Two new deputy principals have been appointed at opposite ends of the country.

Chris Toon has taken up post at Gateshead College, while Jacqueline Grubb has done the same at Basingstoke College of Technology (BCot).

Mr Toon, who had spent the previous two years at Liverpool’s Knowsley Community College, has more than 15 years’ experience of the education and skills sectors.

A qualified teacher and experienced lecturer, he was appointed to an advanced practitioner post within four years of starting his career in FE.

Mr Toon, whose official job title is deputy principal — curriculum and quality, said: “I am thrilled to be joining this forward-thinking college at an exciting, challenging time in FE.

“Gateshead College recognises that the sector is changing and is adapting the way it delivers education to coincide with this change, making sure students are employment-ready with the qualifications and skills needed to support our economy.”

Judith Doyle, principal and chief executive at Gateshead College, said: “Chris is exactly the type of entrepreneurial, innovative individual we were seeking to appoint.

“I’m confident that he’ll help us to continue to support and inspire our staff to deliver world-class teaching, ensuring that our students are the most highly prized in the jobs market.

“There were some strong candidates for the position but Chris’s skills and experience made him the ideal choice. We were impressed with his commitment and passion for Gateshead College and his unwavering dedication to the staff, students and community that we serve.”

Ms Grubb’s title at BCot is deputy principal for curriculum, performance and innovation.

She joins from Swindon College and brings with her 27 years of FE experience that includes work as an Ofsted Inspector.

“Enjoying a successful career in the hair and beauty industry including owning my own business, I was approached to undertake some part-time lecturing alongside this and discovered a passion for teaching and learning,” she said.

“Part-time lecturing became full-time lecturing, curriculum and quality management and then into senior leadership, alongside this I was an External Verifier and am still currently working with Ofsted as an Inspector.”

She added: “I’m delighted to be joining the team at BCot in this new role and will continue to grow the college’s reputation and deliver a quality product, focussing on performance and innovation.”

 

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