Myerscough Chief Executive and Principal announces retirement

During this time, Alison has taken the College on a significant upward trajectory, improving the quality of teaching and learning, the financial stability of the College and, overseeing the challenges faced by the Covid-19 pandemic.

In addition, she has led a £35m development scheme across all of Myerscough’s campuses, as well as overseeing expansion of the Myerscough footprint, with the opening of two new centres in Warrington and Penrith.

Alison said: ‘’After almost a decade of happy years at Myerscough, I have decided to retire in August, 2023. It has been a real privilege working with so many great staff and learners.

‘’Our mission statement of ‘inspiring excellence’ is embodied in everything we do, and we have a real ambition to become an outstanding college.

‘’It has been an honour to lead such a dedicated and passionate group of staff, with every individual, demonstrating real commitment to delivering our philosophy of making all learners the very best that they can be.

‘’This now presents a great opportunity for a new Chief Executive and Principal to drive the College further forward, as we strive for continued success.’’

Alison has worked in the further education sector since 1992, working across six colleges in Lancashire, firstly as a teacher, before moving into management 25 years ago.

She joined Myerscough in 2014, initially as Vice Principal, before her appointment as Chief Executive and Principal in April 2018.

Alison has also worked strategically across Lancashire for many years. She is the current Chair of the Lancashire Local Enterprise Partnership Skills and Employment Board, as well as a Director of the organisation.

Allan Foster, Chair of the Myerscough Corporation, added: ‘’We will be losing an outstanding educator and manager who has led the College successfully through a number of major and totally unexpected issues with clarity, strategic insight and with brilliant human relations skills.

‘’She is, of course, totally committed to leading the College during her final months with her usual gusto and vision thereafter. She has loved working for this unique College and has great affection and respect for the staff, our students and other stakeholders.

‘’I speak on behalf of all governors and members of our Corporation in paying tribute to Alison’s excellent collective work in these demanding times.

‘’We will miss her greatly.’’

The Corporation is already enacting plans to recruit a replacement Chief Executive Officer & Principal as a matter of urgency, to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of leadership in the months ahead.