Hertford alumnae take up key roles in Department of Education

8 July 2024

Two Hertford alumnae are taking up key positions in the new Department of Education, following Labour’s win in last week’s General Election. Bridget Phillipson (History and French, 2002) is the new Secretary of State for Education, and Jacqui Smith (PPE, 1981) is taking a seat in the House of Lords as an Education Minister for Skills, Further and Higher Education.

Bridget Phillipson became the first new MP in the 2024 election, after her constituency came first over the line to declare its result. She has held her Labour seat in Houghton and Sunderland South since 2010, and served as Shadow Education Secretary since 2021.

Jacqui Smith was the UK’s first female Home Secretary (2007-2009). She was also an MP for 13 years and, when she became Home Secretary, was only the third woman to hold one of the Great Offices of State in government. Since leaving parliament she has worked as a broadcaster and, since 2013, has been Chair of University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust. She is also the Chair of the Jo Cox Foundation and the Sandwell Children’s Trust.

Many congratulations to Bridget and Jacqui!