27th June 2025
In recognition for his services to Further Education, John Evans has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
John was instrumental in helping transform Cornwall College Group (CCG), setting it on its path to an Outstanding Ofsted grading.
Dr Patrick Newberry, Chair of CCG Board of Governors, said John was entirely deserving of the recognition.
“It is hard to convey the incredible impact John had in shaping Cornwall College Group into the institution it is today. He was relentless in the pursuit of quality teaching outcomes for learners and had an uncompromising ambition for the Group.”
Pat Wilde, Vice Chair CCG, recalled when she first met John where he said, “Never stop thinking about the learners”.
“And that sums him up – he was totally dedicated to achieving the highest quality experience for every learner at the College, on every campus and at every level,” she continued.
“On his watch, nobody was going to get left behind. His commitment to that excellence drove Cornwall College Group forward at a pivotal point and laid the foundations for where we are today. His OBE, in recognition of a lifetime’s dedication to learners, is well deserved.”
At his time with the Group, John secured an Ofsted Good rating, landed the development of a multi-million-pound campus overhaul at Cornwall College Camborne and the construction of two new state-of-the-art college buildings at Cornwall College St Austell.
He also oversaw the Group becoming one of the top colleges for student achievement rates in the country.
John began in education 35 years ago, leading on the automotive provision at Bridgwater College, before transforming South Devon College, Swindon College and Yeovil College before joining CCG.
Officially Outstanding - Read More
