Closing Date: Sunday 1 March 2026
The first half of this decade has been a period of exceptional momentum at Bournemouth and Poole College, and we are inspired by our future opportunities for success and impact.
With 20% growth in 16–18 student numbers since 2021, with further expansion driven by rising demographics and increased market share, and a clear, ambitious strategy for excellence, this is a college on an upward trajectory. Our mission is bold yet grounded: to move from strength to distinction and become truly exceptional in the education and skills we provide.
Having secured a second consecutive ‘Good’ Ofsted judgement last year, alongside an ‘Outstanding’ grade for Residential Provision, we are determined to build on this success. Our aspiration is to be recognised nationally for sector-leading quality, innovation and impact. We are ambitious to increase our numerous awards and accolades, embracing World Skills to celebrate our students and ensuring we have the highest profile on the national stage.
Innovation sits at the heart of our offer. We have a unique, celebrated provision including our Specialised Chef Apprenticeship and pioneering marine programmes, and we recently won the “Best New Apprenticeship Programme” category at the National Apprenticeship and Training Awards. This is a great foundation to continually push the bar in creating cutting edge provision in partnership with our well-established partners, which range from local stakeholders to nationally recognised brands at the forefront of their industries.
Our ambition is underpinned by strength and stability. The college has maintained at least ‘Good’ financial health, with £60m of investment between 2022 and 2026, transforming facilities across our three sites. This year sees the opening of the Compass Building, a flagship, high-tech teaching environment forming the centrepiece of our renewed Bournemouth Campus. We are set within a thriving economy with every industry represented locally, presenting us with great opportunities for further growth and development.
Against this exciting backdrop, we are seeking an exceptional Vice Principal — an inspiring, values-driven leader who wants to make a lasting difference. This is a rare opportunity to be a significant change-maker, shaping sector-leading provision, enhancing life chances, and helping to take an already successful college to the next level.
As the largest provider of Further Education and Apprenticeships in Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole College delivers programmes across every sector of the economy, from entry level up to and including degree-level study. With approximately 9,000 enrolments each year, including 3,100 16–18 learners, 2,000 apprentices and 600 higher and degree-level students, the Vice Principal will hold an exciting, influential and highly visible remit.
Our successful candidate will have a robust track record in curriculum and quality leadership within Further Education, with experience of inspiring teams to deliver excellent outcomes. We are seeking a forward-looking, aspirational leader, with strong ambitions for our college and our students, who will focus on achieving the highest standards and maximising opportunities to lead the college ever further forwards.
This is a role for a leader with ambition, credibility and vision — someone ready to help shape the future of Further Education, and in doing so, leave a powerful legacy.
For further insight into the college’s information and updates, please click on the links to their newsletters:
Click to view the Winter 2025 college newsletter.
Click to view the Summer 2025 college newsletter.
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