THE head teacher of Poole’s Montacute School has been selected for a top role supporting schools in challenging circumstances.

Andrew Mears is one of only 95 heads to be appointed, in the latest recruitment round, to the role of National Leader of Education (NLE).

Mr Mears said: “This is yet another recognition of the hard work that all at Montacute undertake and the high standards that we try to maintain.”

NLEs use their experience, along with the staff in their schools, to support struggling schools or those in transition to federation or academy status.