Lee Kirton, Principal of Northern College

Since March 2026, Lee Kirton has served as Principal of Northern College, part of Barnsley College, after previously being the College's Director of Quality and Curriculum Development. 

Lee has worked in the Education and Skills sector for 20 years, including over 12 years in leadership positions specialising in adult and higher education. Throughout his career, Lee has focused on developing high-quality, flexible learning opportunities that respond to the needs of adult learners, employers and communities. Lee is passionate about the transformative power of adult education and leads Northern College with a collaborative approach and a clear focus on ensuring learners from all backgrounds can access opportunities and achieve their potential.