FOREST High School in Cinderford has appointed Paul Holroyd as its new headteacher with effect from January.

Paul said: “I am under no illusion when accepting this post. My role will be to make sure the quality of the teaching and learning improves and we exit from special measures as soon as possible, but I will also make sure we redefine and establish links with the community again.

“The school is an essential community resource but due to historic issues, that link with the community has been lost.

“This is a small school that provides a more personal, caring and individualised offer for the children in our care and they are motivated and happy. I want to improve the profile the school has in the town and, as a school, we need to open our doors to showcase the brilliant students we have here.

“I am really looking forward to starting work formally in January but I am already working with the current interim head to ensure there is a seamless transition. I will meet with parents before Christmas to introduce myself and talk about my vision for the school.”

Nigel Johnson, chair of Forest High School local governing body, said: “Paul joins Forest High School from Woodway Federation of Schools, where he was executive principal of two special schools, offering primary and secondary education for students with social, emotional or mental health issues.

“Paul has extensive leadership experience in a number of schools in Gloucestershire and has worked with many primary and secondary schools in the county. He has also been an Ofsted inspector in secondary schools.”