London South Bank University (LSBU) Group is delighted to announce that Fiona Morey, Executive Principal of South Bank Colleges and CEO of South Bank Academy Trust, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours List. This prestigious award celebrates Fiona’s exceptional contributions to further education and her commitment to creating life-changing opportunities for young people and adults.
Fiona joined LSBU Group in 2019, bringing with her extensive experience in leading vocational programmes, 14-19 education, and adult education within further education institutions and through school-university collaborations.
Under Fiona’s leadership, LSBU Group successfully launched the first new technical college in to open in a generation. London South Bank Technical College is a national beacon for technical education, with links to employers and support from the University supporting the long-term career prospects for thousands of students. South Bank Academy also received approval to establish a new technical-focussed sixth form, South Bank University Sixth, which opened in January 2024 and will further enhance opportunities for young people in the local community.
As a leader within the LSBU Group, Fiona oversees the Group’s compulsory and further education portfolio. Her responsibilities include steering South Bank Colleges, which incorporates Lambeth College, with campuses in Brixton and Clapham, and London South Bank Technical College in Nine Elms, and leading the South Bank Academy Trust, comprising South Bank University Academy and South Bank University Sixth Form.
On receiving the honour, Fiona said: “I’m incredibly proud to be part of the further education sector and to work with so many amazing colleagues who give so much to support the thousands of young people and adults that benefit from the life-changing opportunities colleges provide in their local communities.” She added: “This recognition is a reflection of the teamwork and dedication of our staff and partners, who share a common goal of creating a more just and inclusive society. Tackling social inequality and promoting social justice continues to be at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that education is a powerful tool for change in our communities.”
Professor David Phoenix, Vice-Chancellor of London South Bank University, said: “Fiona’s OBE recognises her transformative leadership within Further Education and her dedication to delivering educational excellence. She has had a profound impact on our students, providing them with the tools to thrive in their chosen careers and beyond. We are immensely proud of her achievement.”
Fiona’s career has focussed on supporting individuals with professional education and lifelong learning, which are pivotal to empowering people of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their aspirations. Her leadership continues to inspire students, staff, and the broader community to pursue excellence and opportunities.
Fiona sits on a number of boards and committees linked to education and employment in South London including Lambeth Skills and Employment Board, Get Further and Lazer Awarding body, Lambeth Strategic Partnership, Southwark Skills Partnership and the City of London Skills for a Sustainable Skyline taskforce.
