The Anguilla Community College (ACC) is proud to announce Mr Maurice Michael Skellekie, Principal of The Valley Primary School, as the fifth nominee of the ACC 10th Anniversary Alumni Recognition Programme. Teacher Michael, as he is affectionately known by his colleagues, is a poised, relaxed, thoughtful and confident professional. He had already attained a Masters in Education Leadership when he enrolled at the ACC in September 2013 – going on to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Education at that institution. The Postgraduate Diploma in Education was an 18 month diploma meant to impart pedagogical training to teachers who had already attained at least a baccalaureate degree.
Ironically, Principal Skellekie confessed that early in his professional life, it was never his intention to study education, much less to become a teacher! Notwithstanding, as time passed, he discovered a growing appreciation for the impact education could have on his students’ lives – and has built a career in the field. Mr Skellekie was promoted to the position of Principal at Morris Vanterpool Primary School soon after graduation from the Anguilla Community College (ACC), and most recently has assumed leadership at The Valley Primary School. However, he is no stranger to leadership roles. Despite his very demanding responsibilities as Principal, Michael continues to participate and contribute on various boards and organisations as he believes it is important to contribute to the broader development of the island of Anguilla and its residents.
Though the ACC is only one of his alma maters, Skellekie continues to support the work of the College. He has facilitated parts of seminars for the second cohort of teachers completing the Postgraduate Diploma in education and, more recently, assists the ACC to conduct teacher observation for primary school teachers enrolled in their Teaching Practicum which is the capstone requirement for teachers.
When asked what he most valued from pursuing his Postgraduate Diploma in Education at the ACC, Michael noted that he appreciated the rigour of the education he had received from the College which was quite impressive given that it was a relatively young institution.
Michael Skellekie endorses the ACC – “Building People, Community, Nation”.
For questions about the Postgraduate Diploma in education, or associate degrees in primary or early childhood education, contact the ACC at (264) 498-8395 or www.apply@acc.edu.ai
– Contributed