West Thames College has entered an exciting new chapter as Marta Gajewska steps into the role of CEO and Principal following the retirement of long-serving leader Tracy Aust at the end of the 2024–25 academic year.
Marta Gajewska, a passionate advocate for inclusive, high-quality education, takes on the role with a bold vision and deep commitment to student success. Having already played a key role in shaping the College’s strategic direction, she now leads one of London’s top-performing colleges — ranked number one in the capital for student achievement three years running, and awarded an Outstanding Ofsted rating in December 2024.
Marta said: “We are incredibly proud to have been ranked number one in London for student achievement for three years in a row, and to be recognised as Outstanding by Ofsted. These achievements reflect the hard work of our staff, the ambition of our students, and our unwavering commitment to excellence. That commitment continues. We will keep raising the bar — ensuring every student receives the support, education, and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Marta brings with her a forward-thinking leadership style and a focus on preparing students for real-world success. With strong links to major employers such as Heathrow, British Airways, Buckingham Palace, and Telford Homes, she aims to ensure that every student gains the skills and confidence needed to succeed in a competitive job market.
She added: “This is your college — a place where everyone belongs. Whatever your background, whatever your goals, we’re here to help you succeed. You’ll see me around campus — so please say hello. I care deeply about your experience and your progress.”
Marta takes the reins from Tracy Aust, who retires after 27 years of service to the College, having led it as Principal and CEO since 2016. Under Tracy’s leadership, the College strengthened its financial position, deepened community partnerships, and set a clear trajectory of improvement culminating in the recent Outstanding Ofsted result.
Reflecting on her final year, Tracy said: “This achievement means so much to me personally as CEO & Principal. We’ve been on a Journey to Outstanding and it’s not the Ofsted Outstanding that means the most to me — it’s the fact that we are able to provide an Outstanding Student Experience for each and every student who walks through our door. That has always been my personal goal and what has driven me to do the role I do in a sector which genuinely transforms lives, with the College being an anchor institution serving our community.”
As the baton passes from one dedicated leader to another, West Thames College stands poised to build on its exceptional foundation and continue delivering transformational education to the communities it serves.