We’re pleased to announce the election of The College Merthyr Tydfil Principal and Chief Executive, Lisa Thomas, as Chair of ColegauCymru, with Coleg Sir Gâr/Coleg Ceredigion Principal and Chief Executive Dr Andrew Cornish appointed to the role of Vice Chair.
As we continue to navigate a challenging period for the sector, we look forward to working with Lisa, Andrew and colleagues to ensure that colleges have the sustainable funding that they need to provide the best possible opportunities and support for both our learners and staff.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk, said
“As we welcome both Lisa and Andrew to their new roles, we are committed to continuing the work to ensure the best possible outcomes for learners, staff and employers alike.
We’re grateful to former Chair Guy Lacey for his commitment, hard work and the indelible mark he leaves on education in Wales, and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Lisa Thomas
Lisa was appointed as the Chief Executive and Principal of The College Merthyr Tydfil in 2018 following four years as Assistant Principal.
Having started her career as a history teacher, Lisa benefits from over 25 years’ experience of leadership and management roles within secondary and further education and local government. As a member of ColegauCymru, Lisa has represented the sector in several Welsh Government working groups and played an influential role in shaping government policy regarding the FE sector in Wales. She is also an experienced Estyn Peer Inspector. Lisa has more recently acted as Chair for the ColegauCymru HR Directors Network and Wales Negotiations Committee FE (WNCFE).
Andrew Cornish
Principal and Chief Executive Officer for Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion, (part of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David Group), Andrew began his education at Maesteg Comprehensive School where he studied A levels before progressing to study an honours degree in physics at the University of Liverpool and then a PhD in physics at Cardiff University.
Andrew is a member of the Institute of Physics (CPhys MinstP) and has worked as a peer assessor for Estyn for nearly 20 years, assessing the standards of other further education colleges in Wales.
As Principal, he is a member of Public Service Boards (PSBs) in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion and sits on the Board of the Llanellli Wellness Village. He has worked in Further Education for over 25 years, holding a wide range of teaching, management and leadership posts in that time.
Further Information
Lucy Hopkins, Communications Manager
Lucy.Hopkins@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
