AoC Deputy Chief Executive and FE Leaders named in King's Birthday Honours

Julian Gravatt, Deputy Chief Executive, AoC, has been awarded an OBE in the King's Birthday Honours today.

He started his FE career at Lewisham College in 1992, moving to City Lit before joining the Association of Colleges as the Director of Funding and rising to Deputy Chief Executive in 2017.

Julian Gravatt said: "I am surprised and grateful for the award. I was told in 1992 that taking a job at Lewisham College was a very bad career move but I've enjoyed the last 34 years in further education and my work at the Association of Colleges immensely because the vast majority of people I've worked with have been purposeful, productive and pleasant. I've always been proud to work on behalf of colleges and prouder still this weekend."

A large number of FE leaders and staff were also recognised today, included FE Commissioner Shelagh Legrave CBE, who was made a Dame.

David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges, said: "All of us at AoC are proud and delighted to see Julian’s contribution to the college sector recognised in this way. His knowledge of the further education sector is truly unparalleled and his commitment to supporting colleges for well over three decades has been inspirational. His support, advice and guidance are highly valued across the college sector and in government circles and there are very few colleges where he has not made a positive impact and lots of government officials who have benefitted from his work.

"It's brilliant to see so many further education leaders and staff also recognised in the birthday honours. I am particularly pleased that former FE Commissioner Shelagh Legrave has been made a Dame, because of the constructive and positive way she engaged and supported colleges in her role. But of course, the list also includes people from our sector who make an enormous impact through their passion, expertise and commitment to colleges and their students. Their contributions make the further education sector such an inspiring and uplifting sector to work in. My congratulations go to everyone on the list and I am sure that they will enjoy a wonderful weekend celebrating with their loved ones."