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Ben Knocks

Ben Knocks has over a decade of experience in student support, recruitment, and communications, complemented by an MA in Management. As Vice Principal for Students and Communications, Ben oversees departments focused on enhancing the student journey and delivering outstanding support services.

Committed to innovation, Ben has driven nationally recognised improvements in student support and has led projects with other colleges and stakeholder organisations. He chairs regional and national boards related to mental health and career education and leads the College’s Personal Development and Behaviour and Attitudes Ofsted categories. Ben also serves as the College’s Careers Leader and Safeguarding advisor.

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Dr Darran George

Dr. Darran George began his career as a Royal Marine Commando before transitioning to education in 2002. He has held multiple leadership roles at Weston College, including Curriculum Manager, Executive Director, and Principal of a local school. Darran oversees governance, compliance, risk management, and the Health and Safety, Estates, and Facilities functions for the College Group.

Darran’s academic achievements include a PhD in education, focusing on learner motivation and emotional capital. He has spearheaded international commercial projects in China and continues to drive internal audit and policy innovation. A competitive athlete, Darran has represented Wales in powerlifting and competes in equestrian sports.

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Alex Warner

Alex Warner brings 15 years of experience in Further and Higher Education, along with expertise across Early Years, Secondary, and Prison Education. A dedicated practitioner and Ofsted Inspector for the London and South-East regions, Alex leverages inspections as a tool for improvement, with a focus on social justice and equity.

Specialising in change leadership, quality improvement, and collaborative partnerships, Alex previously served as Principal at Milton Keynes College, overseeing campus-based provision and the South Central Institute of Technology. He is passionate about teaching and learning, ensuring innovative and impactful education delivery.

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Ed Brown

Edd Brown has over 20 years of experience in Further Education, starting as a lecturer in Sport. At Weston College, he has held various roles, including Director of Quality, and now leads the Quality and Learning Team, Digital Education Team, English and Maths Department, and Business Intelligence Team.

Edd is responsible for quality improvement and assurance, staff development, and performance outcomes, as well as leading digital education initiatives and overseeing 16-18 provision. A part-time Ofsted Inspector, Edd has also supported colleges nationally in improving teaching and learning practices.

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Gary Durant

Gary Durant is a dedicated advocate for education and lifelong learning. Since joining Weston College in 2012 as a graduate intern, he has progressed through roles across Apprenticeships, Traineeships, Adult Education, and Commercial Education, gaining extensive expertise. As Vice Principal for Adult and Commercial, Gary oversees adult education programs and leads the College’s commercial strategy, developing impactful partnerships with businesses and stakeholders. Under his leadership, the College has expanded opportunities to support career development, community needs, and economic growth, ensuring its offerings remain responsive and inclusive.

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Janet Stephens

Janet Stephens, a Fellow of the Institute of Leadership, has over 20 years of experience in the education sector. Starting her career in finance, she transitioned to the public sector, applying her financial expertise to help colleges maximise resources for the benefit of students and staff. Over the last decade, Janet has developed a strong understanding of curriculum and quality, complementing her financial and business acumen.

Janet is passionate about empowering individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and believes in the vital role of colleges as anchor institutions in their communities. A transformational leader, she demonstrated her capabilities as Deputy CEO and Ofsted nominee at Telford College, where she led financial and quality improvements, achieving an Outstanding Financial Health rating, a Good Ofsted rating, and an IFT nomination in 2023.