The principal of Weston College will be recognised for his dedication to improving education in Weston-super-Mare when he is awarded a CBE.

Dr Paul Phillips, who is principal and chief executive of Weston College, is to be appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

The award comes after dozens of college staff, students, local business owners and educational professionals wrote to the Cabinet Office to highlight his efforts in transforming and expanding the college.

Dr Phillips became principal of the college in 2001 and it has since received an ‘outstanding’ rating from education watchdog Ofsted and been named College Of The Year by the Times Educational Supplement.

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It has gone from one of the smallest college’s in the country, to the ninth biggest, and offers qualifications from primary to post-graduate level.

Dr Phillips, who has already been given an OBE, said: “When I became principal at Weston College over a decade and a half ago I would never have believed that we would be in the position that we are in today.

“I am honoured to receive this award, however the real reward is to see how the education that the Weston College Group provides has dramatically changed the lives of people in Weston-super-Mare, across the region, and nationally.

“I am privileged to work with such brilliant staff, students and governors who are inspirational themselves.

“I am also proud and thankful to be recognised for the part that I have played, but the drive to enhance, engage and improve peoples’ lives through education continues.”

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