21 March 2022
The Government of Jersey has announced the appointment of the new Headteacher of Victoria College, following a thorough recruitment process attracting an international field of candidates.
Dr Gareth Hughes, the current Interim Headteacher of Victoria College, will take on the role permanently. Dr Hughes has led the College since the retirement of the previous long-serving head, Mr Alun Watkins, last September.
The appointment process was overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission, with a Panel made up of senior leaders from the Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES) and Victoria College's Governing Body, with an independent educational expert also joining the Panel.
The vacancy drew significant interest, nationally and internationally. A rigorous recruitment process involved professional tasks, engagement with governors and the 'voice of the pupils' through sessions with current students.
Dr Hughes said: "I am delighted to be appointed as the permanent Headteacher of Victoria College. I look forward to building on the work started this year to generate positive relationships with the Victoria College and wider Island communities.
"It is an exciting time for the school and its strategic development, and I am so pleased to be given the opportunity to help our young people to be the very best they can be."
Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Scott Wickenden, said: "I am delighted to congratulate Dr Gareth Hughes on his substantive promotion to lead Victoria College, following his successful tenure as the Interim Headteacher. I will ensure that my team in Education, and the wider family of Jersey schools, continue to give him all support."
In line with our pledge to put children first, I am pleased that a student panel of Victoria College pupils had the opportunity to ask questions to candidates to provide valuable feedback into the interview process."
The Group Director of Education, Seán O'Regan, who served on the Panel, said: "I congratulate Dr Gareth Hughes on his success in being appointed as Victoria College's permanent headteacher and look forward to working closely with him as he continues to lead Victoria College in the exciting new phase of development.
"The Department, with the Governing Body, will provide Gareth with full support in leading the school forward."
The Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES) will now work closely with Dr Hughes to support the recruitment of a new Deputy Headteacher for Victoria College.
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