Alan Dane has been appointed as the new headteacher of The Forest High School in Cinderford, following the anticipated retirement of John Whitehead.

Alan, 45, was born in Kent and has been teaching for 20 years. He is a very experienced headteacher, steering Harris Academy Bermondsey, London, to an 'Outstanding' judgement by Ofsted. He then became head of Oasis Academy Brightstowe in Bristol, helping both schools to become popular with local families and inclusive of all young people.

He is a graduate from the University of Durham, where he studied theology, and he lives in Cardiff with his husband and two children.

Alan Dane said: "It is an honour and a delight to be the new headteacher of The Forest High School. I am really looking forward to getting to know the staff and students as soon as possible and to working with you in the years ahead to make this the best school it can possibly be for its students and for this community.

"We are now almost two years into the Covid-19 pandemic. The challenges it has caused young people and the pressures it has placed on schools show no signs of easing any time soon. Our students' safety and wellbeing will always be my overwhelming priority.

"But I am determined that the challenges and pressures of the pandemic do not stop our students getting the best teaching, the best support and the best opportunities."

Nigel Johnson, chair of SGS Academy Trust, which oversees the school, said: "We were fortunate to have several high-quality, experienced, senior leaders who applied for this post. Alan was unanimously chosen by the selection panel at interview because of his experience, intellect and leadership style, which we believe is a perfect fit for The Forest High School.

"We are delighted that we have found a headteacher who shares our vision for the school and who can continue the improvements we have made at the school over the last six years."