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Andrew Cooper will take up his new job at Westcliff High School for Girls in September following the departure of current head Dr Paul Hayman.

Mr Cooper has 30 years’ experience in teaching and leadership in a wide variety of schools and has a strong track record of raising standards across schools.

He has also been appointed the chief executive officer of South East Essex Academy Trust, which currently includes the grammar school and three other schools.

He said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead both Westcliff High School for Girls and South East Essex Academy Trust and proud to lead a team of passionate, dedicated and talented staff and wonderful young people.

“It is a fantastic family of schools and I feel privileged to be able to play a part in the future success of children across south Essex from the age of three to 19.”

As a headteacher, Mr Cooper has successfully led three schools, including leading a grammar school to an outstanding Ofsted report. He has also been a chief executive for the past seven years, leading groups of schools with provision ranging from nursery to sixth form.

Murray Foster, trustees’ chair, said: “We are very pleased that Andrew is joining us. We are positive that the blend of his background and expertise and the strength already in Westcliff High School for Girls and across our multi-academy trust will prove a strong partnership and build a very bright future especially when our three additional schools join us this year as planned.”