The group which runs Alton College has been released from financial supervision after making significant improvements.

HSDC, which also runs Havant and South Downs colleges, is now categorised as returning to Good Financial Health and has been released from Further Education Commissioner Supervised Status.

The turnaround comes little more than a year after Alton College faced major job and course cuts as HSDC sought to plug a £5 million gap in its 2025-26 budget and was placed under formal government intervention.

The news comes as Kurt Hintz has been confirmed as principal and chief executive of HSDC until January 2029.

Governors extended Mr Hintz's contract at their July meeting after what they described as a “positive journey” over the past six months.

Chair of governors Penny Wycherley said: “The board is delighted that Kurt has agreed to continue leading HSDC. His experience, energy and passion for further education are core to the college’s move to a dynamic and stable future.

“Kurt focuses on serving our communities, our schools and the power of education to change lives.”

Mr Hintz said: “It’s a privilege to lead HSDC through this next phase of development working alongside our talented staff, governors and students.

“Together we will build on our progress, strengthen our partnerships and ensure that Alton, Havant and South Downs colleges provide exceptional opportunities for the communities we serve.”

HSDC has also appointed Maria Vetrone, formerly of City of Portsmouth College, as deputy chief executive for finance.

Student governor and Student Union president Thomas Ménage said: “It's great news that the college has been released from supervised status, a testament to the hard work and progress made across the whole team.”