New principal appointed at Oaklands College

ST ALBANS — Zoe Hancock has been appointed the new Principal at Oaklands College, following on from Mark Dawe’s departure in October 2010.

Ms Hancock joined the College as Deputy Principal in 2008 from a position of Director of Planning and Projects at The British Museum where she oversaw many schemes including the new estates strategy for the museum.

Ms Hancock was selected as Interim Principal in October last year and has continued to oversee the improvement and development of new buildings and facilities across both Welwyn Garden City and St Albans Campuses. This includes projects such as planning for major refurbishments at Welwyn Garden City and new classrooms and sports pitches at St Albans Campus, due to be opened in September 2011.

A keen supporter of Oaklands Riding for the Disabled Association, Zoe Hancock is thrilled to take on the role: “The college is such a vital part of our community and the community is at the heart of the college. I look forward to developing existing local relationships and creating new ones.

“I hope that I can bring fresh ideas and lots of enthusiasm to the role. I am keen to help our learners achieve their potential and take away important life skills from their college experience.”

Phil Thomson, Chair of Oaklands Corporation, commented: “Zoe takes up her appointment following two and a half years as both Deputy and Interim Principal. During this time she has made a significant contribution to Oaklands progress with her passion for making the College a great place to work and her determination to improve the College’s estate.”