BARNSLEY College principal Yiannis Koursis has officially been honoured as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by King Charles.

Yiannis was named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in recognition of his services to further education.

His commitment to helping transform the lives of students spans more than 17 years, during which time he has held senior roles in colleges across the UK.

Yiannis said: “Receiving this is the achievement of a lifetime, and I have been truly humbled by the experience.

“I would like to thank those who felt I was a fitting candidate to receive this accolade.

“I would not have been able to make this contribution to public service throughout my career without the support of my family and colleagues.

“To be recognised for getting up every day and doing something you love, whilst seeing the impact in helping to transform the lives of others, is more than reward enough.”