THE new chief executive of Bradford College has begun work aiming to stabilise the cash-strapped college and improving exam results.

Chris Webb, who took up his role at the start of the month, has said he is determined to give students the best opportunities possible.

He said: “Bradford College is going through some troubled times and I doubt that the next few years will be any easier.

“But by working together we can build a better future for all, students and employees.

“We need to quickly secure two critical aspects of the college. The first is to stabilise and secure the long- term financial sustainability of the college and the second is to quickly and significantly improve the quality of the student experience in both further education.

“If we can quickly secure those two aims we will provide a better future for all here at the college.

“Colleges are unique and special. By providing the opportunities to study, learn and upskill our students, we provide a supportive helping hand up and in doing so give our students the chance to transform their lives.

“Further Education colleges are underfunded, undervalued and so often overlooked, but the work we do and the place we hold in our communities is immeasurable.

“There is nothing more important than our students.”

“Bradford College only exists for our students. Our jobs only exist to support our students. Our every working minute should be focused on delivering an outstanding student experience. And where we are not delivering on this goal, we need to quickly improve.

Mr Webb has previously held leadership roles at South Thames College, Newcastle College and eight years in his most recent role as chief executive and principal of Outstanding-rated Barnsley College.