Abbey College Manchester is strengthening its senior leadership team with the appointment of James Kidd as Executive Principal, and the promotion of Marc-Gerard Cronin to Head of College. These strategic appointments reflect the college’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, holistic student development, and ambitious future growth.
James joined sister college DLD College London as Vice Principal (Pastoral) in September 2020 and has achieved successive promotions, first to Senior Vice Principal in 2021 and then to Principal in September 2024.
In James’ newly expanded role, he presides over both Abbey College Manchester and DLD College London as Executive Principal.
With a distinguished career in education of nearly 20 years, James has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.
Prior to his time at DLD, he was Assistant Headteacher (Boarding and Co-Curricular) at St John’s School, Leatherhead and a Housemaster in the largest boys’ boarding house in the school, having previously spent five years as a successful Head of Department.
With two post-graduate Masters degrees, an MA in Educational Leadership and Management from the University of Nottingham and an MA in Business Management from Kingston University, James also has the BSA boarding management qualification from Roehampton University and is currently studying for his Doctorate in Education.
Outside of school, James is a governor at a state special school.
James states: “I am incredibly honoured to step into the role of Executive Principal across both Abbey College Manchester and DLD College London. As with DLD College London, Abbey College Manchester has a fantastic reputation for providing a nurturing and high-achieving environment. I look forward to working closely with Marc-Gerard and the wider team to support the college’s ambitious development plans, ensuring our students continue to thrive both academically and personally.”
Marc-Gerard joined Abbey College Manchester in 2004, progressing to more senior roles as Head of Sociology, Head of Year and Head of House. In January 2021, he was promoted to Assistant Principal with responsibility for the Pastoral and Boarding. Marc has also spent many years assisting students with their university applications.
Before joining Abbey College Manchester, Marc-Gerard studied International Relations and completed a Masters in Strategic Studies, the latter with a focus on the development of India and Pakistan’s nuclear capability.
Marc-Gerard comments: “Having been a part of the Abbey College Manchester community for over two decades, I am absolutely delighted to take on the position of Head of College. It has been a privilege to watch our students grow and succeed over the years. I am very excited to collaborate with James in his new capacity as Executive Principal, and to continue leading our dedicated staff in delivering a truly outstanding and holistic education for our young people.”
Abbey College Manchester, part of the Abbey DLD Group of Colleges, is a thriving independent college in the heart of Manchester city centre, with a fast-growing and vibrant community of students aged 15-19.
With a teaching philosophy based on small classes and highly personalised learning in an academically rigorous but informal setting, the college focuses on the transition from school to university, working with students individually to achieve the academic standards and life skills required by their target and world-class universities. Abbey College Manchester also expertly prepares students for challenging courses such as medicine. The flexible programmes and personalised learning, combined with a strong academic ethos, offer a unique alternative to traditional schools.
There are 220 students at the college, comprising a mix of students from the local area and other countries. As well as the Preparation Pathway for University Programme, the college offers A-Level, GCSE and International Foundation Programmes.
For more information on Abbey College visit www.abbeymanchester.co.uk, or call 0161 817 2700.
Categories: Abbey College Manchester School News
