Newbury resident recognised for her work improving struggling colleges by King Charles III at Windsor Castle

A Newbury resident has been recognised for her work helping struggling colleges to improve.

Frances Wadsworth was presented with her CBE by King Charles III at Windsor Castle last week.

Ms Wadsworth, a prominent senior leader in the field of further education, has been recognised for her expertise in steering improvement in struggling colleges.

She was nominated for the honour for services to the Further Education sector in the 2022 honours list.

She said: “Receiving a CBE from the King in recognition of my contribution to further education was an incredible honour and humbling experience.

"It is a moment that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

A former colleges’ principal and CEO, Ms Wadsworth currently holds two ministerial appointments – Deputy Further Education Commissioner for England and Deputy Chair of Ofqual, the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation.

Following a thirty-year career in further education, she was appointed Deputy Further Education Commissioner in 2018.

In this role she has supported more than forty colleges across the country.

Ms Wadsworth also serves on the Thames Valley Advisory Committee for the Magistracy.