East Coast College has announced a number of changes to its Corporation Board, recognising the outstanding contribution of long-serving governors while welcoming new appointments that will help guide the College through its next phase of growth and development.
The changes see Ian Lomax appointed as Chair of the Corporation, succeeding David Blake, who has led the Board since August 2021. David will remain on the Board as a governor and take on the role of Chair of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.
Since joining the Board in 2020, David has provided strong leadership, guiding the College through a successful Ofsted inspection that resulted in a ‘Good’ rating across all areas, while helping to maintain a strong financial position and oversee major investment in the College’s estate, including The Place in Great Yarmouth and the ongoing redevelopment of the Great Yarmouth campus.
Ian, who joined the Board in 2021 and has chaired the Finance and General Purposes Committee, now takes on the role of Chair of the Corporation as the College continues to build on its recent successes and deliver its ambitious strategic vision.
The College also extends its sincere thanks to two long-serving governors whose dedication has made a lasting impact on East Coast College.
Tina Ellis has been part of the College’s journey since its formation, playing a pivotal role in the mergers that created East Coast College before joining the Corporation Board in 2017. She has served in a range of key governance roles, including Vice Chair (Community), Chair of ECETA, Safeguarding Link Governor and member of the Governor Ofsted Team. Her dedication, leadership and unwavering support for students, staff and fellow governors have left a lasting legacy.
Peter Lavender joined the Corporation Board in 2017 and has made a significant contribution as Chair of the Quality and Curriculum Committee. He played an important role in supporting the College’s achievement of two successive Ofsted ‘Good’ judgements and was widely respected for his insight, encouragement and commitment to maintaining high standards for learners. Throughout his time on the Board, Peter has been a trusted and supportive colleague, always approachable and willing to give his time and expertise. His commitment to the College and its learners has been evident in all he has done.
The College also thanks Madeleine Moretta. Jacob Yates and Ofure Obomighie, Associate Governor on the Audit Committee, for their valued service and contribution to the Corporation.
Alongside these, the Board has confirmed several new leadership appointments:
Rachael Botley – Vice Chair and Chair of the People Committee
Kirk Lower – Vice Chair and Chair of the Governance, Remuneration and Search Committee
Rachel Kirk – Chair of the Quality and Curriculum Committee
Peter Blackburn – Chair of ECETA
The College is also pleased to welcome three new governors to the Corporation: Ana Dias, Mark Bobby and Michael Gray, who bring a wealth of expertise across education, skills and industry. Mark Bobby has more than 40 years’ experience in the maritime sector and has played a leading role in maritime training and education, earning the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service. Michael Gray is Head of Skills at Suffolk County Council, where he leads skills and employment strategy and has helped secure major investment in workforce development. Ana Dias has worked at the College since 2006 and is now Curriculum Leader for ESOL, leading provision that supports learners to develop the skills and confidence to achieve their goals.
Their diverse experience and expertise will further strengthen the Board as it continues to support the College’s strategic ambitions and commitment to delivering outstanding education across the region.
As East Coast College continues to invest in its campuses, strengthen its curriculum and support the communities it serves, it is seeking passionate individuals to join its governing body. To find out more about becoming a governor, visit https://www.eastcoast.ac.uk/about-us/corporation-governors/ or email Wendy Stanger, Director of Governance, at w.stanger@eastcoast.ac.uk to arrange an informal chat.