Catherine Lewis has officially taken up her new role as chief executive of NPTC Group of Colleges.

Ms Lewis, who previously served as principal and deputy chief executive, said she wanted to take a visible and open approach to leadership.

She said one of her priorities would be making sure staff felt connected to the college’s leadership and confident that their views would be heard.

Ms Lewis said: “Taking on the role of CEO is a real privilege and a responsibility that I don’t take lightly.

“NPTC Group of Colleges has been a huge part of my life for many years, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together in the future.

“One thing that’s really important to me is being out and about across the College.

“I don’t want people only to hear from me through emails or meetings. I want staff and learners to see me, stop me for a chat and tell me what’s on their minds.”

She said communication was about listening as well as sharing information.

“Sometimes people have ideas, worries or concerns and it’s important they feel comfortable raising them and know they’ll be listened to,” she said.

“I want staff to know that their voices matter and that they can help shape the future of the College.”

Ms Lewis said supporting staff was also important to the success of learners.

“At the heart of everything we do are our learners,” she said.

“If we can make sure our staff feel supported, valued and able to thrive in their roles, we’re giving our students the very best chance of success.”

She succeeds Mark Dacey, who retired this summer after almost 40 years in further education, including nearly 23 years leading NPTC Group of Colleges.

Ms Lewis will now lead the college through its next phase of development.