Hugh Baird College has announced that its Principal and Chief Executive, Rachael Hennigan OBE, has officially received her Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from HRH Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, 11 March.
Speaking after receiving her honour, Rachael Hennigan OBE said:
“Receiving this honour from The Princess Royal at Windsor Castle was an incredibly proud moment, not just for me personally, but for everyone who has been part of the journey.
“This OBE belongs to the staff, students and partners I’ve had the pleasure of working with throughout my career, who work tirelessly every day to create opportunity and support learners to succeed.”
Recognition for Services to Further Education
Rachael was named in The King’s New Year Honours List in recognition of her services to Further Education.
This honour marks her exceptional leadership in the sector and the collective achievements of the College in transforming lives across the Liverpool City Region.
Reflecting on her roots, Rachael added:
“As someone who grew up locally and studied at the College, it is a privilege to lead an institution that transforms lives across our communities and the Liverpool City Region.
“This ceremony has been a wonderful moment to reflect on what we have achieved together and to look ahead to what comes next.”
A Commitment to Local Skills and Development
Rachael joined the College in February 2020, bringing more than 15 years of experience in the sector.
Her career includes serving as Deputy Principal at Calderdale College since 2016. Under her leadership, Hugh Baird College has seen significant growth, achieving an Outstanding Ofsted rating in November 2024, placing it in the top 10% of further education colleges nationally.
Ofsted inspectors praised the strength of her leadership, noting a clear vision and high-quality learner progression.
A local to Bootle, Sefton, Rachael attended Archbishop Beck Catholic High School and completed her A levels at the College before studying at Liverpool John Moores University.
Her personal connection has shaped her commitment to widening participation.
Currently, she chairs the Association of Liverpool City Region Colleges and serves on the Liverpool City Region Business and Enterprise Board, where she aligns education provision with local skills needs and progression into high-skilled employment.
