Theatre named after retiring principal

To mark his retirement after 22 years at the college - nearly half as principal - the new college theatre was formally named after him.

The surprise announcement was made at 6pm on Monday when Mr Pamphilon expected to go through standard business at a meeting.

Mr Pamphilon said: 'Monday evening's events took me by complete surprise.

'For the school collectively to have chosen to honour me in this way is such a thoughtful act filling me with immense pride.'

The Pamphilon Theatre is a dance and drama studio with disabled access, raked seating and air conditioning.

As well as college productions it stages performances by professional touring companies and is home to the Uckfield Theatre Club.

When Mr Pamphilon, 57, announced his intention to retire at the end of the summer term, chairman of governors Neill Barker paid tribute to a 'charismatic and successful leader' who had created a rich and diverse learning environment in which students could thrive.

During his leadership the college attained specialist college status in technology and vocational learning, the latter as a result of the high performance of its students.

He also attracted funding for a range of state-of-the art buildings and played a major role in the setting up of the Wealden Skills Centre in the heart of the town.