New principal pledges to make FE college 'beacon of excellence'

Kitching is currently principal of Newcastle College and will take over Lewisham Southwark College as soon as she can be released from her existing role.

Until then the college will be led by Jo Lomax and Ioan Morgan.

The last principal – Maxine Room – resigned last spring after the college was rated 'inadequate' by Ofsted.

The first phase of a major building project at the Waterloo campus in The Cut is now nearing completion.

In a message to Lewisham Southwark College staff Carole Kitching wrote: "I am looking forward to building on the excellent work that you have all been part of for the past year to bring about financial stability and significant quality improvements for the benefit of students, employers and the college's many stakeholders.

"I do not underestimate the scale of the task ahead but I am determined that Lewisham Southwark College will become a beacon of excellence in all that it does and a powerhouse for economic and social mobility in the communities it serves.

"I will look to all of you to share this determination and vision; it will be a privilege to be your principal, chief executive and colleague."

John Landeryou, chair of the governing body, said: "The corporation is delighted that Carole has accepted the offer of the position of principal and chief executive of Lewisham Southwark College.

"The board welcomes her experience and expertise and look forward to working with Carole and all of the staff to returning the college to its rightful place as an outstanding college in the heart of South London."