THE new chief executive of a multi-academy trust is the former principal of a school that became one of Somerset's most improved.

Nathan Jenkins had been deputy and then interim chief executive before landing the top post at The Priory Learning Trust (TPLT).

He was previously principal at The King Alfred School Academy, Highbridge, for three years, making it one of the county's fastest improving schools. Its sixth form also saw a significant turn round becoming one of the highest performing school-based sixth forms in the region.

Mr Jenkins has leadership experience in a range of schools in London, South Wales and Bristol.

TPLT supports around 5,000 children three- to 18-year-olds across eight Somerset schools and employs more than 700 staff.

Mr Jenkins said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be appointed CEO of TPLT. This is a very exciting time for TPLT as we continue to improve standards of education for our current students and develop our vision for the future.

“Our superb students and staff operate as one team across Somerset and this family of schools approach really does help our young people and communities succeed.

“Our relentless drive for great teaching and learning really does put students at the heart of everything we do."

Previously Neville Coles was chief executive of TPLT for six years after starting as principal of Priory Community School Academy in 2007.

Chairman of the trustees Katie Dominy said: “On behalf of the board of trustees, I am pleased to confirm that Nathan Jenkins has been appointed as our chief executive officer and accounting officer of The Priory Learning Trust with immediate effect.

“We thank Nathan for his time as interim and we look forward to working with him as our CEO and moving forward the future of our trust.”

Schools in the TPLT are Worle Community School Academy, Priory Community School Academy, The King Alfred School Academy, St Anne’s Church Academy, Castle Batch School Academy, Pawlett Primary School Academy, West Huntspill Primary Academy and East Huntspill Primary Academy.

TPLT also has a highly successful sixth form based at The King Alfred School Academy with many students progressing to top universities.

It also has the thriving Little Learners, which are nurseries and pre-schools based at their primary schools.

Alongside excellent educational achievements, TPLT places massive emphasis on its civic duty, charity and community work.