The new principal of Exmouth Community College says he is ‘delighted’ to be taking on the role.

As previously announced, Andrew Davis, a previous deputy principal at the college, has been named as the replacement for retiring principal Tony Alexander.

Mr Davis worked with Mr Alexander between 2003 and 2006, before moving on to become head of Dawlish Community College, and latterly head of Huish Episcopi Academy in Somerset.

He will take over at the college in September, with Mr Alexander to retire at the end of the summer term.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Davis said: “I am delighted to be returning to Exmouth Community College as principal. From my previous time as deputy principal, I know the students are absolutely fantastic and this was a major factor in my decision to apply for the position.

“Having worked with Tony Alexander previously I am aware he will be a very difficult act to follow, however, I will continue to focus on many of the strong foundations that have been laid by Mr Alexander and his team and aim to build on this legacy.

“In addition, I know that Mr Alexander and I share the same values regarding student behaviour, respect for each other, having high expectations and will not tolerate any student disturbing the learning of others.

“In my previous two headships, I have focussed much of my time and energy on improving teaching and learning to ensure that lessons are consistently outstanding and result in every student getting the best possible teaching in every lesson, every day.

“In order to underpin this, I will be working with staff to ensure there are effective structures in place to make sure any child who falls behind also gets the best support possible to enable them to get back on track.”