A NEW principal has taken the helm at one of Bournemouth’s most improved schools.

Mark Avoth has now taken up the post of principal at the Bourne Academy in East Howe and has been officially welcomed to the new role by Bournemouth West MP Conor Burns.

Mr Avoth was formally the principal of Avon Valley College in Salisbury and succeeds Jackie Steel at the East Howe academy.

Under Ms Steel’s leadership, standards at the academy improved enormously, with a large rise in the GCSE pass rate and a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted.

In his introductory letter to parents, Mr Avoth said he intended to build upon recent improvements to make the Bourne Academy one of the best schools in the country.

He said: “My vision for the Bourne Academy is to continue to provide a genuine learning environment where everyone can work together to achieve their full potential both in their academy and personal development.

“My aim is to lead a community of learners who enjoy the ability to think creatively, critically and innovatively and who possess a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty for the Academy and the wider community.”

Mr Burns said: “I would like to wish Mark every success in his new role as principal of the Bourne Academy. I am confident he will build on the firm foundations and lead the academy from ‘Good’ to ‘Outstanding’ in their Ofsted rating.”