Written by Nina Hinton, Director of Business and Development
Thursday 19th June was a day of celebration at Open Awards as we held our Annual General Meeting. This year’s event was especially significant as we mark 20 years of trading as Open Awards (formerly Open College Network, North-West Region). It was a moment to reflect on both the past 12 months and two decades of achievements.
Nicky Mailey, Chair of the Board of Trustees, opened the AGM by noting the many changes in the education sector, including those prompted by the 2024 General Election. She thanked the Board and Senior Management Team for their leadership and praised the Open Awards team for their dedication in navigating change and keeping learners and providers at the heart of their work.
Chief Executive, Heather Akehurst echoed Nicky’s words and looked ahead to the evolving education landscape. She highlighted the impact of the upcoming introduction of Skills England, the Curriculum Assessment Review due in Autumn, and the development of reformed qualifications for 14-16 learners in Wales. She also noted the upcoming re-licensing process with QAA for Access to HE Diplomas—significant change requiring careful preparation.
The AGM also marked changes to our Board.
Firstly, to Andy Stott from Stockport and Trafford College Group who Heather described as a ‘…leading light on the Access to HE committee, championing this Diploma and widening participation…’ Andy joined the Access to HE Committee in 2013 and became a Trustee in 2019. His dedication and behind-the-scenes work, particularly with the Access team, will be greatly missed.
Secondly, Nicky who joined the Board in 2016 and became Chair in 2022. A champion of education’s power to change lives, Nicky has brought experience, challenge, and strong leadership. Heather thanked her warmly: “She has been exceedingly generous with her time and knowledge, and a real support to the Senior Team and especially me.”
We were also pleased to welcome two new Trustees, Anthony Rayworth and Clare Webster.
Harm van Zalinge was voted in as the new Chair and thanked his fellow Trustees for their support. With our new Strategic Plan for 2025–28 launching, Harm’s leadership and expertise will be key over the next three years.
Heather closed the meeting, as always, with a quote—this time from Wicked, in honour of the Trustees and Committee members, especially Andy and Nicky:
“Because we knew you, we have been changed – for good.”