Education Partnership North East (EPNE) has announced the appointment of Toni Rhodes as its new Chief Executive, following a comprehensive national governor-led recruitment process.
Toni succeeds Ellen Thinnesen OBE, who has led EPNE through a remarkable transformation over the past 10 years to become one of the strongest groups in the Further Education sector.
Taking up her new role in January 2026, Toni will lead Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form College as the group embarks on the next phase of its changemaking journey and ambitious Strategic Plan for 2025-2030.
On her appointment, Toni said: “I am incredibly proud to be appointed Chief Executive of Education Partnership North East. It is a privilege to lead such an ambitious college group that unlocks potential, creates opportunities and transforms lives through outstanding education, skills and training.
“Our colleges play a vital role at the heart of our communities, and I am looking forward to working with our dedicated and passionate colleagues and partners to build on our successes and further empower our students to thrive.”
With over 15 years’ experience of working in education, holding several senior positions at Ofsted Outstanding colleges, Toni joined Sunderland College as Principal in 2021 and was named Deputy CEO of EPNE three years later.
Toni holds a master’s degree in Globalising Justice, a Chartered Management Institute Level 8 in Strategic Direction and Leadership, is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and an Ofsted Inspector.
She has played a crucial role in driving the group’s success, from being named the region’s top performing college for three consecutive years, achieving Ofsted Outstanding in all areas in 2024, and earning national recognition through multiple awards celebrating excellence in teaching, student support, and employer engagement.
EPNE has also been recognised for its strong contribution to regional skills development, social mobility, and innovation in technical education – enhancing its position as one of the country’s leading college groups.
James Stuart, Chair of EPNE’s Board of Corporation, said: “On behalf of the Board of Governors, I am delighted to appoint Toni as our next Chief Executive following a thorough and national recruitment process.
“Toni stood out throughout the selection and interviews; conveying a clear passion for the North East, a focus on people and culture, and all the changemaking talents we were seeking in our next Chief Executive.
“Above all, Toni’s belief in the transformative qualities of education and the difference outstanding teaching can make shone through. It is an exciting time for EPNE, and we are thrilled to make this appointment.”
Sunderland College, as part of college group EPNE, receives an Outstanding rating across the board in its latest Ofsted inspection.
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98% of our students progress to a positive destination
(*Destination data for Sunderland College students aged 16-18, academic year 2017/18).
Our achievement rates are well above the national average.
We are the College of the Year.
(*Top college nationally for BTECs, Pearson 2019)
100% of our HND and HNC students progressed to employment or further study.
(*Destination data, academic year 2016/17, HNC 19+)
We have recently invested £50 million in our facilities.
