College head to lead DFES unit

Jane Williams, principal of the City of Wolverhampton College, has been appointed director of teaching and learning at the Department for Education and Skills.

She will lead a new unit that aims to improve standards in colleges, focusing on the extension of proven teaching methods and an overhaul of weak curriculum areas.

Ms Williams has worked in further education for more than 20 years. Higher education minister Margaret Hodge said she looked forward to Ms Williams playing a "pivotal role" in raising college standards.