The start of the new year brings a new man at the top for Newbury College.
Iain Wolloff, who was the college’s principal and chief executive for the past seven years, retired at Christmas.
Retiring head of Newbury College Iain Wolloff and the man who has taken over the helm, Lee Probert
Lee Probert, who joined the college in October as an associate member of its leadership team, now takes over both roles after a handover period at the end of last year.
During his time at the college Mr Wolloff supported the opening of Highwood Copse Primary School, before handing it over to the Thames Learning Trust and led his team in the development of the Higher Education provision and the subsequent launch of University Centre Newbury.
He played a key role in guiding the development of further education provision in the area, improving the links with local schools, employers and the community.
In his leaving message to the college team, Mr Wolloff said: “The reason for our longevity is clear – we are here meeting real needs and, therefore, making a positive difference to so many lives.
“As I retire gently from our sector, I know that our college is in the very safe hands of each and every member of staff, and in the hands of all those dedicated people who will take over from us in future.
“I look forward to hearing of the great successes of the college and of our students over the coming years.”
Chair of the college’s governors, Sally Osmond, added: “We’re extremely grateful to Iain for his loyal and dedicated service and are pleased to have had such a positive hand over.
“The board is delighted to be working with Lee as he takes over…and focuses on supporting the development and delivery of the next phase of the college’s development.”
Mr Probert said he will now continue the hard work with the same level of dedication and commitment to the sector.
He has previously worked in leadership roles in colleges in York, Bristol and Hull, as well as in the funding council for colleges.
He said: “I am delighted to take on this role and to have the opportunity to work with such dedicated students and colleagues to develop and deliver a high quality, sustainable future for the college.”
He added that the college begins the year with a “renewed focus on excellence and sustainability underpinning the values of aspiration, integrity and respect which are creating transforming opportunities for the local community”.