From the classroom to the boardroom, Shelagh Legrave, Further Education Commissioner, has navigated education with vision, resilience, and a human touch. In this episode, she talks about the challenges and joys of leading in complex institutions, the value of listening and collaboration, and how investing in people can transform communities.

Her story shows that leadership is less about authority and more about inspiring change and supporting others to thrive.

From leaving school at 16 with no qualifications to leading Newham College London, Jamie Purser’ journey is one of resilience, self-belief, and the power of encouragement. In this episode, Jamie shares how a bricklaying job set him on a path to leadership, why authentic identity matters in senior roles, and how further education can transform lives.

His story is a reminder that ambition and opportunity can come from unexpected places — and that anyone, with the right support, can achieve more than they imagined.

In this episode of the Inspiring Working Lives podcast, Dan Taylor sits down with Angela Joyce, CEO of Capital City College, London’s largest further education provider.

Angela shares her journey from teaching English to becoming the UK’s youngest female college CEO, leading with resilience, authenticity and a passion for helping others succeed. She reflects on her early ambitions, how sport shaped her mindset, the challenges of leading through Covid, and why she believes further education is one of the most powerful forces for change in the UK.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader, an educator, or simply someone who loves hearing stories of determination and impact, this episode offers insight, inspiration and practical advice on being courageous, staying authentic and always striving to be your best.