New Chapter for The XL Academy

It’s the beginning of a new chapter for The XL Academy, as Damian Windle, current Head of XL, steps down from his role at Ashton Sixth Form College. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Damian for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and lasting impact he has made on our high-achieving students over the last 10 years. 

Damian has been an inspiring and dedicated leader of the XL Academy, supporting our most ambitious students to reach their full potential. From championing high-achieving students to guiding them through applications to the UK’s most competitive universities and programmes, he has left an incredible legacy. 
Reflecting on his time at Ashton, Damian said: 

“It is with a heavy heart but after 10 years in post, the time is now right for me to move on to a new position of senior leadership at a sixth form college in Sheffield. I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment at ASFC, being able to work in a dynamic college with truly brilliant staff and students.

 
The XL Academy was set up to level the playing field and meet the need for high attaining students based on the principles of social justice, and it has been a privilege to work with such a talented and hardworking group of students. Throughout my time at ASFC, I have worked with some of the brightest young minds in Tameside and East Manchester and it has been wonderful to see so many students achieve prestigious Russell Group University places, Oxbridge offers, medicine, dentistry and vet places, and secure elite apprenticeships. It has also been a delight to work and form partnerships with local schools in the area through our school visits and in-house conferences. The XL program remains one of the premier most able programs in the country and I am proud to have been a part of that. In passing it over to Rob, I know he will continue the excellent work and I am thrilled and excited as to what he has got in store.” 

Stepping into the role is Rob Murray-Green, current Head of Chemistry at Ashton. Rob brings both passion and experience to the XL Academy and is excited to take the programme forward: 

“The XL Academy is an amazing asset to our college and I am delighted to be able to pick up this role from Damian. The work he has done has been nothing short of phenomenal and the programme offers a truly unique experience for our most ambitious and most able students. 
Through tailor-made tutorials, inspiring lectures and a high challenge academic culture, we will continue to deliver a programme which aims to get the very best out of our students. I am very excited for what's next for the XL Academy and I cannot wait for myself and the team to get started! Expect to see a lot happening for our Oxbridge Scholars, MDV applicants and opportunities for our most talented creative students.” 

We thank Damian for everything he has contributed to The XL Academy and the wider college community, and we warmly welcome Rob as we look ahead to an exciting new chapter.