Tony’s contribution to the formation of IHE
The seeds of IHE were sown in 2007 when the Home Office proposed changes to the visa system that would have restricted international students to studying at a ‘listed body’, an archaic definition shrouded in legislative obscurity. With no clarity on who maintained the 'list' or how institutions could join, hundreds of thriving independent providers faced exclusion, threatening the sector’s sustainability.
Amidst these challenges, Sue Hindley, then Principal of EThames Graduate School, spoke passionately against the proposals at a key meeting. This sparked discussions among independent college leaders about the need for collaboration, resulting in the formation of the BAC Accredited Colleges Association (BACA).
Tony Millns was then introduced to the group as an experienced industry leader and played a pivotal role in transforming this collaboration into Study UK—the organisation from which IHE eventually grew. As CEO of English UK, Tony brought invaluable expertise in governance and advocacy. He served as Study UK’s Company Secretary from 2008 to 2015, acting as a trusted advisor to Sue Hindley as founding Chair and the rest of the Board during this time, where he formalised the association, drafting its Articles of Association and establishing membership rules, laying the foundation for the fledgling representative body in 2008.
By providing crucial resources through English UK, including office space, HR and administrative support, Tony ensured Study UK’s growth and credibility. He incubated Study UK within English UK, offering vital support, including managing its finances in its formative years and giving the organisation the operational stability needed to thrive. He also used his leadership and network to introduce Study UK to government officials and other key stakeholders, lending it credibility when it was still unknown.
Tony’s leadership extended beyond structure. He brought people together, championed collaboration, and ensured independent providers had a credible voice in policymaking.
Reflecting on Tony’s impact, Alex Proudfoot, IHE’s chief executive, said:
"IHE wouldn't exist in its current form, and I wouldn't be where I am today, without Tony Millns. His personal commitment and generosity were instrumental in getting our fledgling membership association off the ground, and his keen insights into both education and politics were hugely valuable to us all in those early years.
Even today, Tony is unmistakably in the DNA of IHE: that rare combination of deeply held principles and ruthless pragmatism that made him such a formidable operator; and that blend of intellectual provocation, genuine warmth and razor wit that made him such excellent company.
Tony cared deeply about the causes he fought for, but he never lost sight of the people behind them. He made a significant difference to so many lives, and we will certainly miss him in ours."
Paul Kirkham, former IHE board member, added:
"Tony was a lovely and supportive colleague who shared our vision for independent sector representation and was instrumental in the creation of what is now IHE. He will be sadly missed on both a personal and professional level."
Tony’s remarkable career in education and the English language
Tony’s impact on IHE was shaped by his earlier and continued success at English UK, where he served as chief executive from its formation in 2004 until his retirement in 2014. At English UK, Tony united the private and state English language teaching sectors through the merger of ARELS and BASELT, creating a globally respected organisation.
During his tenure, Tony led English UK through significant policy challenges, including a successful judicial review against unfair visa restrictions and the creation of the 11-month English language visa. These achievements demonstrated his unparalleled ability to advocate for independent providers and students alike, earning him respect across the education sector.
Sue Edwards, former IHE and English UK board member, reflects on his impact:
“I had the great pleasure of working alongside Tony as Chair of English UK after the transition from ARELs to English UK; this was a period of huge change and development for the association and the ELT industry. Tony demonstrated leadership in transforming the association, supporting members, influencing government and so many external stakeholders on critical issues through these challenging but exciting times.
His knowledge and insights of international education and the global events that were impacting UK ELT was formidable. I learnt so much from him and still think today what would Tony have done? He was consummate professional, just as impressive in large conferences and small groups as he was in one-to-one conversations. He was engaging and committed to the matter in hand but at the same time great company!”
Honouring his memory
Tony’s unwavering commitment to fairness in education continues to inform our work at IHE. The roots of our organisation are deeply entwined with Tony’s legacy and his influence will be felt for years to come.
For more memories and tributes to Tony, visit the English UK website.
Tony is unmistakably in the DNA of IHE