Sidmouth College’s new principal says she is ready to work in a ‘special community’ to help its youngsters become the very best that they can be.

The school announced this week that Sarah Parsons will start in September, taking over from Jim Ingham-Hill and Martyn Dudley who have shared the co-principal role for the last two years.

She is currently vice-principal at Holyrood Academy in Chard and has worked in several senior roles to bring about improvements for students at a number of Devon schools.

Mrs Parsons said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as the new principal of Sidmouth College.

“Having lived and worked in the local area, and as a parent myself, I have a strong understanding of the benefits and challenges facing rural schools.

“I am looking forward to working with the whole team to build on the improvements already taking place, ensuring we provide every student with the necessary skills and qualifications to help them become the best they can be.

“I have high expectations and will underpin my leadership with the core values of student achievement, people and quality.

“This is a very special community and I am looking forward to developing the college into an outstanding education provider.”

The school’s governing body interviewed a number of candidates for the role across three days and were impressed with Mrs Parsons’ clear vision for the school.

Ann Denner, the college’s chairman of governors, said: “Sarah was the stand-out candidate and was able to demonstrate the high expectations required to secure the very best outcomes for our students.

“She is coming to our school with a record of real success behind her.”

Current co-principals Jim Ingham-Hill and Martyn Dudley will continue on as vice-principals alongside Matt White.

Mrs Denner added: “In stepping in to undertake the temporary principal roles over the last two years, they [Mr Ingham-Hill and Mr Dudley] have led the college in addressing some of the difficult budgetary issues faced by many schools in Devon at present, and the governing body is enormously grateful for their continued commitment.”