AFTER 19 years as principal of Coleg Powys, John Stephenson will retire at the end of the month.
During this time Mr Stephenson has steered the college through many considerable changes, including the college being transferred from control of the local authority to its own corporation and the development of the Welsh Office when powers were devolved from Westminster.
Mr Stephenson has strived for continuous improvements in all areas of the college’s activities and it has achieved high levels of attainment and performance during his tenure.
He said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to lead the college throughout the past 18 years and to have had the opportunity to work with such excellent colleagues, both past and present.
“I look forward to seeing the college develop further at the heart of new arrangements for planning and delivering post-16 education and training in Powys.”
He added: “We intend to continue to live in the county and, while I do plan to spend more time with family and friends, I shall also be taking up new activities on a voluntary basis.”
Chairman of governors Rita Lawrence also paid tribute: “During my 12 years as governor – the last four years as chairman – I have valued very much J ohn’s advice and support and I know I speak for every other governor.”
Simon Pirotte will be taking over the post of principal in April. Mr Pirotte lives in Swansea and has been the deputy principal of Bridgend College.