New Head Teacher for John Masefield

John Masefield High School in Ledbury is to have a new headteacher from January, 2004.

Andy Evans, who is currently Acting Headteacher, has been appointed from a strong national field by the Governors.

Andy joined the school as Deputy Head in 1997 and has been part of the Leadership Team that has seen the school grow from 650 to nearly 1,000 students, with substantial improvement in its examination results.

“We already knew Andy could be an outstanding head, because he has demonstrated that as Acting Head,” said Chair of Governors, Mrs Jackie Denman.

“The position attracted interest from a strong national field eager to lead John Masefield High School.

“ After two tough days of interviews, Andy came through and we are looking forward to an exciting time ahead as he builds on the successes already established by outgoing headteacher Chris Tweedale.”

Staff at John Masefield High School have also added their warmest congratulations and look forward to working with Andy Evans to promote further excellence in teaching and learning.

Andy Evans, 42, who lives in Upton-Upon-Severn, Worcestershire, with his wife Elaine and son Jake, said: “It’s a great honour to be appointed as Headteacher of John Masefield High School.

“I have tremendously enjoyed my six years at the school as Deputy Head.

“Under Chris Tweedale's leadership the school has made considerable progress over the last eight years. I would particularly like to thank Chris for all his splendid work as Headteacher.

“We have some superb students, an excellent staff, a very supportive Governing Body at John Masefield High School, and a Council on which we can always rely.

“I am very much looking forward to working with the students, staff, parents, governors and the local community to move the school forward and enable our students to achieve the highest standards.“

Cllr Don Rule, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member (Education), added: “We are very proud of John Masefield High School and of the impressive progress it has made in the last two years.

“I have taken a particularly close interest in the John Masefield’s work with the local primary schools as part of its Arts College activities, and look forward to its becoming an even more important part of the life of the local community.”