Passionate about widening learning opportunities – meet our new Chair of Governors
Julie Hyde has been appointed as our group’s new Chair of the Board of Governors.
Julie joined Luminate Education Group as a co-opted member of the Leeds City College Board in 2022, joining the Group Board as a governor in 2024.
She succeeds our previous Chair, John Toon – who ended his tenure at the end of July 2026 – in the role. John will remain with the group as a co-opted member, and continue to contribute to certain board meetings and committees.
The Board of Governors ensures that the group is financially secure, well managed and delivers high-quality education.
Julie said: “It is a privilege to take up the position of Chair of the Luminate Education Group Board of Governors.
“I look forward to supporting the group’s continued success in delivering exceptional education, ensuring strong governance and responding to the opportunities and challenges facing the education and skills sectors. I am particularly passionate about widening opportunities for learners and ensuring that education remains closely connected to the needs of employers and communities.
“I am especially looking forward to spending time with colleagues and governors across the organisation, deepening my understanding of the breadth of its provision and helping shape the group’s future direction.
“By working collaboratively, we can make a positive civic impact and contribute to the region’s continued development.”
A distinguished career in education and business
Julie has built a distinguished professional career in education, skills and childcare and is Director of External and Regulatory Affairs at NCFE, one of the UK’s leading educational charities and awarding organisations.
She brings extensive leadership experience to her role as Chair, along with a strong commercial background in senior sales and account management.
Julie joined CACHE (the Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education) in 2010 and, following its integration into NCFE in 2015, led services to support its nationally recognised qualifications and ensure they met the needs of employers, providers and learners.
One of her many successes included the Save Our Early Years campaign, which helped secure government recognition of Functional Skills as alternatives to GCSE maths and English for entry to employment, as a Level 3 Early Years Educator.
Julie also has governance experience across early years, special educational needs, adult care and further education. Passionate about good governance, collaboration and public service, she is committed to keeping education and skills provision connected to the needs of learners, employers and communities.
Julie lives in West Yorkshire and enjoys time with her family and singing with a women’s choir and small ensemble.
Tags: Chair, Luminate Education Group, widening opportunities