Sunderland College welcomes new Bede Campus Principal

Sunderland College is delighted to announce the appointment of Mike Chapman as its new principal for Bede Campus.

Mike, an experienced leader with over 16 years’ experience in further education, joins from Darlington College where he oversaw all 16-19, adult, higher education, and apprenticeship provision in his role as Assistant Principal.

With a proven track record in quality improvement, Mike has guided areas such as Creative Digital and Media, Computing, Health, Education and Care – sector specialisms which are based at Bede Campus.

He has completed his Ofsted Nominee Training and volunteers as Vice Chair of the Governing Body for Skerne Park Academy and as a coach for Darlington United FC.

Mike said: “I was very impressed by the range of outstanding provision being offered and the incredible opportunities beyond the classroom being provided to our students.

“Working across Bede Campus to support our curriculum teams to deliver high quality learning opportunities that support students’ achievement is something I’m passionate about. My background is curriculum and quality and what I’ve seen at Sunderland College so far has been very impressive.

“I’m confident we can continue to add value to our students’ experiences, supporting them to develop their skills beyond their qualifications and ensuring they’re not just ready for the workplace, but ready to thrive in life.”

Mike’s appointment comes as Sunderland College embarks on a new chapter in its remarkable journey after receiving an Outstanding rating from Ofsted in all areas including the quality of education, provision for young people, adult education, apprenticeships, provision for students with special education needs (high needs), behaviours and attitudes, personal development and leadership.

In 2025, the group will launch its five-year Strategic Plan with a renewed focus on place-based leadership and community. By working closely with local businesses and organisations, the college aims strengthen its role as a catalyst for social change.

Mike added: “I’m keen to have meaningful engagement with local stakeholders such as Sunderland Business Partnership, an impressive group of public and private sector businesses and organisations, as well as local industry, and inspiring voluntary and charitable organisations across the city.”

“My mission is to ensure the curriculum we offer young people and adults at Sunderland College and the wider group, continues to target the skills shortages, gaps and mismatches that exist now and in the future. Ofsted reported that students and apprentices have access to a wealth of enrichment activities to develop their personal skills and prepare them for the world of work, and I intend for this focus to continue through the lens of curriculum strategy.”

“In addition to this, it’s vitally important we understand the circumstances in which our students live and provide them with the right support, and signposting in the local community, to give everyone that walks through our doors the very best opportunity to engage successfully with our programmes and achieve beyond their expectations.”

Teacher trained with a Master’s degree in Media, TV and Film Production, Mike’s experience and background will help position Sunderland College as the leading technical skills partner for Crown Works Studios, a £450m development to be built on the banks of the River Wear.

The joint venture between Fulwell 73 and Cain International (FulwellCain Studios) is expected to transform the regional economy by generating £336m each year and creating 8,000 jobs.

Offering A-Levels, technical courses, and T Levels in areas such as Broadcast and Production, NextGen, Film and Media Studies, Digital and IT, Business, Performance, Creative Media, Construction, Engineering, and the Visitor Economy, Sunderland College is contributing to the development of a skilled regional workforce with expertise in a range of related disciplines.

Mike said: “Crown Works Studios is a major investment in the North East and an incredible opportunity for the local economy that will undoubtedly bring significant job opportunities to the area.

“Part of my role will be to work alongside key partners in the project to ensure the skills needs are met. That will mean developing curriculum for adults as well as young people and across a range of careers; of course, those in the creative sectors alongside LSIP priority areas such as construction, engineering, digital, health and life sciences, something the college does extremely well.

“Building the specific skillsets required to meet the needs of the industry into our delivery will ensure learners stepping off from a programme at one of our campuses, has all the elements they need to successfully access this new and exciting jobs market.”

Mike’s appointment as Campus Principal at Bede coincides with Sonya Anderson joining Sunderland College as the new Principal for City Campus and the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), with both working collaboratively to deepen the college’s work within the city and wider region.

Ellen Thinnesen, Chief Executive of EPNE and Sunderland College, said: “Mike joins the college with an impressive background in creative leadership and a strong commitment to quality improvement.”

“His focus on place-based leadership aligns perfectly with our mission of building on our innovative and inclusive culture which is deeply connected to our local community.

Along with Toni Rhodes, my Deputy Chief Executive, I am excited to be working with Mike as we build on our Outstanding Ofsted rating and further strive to provide life changing learning experiences and opportunities for our students.”