A NEW headteacher has been appointed at The John of Gaunt School, Trowbridge. Andy Packer, 46, will join the school in September, replacing acting headteacher Lyn Sharpe.

He said: "I'm fully aware of the fantastic work that everybody at John of Gaunt is doing and I am excited about joining such a professional team."

Mr Packer began his teaching career in London, spending 13 years in the capital before moving to St John's, Marlborough, for seven years.

His has been headteacher at the Stonehenge School, Amesbury for the past four years and will remain there until July to ensure continuity for students taking exams.

Results at the Stonehenge School have improved dramatically over the past few years, with 38 per cent of students gaining five or more GCSEs at grades A* to C in 2001, rising to 58 per cent in 2003.

Mr Packer said: "My main focus at John of Gaunt will be on raising the achievement of all students and working closely with parents."

Ian Richardson, chairman of John of Gaunt School governors, said: "We congratulate Mr Packer who achieved this success over a very strong field of candidates with impressive credentials and track records."

Mr Packer will shortly be making several visits to Trowbridge to learn more about the school and staff.