A SECONDARY school in Wotton has appointed a new headteacher.

Hannah Khan, who has already served as acting headteacher at Katharine Lady Berkeley's for the past 16 months, has been named the school's new head.

Ms Khan first joined the school 23 years ago in 2000 undertaking a number of roles including leading the sixth form. 

She first qualified as a physics teacher and introduced the much-loved and now famous school dog Berkeley to the community. 

Her appointment makes history at KLB, which dates back to the 14th century, as Ms Khan is the school's first female and mixed-race headteacher.

Ms Khan said: “I am thrilled to be appointed as headteacher at Katharine Lady Berkeley’s at such an exciting time in the school’s journey,” she said.

Gazette Series: New KLB headteacher Hannah Khan with students from the sixth form leadership team, year 11 ambassadors and school councilNew KLB headteacher Hannah Khan with students from the sixth form leadership team, year 11 ambassadors and school council (Image: KLB)

“KLB has an incredibly strong community, based on tradition and core values. 

“Our students are our best ambassadors. They are proud to be part of a school which provides a supportive environment in which they can thrive. 

“Our shared values of respect, courage, humility and integrity, underpin all of our work and guide us in the way we work together.

“Schools have the power to inspire children to be the best that they can be. 

“As the headteacher of this school, I recognise the privileged position I hold of being able to continue to develop a culture within which our young people’s aspirations are possible. 

“I am looking forward to working with the students, staff, parents and trustees to ensure that the story of our school continues to be one that we are proud to tell.”

Andrew Covell, chair of trustees, said: “The trustees of Katharine Lady Berkeley's are delighted to announce the appointment of Hannah Khan as the permanent headteacher with effect from May 1. 

“The appointment follows a rigorous assessment process throughout which Hannah set out a clear vision for the future of the school and demonstrated a passion and commitment to the role that met the expectations we had set for our candidates. 

“The trustees look forward to working with Hannah and the rest of the senior leadership team to develop and deliver this exciting vision.”