Prime Highlights:
- Inspire Education Group has appointed Sarah Young as Chief Learning Officer to strengthen curriculum quality and student experience across its institutions.
- The new leadership role aims to improve teaching standards and support better academic outcomes for thousands of students.
Key Facts:
- Sarah Young officially took on the role of Chief Learning Officer at Inspire Education Group on 1 March 2026.
- The Group supports more than 11,000 students each year through its colleges and education programmes.
Background:
Inspire Education Group (IEG) has appointed Sarah Young as Chief Learning Officer, starting from 1 March 2026. The new role aims to improve curriculum quality, student experience and academic results across the Group’s institutions.
The position will support provision at Stamford College, Peterborough College and University Centre Peterborough. Governors unanimously approved Young’s appointment following what the Group described as an extensive and rigorous recruitment process. They cited her strong leadership track record, deep knowledge of the organisation and commitment to putting students first.
Young will report directly to Principal and CEO Rachel Nicholls and will lead the strategic direction of curriculum development, quality improvement and the overall student experience. She will oversee systems designed to maintain high standards in teaching, learning and assessment, while encouraging innovation across further education, higher education and apprenticeship programmes.
IEG supports more than 11,000 students each year, including school leavers, apprentices, adult learners and higher education students. The Group said the Chief Learning Officer role will help ensure learners benefit from clear progression routes, strong pastoral care and teaching aligned with modern industry needs.
Young joined Stamford College in 2004 and has held several senior roles, progressing from Lecturer to Director of Learning and Vice Principal. Over two decades, she has built experience in curriculum leadership, recruitment and enrolment, staff development, mental health and wellbeing, and the advancement of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Safeguarding initiatives.
Her appointment comes as the Group continues to strengthen quality systems and prepare for a forthcoming inspection. In her new role, Young will lead the development of a future-focused curriculum aligned with regional economic priorities and employer demand. Working alongside the executive team, she will ensure curriculum planning, teaching practice and student support operate as a unified system.
IEG said it remains committed to investing in leadership, partnerships and systems that improve outcomes, transform lives and support sustainable regional growth.
