First woman appointed to lead King's Lynn secondary school after 500 years

A Lynn secondary school has appointed its first female head in more than 500 years of history.

The appointment of Sarah Hartshorn as principal of the King Edward VII Academy has been announced by its sponsor, the Eastern Multi-Academy Trust, this afternoon.

The trust says it hopes Ms Hartshorn, who is currently vice-principal of the Thetford Academy, will take up the role in the spring.

Before then, she will be spending time at the school, whose history stretches back to 1510, to meet staff and students.

Trust chief executive Dr Duncan Ramsey said: “We are delighted to welcome Sarah to the King Edward VII Academy and the Eastern Multi Academy Trust.

"This is both a pivotal and historic appointment. Sarah will become the first female Principal/Headteacher in the school’s history.

"She also brings the educational skills and the human qualities that are required to lead this academy.”

The trust's statement said Ms Hartshorn "believes KES is a sleeping giant with huge potential.

"She is excited about working with staff, pupils, parents and all stakeholders in KES Academy’s onward journey."

Ms Hartshorn has worked in education for more than 20 years, mostly in London. She moved to Norfolk to take up her role at Thetford three years ago.

She succeeds Lloyd Brown, whose departure was announced last month after less than two years in the job.