Esther Chesterman is Chief Executive of the National Extension College (NEC), a UK not-for-profit organisation and long-standing leader in accessible distance education. With over 25 years’ experience across awarding bodies, global education projects, and digital learning innovation, she has held senior leadership roles in training providers, UK colleges, exam boards, and awarding organisations.
A passionate advocate for inclusive and flexible education, Esther has led award-nominated digital transformation projects that expand access for second-chance learners and those on non-traditional pathways. Her work focuses on harnessing technology and design thinking to make high-quality education truly accessible to everyone.