Thank You, Andrew: Celebrating Years of Dedicated Service

Andrew McConnell OBE

As Andrew McConnell OBE steps down as Chair of Governors, we would like to extend our sincere thanks for his many years of dedicated service, leadership and commitment to our Colleges and the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group.

Having served on the Governing Board since 2006 and as Chair since December 2019, Andrew has overseen a period of significant change and achievement. Reflecting on his time in the role, he described it as "a privilege" to work alongside the Group's dedicated, loyal and professional staff, whose commitment continues to transform the lives of learners across the region.

Throughout his tenure, Andrew has witnessed first-hand the impact of the Group's work, from celebrating student success at awards ceremonies to seeing adult learners overcome adversity and achieve their ambitions. He has also championed the Group's strong partnerships with employers and other providers, recognising the positive difference these collaborations make to local communities and the regional economy.

Andrew's time as Chair has included some of the most significant milestones in the organisation's history. He took on the role just as the COVID-19 pandemic began, helping to guide the College through an unprecedented period of change.

He also played a pivotal role in the successful merger with Selby College in 2022, creating the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, whilst maintaining high standards and business continuity throughout the process. More recently, he celebrated the Group's successful post-merger Ofsted inspection and its continued financial strength, which underpins its ambitious strategic goals.

When reflecting on his proudest achievement, Andrew highlighted the appointment of Principal and CEO Sam Wright, recognising her outstanding leadership and values-driven approach in shaping the Group's success.

Although Andrew is passing the baton of Chair to David Powell, he will remain an active member of the Group's Board, continuing to support its future direction as a Governor.

Speaking about the future, Andrew said: "We are all custodians of the College and we try to leave it in a better place than we found it. I wish David and the rest of the Board every success for the future. I will miss being Chair of such a wonderful organisation, but I am looking forward to continuing as a Governor. "

Sam Wright, Principal and CEO, Heart of Yorkshire Education Group said: "Andrew has been an exceptional Chair whose dedication, wisdom and unwavering commitment have helped shape the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group to become the strong and successful organisation it is today. From guiding us through the challenges of the pandemic to supporting the merger that created our Group, his leadership has been instrumental in some of the most significant moments in our history.

“On a personal level, I am incredibly grateful for the support Andrew has given me since my appointment as Principal and CEO. His belief in our vision, coupled with his integrity, professionalism and genuine passion for improving the lives of our learners, has made him a valued colleague and friend.

“On behalf of everyone across the Group, I would like to thank Andrew for his many years of service as Chair and the lasting impact he has made on our students, staff and communities. We are pleased that he will remain an active member of our Board. He is a National Leader of Governance, working with the Further Education Commissioner, and we are lucky to be able to continue working with him and benefiting from his expertise.”

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