A SCHOOL in Verwood is “delighted” to have appointed a new headteacher.

Hillside First School has announced Dave Graves as their new headteacher.

Mr Graves has been working in Dorset schools both in the classroom and as a senior leader for the last 13 years and was most recently deputy headteacher at Parley First School.

His plans for the school include creating new sporting opportunities, and using the grounds to provide more outside learning.

Mr Graves said: “Above all we want the children to be happy, in a nurturing and supportive school environment.

“We want them to believe in themselves, know that we believe in them too and to have big dreams; with hard work and a good plan anything is possible.

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“We want to foster entrepreneurialism, teamwork and collaboration and to give them confidence to present to their class in a way that will help prepare them for the future.”

The appointment will see Mr Graves become a part of the Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT).

Liz West, CEO of WAT, said: “We are delighted to have secured Dave as headteacher of Hillside.

“He has plenty of experience at teaching and in leadership roles in schools and brings experience from outside the education sector.”