Dr Michael Foxley, retired GP and former leader of Highland Council, has taken up a new post as chairman of the University of the Highlands and Islands’ new further education regional board.
He is a long-time campaigner for improved further and higher education in the west Highlands and is a former chairman of Lochaber College and West Highland College UHI, a board member of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and NHS Highland, and is also a crofter.
“I am delighted to take up this important role as one of 13 regional chairs across Scotland,” said Dr Foxley.
“Since being appointed as further education regional lead for the Highlands and Islands, I have been working to ensure the colleges who are partners in the University of the Highlands and Islands start to think and plan regionally.
“I have been working closely with the university’s vice-principal (further education), Mike Devenney, as well as the college chairs and principals, to look at our existing curriculum across the region and identify any gaps in provision.
“During the next year the board will also provide a capital plan for further education, from larger works to significant maintenance, which will bid for funding from the Scottish Government and Scottish Funding Council.
“I will be making a strong case for an increase in funding for further education in the Highlands and Islands.”
Dr Foxley will join the other 12 regional board chairs to form the new Colleges Scotland Board.