Gabriel Manthorp Appointed Head of University College Jersey

University College Jersey (UCJ) is delighted to welcome Gabriel (Gabe) Manthorp as its new Head. Gabe brings with him an impressive record of leadership in higher education and a commitment to student experience and academic excellence.

With a career that spans teaching, curriculum development, and quality assurance, Gabe began his journey in education at Peterborough College, where he quickly progressed into leadership roles. He went on to become Assistant Principal at United Colleges Group in London, overseeing higher education provision across multiple campuses.

In addition to his college leadership experience, Gabe contributes to the wider higher education sector through a number of national roles. He is a quality and standards assessor for the Office for Students and sits on advisory groups for UCAS, Pearson, and the Association of Colleges, helping to shape policy and best practice across the UK.

Reflecting on his approach to leadership, Gabe says:

“In higher education, you can be supporting a student with their loan application one minute, and the next you’re speaking with the mayor. That’s what I love about the role – the opportunity to make a difference at every level.”

One of Gabe’s proudest professional achievements was establishing a degree programme embedded within a working theatre, giving students real-world industry experience and direct career pathways.

“Students trained and performed in a live theatre environment, gaining hands-on experience across performance, technical, and front-of-house roles.

“That year, every student graduated with a strong degree outcome, and I was honoured to receive an award for outstanding student support.”

Before moving into education, Gabe trained at drama school and completed a Master’s degree in scriptwriting, with one of his plays later produced across Europe. His early background in the performing arts continues to influence his creative and people-centred leadership style.

Education runs deep in Gabe’s family – with parents, grandparents, and siblings all having worked in schools, colleges, and universities. 

“I’ve always loved colleges – the people are my kind of people. Whether it’s performing arts or motor vehicle, you’re working with passionate, hands-on professionals.”

Originally from a small village on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales, Gabe’s family roots stretch across the UK and beyond, his dad grew up in the Pakistani Himalayas; his mum is from Watford. 

“I spent my whole childhood living in the same house. Then I moved down to London, but my family are from all over the place. Growing up, we were always all over the country visiting family. So, I was really comfortable travelling and being in different places. 

“When I was a kid, my dad was commissioned to have an exhibition at Mont Orgueil, where he had carvings on display for many years. I don't know if they're still there – it was one of the first places I drove to see if they were, but I couldn't get in because it was too early! I'll be going back to see if they are, or to try and locate them if they're not.” 

His partner runs a musical theatre school in London, so theatre is still very much part of his life. His favourite musical? Cabaret, especially the recent West End production: “We’ve seen it loads – my partner’s best friend was cast as the lead!” 

When asked “why Jersey?” Gabe said: “I’d heard that Jersey is amazing from anyone who has ever been, particularly from two friends I played cricket with when I was younger, who live there now. So, I've always had Jersey in the periphery of my social media, incredible pictures of how beautiful it is.” 

Gabe and his family, including two young children, two rescue dogs and a cat – are looking forward to embracing island life. 

As Head of University College Jersey, Gabe will oversee the continued growth of UCJ’s higher education offer, working closely with local partners, employers, and universities to deliver innovative, high-quality degree programmes that meet the needs of Jersey’s students and economy.

“I’m a people person. I cannot wait to meet everyone, so please do come and have a chat – whether it’s about education, theatre, sport, or just the dogs!”