A new principal has taken the helm at Hartlepool Sixth Form College.
Vikkie Morton brings more than 20 years of experience in further education and will also continue in her role as strategic lead for students at Education Partnership North East (EPNE).
EPNE includes Hartlepool Sixth Form College, Sunderland College, and Northumberland College.
Vikkie Morton brings more than 20 years of experience in further education (Image: Hartlepool Sixth Form College)
Ms Morton said: "I’m incredibly proud to be stepping into the role of Principal at Hartlepool Sixth Form College, which has a long history of serving its community, and I’m committed to building on that success.
"Strengthening employer partnerships will be key to ensuring students gain access to high-quality work experience, industry insight and clear progression routes into skilled careers.
"Promoting inclusivity across the campus is also vital.
"Every learner should feel represented, supported and able to succeed."
Ms Morton will be responsible for delivering EPNE’s strategic plan at the college.
Her focus will include strengthening partnerships with local schools, employers, and organisations to enhance the curriculum and improve career pathways for students.
She has played a key role in EPNE’s approach to careers education, contributing to the group becoming a lead college in the UK’s only national CEC Careers Hub.
EPNE has also been named a two-time finalist for the AoC Beacon Award for Careers Education.
Ms Morton also authored EPNE’s Stronger Communities Framework, which positions colleges as drivers of healthier, more connected communities across the North East.
As lead for inclusion across EPNE, she is focused on removing barriers to participation and supporting diverse student needs.
Toni Rhodes, chief executive at EPNE, said: "Vikkie’s appointment reflects our commitment to ensuring Hartlepool Sixth Form College continues to deliver exceptional educational experiences and opportunities for young people.
"She brings extensive leadership experience, a strong understanding of inclusive education and a proven track record of driving positive outcomes for learners across EPNE.
"We continue to build on a proud legacy of academic excellence while looking firmly to the future, with an ambition to strengthen partnerships, broaden progression opportunities and ensure that every learner has the support, skills and confidence to achieve their full potential."
Hartlepool Sixth Form College is rated Outstanding by Ofsted and is part of the joint top performing college group in the North East for student achievement.
The college combines academic excellence with expert support and a strong sense of community, helping students reach their ambitions.
Ms Morton’s appointment comes as the college prepares to celebrate 125 years of education on its historic site in 2027.
Under her leadership, the college aims to continue evolving its curriculum to meet local skills needs while maintaining its focus on inclusion and achievement.
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Ms Morton’s vision includes fostering a campus environment where every student feels valued, supported, and able to succeed.
She plans to strengthen employer links to ensure students gain meaningful work experience, industry insights, and clear pathways into skilled careers.
Her leadership is expected to reinforce the college’s reputation for high achievement and inclusive practice, helping shape the next generation of learners in Hartlepool and beyond.