Principal & CEO

Waltham Forest College is an education and skills provider at the top of its game. Awarded an Outstanding Ofsted grade in 2024 and recognised as an influential Anchor Institution, the college has built a reputation for excellence, innovation and impact. Our growth has been exceptional; we have doubled our income in six years to £42m, with major opportunities ahead as we continue to expand our offer and strengthen our position in the sector.

Our transformation journey has created a culture of ambition, high performance and unwavering focus on students. We are known for outstanding teaching, learning and support, and for pioneering employer engagement that is deeply embedded across our curriculum. Recent accolades include being named one of the Sunday Times UK's Best Places to Work 2025 and achieving the Mayor of London's Quality Kitemark across six key areas.

Financially, we are in a position of real strength, with three consecutive years of Outstanding financial health and significant capital projects completed to deliver world class technical facilities.

With the retirement of our highly successful Principal and CEO, Janet Gardner OBE, we are seeking an ambitious and inspirational leader to take the college into its next chapter. This is a rare opportunity to shape an organisation that is already thriving and poised for even greater impact. Our next Principal and CEO will champion a responsive, high quality curriculum, drive an exceptional student experience, and ensure our teaching and learning remain innovative and sector leading. Central to the role will be strengthening our strategic influence with employers, partners and communities, positioning the college as the first choice for students and stakeholders alike. You will also empower our talented workforce, nurturing a culture where staff are motivated, supported and able to excel.

Our ideal candidate is an inspirational senior leader with a strong track record in Further Education and a values driven, inclusive approach. You will bring integrity, collaboration and visibility, maintaining our people first culture while driving continuous improvement. As a confident ambassador, you will build influential external relationships and enhance the college's profile locally, regionally and nationally. Financial acumen is essential, as is a passion for inclusivity, exceptional learner experience and overall excellence. Above all, you will bring the vision, expertise and energy to keep Waltham Forest College at the forefront of the FE sector and the national skills agenda.

Closing date for applications is: Sunday 22 March 2026

First Round Interviews (to take place via Teams): Week commencing Monday 23 March 2026

Final selection date (to take place at the college): Thursday 16 and Friday 17 April 2026

Contact Us

Recruitment Manager

For an informal conversation about this role please contact Bernie Cullen at

Register your interest in the Principal & CEO role at Waltham Forest College