The new principal of Perth College has pledged to see it become a “centre of excellence” under his stewardship.
Dr Thomas Moore is in his first week in the post but already believes he has joined an institution that should be a model for others across the UK.
He said the mix of further and higher education offered at Perth, together with the quality of teaching and student experience, all made the college an example that others would do well to follow.
Dr Moore has high hopes that Perth can do even better in the future, with building alumni one of the key aims taking a full role in the lives of students long after they have moved on into employment.
The new principal has big plans for the college, not least developing its role as one of the main drivers in the University of the Highlands and Islands project. And he believes he has just the experience required to take on the role.
He said, “I was born in Armagh, Northern Ireland, and having trained initially as a nurse, I went on to gain my first teaching qualification in a further education college in Belfast, giving me a passion for lifelong learning.”
“Since then I’ve worked extensively across the UK and abroad in a range of education, policy and managerial positions, most recently at Glyndwr University in North Wales.
“I’m delighted to have taken up post and am looking forward to enhancing the quality of the student experience and building upon the significant educational achievements of Perth College UHI to date.
“I’ll also be working closely with staff, board members, partners and stakeholders to ensure that Perth College UHI becomes an indispensable partner to economic regeneration and social cohesion in the region.
“Being part of a successful UHI partnership demonstrates our commitment to being part of a larger networked organisation, not just to seek university title, but to make best use of public resources and disseminate good practice across all stakeholders.”
Dr Moore said the mix of further and higher education offered at Perth College had been one of the main factors in his decision to take on the role of principal.
“The model of further and higher education on offer at Perth College is something that others can learn from.
“The quality of what we do, the quality of the student experience and the quality of the teaching being offered are all excellent.
“On that reputation and quality we will continue to attract students, both locally and from overseas.
“We will also look to build alumni. I want to see the college become part of the full lifestyle of students, through further and higher education, working with them to gain employment and then supporting them in their jobs.
“It’s important that we not just supply students with education, but also help them to prepare for future jobs and lives.”
Dr Moore said he had a number of plans for the future but that these would first be shared with staff.
“I really am pleased to join Perth College,” he added. “I have a background that will hopefully ensure I have something to add to the college.
“In the first instance I need to speak to staff and gain a better understanding of the college. In the future I hope to see it become a centre of excellence.”