West Thames College is proud to announce that Tracy Aust, former Principal and Chief Executive Officer of the College, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours for her services to further education.
Tracy retired in 2025 after more than 27 years of dedicated service in the further education sector, including a transformational period as Principal and CEO of West Thames College. Under her leadership, the College achieved significant milestones, including an Outstanding Ofsted rating and strengthened regional partnerships that advanced skills opportunities for learners across West London.
Throughout her career, Tracy has been a champion of truly inclusive education, maintaining high expectations for all learners, and fostering collaborations with local employers, community organisations, and regional stakeholders. Her work has contributed to measurable improvements in student achievement, community engagement, and cross-sector partnerships, reinforcing the College’s role as an anchor institution serving its community.
“We are delighted that Tracy has received this well-deserved national honour,” said Marta Gajewska, current West Thames College CEO & Principal. “Her leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to students and the communities the College serves have made an enduring impact on the College and the wider further education sector.”
