Richard Atkins

College Principal

Richard Atkins has been Principal of Exeter College since 2002, and was previously Principal of Yeovil College for seven years. During the past ten years Richard has led a number of significant changes and developments at the College, which have resulted in Exeter College students achieving outstanding success, and the college being rated amongst the leading FE and Skills Colleges in England. Alongside the focus on high quality teaching, learning and tutoring, Richard has also overseen investments of over £40m in new buildings, facilities and IT, including five new buildings and extensive refurbishments. In recent years the College has achieved notable national recognition, including several Beacon awards. Richard combines the role of Principal with being Deputy Chair of the Association of Colleges (AoC), Chair of the Exeter4Learning Partnership and the national portfolio holder for Sport in Colleges. Richard has spent more than 30 years working in Further Education as a lecturer, manager and Principal. Richard is married with two daughters at university, and his interests include theatre, walking and Yeovil Town Football Club.