North Hertfordshire College is proud to share that Dr Kate Barclay, Governor for North Hertfordshire College, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours list. The accolade comes in recognition of her services to Education & Skills, and in particular, for her amazing work championing the role of apprenticeships and technical education reform.
Kate has been with North Hertfordshire College as a governor since 2021, bringing with her over 30+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry to the role. She has been instrumental in supporting college leaders develop and grow our new SITEC laboratory facilities. Kate’s work has also helped the College to build even stronger relationships with the life sciences employers on our doorstep that in turn create life changing opportunities for our students.
Throughout her career, Kate has shown dedication to developing the next generation of scientists and STEM professionals. Her early talent programmes in the science and engineering sectors have received awards and national recognition from industry partnerships, diversity champions, and professional bodies. She volunteers as a STEM ambassador in local secondary schools and has helped develop multiple apprenticeship standards across different STEM industries.
In addition, Kate’s role as a board member at IfATE (the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education) has seen her apply her knowledge and expertise across all industry sectors to truly make a difference to learners across the country.
Kit Davies, North Hertfordshire College’s Principal, said: “I’m delighted that Kate’s work on skills and technical education within the science sector is being recognised in this way. In particular, I am grateful for her unwavering commitment and passion to ensuring the next generation of young scientists have the best possible support to access amazing STEM opportunities and future careers.
“The contributions she has made to our staff and learners at North Hertfordshire College have been invaluable.”
Dr Kate Barclay commented: “I’m very proud to have received an MBE in the King’s New Years Honours list in recognition of my contribution to education and skills. As a biochemical engineer with over 30 years experience in the pharmaceutical industry I am passionate about developing the skills and talent needed for UK success. It’s definitely been an incredible journey and I’m continuing to lead sector skills challenges with BioIndustry Association and Resilience, as well as technical education governance at North Hertfordshire College. I hope I’ve been able to make a difference to many learners and employers alike.”
Congratulations again to Kate!