Cardinal Newman Principal Nick Burnham Announced as SFCA Chair

Cardinal Newman Principal Nick Burnham has been named as the new Chair of the Sixth Form Colleges’ Association (SFCA). The SFCA was set up to act as a collective voice for the 93 designated Sixth Form Colleges across England. It serves to represent and advocate the unique interests and issues that specifically face Sixth Form Colleges since Sixth Forms became independent corporations in 1993.

The SFCA aims to ensure that the Sixth Form College sector continues to thrive and grow and works in a number of ways, including representing Sixth Form Colleges in discussions and negotiations with trade unions and officials from in Government, Promoting Sixth Form Colleges to a wide range of stakeholders, including the media, politicians and potential students, as well as supporting Sixth Form Colleges on a range of issues through the provision of research, guidance and individual advice.

Taking up his post in October 2016, Nick will Chair the SFCA Council and National Joint Council for Teaching Staff and Support Staff and advise and support the Executive of the SFCA. The SFCA Council is made up of elected Principal’s and Governors from each of the seven geographical regions, plus two Principals who are co-opted to the council, thus ensuring that the full range of England’s Sixth Form Colleges are represented.

Speaking of his appointment as Chair, Nick said: “I am honoured to be taking up the post of Chair of the Sixth Form Colleges’ Association. I firmly believe in this sector and its power to effect the lives of students – it is often deservedly referred to as the jewel in the crown of education. We will be working hard to influence the major issues affecting the sector and how best the Association can work to meet the needs of the member colleges.”