Martin Sim to replace Sarah Stannard at City College in Southampton

Martin Sim is one of the government’s Deputy Further Education Commissioners, who help education sites across the UK improve their finances and quality of teaching.

In a statement, City College said Mr Sim had a reputation for "delivering high-performance outcomes in challenging educational and political environments".

His appointment follows a difficult time for the campus, which has been experiencing financial problems for several months.

Martin sim is the new principal of City College Southampton.

Earlier this year a report from the Further Education Commissioner said that without help debts racked up by the college would not be paid and it would become insolvent.

It added: "The college is currently financially unsustainable and is unlikely to be able to stand alone, even if significant savings are made."

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Ms Stannard responded by saying the college needed to become part of a larger organisation. A few days later it was announced she was leaving to take up a new role as director of education in the Falkland Islands.

The college suffered another blow last month when Ofsted said it needed to improve the quality of its teaching.

Sarah Stannard has resigned as principal of City College Southampton.

Mr Sim said: "City College Southampton has experienced challenging financial times over recent years, but it has talented students supported by committed staff and governors.

"This provides the foundation on which to demonstrate that the college is a strong and vital partner in any future solution.

“I am very much looking forward to working at City College Southampton to ensure it continues to provide many outstanding learning opportunities for learners, business and communities.”

Until recently Mr Sim was interim principal and chief executive at Nottingham College, where he oversaw a successful financial recovery plan and stabilised the leadership.

Geraint Davies, chairman of the board at City College said: "We are very fortunate to have secured such an outstanding candidate, who brings with him a successful track record of working with colleges facing significant challenges.

“City College is part of the beating heart of Southampton. I am confident that under Martin’s leadership, it will thrive."

Mr Sim is due to take over from Ms Stannard in July.

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