The former Principal and CEO of Franklin College who helped the education provider achieve an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating has been awarded an MBE.
Peter Kennedy – who retired last year after being at the college since 2018 – said he was left “stunned” when he found out about the incredible honour for his services to further education in North East Lincolnshire.
He is set to be awarded the medal at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle at a special ceremony this year.
Speaking to Grimsby Live, Peter said: “I was stunned when I found out. It’s just a really incredible achievement and it’s amazing to receive. It’s difficult to describe.
“We achieved an Outstanding rating then I retired and then that happened not long after so it all added to a huge retirement present.
Peter Kennedy, former Principal and Wendy Ellis, current Principal during A Level Results Day at Franklin College in 2024
(Image: Donna Clifford/GrimsbyLive)
“When I came to Franklin College in 2018, the area was having a tricky time and it was a little bit lost. We had to all work together and be on top of our game all the time because the students needed us to be, and it was a great place and a privilege to work there.
“I was blessed with lots of other organisations, academies and trusts in North East Lincolnshire and beyond who were on the same page. I reached out to these people during my time at Franklin College to ensure the area had an outstanding education provision. I’ve always been big on partnerships and getting others involved, and there was a lot of work together to make it a success.”
In the Ofsted report published last year, inspectors praised the high standard of teaching, support provided to students and the “warm, friendly and inclusive” atmosphere of the college.
Staff and students at Franklin College celebrated their ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating last year
(Image: Franklin College)
The report reads: “Leaders and managers have invested significantly in the facilities at the college in order to provide very effective learning spaces for the student community. Students benefit from access to a wide range of spaces in which to study independently, in addition to bright and comfortable social areas.
“Staff have created a campus that has a very warm, friendly and inclusive atmosphere. As a result, students enjoy their time at college and show great respect for the surroundings in which they learn.”
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Inspectors also recognised the close collaboration between the college and a wide range of external stakeholders. The report continues: “Leaders invite employers into the college to meet students at working lunches and breakfast meetings and involve employers in the many sector-specific academies that they have developed. Consequently, students hear first-hand about the skills that employers need to help the local economy to grow.”
Peter Kennedy said at the time: “The Ofsted award of Outstanding in all areas is a welcome recognition of our amazing college, of all the work of our students, staff, governors, and stakeholders that has gone into building a college of and for the communities we serve. I really could not be prouder to have been a part of our journey.”