West Herts College Group is delighted to announce that its Principal and Chief Executive, Gill Worgan, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours list. This prestigious recognition highlights the contributions made by Gill to the field of further education and the communities the College serves.
Gill has been a pivotal figure at West Herts College Group, demonstrating unwavering dedication and leadership throughout her time at the organisation. After joining the senior management team at West Herts College in 2002, directing a range of curriculum and business functions, Gill was appointed as Deputy Principal in 2008. Gill’s focus at this time was quality and curriculum development. In October 2010 she was appointed West Herts College Principal and Chief Executive and has continued to lead the organisation for the past 15 years.
During her tenure as Principal and Chief Executive, Gill has transformed the College and expanded its impact across the region. She began her leadership during a period of significant change in Watford, coinciding with the opening of the new Watford campus. Under her guidance, the College has strengthened its presence across South West Hertfordshire, with student numbers at the Watford campus growing from 3,000 to over 5,500 16–18-year-olds.
In 2017, Gill led the multi-million-pound development of a new campus in Hemel Hempstead, revitalising the College estate and delivering modern, purpose-built facilities for the local community. The campus now supports a broad range of educational needs, including general further education and specialist Construction and Engineering training.
Later that year, Gill oversaw the successful merger of Barnfield College in Luton with West Herts College, forming the West Herts College Group. Following the merger, she focused on redeveloping the Luton estate and re-establishing Barnfield College as a cornerstone for skills development. Two new buildings now provide state-of-the-art facilities, enabling local residents to gain the skills and qualifications needed for meaningful employment across a wide range of in-demand sectors.
The College has had several Ofsted inspections during Gill’s time at the organisation, securing Good or Outstanding grades throughout. At its most recent inspection in April 2024, inspectors commended the College for its strong contribution to meeting regional skills’ needs and its outstanding leadership and management. Ofsted describes the organisation as ‘an anchor institution in its local communities’ where students ‘develop the skills they need for their future employment’.
Gill’s leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on the life chances of thousands of young people and adults. Through her unwavering commitment to high-quality education and skills development, she has championed inclusive opportunities that empower individuals to achieve their potential. Under her guidance, the College has expanded access to education, introduced innovative curriculum pathways, and forged strong partnerships with employers. Her vision has not only transformed the College but has also helped shape brighter futures for the communities it serves.
Gill's commitment to excellence has significantly impacted both the institution and its communities. Her passion for continuous improvement has led to her role as a National Leader of Further Education, in this role she provides support and improvement to colleges across the further education sector. National Leaders of Further Education are appointed by the Department for Education (DfE); they are college principals who have a strong track record of delivering improvement.
Gill’s experience in driving improvement across the FE sector has been duly recognised with her award as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
"I am deeply honoured and proud to receive this distinguished award," said Gill. "This recognition is a testament to the outstanding work of my colleagues at West Herts College Group and the many people who have supported me and the College over the years. I am incredibly proud to work alongside such dedicated individuals, and I want to dedicate this achievement to them all.
“It is a privilege to serve as Chief Executive at West Herts College Group, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been involved in many fantastic initiatives with colleagues in education and others from across business and the public sector. At West Herts College Group, our shared aim has always been to transform the life chances of our students and communities, and I will continue to keep this at heart of the organisation.”
Commenting on Gill’s success, Dr Tony Breslin, Chair of Corporation at West Herts College Group, added:
“I am so pleased that Gill has received this honour. Her leadership has been nothing short of transformative, not only for West Herts College Group but for the wider further education sector.
“Gill has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to improving life chances, building strong community partnerships, and raising aspirations. Her vision, integrity and tireless dedication have helped shape a college group that is truly rooted in its communities and responsive to their needs. This CBE is a richly deserved recognition of her outstanding contribution to education and public life.”
Gill’s leadership has firmly established West Herts College Group as a pillar of its communities - now one of the largest providers of education for 16–18-year-olds in England. The College Group also continues to serve a broad range of learners, including adults, apprentices, and those pursuing higher education.
Her appointment as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) is one of the UK’s highest honours, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their field. This prestigious award highlights the lasting impact of Gill’s work and the high standards of excellence she has championed throughout her career at West Herts College Group.
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