A coastal college has appointed a new principal and chief executive.

Paul Padda has worked at East Coast College for more than a decade having joined in 2013, and has held the role of interim principal and CEO for the past few months.

Prior to joining the college, Mr Padda worked in various curriculum management roles at other further education establishments covering all aspects of delivery and commercial work.

He said he was "honoured and thrilled" with the appointment.

"I’ve had the privilege of working at the college since 2013 having held a number of different posts, and every day I am amazed by the work our college does for our students and our communities, delivering better opportunities as an inclusive organisation.

"I am excited to continue working and developing our college," he added.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: An artist's impression of the external dining terrace at East Coast College's Great Yarmouth campus.An artist's impression of the external dining terrace at East Coast College's Great Yarmouth campus. (Image: East Coast College)

Since 2020, the college has received a ‘Good’ rating by Ofsted and secured funding for the multi-million-pound redevelopment of the college’s Great Yarmouth campus.

It has also become a founding partner in the development of The Place, a new university and library opening in Great Yarmouth town centre.

David Blake, chair of East Coast College Corporation, said: “Paul has many years of experience working in the further education sector and we are extremely pleased to have him leading our college.

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"Paul was appointed following a robust appointment process that included panels of staff, students and stakeholders, followed by a final governor interview in which Paul’s passion for the college and education shone through.

“The board and I are looking forward to working with Paul to develop and improve our amazing college for the good of our staff, students, employers and community," Mr Blake added.

Mr Padda will be supported by the current leadership team, including Urmila Rasan, deputy chief executive, and Ruth Harrison, interim deputy principal.