Blackpool-born Mr McGlynn, 59, a businessman whose own education ended at 16, and who describes himself as a “residential landlord”, says a new chairman is expected to be appointed on Tuesday.

Mr McGlynn went to a public school in Yorkshire and worked for 30 years at a Rolls-Royce dealership in Blackpool, going on to be its managing director, until he left the business eight years ago.

The college recently made a settlement with former principal Chris Fulford after he threatened to take it to an employment tribunal for unfair dismissal and breach of contract.

“I have found the experience of being chairman very stimulating and refreshing, but now it is time for someone else to take over,” said Mr McGlynn.