PETER Symonds College has announced its new principal following the decision of previous head Stephen Carville to retire.

Sara Russell joined the sixth-form from her role as principal at Alton College, and brings 20 years of experience in sixth form education.

Following the retirement of Mr Carville last month, Ms Russell becomes Peter Symonds’ tenth principal, and the first woman to take up the role.

She said: “I feel extremely privileged to have been appointed as principal of Peter Symonds College; I am passionate about raising standards for all young people and providing a high quality education and well-rounded academic experience for all.

"Symonds’ motto, 'Counting in Ones', is the key principle which guides everything the college works towards and resonates with my commitment to ensuring that each student's individual learning needs are met, helping them to fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations.

“We are lucky to have a diverse range of students and a broad curriculum offering including A-levels, vocational courses and higher education. "My aim is to build on our extensive track record of high performance and extraordinary success to create a dynamic, forward thinking college which develops students’ confidence and provides an environment in which all have equal opportunities to succeed.”

In addition to her role at the college, Ms Russell is a member of three Association of Colleges National Policy and Delivery Groups, where she contributes to the national debate on issues within the educational sector.

Asked what inspires her, Ms Russell said: “Over the course of my career working in sixth form education I’ve been lucky to witness the transformational nature of further education.

To watch young people achieve their aspirations is a powerful thing. The two or three years that a young person spends with us has a huge impact on their future and it is always a privilege to play a role in this process.

“As principal at Peter Symonds, I feel this responsibility profoundly. I and my team are dedicated to creating a vibrant, inclusive and creative learning environment where all students can thrive and succeed.”

Charles Scott, chairman of governors, said “The Governors are delighted by the appointment of Sara Russell as Principal of Peter Symonds College. She brings tremendous experience and energy and we are very excited to work together to continue to maintain the College’s outstanding reputation and secure an even greater future.”