Keith Elliot, principal at City of Bristol College, has announced his plans to retire in July.

The principal, who has held the position for more than a decade, has been praised for helping the college to become “one of the largest and most successful” FE colleges in the UK, achieving Beacon College status and an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted rating.

“I have greatly enjoyed my time at the College and I would like to thank our staff for their support to our students over the last ten years,” Mr Elliot said.

“Thanks to their hard work, the College already makes a difference to many people in the City and I know that it will continue to go from strength to strength in the future.”

Mr Elliot was a founding member of the 157 Group and is also a member of the CBI South West Regional Council, the South West Regional Employment & Skills Partnership Board and chairs the Local Enterprise Partnership Skills Sub-Group.

Neil Middleton, chair of governors at City of Bristol College said: “Keith is an immensely dedicated individual who has taken the College to great heights.

“His direction and leadership has made a substantial impact on the contribution the College has made to the provision of learning for everyone in the region.”

Lynn Merilion has been appointed as the new City of Bristol College Principal and will start in September.

Lynn is currently Principal of Stockport College in Greater Manchester.