HIGHBRIDGE'S King Alfred School Academy has a new acting principal.

Dan Milford started the role last week, and will continue in the post until January 2022, when a permanent principal is to be appointed.

Nathan Jenkins, the former principal, has been promoted to the role of head of school improvement at the Priory Learning Trust.

As King Alfred School is a part of the trust, Mr Jenkins will still have a role in moving the school forward.

Mr Milford has been a teacher for 25 years, having been a professional and semi-professional footballer and ending his playing career with Bridgwater Town FC.

He has been vice-principal at King Alfred School for three years, following his role as assistant principal at another Priory Learning Trust school, Worle Community School Academy.

Mr Milford said: “These are very exciting days for The King Alfred School Academy and I am delighted to be able to lead it forward over the next nine months.

“The King Alfred School Academy is very popular with a tremendous pastoral system, and a sixth form which is gaining a reputation as one is the best in the country.”

Mr Jenkins said: “These are really positive appointments for King Alfred School.

“With taking a lead in school improvement across the Priory Learning Trust, I will continue to have a close and strong involvement with the academy.

“Thank you to the whole community and governors for their support over the last few years.”

Neville Coles, Priory Learning Trust chief executive, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Dan as acting principal.

"He will continue to work very closely with Nathan Jenkins, who has done a super job at the school.

“We are expecting the rapid improvements at King Alfred School to continue with some pace.

"We are delighted with all the recent progress, especially the numbers joining the sixth form.”