Dr Lynne Sedgmore has announced her plans to retire later this year, after seven years as executive director of the 157 Group and 35 years working in the further education sector. Dr Sedgmore, who was recently recognised in the 2015 Debrett’s 500 list as one of the UK’s most influential people, will stand down once a chief executive has been appointed to lead the group.
Sarah Robinson, chair of the 157 Group and principal of Stoke on Trent College, said, “Under Lynne’s leadership, the 157 Group has become established as a major organisation in the sector, an influential body fulfilling Sir Andrew Foster’s vision that principals of large, successful colleges should play a greater role in policymaking.
“Lynne has been instrumental in helping to raise the profile of further education, highlighting the social and economic mission of FE colleges and the important role they play in collaborating with employers and others to develop local economies. She has stimulated debate, supported research and facilitated the sharing of effective practice across the sector, especially in teaching and learning.
“Her contribution to the 157 Group, and to the wider further education and skills system, has been enormous. Part of her legacy will surely be the increasingly positive light in which further education is viewed as an alternative gateway to sustained employment and a successful life.”