Hastings secondary school appoints new principal

Liam Collins will take up the role at Ark Alexandra Academy, in September.

Mr Collins is currently director of curriculum, teaching, learning and assessment at GLF schools, a group of 40 primary and secondary schools across the UK.

His appointment follows the news that Yvonne Powell, the executive principal of Ark Alexandra will be retiring at the end of the summer term.

Ark Alexandra is part of Ark, an academy networks that run 37 schools in Birmingham, Hastings, London, and Portsmouth.

Mr Collins has worked in senior leadership roles education for more than 11 years and has been responsible for the performance of seven secondary schools. Before that, he spent six years as the headteacher of Uplands School in Wadhurst.

Mr Collins said: “I am very excited to be joining Ark Alexandra at this challenging and exciting time. This is a great opportunity to be part of a forwarding-thinking group of schools. I am looking forward to working with students, staff, parents in Hastings and local communities on the shared vision of ambition for all students and high expectations.”

Lorraine Clarke, Regional Director for Ark’s schools in Hastings, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr Collins. He is an experienced senior leader with a successful track record of school improvement and supporting excellent teaching and learning. I am confident that the school will continue to support young people’s potential through education and a commitment to excellence under his headship.”