A NEW principal has taken over the reins at Halesowen College.

Joanne Williams has been appointed principal on an interim basis, after David Williams left to take up a new position.

A permanent head will be appointed at the Whittingham Road college next term.

Mr Williams, who was only appointed principal at the college in 2017, has left to become head of Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College.

He will be returning to the college as he was previously deputy principal at Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College, but left to join Halesowen College.

Louise Jones, the Chair of the College's Corporation said: “Ms Williams is a very experienced member of the college’s leadership team and we are delighted she accepted the role of interim principal.

"Ms Williams is passionate about the quality of the student experience and the governors are confident that the college will continue to flourish under her leadership.”

Ms Williams has been a member of the college’s leadership team for more than 20 years.

Stourbridge News:

David Williams (pictured above) announced earlier in the academic year that he was leaving the college to become principal at Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College.

He will start his new position in August.

Mr Williams said: “I would like to personally thank the college’s staff who work tirelessly to support all our students, ensuring they are successful and achieve their very best.

"Jo and the team are very experienced and I know that Halesowen is in the safest of hands.

"I wish them all the very best and look forward to hearing about future successes.”

Halesowen College offers a range of courses including A Level, Vocational, Apprenticeships, GCSEs, Higher Education and part-time.

Ms Williams was appointed interim principal at the start of July.