Education Partnership North East (EPNE) has welcomed two new governors to the group, Nick Collins and Darren Sterling.

Both joined earlier this month, providing valuable experience and targeted vision for the North East educational venture comprising Sunderland College, Hartlepool Sixth Form College, and Northumberland College.

Mr Collins, chief financial officer at Newcastle University, benefitted from his education at Sunderland College, which led him to Oxford University and a successful career in finance.

After many roles, including at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Virgin Money, he now handles Newcastle University's financial sustainability, IT service and Estates team.

On his appointment, he said: "I’m really excited to be joining the Finance and Resources Committee of EPNE.

"I hope to use the experience and knowledge of my career to date to help the college in delivering its vision."

Mr Sterling, regional director of Equans, champions preparing youth for future jobs and has led multiple multidisciplinary teams in the region.

He said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as a governor for Education Partnership North East, having worked closely with the team when Equans has been a construction partner to the group in the past.

"I’ve been able to see their enthusiasm for supporting the dreams and ambitions of young people across the North East first-hand."