A SCHOOL in Worcester has welcomed its first female headteacher.

King’s Hawford has seen Jennie Phillips take up the role, also becoming the first woman in the school foundation’s 500 year history to occupy the position.

Relocating from Monmouth to Worcester, she is joined by her husband Eddie and daughters Amelia and Daisy, who are joining King’s senior school.

Like all heads at the school, the family will live on-site at Hawford.

After taking the time to settle into their new home during the Easter holidays, Mrs Phillips said she is now looking forward to the start of a new term and officially taking over from retiring headteacher Jim Turner.

The pair worked together during the spring term prior to Mr Turner’s retirement to help with the transition.

Mrs Phillips said: “On behalf of the Phillips family I’d like to express my heartfelt thanks for the warmth of the welcome that has been extended to us since arriving here at Hawford.

“We are so excited about this new stage in our lives and very much look forward to getting to know everyone and exploring our beautiful new surroundings.”

Headmaster of the King’s Foundation, Gareth Doodes, said: “Jennie Phillips was the outstanding candidate throughout the process and will bring drive, energy and an abundance of enthusiasm to King’s Hawford.

“A natural communicator and a passionate educator, Jennie is also the first female head in our foundation’s near 500 year history.

“Such a milestone is something about which we are extremely proud, and I’m looking forward to working with such an inspiring leader in the years to come.”

Outgoing headteacher Mr Turner announced he was leaving the school after 16 years in March.

Mrs Phillips added: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the team at King’s Hawford.

“The school has a wonderful warmth and a sense of community which is clearly held dear by parents, staff and pupils alike.

“I very much look forward to getting to know the school community and building on the excellent work of Jim Turner, whilst working closely with Richard Chapman, head of King’s St Albans, under the head of our foundation, Gareth Doodes.

“We will work together to provide parents with the choice of two outstanding, vibrant Prep school learning environments with high aspirations, that prepare our pupils well for the next step in their journey as they move on to King’s Worcester at the age of 11.”

To meet Jennie Phillips, hear about her vision for King’s Hawford and visit the site, join King's Hawford at their Open Day on Saturday May 22.

You can register via www.ksw.org.uk/lp/meet-kings/