BEACON Hill Academy has appointed a new principal.

Mark Thorogood will take the reins as head of the Sedgley school in January 2020, having previously taught at schools in London and served as Head of Department, Assistant Principal and then Vice principal at schools in Birmingham.

Mr Thorogood said: “On visiting Beacon Hill and meeting the staff and learners, I knew instinctively that this was the school for me. I am incredibly excited about the future of Beacon Hill and the impact we can have on young people’s lives.

“It will be a challenge and a privilege to work in a school that has such obvious potential.”

Beacon Hill Academy, previously known as High Arcal School, was rated as 'good' in its most recent inspection by Ofsted and is one of four schools to be part of the Dudley Academies Trust.

Jo Higgins, Chief Executive of the Trust, said, “I am delighted to have Mr Thorogood join us in our mission to transform education in Dudley schools. He joins an academy that has some outstanding teachers and learners with a bright future ahead.

“We had some outstanding candidates apply for this role and I am confident that Mr Thorogood will make a hugely positive contribution to the academy and the Trust.

“I would also like to thank Mr Sukhjot Dhami for his dedication and commitment to Beacon Hill Academy as Interim Principal.”