Chair of Governors New Appointment

One of Barnsley College’s longest serving Chair of Governors and well-known Barnsley advocate has made the difficult decision to retire from her College role.  Pauline Acklam MBE recently completed her second term of office as Chair of Governors.

Pauline Acklam MBE said "Over the last month I gave serious consideration to my future commitment, particularly as my current incapacity, although slight, has made it impossible for me to attend three high-profile events which were very important to the future and the reputation of the College.

Having been a governor since 2001 and appointed chair in March 2002 I feel the time has come for me to step aside and wish the College well from a distance. I have very much enjoyed my time and working with three very different principals and two clerks.

My very best wishes are extended to all associated with Barnsley College; students, staff and governors, and for the future continued success of Barnsley College.  I will observe with interest the new build developments and the next inspection report which should evidence Barnsley College as outstanding.
Thank you to everyone for their support during my two terms of office.”

Colin Booth, Principal said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank Pauline for her tireless work, enthusiasm and commitment which was selflessly given over the past eight years.  This has resulted in significant benefits to Barnsley College’s vast progress in recent years and to the town itself.   Pauline has made a considerable contribution to the Barnsley College success story and she can be in no doubt that she leaves us in a very good position to meet our aim of being an outstanding College in the coming months.”

Pauline Acklam MBE is succeeded by Frank Johnston who was appointed as the new Chair of Governors at Tuesday’s Board meeting. Josie Thirkell replaces Frank Johnston as Vice Chair.  Frank is a Barrister-at-Law (non practicing) who sits on a wide range of local Boards and committees and has vast experience.  He has previously served as Chairman of Barnsley and District Citizens’ Advice Bureau and as a Non-Executive Director on the Trust Board of Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

Frank was first appointed as a governor of the College in October 2002, appointed Vice Chair in 2003 and has been Chairman of the Finance & Resources Committee since 2004.  He was also a member of the Governance & Search Committee, Remuneration Committee and Property Strategy Committee.

Frank Johnston, Chair of Governors said “Pauline has been a dedicated and committed Chair of Governors and it has been a pleasure to work with her. I look forward to taking the College on the next stage of its journey; to achieve outstanding.  This would not have been possible without the input of Pauline’s hard work and energy. I wish Pauline well in her future endeavours and in the knowledge that she will keep an affectionate eye on Barnsley College’s progress and we will strive not to disappoint her high expectations.”