Clarie Middleton steps down as Rose Bruford principal

Clarie Middleton has resigned from the role of principal of Rose Bruford College after five years.

Mary Oliver, who has been vice principal at the drama school since 2021, has taken on the role of acting principal. 

Chair of governors at Rose Bruford, Jennifer Sims, said: “We thank Clarie for the significant contribution she has made during her time at the college and we wish her much success in the future."

Middleton led the school through the Covid-19 crisis and also oversaw the transfer of 142 students to the college following the sudden closure of drama school ALRA on April 4.

Oliver, who has a background as a performer, scriptwriter and immersive and digital creator, will now lead the school as acting principal. 

Her previous roles include professor and dean at the Arts University Bournemouth and head of media at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Sims said of Oliver’s appointment: "Mary has made a positive impact on the college in her time as vice principal and she will provide continuity and stability for the college as acting principal."

Rose Bruford has not specified how long Oliver will take on the role of acting principal.