A NEW acting head has taken over at The Kings School Worcester after long-term head Gareth Doodes stepped down after four years.
The school said Mr Doodes had decided to take a year away from the school leadership to focus on his professional development and undertake some consultancy work before returning to a leadership role elsewhere. He has been replaced by Dr Alison Oliver.
He added he had ‘thoroughly enjoyed his time at King’s and wishes to thank you all for your wonderful support over the past four years’.
Dr Oliver has been a member of the foundation leadership team at the school for six years and senior deputy for two.
She was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the senior school.
A graduate of English and American Literature from Warwick University, Dr Oliver said she was convinced of the importance of education and learning.
She completed an MSc in Educational Leadership in 2015 and a Doctorate in Education in 2022.
She said: “It is a great honour to be taking on this pivotal role in an acting capacity, and I am looking forward to what promises to be a particularly exciting autumn term here at King’s.
“I am very grateful for the support of all the leadership team and especially the heads of our prep schools, Tom Butt at King’s Hawford and Nick Hawker at King’s St Alban’s.”
The Governors said they were very pleased to announce Dr Alison Oliver will be Acting Head, for the interim period.
Pat Preston, chair of governors said “We are delighted that Dr Oliver will be heading the School.
“She has enormous experience, a considerable knowledge of the School, and is a hugely respected educator.
“She will continue to lead the School, maintaining our excellent academic achievements and our vision and values, until a permanent head is appointed.”
