A NEW headteacher has been appointed at Sandroyd School.

Alastair Speers will take up the position from September 2016 with the current headteacher Martin Harris and his wife Catherine leaving Sandroyd at the end of the summer term to take up the headship of Cheam School in Berkshire.

Chairman of governors Rhodri Thomas said: "Through their dedication, commitment and passion for Sandroyd over 13 years the school has been transformed physically and enhanced in its reputation.

"During their time at the school they saw the introduction of girls and the opening of The Walled Garden, Sandroyd’s Pre-Prep.

"The Independent Schools Inspectorate report at the end of last year, which rated the school ‘Excellent’ in all areas, provides a fitting testimony to Martin and Catherine’s outstanding achievements at Sandroyd."

Alastair, who is currently the senior housemaster at Oakham School, Rutland, grew up in Dorset as did his wife Alice.

Sandroyd is holding an open day with activities on Saturday, October 17 where prospective parents will have the chance to meet Alastair, and children will be able to take part in a range of activities from cookery to the adventure playground.

There will be refreshments from 9.50am with activities starting from 10am.