CIRENCESTER College has announced that Matt Reynolds is its new principal and chief executive.

Mr Reynolds has been serving as interim principal since the death of former principal Jim Grant in May.

A member of staff for the last 18 years, Mr Reynolds started as a lecturer of archaeology and progressed to vice principal. 

Throughout his career, he has taught a wide range of A level, vocational and technical subjects.  ​

A spokesperson for Cirencester College said: "Providing high quality, life changing education for every young person, regardless of their background, has always been at the heart of Matt’s work.

"He is committed to Cirencester College being an institution driven by a desire to create the best experience in the region for young people. 

"He has had a key role in several successful initiatives, including developing T-levels with the Department for Education, leading the introduction of T-levels at Cirencester and the reformation of the Level 2 system which won the coveted 2022 SCFA National Award for Curriculum Innovation."

Mr Reynolds said: “It is a great honour to be the new principal.

“I have over 30 years experience in education and have spent the last 18 of those at Cirencester College, working from teacher to course leader, department head to faculty head and then vice principal, which on reflection feels like a good apprenticeship for our future. 

"In that time, I’ve taught from entry to degree level through over 20 different subjects. 

"The last five years of my career have been grounded in the development of curriculum and educational reform, driving us on to being rightfully recognised both regionally and nationally as pioneers and trend setters of modern sixth form education.

 "As an educationalist, my core values revolve around innovation, development, inclusivity, collaboration and creating outstanding progression opportunities for learners. 

"I absolutely believe in us as an institution driven by a desire to create the best experience in the region for young people.  

"We are exceptional as a college family.

"I’m very proud to be a part of it and thrilled to be leading us at such an exciting time for education.”

Chair of governors Fiona Galbraith said: “On behalf of the corporation, I am delighted that Matt has been appointed principal.

"This appointment was made following an open competition which attracted a great deal of interest across the country."