Warwickshire College Group welcomes new deputy principal

Warwickshire College Group have welcomed Andrew Cropley as their new Group Deputy Principal (Curriculum).

Mr Cropley, aged 49, was most recently the Executive Director for Strategic Planning and Business Development at The Sheffield College and Chair of the UTC Sheffield Governing Body and Academy Trust.

In his role at Sheffield College, he led the college’s response to policy changes and challenges, developed new streams of income and achieved rapid and sustainable growth in apprenticeships. He also managed the college’s reputation with stakeholders and positioned the college as a “thought leader” in response to developing Government policy.

Mr Cropley led on the opening of a new, employer-led university technical college for 14-19 year olds in Sheffield in partnership with businesses and universities – the first in Yorkshire and the Humber - sponsored by The Sheffield College, Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield Chamber of Commerce. This greatly enhanced employer engagement with The Sheffield College.

Prior to his most recent role, Mr Cropley was Local College Principal and Executive Director at The Sheffield College for three years. In this role he managed a large team dispersed across two sites in addition to managing Student Services across the whole college.

“I’m thrilled to have joined Warwickshire College Group as their new Deputy Principal," he said. "Warwickshire College Group has an outstanding reputation for teaching and learning and some amazing facilities that provide a first-class experience for thousands of students and apprentices each year across Warwickshire and Worcestershire.

"I am looking forward to working with the team to ensure that the Group is well placed to meet the challenges faced by the further education sector.”

Group Principal and Chief Executive, Angela Joyce, said: “We are delighted that Andrew has joined us. He brings much experience and will be a great addition to the team here at Warwickshire College Group.”

Before joining The Sheffield College, Mr Cropley served for 21 years in the Royal Navy in roles including Commanding Officer at the Defence School of Languages and Staff Officer for Personnel Development at Fleet Headquarters. He is married and has two children.