New College Principal Appointed
Posted on 26 February 2018

Principal Simon Jarvis is to stand down from his post after eight years in charge of the College.  In September 2017, Simon led the College to convert to become a specialist 16-19 academy as part of The Prospect Trust which he will continue to lead as its CEO.

Mr Jarvis said, “The College is a wonderful place to work and study; I've been privileged to be part of its growth and development for 28 years! In that time, I've overseen the blossoming of a truly outstanding organisation: it's a progressive centre of high quality education, a true community College at the heart of brilliant work enabling generations of our young people to discover themselves, flourish, succeed and progress with their lives.  

Farnborough has an enviable reputation, spoken of wherever you go - facilities are second to none, the results are consistently amongst the best in the country, so many local employers are engaged with us and contribute invaluably to our success, our students are amazing, staff are unbelievably talented and dedicated to making every day better than the one before.

The Prospect Trust is as yet in its infancy but has the potential to impact positively on secondary and primary education provision in the communities we serve. It's an exciting time and I'm delighted to be able to play a leading part in developing a dynamic driving force for improvement in the same way that the College has transformed 16-19 education over the years.”  

Simon Jarvis will be succeeded as Principal by Catherine Cole, currently a Deputy Principal at the College responsible for student services.  “Catherine's appointment will ensure that the transition is calm, providing continuity and an unrivalled knowledge of the College and its purpose”, said Mr Jarvis. “She brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to students. Whilst I have no doubt Catherine will make her mark, it will in all respects be business as usual at the College!”

Ms Cole joined the College in 2004 as a pastoral manager and history teacher, having worked in a number of schools and colleges both in the UK and Australia.  Speaking of her appointment, Ms Cole said, I have worked at Farnborough for 14 years and in that time I have been able to appreciate what an extraordinary educational institution it is. The College and all the staff put students at the centre of all we do; I have direct experience of this as both my children studied here. The College is an exciting, inspirational place to work and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead it.”