THE new headteacher at a leading independent school has said it will be a “real privilege” to take the reins in September.

Ed Bond has been appointed at Holmwood House School and succeeds Alexander Mitchell, who was head for 12 years.

He takes over at a milestone time as the school, in Chitts Hill, Lexden, is about to celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Mr Bond said: “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of headmaster at a superb school.

“Holmwood has a rich history in and out of the classroom, real energy among its staff and pupils and a wonderful site and grounds in which to develop young people.

“It will be a real privilege to be part of its community at a time of investment and growth and to shape some ambitious plans for the future with its capable leadership team.”

Holmwood House, a Bellevue Education school, is now offering pupils the option to stay on and sit their GCSEs.

The school currently has pupils from six-months-old until aged 13, when they are in Year 8.

Now it is extending its provision through until Year 11.

“Putting in place plans for the development of the school to 16-plus and welcoming a large and exciting cohort of Reception pupils in September are just two of the many things I’m looking forward to,” added Mr Bond.

“Over the coming months, I will be visiting regularly and will get to know as many of the staff, parents and pupils as I can.”

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Mr Bond was educated at Wellington College before gaining his degree in history at Durham University, where he was also awarded his Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

More recently, he successfully completed an MA in Educational Leadership at Bath University. He is currently Head of Lower School at Haileybury, near Hertford, where he has taught for 20 years.

He has been a governor at Aldwickbury Preparatory School, in Harpenden, for ten years and is the chairman of their education committee.

Bellevue education director Gregg Davies said: “Ed was selected after a rigorous selection process which attracted a large number of excellent candidates.

“He was the outstanding candidate and the selection panel was unanimous in its decision. We are thrilled to welcome him to Holmwood House.”