THE Bournemouth and Poole College board has announced that acting principal Lawrence Vincent has been appointed to the post of principal. The appointment was made following a rigorous two-day selection process with six candidates currently holding senior positions in the further education sector.

Chairman Bernard Vaughan, OBE, said: "Lawrence has been at the helm in a temporary capacity since December last year.

"He has already made an impact in many areas, such as student retention and achievement and has been continuing work with the board on our new build strategy.

"We feel Lawrence has the expertise and determination to take us forward with high quality provision and to deliver a college that is at the heart of our local education and business community."

Speaking of his appointment Mr Vincent said: "The Bournemouth and Poole College is a highly successful college with an excellent reputation and I am very proud to have been appointed to the role.

"We currently face huge challenges, but I am confident that working with others we can continue to meet the demands of learners and employers and play our part in long term economic prosperity for the region.

"We are at a pivotal point with our new build strategy and I hope to engage with students, staff and college stakeholders to help us establish a long term vision for our future," he added.

The board will ratify his appointment officially at a board meeting to be held at the end of March 2008.