Learning / SGS College

New college principal promises ‘thriving’ future

By Elizabeth Abbott  Monday Jan 6, 2025

The new principal at SGS promises to help the Bristol area “to thrive and remain the best place to live and work in the UK”.

David Withey, previously CEO at the Education & Skills Funding Agency, will take over leadership of SGS from March.

SGS is based across six campuses including in Clifton, Filton and Stoke Gifford.

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“I’m looking forward to joining the team at SGS and leading the college on behalf of the communities it serves,” Withey said.

“I’ve been fortunate to meet some of the brilliant learners, staff and external stakeholders over the past few weeks and I cannot wait to meet more of them once in post.

“I’m also looking forward to joining a wider team of further education leaders in the South-West and to working with them, alongside business leaders and local government representatives to ensure the region is equipped with the skills it needs to thrive and remain the best place to live and work in the UK.”

Matt Atkinson, chair of the SGS Corporation, added: “We are thrilled to welcome David to SGS. His impressive leadership career and his strong alignment with the values of SGS make him a perfect fit for the college, as we continue to strive for excellence.”

Main photo: SGS College

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