SEEVIC College has appointed a new principal.

Dan Pearson will take over from Nick Spenceley, who is retiring this summer after battling prostate cancer.

Mr Pearson has been deputy principal at Redbridge College for three years, and worked at several other colleges across London, Kent and Hertfordshire.

He said he is excited to join Seevic, in Kiln Road, Thundersley, which has about 2,500 students on its books.

He said: "I'm honoured to be in a position to add value to the college’s strengths, and lead on curriculum innovations and improvements, to ensure we offer unique and high quality learning experiences for our students.

"Despite the inevitable challenges principals face during this time of Area Reviews, I feel reassured the spirit and passion of the college staff will give me support and keep me energised."

Mr Pearson added that he is aiming to build on the college’s successes and is looking forward to bringing some new ideas to the campus.

He said: “I want to make sure students are leaving college with the skills employers want. We will work very closely with local and national employers to give our students every possible opportunity to succeed in securing employment.

“Above all, I want to keep Seevic a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for all students.”

Mr Spenceley announced in February he was retiring.

The 60-year-old was diagnosed with prostate cancer shortly before commencing his role at the college in January 2013.

Prompt surgery followed by a rapid recovery enabled Mr Spenceley to take up his duties just one week late.

However, two further cancer-related health scares prompted his decision to step down.

College governors praised Mr Spenceley, who is due to leave at the end of July, for his hard work and wished him a happy retirement.

After graduating from Cambridge University, where he read English, Mr Spenceley’s career has seen him work at colleges across Essex and Hertfordshire.

Living with his wife Paula, Mr Spenceley spent seven years at Harlow College, serving as deputy principal before his time at Seevic.