Andrew Watts

Andrew Watts, the Executive Director of ‘changing places and changing lives’ charity Groundwork South Tyneside and Newcastle, names his priorities as expanding the global influence of the South Tyneside College’s world-famous South Shields Marine School, building greater business and community partnerships, and increasing educational opportunities and outcomes for all students.

Before joining Groundwork in 2005, Andrew spent 15 years working in the public sector in various environmental positions. His role as Executive Director is varied but includes helping create strategic partnerships across Tyneside and developing Groundwork’s asset portfolio, which includes the One Trinity Green business centre in South Shields and The Beacon enterprise centre in Newcastle.

He is also an active board member of a voluntary sector organisation in South Tyneside.