Keynote Speakers 24

David Hughes

David is Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges, representing and supporting further education colleges to fulfil their role as anchor institutions, supporting over 2 million students each year. He was awarded a CBE for services to further education, particularly during the Covid-19 response.

David has worked in post-16 education for over 25 years, including a decade as a senior civil servant. Before that he worked in Australia and the UK in community development, regeneration, welfare, employment and social housing.

David holds several Board positions including with the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics and the Bell Foundation.

David is our first keynote of the conference. 

Oba Akinwale & Calvin Akotuah

You can not afford to miss Calvin and Oba, the dynamic entrepreneurial forces behind Loud Speaker and Speak Easy. These innovators have revolutionised the way we approach youth empowerment, impacting over 100,000 young lives through their engaging and transformative programmes. 

Known for their professional prowess and captivating energy, they bring a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to the stage. Their success stories and insights are not just informative, but a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the remarkable potential of combining passion with purpose in the world of social entrepreneurship.

Ian Pryce CBE

Ian was Chief Executive of The Bedford College Group from 1998 until January 2024, having joined the group as Finance Director in 1996. He was previously regional finance director at the Further Education Funding Council and has worked as a director or senior manager in retail, electricity generation and local government. A regular contributor to sector media, Ian has been a national leader in further education, works as a mentor for the FE Commissioner, and sits on the Council of the Chartered Institution for Further Education.

Ian's keynote is entitled - At your service - how can Student Services remain key to college and student success?