Welcoming our new Chair of Governors, David Powell

David Powell

The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has welcomed David Powell as its new Chair of Governors, succeeding Andrew McConnell OBE following his outstanding leadership and nearly 20 years of service as a Governor.

David joined the Board of Governors at Wakefield College in 2020, bringing with him a lifelong connection to further education that has shaped both his personal and professional journey.

His introduction to the sector began through his father, who taught graphic design at Stafford College of Art and Design for much of his career. Inspired by the opportunities that further education creates, David started his own FE career as a part-time Travel & Tourism Lecturer before progressing through leadership, staff development and teacher education roles across the sector. He later joined the University of Huddersfield, where he led teacher education partnerships with colleges, including Wakefield and Selby.

Reflecting on his appointment as Chair, David said: "When I was first asked to become a Governor, saying 'yes' was my way of thanking a sector that has given me so much opportunity and joy throughout my life. Becoming Chair feels like an extension of that thank you. I'm naturally a little nervous to start this role because it's an important and influential role, but what excites me most is the opportunity to help shape positive outcomes for our students, staff, communities and stakeholders. The decisions we make as a Board really matter because they have a direct impact on people's lives."

Since joining the Board, David has witnessed significant growth and transformation across the Group, including the merger that created the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, major campus developments such as the launch of the Lagentium building and continued improvements in student outcomes.

He added: "The Group has evolved enormously over the last few years. There's a real sense of ambition and pride in what we do, driven by our commitment to providing the very best opportunities for the people of Selby, Castleford and Wakefield. Seeing our students achieve outstanding results and watching them immerse themselves in learning are some of the most rewarding aspects of being a Governor. Last year, our 16-18 results made us the top-performing general further education college in Yorkshire and the Humber and fifth nationally, which is a remarkable achievement and gives us a strong platform for the future."

Looking ahead, David believes the Group is well positioned to build on its success: "Being a student at the top-performing FE college in Yorkshire and the Humber is an opportunity in itself, and the same is true for our staff. Our priority is to maintain that high performance whilst continuing to improve the experience of everyone who learns and works here."

David also paid tribute to his predecessor Andrew McConnell OBE adding: "Andrew has led the Board brilliantly and leaves behind a Group that is performing exceptionally well. His commitment over almost 20 years of service has made a significant contribution to our local communities, and I would like to thank him for everything he has done."

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.

Sam Wright, CEO and Principal, Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, said: "I am delighted to welcome David as our new Chair of Governors. Since joining the Board in 2020, he has played an important role in supporting the Group's growth and success, and I know his passion for education, communities and opportunity will make him an excellent Chair.

"I would also like to thank Andrew McConnell for his outstanding leadership and dedication over many years. The Group is in a strong position, and I look forward to working closely with David as we continue to build on our achievements and transform lives through learning across our districts."

Drawing on his Welsh heritage, David said a guiding principle throughout his time as a Governor has been the Welsh phrase 'gwnewch y pethau bychain' – ‘to do the little things that help improve the lives of others’.

"It's about taking care of others and doing the small things that improve people's lives. That's a principle which resonates strongly with me and one I hope to continue bringing to my role as Chair."

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