A HEADTEACHER has admitted there could be a tear shed on his final assembly as he calls time on 18 years at the helm of one of Bournemouth’s largest schools.

Today is Alistair Brien’s final day at Bournemouth School for Girls, ending a three-decade association with the institution.

Mr Brien, who first joined the school in 1998 as deputy headteacher, told the Daily Echo: “It is a mix of emotions. Clearly, I am sad and no doubt there might be even tear when it comes to final assembly.

"It has been very much a way of life and I will be sad to leave but also a sense of satisfaction with I think a job well done.

“We are coming to end of a chapter if you like in the life of the school, so it is right to move on.

“I am also excited to about the future as well.”

His final few weeks have seen some notable events with the opening of The Olivia Burt Design and Technology Suite, named in memory of the former head girl who died in tragic circumstances while at university, and unveiling of The Brien Building, which is home to improved sporting facilities.

Mr Brien said he is proud of the influence he has been able to have in making BSG a kinder place and an opportunity for young people to develop and be ready for the next steps in life.

Bournemouth Echo: Alistair Brien opens The Brien Building at Bournemouth School for Girls. Picture: Richard CreaseAlistair Brien opens The Brien Building at Bournemouth School for Girls. Picture: Richard Crease

He added: “It does become a way of life and I am really proud of what we have been able to achieve here in those 24 years. Certainly, it becomes a very long-term commitment and I think it is important as a headteacher that you provide that long-term stability.”

Mr Brien will be replaced by current deputy headteacher David Sims.

Asked for any advice he has given his successor, Mr Brien said: “I know he is going to do a brilliant job.

“It is when you come to decisions, gather all the evidence.

“I think that is something I learnt early on in my career.

“Don’t get bounced into doing what you think others want you to do and, ultimately, do what you think is the right thing to do and that is what I think leadership is about.”

Mr Brien, who is a member of the magic circle, is looking for “fresh challenges”.

Bournemouth Echo: Alistair Brien is also a magicianAlistair Brien is also a magician

He said he has started doing magic acts for ex-sixth formers at their weddings and from September he is training as a celebrant for the role of leading funerals, weddings and naming ceremonies.