AN ex-pupil of a school in Hurst has returned as the new head of English.

Jo Hurst, who attended The Dolphin School, in Waltham Road, from the age of three to 13, said she is delighted to be returning to her former school, 17 years after leaving as a teenager.

Mrs Hurst spent her senior years studying at Queen Anne’s School, in Caversham before heading to Cambridge University to read English Literature.

Since graduating, she has spent time teaching at Windsor Boys’ School, and Dauntsey’s School in Devizes.

She said: “My earliest memory of Dolphin – possibly my earliest memory at all – is walking round and round in circles for the nursery production of ‘Walking in the Air’, my snowman costume slowly disintegrating into a puddle around me. 

“Of course, it being Dolphin I had spent weeks constructing my costume (entirely of foam, to capture a suitably ethereal appearance) and I was devastated.

“I am delighted to be returning to the school as Head of English this term, not only for my sake, but also for my children who are starting their adventure at Dolphin this term too.”

Headteacher Tom Lewis said: “We’re delighted that Jo has joined the team. As a former pupil she has a unique perspective and special affection for the school which we know she will use to great effect.”