Gower College Swansea has appointed Paul Kift as its new Principal — a familiar face who first walked through the doors as a student at the Gorseinon Campus.
Kift has worked his way up through the ranks, starting as a Director, then Vice Principal, and now taking the top job. Before joining the college, he held senior roles at Capital Law and Cardiff and Vale College, giving him experience across both public and private sectors.
From student to Principal
During his time at Gower College Swansea, Kift has helped drive major improvements — from boosting student numbers to strengthening industry partnerships. He’s also played a key role in securing national recognition, including two prestigious UK Association of Colleges Beacon Awards.
The first, awarded in 2022/23, celebrated the college’s international work — from global learning initiatives to employer partnerships that stretch beyond Wales. The second, in 2023/24, recognised the college’s Apprenticeships for All programme, which supports students with additional learning needs and disabilities and has been praised for widening access and improving social mobility.
These achievements have helped position Gower College Swansea as one of the UK’s leading further education providers — with Kift at the centre of its growth and innovation.
“This college is incredibly special to me”
Speaking after his appointment, Kift said:
“I’m delighted and deeply honoured to be appointed as Principal of Gower College Swansea.
Having started my own journey here as a student at Gorseinon, this college is incredibly special to me. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited to keep building on that success.”
Kelly Fountain, CEO of the college, said Kift’s leadership marks “an exciting new chapter,” while Chair of Governors Ian Price OBE praised his “strategic insight and commitment to students, staff and community.”
