PORTFIELD School has two new head teachers thanks to a new leadership model.

Greg Regan and Alison Casey, both formerly assistant heads, offer differing skill sets for the benefit of the special school, run by charity Autism Wessex.

"Adopting the joint headship model has allowed us to retain expertise and grow new leaders at the school" said Chief Executive Bob Lowndes.

"Both Alison and Greg have an enormous amount to offer and we felt it was the right decision to retain both individuals and benefit from all their combined strengths to lead the school together."

Alison, who is married with three children and lives in Christchurch, said: "Both Greg and I have worked at Autism Wessex for many years. Our continued service at the school in our new roles allows stability at a time of change and we look forward to our shared vision coming to fruition. It is a really exciting time for the school and both myself and Greg look forward to a bright and successful future."

Greg added: "This new structure is a positive strategy to build leadership capacity and enhance the experience of students. Both Alison and myself feel we can maximise our effectiveness, playing to both our strengths for the benefit of the school, its staff and all our wonderful pupils. We are both very excited to have been given this opportunity."

Portfield School supports children and young people with autism and associated difficulties aged three-19 years. As an all inclusive school, Portfield welcomes Early Years pupils as well as children and young people with profound autism and those higher functioning pupils affected by Asperger’s Syndrome.