A TEACHER with a national and international reputation for sport has joined the helm of a Hereford school.

Marcus Blackburn, has been appointed as the new assistant head (sport and extra-curricular) at Hereford Cathedral School.

Previously the head of PE and director of rugby at one of Australia’s leading independent schools, Mr Blackburn will play an instrumental part in laying the foundations for, and delivering, a unique programme of sporting and extra-curricular pathways in Hereford.

He said: "The vision, commitment and passion within the school is clear to see. I am delighted to be joining the school and playing my part at this very exciting time."

Boasting a distinguished sporting pedigree – having been the national coach and development manager for Singapore Sevens Rugby – Mr Blackburn is also author of the book 'Coaching Rugby Sevens'.

He also has experience as a television commentator and has taught at King's College School Wimbledon, one of the UK's leading academic schools, and Raffles Institution, Singapore.

Mr Blackburn has moved to Herefordshire with his wife Tara and their two sons who will also be joining Hereford Cathedral School.