TWO schools in Downend have welcomed new head teachers for the start of the new academic year.
Edward Huxley is the new head of Christ Church Junior School, taking over from Pippa Osborne, who stepped down in the summer.
Karlina Lock is the new head of Stanbridge Primary School, taking over from David Payne.
Both have come to Downend from Fonthill Primary Academy in Southmead, where Mrs Lock was the head teacher and Mr Huxley was the assistant head teacher.
Mr Huxley has a background as an engineer and worked in the church before teaching at a number of schools around Bristol.
He said: “I am so pleased to have joined Christ Church Juniors, and to have started working with the team, meeting the wonderful children and families and getting to know the team at Christ Church Infants, the Church and wider community.
“I was drawn by the clear vision that is rooted in Christian values and the close partnership with Christ Church Infants and the church.
“I look forward to continuing to welcome everyone into our school as well as reaching out to our community.”
Christ Church Infants head teacher Anna Martin said: “I am thrilled to be welcoming Mr Huxley to the Christ Church schools family and am looking forward to developing our already established relationship even further.”
Mrs Lock said: “I am delighted to be joining Stanbridge as head teacher and feel incredibly privileged to become part of such a welcoming community.
“Alongside my work in education, I am also involved with Papaya Talks, an organisation that works with schools and families to promote healthy relationships with technology and support children’s well-being in an increasingly digital world.
“What has already stood out to me is the strong sense of community here. I have been warmly welcomed by pupils, staff and families, and I am excited to get to know everyone over the coming months.”
“I am passionate about ensuring that every child feels safe, valued and inspired to achieve their very best.”