THE all-woman team that will welcome a new primary’s first pupils has been unveiled.

Avonwood Primary, off Harewood Avenue, Bournemouth, and part of a multi-academy trust, will be led by head of primary Annie Dowling, supported by fellow teachers Emma Harper and Christina Gee.

The three will be in charge of the school’s first intake of pupils from next month – 32 reception age children divided equally into two classes called Hedgehogs and Rabbits.

Also joining the school are teaching assistants Lucy Burns and Amy Hunter and receptionist Kirstie Pethers.

Mrs Dowling, who has taught at five schools in three counties, said: “We are all looking forward very much to growing our team with the children, ensuring educational excellence and becoming a vibrant and integral part of a wonderful community.

“We’ve already hosted familiarisation visits for the children, with play, stories and sing-songs, and we have also visited nurseries across Bournemouth to learn about our new intake from nursery staff.

“We can’t wait to officially welcome them to Avonwood Primary in a few weeks’ time.

“Our new school also provides an ideal opportunity for parents to walk the children from home and back, which is great for everyone’s health and sense of wellbeing.”

Mrs Dowling was previously the deputy head at Courthill Infant School in Poole, where Miss Harper has also come from, with Miss Harper having taught there for 10 years.

Mrs Gee is a newly-qualified teacher from Winchester University.

Avonwood Primary is part of the Avonbourne International Business Enterprise Academy Trust, which also includes Avonbourne College, for girls aged 11-16, and Harewood College, for boys of the same age, as well as Avonbourne Sixth Form.

The school, which will take up to 60 pupils initially, is being built to meet demand for primary school places.

Executive headteacher, Debbie Godfrey-Phaure, said: “I am delighted to welcome on board Annie and her team to Avonwood Primary.”