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Franklin College announces the appointment of Peter Kennedy as the College's next Principal

Franklin College Governors are delighted to announce the appointment of Peter Kennedy as the College’s next Principal.  The current Principal, Trevor Wray, is retiring this academic year. Peter will join Franklin at the end of February as Principal Designate, and take up his new post as Principal in April 2018.

The College received a large number of applications for the position when it was advertised from successful educational leaders across the country.  A rigorous selection process involving staff, students and Governors led to Peter, currently Deputy Principal at Huddersfield New College, being offered the position. 

In his current post, Peter has played a significant part in achieving his college’s ‘Outstanding’ judgement from Ofsted.  Within his role, Peter has responsibility for ensuring a broad and varied curriculum, for teaching and learning, and for achieving the best results and destinations for young people. Peter, a biologist, is also a leading light in the field of science education, has co-authored A level texts and reference books.

Peter is very familiar with sixth form colleges having worked not only at Huddersfield New College, but also Longley Park Sixth Form College in Sheffield.  Peter has said of his appointment, “Franklin is a college that I have a great affinity for, and where I hope that my skills and experience can really make a difference. I know there is some exceptional good work already in place and I am excited about working with the great staff at the College. I strongly believe that I can take the College forward at this time, in what is currently a tough educational landscape.

“I thrive on working in a sixth form college - they are such special places, allowing young people to grow and develop. I know that Franklin is a remarkable sixth form college, with an excellent track record over the last quarter of a century in improving the life chances of its students and their families.

“Having met many of the students and staff already, and spending time within the College, I can’t wait to get started.  I have a lot of experience in modelling a college curriculum to meet the needs and interests of young people, and I look forward to helping students achieve their aspirations in North East Lincolnshire and beyond.

“Trevor has made strong links in the local area that I want to build upon.  He will be a hard act to follow but I have some exciting ideas and plans that I would like to achieve and implement at Franklin.”

Chair of Governors Alex Baxter said of the appointment; “We are delighted that Peter applied for the position that Trevor’s retirement has created.  We were flattered by the interest in the role, which is testimony to what we already know; Franklin is an exceptional college.  Peter’s passion and experience shone through during every task we asked of him and it was clear with his skillset, Franklin would be in the safest of hands.  I speak on behalf of my fellow Governors when I say that I know with Peter, Franklin will continue to be well respected institution and the preferred option for hundreds of students in North East Lincolnshire and beyond.”