Graham to lead colleges into merger

Telford College of Arts and Technology  and New College Telford has announced the appointment of a new principal and chief executive.

Graham Guest (pictured left with TCAT corporation chairman Paul Hinkins) has joined with immediate effect, having been in post as deputy principal at Waltham Forest College.

He has worked in education for 28 years, starting out as a lecturer in building services.

He has since gone on to work in six further education colleges and also running his own training provider business.

He has previously worked in colleges across the West Midlands and London as well as the Ofsted grade one provider, Exeter College.

TCAT Interim Principal Ian Clinton will remain in post until the end of July to support the lead up to the merger with NCT.

Telford College of Arts and Technology and New College Telford are proposed to officially merge on August 1, and be rebranded as Telford College.

Graham Guest said: “I’ve lived in Shropshire for nearly two years now so I am honoured at having the opportunity to lead the organisation during this exciting time.

“There have been great strides made this year and I will be looking to keep up the momentum and take the new college to the next level with the support of staff.

“There is the opportunity to share best practice, knowledge and expertise from both sites and to build a strong and successful college in Telford.

“The merger will also bring together academic excellence and career-focused skills to support the future development of Telford.

“We want to be the college for everyone in this community whether you’re a school leaver looking to go to university or start a career, an adult developing their skills or a business wanting to grow.”

Paul Hinkins, chair of TCAT corporation and shadow board, added: “Graham brings a wealth of educational experience to the organisation with his strong track record in improvement and teaching performance.

“Graham knows first-hand the importance of the college having outstanding teaching and learning having been a lecturer himself.

“He also has diverse range of experience in creating partnerships with businesses in the region that can support our students with their qualifications.

“He will be coming into the organisation, which has already seen an increase in applications this year, and continuing the positive work of Interim Principal Ian Clinton.”