SALISBURY College Board of Corporation has appointed a new principal to take over from acting principal Ray Dowd in September.

Gillian Thompson (49), whose career in education stretches back to 1978, was offered the position following a comprehensive and thorough interview process.

Currently director of quality improvement at the Learning and Skills Council in Coventry, and previously acting principal of North Warwickshire and Hinckley College, Mrs Thompson has accepted the offer with great enthusiasm.

"I am really looking forward to joining Salisbury College and working with the governing body and staff to ensure all our learners are successful in achieving their potential," she said.

"It will be very important for us to be part of the community, working in partnership with schools, employers and a range of public and private sector organisations to provide appropriate learning opportunities for people to develop their skills".

Mike Thompson, chair of Salisbury College Board of Corporation, added: "We are delighted that Gillian has agreed to join the college and take forward our ambitious plans for the future.

"Gillian has a wealth of experience in further education and her recent role with the national LSC will enable her to make an immediate impact when she starts on September 1st."