A new headteacher of a school in Thatcham has been appointed.
Max Gayler is taking up the role as acting headteacher at the Kennet School after its current leader, Grace Rigg, announced she would be stepping down while she goes on maternity leave.
Mr Gayler has worked at the school for more than three years after joining as deputy head in 2022.
He formerly worked as assistant head at King Alfred's Academy in Oxford, where he worked for 14 years, having been in various teaching positions including in business studies, science, physical education and as head of house.
He described being in the new role as a "genuine privilege".
He said to the Newbury news: "The sense of teamwork within our community, the strength of relationships across the school and the shared commitment to ensuring every pupil thrives make it a great honour to take the reins whilst Ms Rigg is on maternity leave.
“I wish to reassure you that it remains very much business as usual.
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“My focus will continue to be on sustaining excellent outcomes, nurturing character and wellbeing and ensuring our pupils enjoy a breadth of opportunity to grow academically, socially and personally.
“Together, we will continue to strengthen the vibrant, forward-looking community that makes Kennet such a special place."
The Thatcham school is run by the Equinox Learning Trust, which says it has gone “from strength to strength in recent years”, with excellent academic outcomes, an expanding Ofsted outstanding sixth form and a thriving programme of opportunities for pupils beyond the classroom.
Mr Gayler will remain in the position until Mrs Rigg returns from maternity leave.
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