THE new headteacher at Hanley Castle High School says she is delighted to be in the post.

Lindsey Cooke, who took over the job last month, is the first female head of the school, whose history can be traced back centuries.

She said: “I am delighted to take on the role. Hanley Castle is an ancient school with a proud tradition. I am honoured to be its first female headteacher, and to work in a school with such an outstanding reputation for superb teaching.

“I have already been impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of the students. My challenge is to live up to those very high standards, and to work with pupils, parents and teachers to improve the school further.”

Mrs Cooke, aged 44, is originally from Newport in South Wales. She has been teaching for 19 years and for the last four years was the head of Winchcombe School in Gloucestershire.

During her time there, the school was given an award for being the most improved school in England.

She is married with two daughters, both now at university, and lives in Bishop’s Cleeve, near Cheltenham.