SOUTH DEVON College's deputy principal Stephen Criddle has moved into the hot seat.

The Oxford graduate will take over the reins of the 'outstanding' college when current principal Heather Maxwell retires in September.

Mr Criddle was successful in his application to become the college's new head following a 'rigorous' appointment process and says he is 'thrilled' to be given the position.

"I passionately believe in the ability of outstanding teaching and learning to transform lives," he said.

"This is a wonderful college and it's a very proud day for me. I look forward to picking up the baton from Heather Maxwell and taking the college even further on its journey to serve our local communities.

"I am thrilled to have been offered this incredible job.

"It is absolutely wonderful I am really proud to have been offered the position.

"I am really pleased to be able to take the college forward.

"I was hopeful I would get the job, because when you have a recipe for success you don't want to change it too much. I was hopeful they would want to build on the college's existing strengths rather than get someone completely new in.

"But you are never home and dry until you have been told you have the job."

A statement from South Devon College said: "Stakeholders, governors and staff were included in the appointment process and overwhelmingly agreed that he was an exceptional candidate."

Outgoing principal Ms Maxwell said Mr Criddle's 'outstanding capabilities will ensure that he is an outstanding principal serving the communities of South Devon'.

The appointment of principal is the responsibility of the governing body.

Vince Flower, chairman of the governing body at South Devon College, said Mr Criddle had shown himself to be a strong candidate in a strong field.

"Throughout the extensive recruitment and interview process, his commitment to and enthusiasm for South Devon College shone through," he said.

"The governing body is confident that Stephen's appointment will ensure the college's position as a provider of outstanding opportunities is maintained."

South Devon College was recently graded 'outstanding' by Ofsted.

Mr Criddle has a degree in geography from Oxford University.

He has two teenage daughters and a three-year-old daughter. He counts among his hobbies tennis, squash and listening to music.

He was awarded college finance director of the year in 2007.

Mr Criddle will be welcoming visitors to the college open evenings, the university level higher education open evening on August 17 and the main college open evening on September 3.