PUPILS and staff at a Teesside school have welcomed their new headmaster.

Alex Taylor has joined Red House School, in Norton, from Reading Blue Coat School, in Berkshire, where he was academic director.

He has taught sciences across the secondary age range, including biology and sports studies to A level and is also an A-level examiner and an inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

An advocate of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, having co-ordinated the scheme in previous schools, he is keen to continue his involvement at a practical level at Red House.

Sally Harris, chairwoman of the board of governors, said: "The board is delighted with the appointment of Mr Taylor and we are very much looking forward to working with him at what is a very exciting time for the school."

An extensive building programme has taken place on the nursery and infant school site and a programme of refurbishment carried out throughout the school, including the installation of a new technology suite and a refit to the art room.

Mr Taylor said he is keen to take on the challenge of steering the school into the future.

He said: "Red House provides children with a caring environment that allows each individual to grow and develop into confident and mature young adults who are equipped with the necessary skills and attributes to make their way in the world."