A BASINGSTOKE school has announced the appointment of a new headteacher, safeguarding the school’s leadership as it continues its progress as part of the Bohunt Education Trust (BET) family of schools.

Kirsty Protheroe, who will take up the position as headteacher at The Costello School after the summer holidays in September.

She is a highly experienced educational leader, having led two schools at senior level since 2011, and has held a part-time shared headship since 2015. She is currently deputy headteacher at Pewsey Vale School in Wiltshire – a position she has held for eight years.

She is passionate about providing students with the best possible learning environment, teaching and opportunities and holds a National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

As headteacher at Costello, Ms Protheroe will be working alongside the school’s senior leadership team and Board of Governors, as well as with senior leaders at BET and its trustees. The appointment of Ms Protheroe to the 114-year-old school has been made as the school celebrates three and a half years with Bohunt Education Trust (BET). The trust sponsors eight high-performing schools in Sussex, Hampshire, and Berkshire.

Ms Protheroe said: “It will be my honour and privilege to lead The Costello School from September. I am keen to lead the school in its next chapter collegiately with colleagues, to develop the next generation of Game-changers across a wide range of representational fields. I believe that the time students spend at school is incredibly important in preparing students for their futures: enabling them to develop as individuals and break through perceived barriers. I am absolutely thrilled to be offered this opportunity and cannot wait to join The Costello School family next academic year.”

Hilary Todd, Chair of Governors, said: "We are sad to see Randall Jull depart and thank him for all the hard work and dedication he has shown to ensure the very best for the students of Costello. We are determined that our students be successful, happy and have every opportunity to make the most of their future. We look forward to a bright future for the school with Kirsty, whilst wishing Randall success, health and happiness with his future career.”

Neil Strowger, trust leader at Bohunt Education Trust, commented: “I am thrilled to welcome Kirsty Protheroe to the BET fold. Costello is a thriving and successful school whose senior leadership team’s principled, insightful guidance has seen the school achieve an excellent Ofsted rating. Kirsty will have the full support of all at BET. I have no doubt she will propel Costello to even greater heights.”

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