Employ My Ability (EMA) Ltd.  is an Independent Specialist College that provides students aged between 16 and 25 a unique learning environment to develop skills that assist with their preparation for adulthood; this provision is underpinned by an Education Advisory Committee (EAC) which meets at least once per academic term. The EAC is made up of the EMA Founders who are the Nominated Trustees and they are supported in their governance obligations by Education Advisors. Current members of the EAC are listed below, and a short biography for the external advisors can be found here: EAC Summary

Steve e1737366658791 400x400

Steve White – Group Managing Director (Trustee & Chair)

I have worked in the SEND and LD sector for the past 30 years and have undertaken numerous roles within the industry. Other achievements during this time include leading teams in the establishment of children’s homes, respite services, residential services, supported living services, vocational day opportunities, adult learning services, and the resettlement of inpatients leaving specialist hospitals. In 2010, I won the Skills for Care – Ted Gully Award for Social Care Management with a special commendation for ‘commitment to involve people who use services and the community.’

I led the foundation of EMA with Jacqui, and our aim was to improve Dorset’s local offer of vocational training and SEN further education by providing a college setting that offered real work experience opportunities and vocational qualifications.

My experience working as a senior manager in the Regard Partnership gave me a sound understanding of strategic commissioning and project delivery, which gave me the confidence that I could, with the right people, make this happen. I began planning for the provision in late 2013 and we welcomed our first students in 2015.

My aim is to continue leading and working with EMA’s senior leadership team to continually improve our offer and ensure that our students receive a quality education that meets their needs and allows them to achieve their aspirations.

 

Jacqui e1737367712352 400x400

Jacqui Church – Group Operations & Education Director (Trustee)

With over 32 years of experience supporting vulnerable young people and adults, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. Through personalised support, guidance, and access to essential resources, I strive to create opportunities that foster independence, resilience, and growth.

In 2013, I co-founded EMA with Steve, inspired by our shared vision to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Drawing on our time together at The Regard Partnership, we remain committed to delivering real, lasting outcomes for those embarking on their journey to adulthood.

My passion lies in building inclusive and nurturing environments where everyone feels valued and able to thrive. Having worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I understand the importance of tailoring support to meet unique needs and challenges. This feeds into my hands-on, open, and collaborative approach to everything we do at EMA, where I encourage staff and students to have their voices heard, allowing us to grow the best community possible. I’m so proud of the team we’ve built that keeps pushing EMA forward and I am driven to support them for many years to come.

 

  • David Fletcher – Group Compliance & Risk Manager (Clerk)
  • Simon Linard  – Quality of Education (External)
  • John Parker – Leadership & Management (External)
  • Harry Wood – Former EMA student (External)
  • Adrian Gunner – Partner College (External)
  • Tracey Zimmerman – Safeguarding (External)

These assignments will be reviewed on an annual basis.

A copy of the Trustee Advisory Board’s terms of reference can be found here:

OFSTED

You can find our most recent OFSTED report here: OFSTED Report.

For education or adult social care, choose your path and reach out today...

 


NEW course and internship offerings for 2024