By KLTV Newsdesk –

Cristina George recognised for over four decades of service to post-16 education

Kirklees College is celebrating a prestigious recognition for one of its most dedicated figures.

Cristina George, Patron and former Vice-Chair of the college, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for her exceptional contribution to post-16 education and the Further Education (FE) sector.

Cristina’s long-standing career in education began in the late 1970s when she worked on the Youth Opportunities Programme (YOP) and Youth Training Scheme (YTS) for her local council.

Her passion for supporting young people led her to Calderdale and Kirklees Training and Enterprise Council, where she spent a decade in various roles, including work on a pioneering Modern Apprenticeships pilot.

Her career continued to flourish following the closure of the Training and Enterprise Councils, as she joined the West Yorkshire Learning and Skills Council.

There, she played a central role in 14–19 Area Inspections and Strategic Area Reviews.

As Partnership Director for Leeds, Cristina was instrumental in overseeing the merger of several FE colleges to form Leeds City College.

Cristina’s expertise was later called upon by the Young People’s Learning Agency and subsequently the Education Funding Agency, where she served as a Senior Adviser.

“Truly the best of the best”

Reflecting on her recognition, Cristina said: “It is over 40 years since I started working in post-16 education, and I can honestly say that for the majority of that time I have enjoyed my work, especially my role as Governor and then Vice-Chair at Kirklees College.

“The students, staff and governors I have come into contact with are truly the best of the best.

I am, of course, delighted to be honoured in this way. I will accept this honour as recognition not just for me, but for all the individuals who volunteer on governing bodies in education.”

“A living example of our mission”

Kirklees College Principal and Chief Executive, Palvinder Singh, paid tribute to Cristina’s immense contribution to the college: “Cristina’s lasting impact during her tenure as Governor, Vice Chair and now Patron of Kirklees College is a living example of the college’s mission: creating opportunities, changing lives.

“We are delighted that she has been named in the King’s Birthday Honours, and cannot think of a more worthy recipient.”

Join the legacy

The college is currently inviting applications for the role of Independent Governor.

Those inspired by Cristina’s legacy and keen to play a role in shaping the future of education in Kirklees can apply at www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk/governance.