HRUC is one of the UK's largest further education groups, with more than 15,000 learners across its six campuses in Harrow on the Hill, Harrow Weald, Richmond, Uxbridge, Hayes, and Barra Hall, offering everything from A Levels and T Levels through to apprenticeships, adult learning, and special educational needs provision. The group is also home to the West London Institute of Technology, delivering higher level technical skills in partnership with Brunel and leading employers.
After over a decade of service to the group, Nick Davies has stepped down as Chair, with John Cope appointed in the role. John's career has centred on education, apprenticeships, and social justice, including time as Executive Director at UCAS, co-founder of the Education Policy Institute, and four years on the board of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
A strong commitment to education
Keith Smith, CEO of HRUC, said: "John brings a wealth of leadership experience and a strong commitment to education and public service. I would also like to thank Nick Davies for his exceptional leadership, counsel, and dedication over recent years. We look forward to working with John as we continue to strengthen HRUC's impact for learners, employers and our local communities."
John added: "Colleges like HRUC are where lives genuinely change. Walk around any of our campuses and you will meet apprentices training for cutting edge professions, young people about to take their first steps into work, along with teachers and support staff who go the extra mile every single day. It is a privilege to chair the Board at such an exciting moment, and I want to make sure everyone who comes through our doors feels safe, is supported, and leaves with real opportunity ahead of them. I am also hugely grateful to Nick and the Board for ensuring the organisation is in strong health."