Principal resigns as college made aware of “allegations of mismanagement”

The principal of Bishop Burton College has resigned amid “allegations of mismanagement”.

Jeanette Dawson OBE is understood to have informed the college of her decision over the weekend, and staff have now learned of this.

The college, rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in January, provided a full statement this afternoon to FE Week, when asked for an explanation as to why she left.

“Jeanette Dawson OBE has chosen to resign as chief executive and principal.

“The college has been made aware of some allegations of mismanagement. At this stage the allegations have not been substantiated and it is not appropriate to comment further whilst enquiries are on-going.”

He added that deputy principal Bill Meredith, a “highly experienced, longstanding member of the college strategic leadership group”, has stepped up as acting chief executive and principal.

This is pending a permanent appointment by the board of governors.

“As always, the success of our students will remain the priority of everyone at the college,” the spokesperson added.

Ms Dawson was made an OBE for services to land-based education in 2010.

Bishop Burton College is a specialist land-based college, with its main campus in the village of Bishop Burton in the East Riding of Yorkshire and another campus at Riseholme in Lincolnshire.

According to Education and Skills Funding Agency figures, the college had a 2016/17 AEB allocation of £1 million, and an apprenticeships allocation of £800,000.

FE Week has attempted to contact Ms Dawson for comment.