An education leader who was made an OBE in the New Year Honours dedicated his award to his colleges group.
Dr Nikos Savvas DL, chief executive of Eastern Education Group, was recognised for more than 25 years of inclusive leadership and his efforts to put Suffolk at the forefront of educational innovation nationally.
He joined West Suffolk College as principal in 2013 at a challenging time for the further education sector, and under his leadership it weathered national funding cuts and industry uncertainty, emerging stronger despite the challenges.
Dr Nikkos Savvas, CEO of Eastern Education Group, was made an OBE for services to education in the New Year Honours.
“This honour belongs to the whole of Eastern Education Group and to Suffolk,” said Dr Savvas. “What we have achieved here shows that world-class education doesn’t only happen in big cities. Suffolk is leading the way, and this award is recognition of the people, partnerships and communities that make that possible. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
Dr Nikkos Savvas, CEO of Eastern Education Group, was made an OBE for services to education in the New Year Honours. Picture: Eastern Education Group
“This honour reflects thousands of individual journeys – big and small – that together show what Suffolk can achieve. Education changes lives, and the work happening here is proof that communities like ours are shaping the future of the nation.”
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Today, Eastern Education Group comprises three Ofsted outstanding sixth form colleges, a university centre, two primary schools, learning centres across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, and a growing number of specialist SEND schools.
This year the group marked its centenary and, looking ahead to 2026, it aims to continue its investment in the region, including the opening of the Gene Haas Centre for Advanced Manufacturing in Bury St Edmunds and a new multi-million-pound education and community hub in Thetford.
Elton D’Souza, chair of governors for Eastern Education Group, said: “Nikos’ inspirational leadership has been incredibly transformative. He has driven the sector forward and helped revolutionise West Suffolk College and Eastern Education Group. This region is no longer seen as a backwater for education, but a powerhouse that leads the way for the UK.
“It’s an organisation that cares and supports our community, and it is a community that is enhanced by the work that Nikos and his incredible team do, consistently driving social mobility and making society better through education.
“He is not afraid to tackle the big problems and stand up for the most vulnerable and this award is great recognition for everything that he has done, and everything that he will continue to do.”
Dr Savvas became a Deputy Lieutenant for Suffolk in 2024. He will attend Buckingham Palace in 2026 to formally receive his OBE.
Source: Suffolk News