THE Board of Craven College has announced the appointment of Andrew Cropley as the college’s new principal and chief executive.

He will replace current principal Robert Bellfield, who is set to leave the college later this year.

Mr Cropley is currently interim principal at Cadbury Sixth Form College in Birmingham, where his role is to identify suitable partners for the college while also improving the quality of teaching and learning.

He was previously executive director for ‘strategic planning and business development’ at The Sheffield College.

As part of his role there, he led the design, delivery and opening of a new, employer-led University Technical College for 14-19 year olds. This was done in close partnership with businesses, universities and others.

He has also held the position of ‘deputy principal curriculum’ of Warwickshire College Group and interim principal and CEO at Stratford upon Avon College, which he led towards its merger with Solihull College.

Mr Cropley’s career in further education was preceded by a distinguished career in The Royal Navy in a variety of roles. He is married with two daughters. He said: “I’m very much looking forward to being part of the team at Craven College. I am excited by the prospect of working with governors and the staff to build on Robert Bellfield’s achievements and ensure that Craven College is the very best it can be in supporting our students to achieve great outcomes and helping businesses and communities to prosper.”

The appointment was welcomed by Craven College board of governors chairman David Mabbitt, who said: “Andrew comes with a wealth of knowledge, experience, energy and enthusiasm and a track record of improving student outcomes and building strategic partnerships. We look forward to welcoming him to Craven College later in the year.”

Mr Bellfield is set to retire at the end of October after more than seven years at Craven College. He began his career in education as a teacher of agriculture at Northumberland College of Agriculture in 1982, followed by roles at Myerscough College and Aberdeen College.

He said: “Given the quality of its staff and the tremendous support the college receives locally I am confident it will go from strength to strength over the coming years.”