Southwark College has announced the appointment of a new Principal, marking an exciting new era for the institution.
Annette Cast, who was previously Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the College of Professional Services and Student Experience, took up the post of Principal of Southwark College on 4 March.
The appointment comes at a period of positive change for the College. Formerly part of Lewisham Southwark College, Southwark College recently separated to be a stand-alone institution – a move aimed at enabling it to tailor its curriculum to meet the specific needs of the communities the College serves. This followed its merger with NCG, one of the UK’s leading providers of training and education, in 2017.
With a wealth of experience in further and higher education and a track record of driving innovation and success, Annette will be focused on providing the best possible educational offer for Southwark residents.
She said: “Southwark College is an amazing resource for the communities it serves, and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to help shape its future. My aim is to make the College the first choice for both further and higher education for local people, helping them to get into employment or further study.”
Peter Lauener, Chair of NCG, commented: “Our aim is to offer excellent opportunities for our students, and having the right people in key positions is vital to ensure that happens.”
John Litchfield, Chair of the Lewisham and Southwark College Board, said: “I’m so pleased to be able to welcome Annette to Southwark College. Her career to date has been successful and varied, and she brings such strength in a wide range of different areas. Annette’s enthusiasm and excitement about the role are infectious and I am sure she will make her mark on the College quickly.”
Southwark College is one of the best in the capital, ranked 4th in London and in the top 10% nationally in the latest Department of Education tables*. Offering a huge range of work-based programmes and higher education courses, it has excellent success rates, with 100 per cent of students achieving their qualifications in many subject areas.
*Rankings relate to Lewisham Southwark College.
