LEADING independent school, Barnard Castle School, has appointed north-east born Laura Turner who has worked in education for 13 years as its new preparatory school head.
Laura, who is also an inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate, moves up from her role as head of pre-prep at Barnard Castle’s Preparatory School.
After seven years leading the highly successful and oversubscribed classes of pupils from age four to seven she will now lead pupils to the age of eleven.
Laura graduated with a first class honours degree in Primary Education in 2002 and completed a Masters in Early Years Education. She then secured senior management positions at Polam Hall Junior School and Barnard Castle Prep School respectively, gaining experience as ICT co-ordinator and director of studies.
Alan Stevens, headmaster at Barnard Castle School, said: “The competition for this position was immensely strong and good candidates applied from all over the country.
“I am delighted by Laura’s success, she was our unanimous choice and she is an outstanding teacher and leader. During the appointment process Laura stood out as the person who had the experience, skills and approach not only to maintain, but also to develop the high academic standards, breadth of education and outstanding pastoral care that Barney Prep is known for.
“I am confident that it will continue to flourish as she guides it into a new and exciting phase of its development.”
Laura, who enjoys travelling with her family, walking and cake decorating in her free time will begin her new role in September 2015. She said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to have been appointed as head of Barnard Castle Prep School. On my very first visit here seven years ago I was immediately struck by the friendliness, warmth and confidence of the pupils.
“I believe that children thrive in a warm and welcoming atmosphere where there is always a ‘buzz’ of activity and where learning is a pleasure. That is the Barney way and I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to it and lead us forward into the next phase of the school’s development.”