One of the country’s most high-profile principals is to join Boris Johnson’s team promoting vocational training in the capital.

Mariane Cavalli (right, principal and chief executive of Croydon College for eight years, has been appointed to the London Skills and Employment Board, chaired by the Mayor of London.

The board looks at post-19 education in the capital and works with businesses to assess the level of training needed in the various employment sectors as well as education specialists and unions. Ms Cavalli said: “I am delighted. This recognises the important contribution Croydon College makes to the skills needs of Londoners.

“The College is leading the way in delivering a highly-skilled workforce to meet the needs of employers and businesses across London and the South East.

“Our involvement with the board will bring the college many opportunities to work with key employers across the capital to develop their staff. I look forward to working with my fellow board members.”

Croydon College caters for more than 13,000 students each year - making it one of the largest in the South East, offering more than 350 qualifications. It has more than 1,000 staff.