THE county’s first university technical college has announced the appointment of its first headteacher.

UTC@harbourside, which opens in Newhaven in September 2015, has announced Jon Clarke will be its first man at the helm.

Mr Clarke takes up his post on September 1, from Chalfont College, Buckinghamshire, where he was vice-principal responsible for curriculum and achievement.

UTC@harbourside will offer 14 to 18 year olds an academic and technical education focused on science, engineering, technology and maths There will be a focus on the specialist skills in demand by the growing marine engineering and environmental technology sectors in the region.

Mr Clarke said: “Our aim is to create a college that provides an exciting and outstanding education which prepares students to succeed in an ever-changing world.

“We will have a transformational building to work in and a team of staff who are leaders in their specialisms with a passion to inspire and the care needed to nurture success.

“I am excited to work with our partners and the community to build a truly unique college for Sussex.

“It will prepare students to take up the great engineering and environmental technology opportunities on our doorstep and beyond.”

Honor Wilson-Fletcher, chief executive of the Aldridge Foundation – the college’s sponsors – said: “Jon was instrumental in Chalfont College’s transformation into a technology college and being judged outstanding by Ofsted inspectors.

“It was clear from our first meeting that he has the commitment, energy, leadership and vision it takes to start a new school.

“He also has the specific skill and enthusiasm for teaching science, maths and engineering that his students will find infectious.”