AN academy in Essex has announced a new head of school will start the role in September.

Kath Bellchambers takes the job at New Rickstones Academy, in Witham, following the death of Simon Gibbs, who was principal from September 2021.

He was found dead after going missing during a holiday with friends in France, in February.

Mrs Bellchambers led the school alongside co-principal Adam Wilding following the tragedy.

She has been a mainstay in the senior leadership team at New Rickstones for nearly seven years.

Her position as deputy head spanned five of those years.

Mrs Bellchambers will bring to her new role a wealth of expertise in teaching, learning and curriculum.

She will receive support from AET executive principal Michelle Hughes, who will maintain overall strategic leadership across the New Rickstones and Maltings academies.

Mrs Bellchambers said: "I am honoured and excited to take on the role of head of school at New Rickstones Academy.

"Having served as deputy headteacher here for the past 5 years, I have a good understanding of our school community and the opportunities and challenges we face.

"Having worked exceptionally closely with Mr Gibbs, I am able to build on the strong foundations already in place and honour his legacy.

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to lead a talented and dedicated team."

AET regional education director Johanna Thompson said: "We are so pleased to be appointing Kath as head of school and have every confidence that under her leadership, New Rickstones will continue to provide an excellent education to our young people.

"Kath and Adam have worked tirelessly to support students and staff over the past few months, and we all owe them a debt of gratitude for showing such resilience and care for the whole school community throughout this difficult time.

"I also want to acknowledge and thank the wider New Rickstones community for how they have pulled together and supported each other in the wake of Simon’s tragic death."