Furness College starts 2020 with an experienced educational professional taking up the role as chair of governors.
Jan Fielding, who was the former vice-principal at Barrow Sixth Form College, will now lead the board.
She has served as vice-chair for the past few years including overseeing the merger of both colleges.
“I’m delighted to start this new year by taking up the role of chair of governors and I’m very much looking forward to carrying on the great work that ensured Furness College is a first-class learning environment.
“We now have one college with two campuses and can offer the biggest range of courses anywhere in Cumbria to help people secure the excellent education they need to progress in their dream careers.”
Principal and Chief Executive Andrew Wren said: “Jan’s commitment to ensuring people of this area have the best education around is unsurpassed.
“She has a wealth of knowledge about the sector, a clear vision about where it needs to go, a strong business brain and is a believer in innovation and ensuring education evolves to meet the needs of the community.”
Caroline Vernon, headteacher of Victoria Academy, took on the role for 12 months and will now recommence a governor role. John Butler and John Sidney are joint vice-chairs.
John Butler was awarded the MBE in recognition of his services to further education in the New Year Honours List.
The Governing Body’s membership includes three student governors, who are all studying at Furness College, they represent the Higher Education, vocational education and academic education the college now offers. As well as sitting on the Board of Governors they are also members of the Learner Experience Committee and provide valuable input and learner voice to the committee.
The college offers a wide choice of qualifications from A levels and apprenticeships to vocational courses and university degrees.