Ellen Thinnesen OBE, Chief Executive of Education Partnership North East, has been appointed as the next Further Education Commissioner, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced.
Ellen brings extensive experience to the role, having served as CEO and Principal of Sunderland College since 2016 and as Chief Executive of Education Partnership North East since 2019. Under her leadership, Sunderland College, Northumberland College, and Hartlepool Sixth Form College successfully merged to form one of the sector’s strongest college groups, recognised for both high-quality teaching and financial stability.
As Further Education Commissioner, Ellen will lead a team of Deputies and Advisers to support and strengthen leadership and governance across colleges in England. Her remit includes ensuring institutions are well-run, delivering high-quality education and training, and supporting communities through skills development and economic growth.
She will play a pivotal role in delivering the Government’s Plan for Change, with a focus on:
- Tackling the rise in young people not in education, employment or training (NEET)
- Supporting key growth sectors
- Breaking down barriers to opportunity
Commenting on her new role, Ellen said:
“It is a great privilege to be appointed Further Education Commissioner at this crucial time when skills are vital to delivering the Government’s missions for growth and opportunity.
“The further education sector plays a critical role in transforming lives and driving economic growth. Looking ahead, it is well-placed to tackle persistent skills challenges, deliver equitable access to quality education, and re-engage those not in education, employment, or training (NEET). By adapting, innovating, and aligning provision with future labour market needs, the sector has a vital role in equipping learners with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
“I look forward to working with colleges across England to ensure they are in the strongest possible position to change people’s lives for the better and meet the needs of employers and communities.”
Ellen will officially take up her post in January 2026 for a three-year term, bringing her proven track record of transformation and innovation to the national stage.
Her appointment has been welcomed across the education sector as a positive step towards strengthening further education and ensuring it continues to meet the needs of learners, employers, and communities.
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