THE man who will head Herefordshire's first ever academy has been named.
John Sheppard, who is head of Wyebridge Sports College, will front the venture, which will replace the existing Wyebridge College.
"We are utterly delighted with the appointment of John Sheppard as principal designate of the Hereford Academy," said John Chapman, chairman of the Diocesan Board of Education.
"It is widely recognised that he has done outstanding work as headteacher of Wyebridge Sports College, and we are certain that education in South Wye will go from strength to strength under his inspirational leadership."
Talks had been taking place between the Diocese of Hereford - which is sponsoring the academy - the local authority, Wyebridge governors, and the Department for Children, Schools and Families, with the aim of creating an academy to raise pupil attainment and achievement.
"We want to allow this person to be as fully involved as possible in laying the foundations of sustainable success at Hereford Academy," said Ian Terry, director of education for the diocese.
The academy is expected to open some time between September 2008 and September 2009.
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