THE deputy headteacher at Testbourne Community School will take over the headship in September, following the retirement of current head Hilary Jackson.

After three demanding days of activities and interviews, the governors, supported by Local Authority advisors, selected Ruth Beasley for the job running the school in Micheldever Road, Whitchurch.

Mrs Jackson said of her successor: “She is an outstanding teacher and understands what makes Testbourne tick and the special spirit of the school. She will provide valuable continuity, protecting what we value, but also leading the school forward to exciting times.”