RETIRING Peter Symonds College principal, Neil Hopkins, is to take up a new role as the first executive director of the Maple Group of sixth form colleges.

The Maple Group consists of ten of the highest-performing colleges across England, including Peter Symonds and Farnborough.

Simon Jarvis, principal of Farnborough College and chairman of the Maple Group, welcomed the appointment of Mr Hopkins.

He said: “We are delighted to have secured Neil’s service as executive director. His experience, reputation and high standing in the sector are second to none. I very much look forward to working closely with Neil in the months ahead to further champion the superb work of the colleges which constitute the Maple Group.”

Mr Hopkins’ said: “To be honest, while I am ready to stand down from the intense pressure of leading Symonds for 20 years, I was rather dreading stopping work all together, so this part-time role is the dream opportunity for me.”

Mr Hopkins will take up the post from September 1 after leaving Peter Symonds College.