A FORMER pupil is heading for a reunion with his old school in Worcestershire – returning as headteacher.

Will Lockett left Abberley Hall School, in Great Witley, near Worcester, in 1983, but has accepted the offer to return in a rather different capacity. The 43-year-old will replace John Walker at the independent day and boarding school in September.

“I am delighted to be appointed as headmaster of Abberley Hall,” said Mr Lockett. “I was extremely happy here as a pupil and it will be an honour to return to a school with such an impressive reputation on the national stage.”

Mr Lockett left Abberley aged 13 and went on to Winchester College and then ManchesterUniversity, where he gained a first class honours degree in classics.

His teaching career began at Dauntsey’s School in Wiltshire and continued at Bryanston School, Dorset, where he currently teaches Classics. He is married to Beth and they have three childrenaged 12, 10 and eight.

David Legh, chairman of governors at Abberley, said the school was thrilled the former pupil had chosen to return to his roots.

“He is steeped in the tradition of our school but he will nevertheless bring in new ideas and aspirations,” he said. “He will take over at an exciting time in the school’s history as it approaches its centenary celebrations.

“Thanks to John Walker’s impressive stewardship, pupil numbers are flourishing and there has been a remarkable level of investment in recent years.