Dr Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group, has been named as one of the UK’s most influential people in the 2015 Debrett’s 500 list, published in The Sunday Times today.
The Debrett’s 500 recognises those who persuade and inspire others and have instigated change over and above expectation in 24 categories – including education, theatre, broadcasting, engineering and technology, business and industry, philanthropy and activists, books, sport, and stage and screen. It is compiled by Debrett’s in consultation with experts and commentators in each of the categories. Dr Sedgmore is the first person working in further education to be recognised in the Debrett’s 500 list, a diverse group of influential people that includes Danny Boyle, Stephen Hawkins, Lewis Hamilton, Sir David Attenborough, Prince Charles, Jamie Oliver and Dame Judi Dench.
Dr Sedgmore has been executive director of the 157 Group since 2008. Under her stewardship, the consortium of large and influential further education colleges has become established as a major organisation in the sector, representing colleges; influencing policy; raising the profile of further education; promoting evidence-informed practice; and ensuring that effective teaching and learning is at the heart of discussions and policy contributions. Her comment pieces about colleges are featured regularly in the trade and national press.
Dr Sedgmore said, “It is a great honour to be included in such a prestigious list, and I am particularly delighted with the recognition for further education, which is all too often overlooked. I have worked in this sector for 35 years. Colleges and training providers have a vital role to play in helping young people develop the skills that will make them employable and successful citizens and in giving adults the chance to upskill or reskill for meaningful and sustained employment.
“I applaud Debrett’s work to encourage social mobility through its not-for-profit Foundation, which helps strong achievers from less privileged backgrounds develop the social skills and confidence they need to network and gain internships and work experience. I was born on a council estate and have succeeded in my career through the support of my family, hard work and a good education”