If students see diversity across the college workforce, they feel the institution understands them and is advocating for their success. It sends a message: "There are people here who understand my journey and are fighting for opportunities for me." Working in a truly diverse workforce has reinforced for me how vital this is for underrepresented groups. Diversity must be more than a statement - it needs to be embedded in culture and supported by consistent action.
Staying Motivated in FE
Working in FE is demanding, but the rewards make it worthwhile. For me, motivation comes from seeing the outcomes: students progressing, building careers, and contributing to thriving industries. Whether I’ve taught them or not, knowing that we’ve helped close skills and learning gaps and supported economic growth is incredibly fulfilling. General Further Education provision is often misunderstood and seen simply as an alternative to sixth form or Higher Education, but it’s so much more than that. We provide opportunities for people of all ages, and the impact can be life changing. Those moments when you see the difference education makes are what keep me in this profession.
My Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Believe in the skills you already have and recognise that growth comes from developing those you don’t yet possess. I completed the DfE funded T-Level Professional Development Mentoring Programme through the Education and Training Foundation (ETF), which gave me the opportunity to apply leadership theories to real-world situations. Few leaders are ready-made; the most effective ones continually build their knowledge and refine their skills.