A DYNAMIC college principal is stepping down after five years at the helm at one of Basingstoke’s biggest education establishments.

Anthony Bravo, principal at Basingstoke College of Technology, is leaving the college to become group chief executive at Bradford College Group.

He will leave BCoT in August, and will be passing the leadership baton to his long-time colleague, deputy principal David Moir.

Mr Bravo, 51, said he was leaving the college in the hands of a very strong and capable team.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at BCoT, and am proud of the achievements we have made in this time, particularly our Ofsted result last year.

“Standards are high, the quality of teaching is exceptional and the facilities for students are excellent.

“I am looking forward to the new challenge, and recognise that I leave behind an extremely strong and capable team at BCoT.”

Mr Bravo, a former national kickboxing champion and a cyclist for England, took up the reins at BCoT in 2009. The college has since gone from strength to strength, with the glowing report from Ofsted last July grading some areas as “outstanding”.

Mr Moir, who will be acting principal, said he is looking forward to maintaining the high standards which have been established at the college.

He said: “Our quality improvement agenda is well embedded, and was validated by Ofsted last year. We want the people of Basingstoke to know that students at BCoT learn advanced academic and technical skills that prepare them for university and employment.

“We have worked hard to build a strong curriculum and are excited to be introducing A-levels alongside our Level 3 programmes that are proven to give students a real head-start at university.”

Mr Moir will also oversee the next phase of building improvements which include a £1million scheme to improve the catering, hairdressing and beauty therapy accommodation, and a complete refurbishment of the Animal Management Unit, which will take place over the summer.

BCoT chair of governors Lynne George praised Mr Bravo for his work at the college. She said: “We would like to congratulate Anthony on his new appointment, and to thank him for his work at the college, in particular leading the college through such a successful Ofsted inspection last year where leadership and management were rated as ‘outstanding’.

“We are pleased that his work at BCoT has enabled him to progress in his career. Anthony and David have set high standards for our learners and built excellent relationships with industry, providing a seamless pathway for students to university and employment.”