Staff and students have bid a fond farewell to Head of Hartlepool Sixth Form Mark Hughes after more than four years at the helm.

Mark joined Hartlepool Sixth Form in 2017 as it became part of Education Partnership North East, a group of colleges and sixth forms situated across the North East and Tees Valley.

Mark leaves to take up a new role as Chief Executive for a private training provider in Lincolnshire.

Education Partnership North East Chief Executive, Ellen Thinnesen, said: “Mark’s decision to leave has not been an easy one, but this new role will mean he can live at home seven days a week with his family for the first time in four years. However, I know that Mark’s love for the town of Hartlepool and especially the rich academic heritage of Hartlepool Sixth Form will always hold a very special place in his heart.”

Last year Hartlepool Sixth Form celebrated 78% of its students progressing to 40 different universities, and 22% progressing to 10 Russell Group Universities. This summer, Mark and his team have been celebrating their students achieving a 100% pass rate in 19 A-Level subjects and 100% pass rate in 10 BTEC vocational courses.

Toni Rhodes, Principal, said: “We would like to congratulate Mark, who is leaving us to start an exciting new role as Chief Executive of an adult training provider.

“Hartlepool Sixth Form has made great improvements under his leadership that will be sustained. We would like to thank Mark for all his contributions over the years and wish him all the best in the future.”

Why Education Partnership North East (EPNE)?

Highly commended - Employer of the Year, Sunderland Echo Portfolio Awards 2019

Engagement with Employers - Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Award 2017

(Sunderland College On-programme Survey 2017)

Selected by DfE for 2021 T Level pilot to deliver the new high-quality technical qualifications.

98% overall employer satisfaction - Employer Survey 2018/19