Meet York’s newest headteacher

This is the man who will lead Joseph Rowntree School from next April.

David Hewitt will take over from Richard Crane, who leaves the New Earswick school to take up a new role in Durham in January.

School governors appointed David, who is currently the deputy head of Allerton High School in Leeds, after a two-day interview process.

He said: “I want every child to have the best possible start in life: this was at the heart of Joseph Rowntree’s mission.”

Leader with integrity

Chair of Joseph Rowntree School governors Dianne Gomery said: “We wanted to appoint someone who could build on and extend the school’s achievements gained over the past five years.”

He praised David’s “integrity and vision”, adding:

• In David Hewitt, we have found a leader with the commitment and integrity to guide the school and its community through the opportunities and challenges of the next decade.

Lynne Hardcastle has been appointed interim head teacher for the spring term.

Lynne is an experienced head who has led a number of schools and will ensure continuity and support for the school.

David and Lynne “will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition”.