Born and educated in Bradford, West Yorkshire and studied Politics at Swansea University before completing an MSc in Strategic Studies at Aberystwyth University and undertaking doctoral research into international relations. 

I came into Further Education following teacher training at Bolton College of Technical Education. From 1977 to the present I worked at Guildford College of Further and Higher Education and Eastleigh College in the following posts:  Lecturer in Liberal Studies; Head of Teacher Training Unit; Staff Development Manager; Head of Division for Care, Education and Special Needs; Director of Curriculum; Chief Executive/Principal.

In the last five years I have been very actively involved with LSIS in the development of peer review networks and collaborative processes. I am currently Chair of the Windsor Group of Colleges which is a collective of ten colleges in the south east focussed on employer engagement and developing greater business links with employers in the region.  As well as a LSIS council member I am also the sole FE Commissioner with UKCES.