Swindon’s largest college will have a new principal and CEO for the first time in two decades, following the retirement of the incumbent, Graham Taylor.

Graham, who announced his decision to retire last December, after 22 years in the role, will be replaced in July by Carole Kitching,

Carole joins New College from Lewisham Southwark College where, as principal and CEO from 2015, she took it from 'inadequate' Ofsted gradings at two consecutive inspections to delivering outcomes that it says are in line with the best London colleges last year.

Prior to this she had also been principal at Newcastle College and Yorkshire Coast College.

Carole said: "I am delighted to have been appointed principal and CEO at New College Swindon. It is my local college and the one I chose for my own daughter, based on the quality of learning and the commitment of staff.

"I share their passion to deliver the very best for local students and businesses, enabling them to reach their full potential. Swindon is a dynamic town with substantial plans and investment for business and economic growth.

"New College needs to embed itself in the very heart of the community – contributing, shaping and sharing in its success. In doing so, we will maximise the opportunities that are open to students, whatever their aspirations in life.

"I am looking forward to working with the College’s staff, partners and stakeholders to help realise this vision.”

Charlotte Mannion, the chair of governors at the college, said: "The board looks forward to working with Carole to build on the success New College has enjoyed under Graham Taylor and to steer it through future challenges and opportunities.

"We are in a strong position and are confident that Carole’s experience, expertise and local knowledge will make a significant contribution to our aim of becoming an outstanding college for the benefit of our learners, businesses and communities."

Carole holds an MA in English from the University of St Andrews, and achieved postgraduate teaching qualifications.

She has taught extensively in both the UK and overseas – including Greece, where she established a successful private language school and co-authored several books for second language learners.