The 157 Group is pleased to announce that Blackpool and The Fylde College is joining its membership.

Lynne Sedgmore CBE, Executive Director of the 157 Group said:

"I am delighted that Blackpool and The Fylde College is joining the 157 Group. They will be a valuable addition to our membership and enhance our geographical spread. They have a national reputation for innovation and excellence in learning providing a diverse range of provision for thousands of learners across the region. Blackpool and the Fylde College are exemplars in social and community cohesion within its locality serving the needs of communities, employers and its people."

Sedgmore added:

"I am delighted that Pauline Waterhouse OBE and her college are joining us. Pauline is renowned for her dedication and enthusiasm for the FE sector and she will bring another dynamic and fresh perspective to our work."

Pauline Waterhouse OBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Blackpool and The Fylde College said;

"We are delighted to join the 157 Group, a national voice on strategy and policy committed to excellence and enhancing the reputation of further education colleges. Sharing expertise is particularly important in the current climate of change and challenge for both further and higher education."

Frank McLoughlin CBE Chair of the 157 Group and Principal of City and Islington College said,

"Blackpool and The Fylde College joining the 157 Group will benefit the current membership and I look forward to working with Pauline and her colleagues to continue our work in raising the profile, good practice and reputation of colleges."

Further information is available in the official announcement on the 157 Group website