New headteacher for The Winchcombe School

West Berkshire Council has appointed a new headteacher for The Winchcombe School in Newbury.

Felix Rayner will take over the role on a full-time basis from September 2009 after successfully managing the school as executive headteacher since June 2008.

Barbara Alexander, West Berkshire Executive Councillor for Children and Young People said: "I am very pleased with this appointment. The Ilsleys Primary School has benefited from Mr Rayner's work and since he began his role at the Winchcombe School, standards there have improved enormously. This is an important and exciting time for The Winchcombe School and I am optimistic for the future."

Mr Paul Dick OBE, Chairman of the Interim Executive Board (the governing body) said " The Winchcombe School is going from strength to strength. This is in part due to the support of the community but also to the quality of the teaching staff and the leadership within the school. Mr Rayner has made a fantastic contribution to the growth of the school and the IEB is delighted to have him as the permanent headteacher of The Winchcombe School. Our bright future has just become even more glowing."

Felix Rayner commented on his appointment: "It is a privilege to be appointed as the permanent headteacher at The Winchcombe School. It has been a pleasure working with the brilliant staff, pupils and families of the school over the past ten months. Much progress has been made, and I know we can continue to make The Winchcombe School an even better place for children to learn."

Issued on 11 March 2009 by West Berkshire Council