The new headteacher of Manningtree High School has been announced.

Sally Morris is set to take over in September from current principal Deborah Hollister, who is retiring after 18 years at the helm.

Mrs Morris is vice-principal at a Gloucestershire school and has held a range of management roles, including as acting headteacher.

A qualified chemistry teacher, part of the reason for Mrs Morris’ selection was Manningtree High School’s title of specialist science status held for a number of years.

In the past year the school, in Colchester Road, Lawford, has gone from requiring improvement by inspection body Ofsted to a rating of good.

It has also seen its best-ever GCSE results.

Emma Finney-Hewitson, chairman of the school’s governing body, said: “We interviewed a number of candidates and the governing body was wholly satisfied that Mrs Morris was the one to move us forward to outstanding and build on what Miss Hollister has successfully maintained throughout her years with Manningtree High School.”

Mrs Morris added: “I am honoured and delighted to have the opportunity to join Manningtree High School.

“I already know that I will be working with students and staff who are passionately committed to the school and to the highest standards in every aspect of education and care.

“There is such a good foundation here and so much talent – it will be very exciting to be a part of its successful future.”

The school, which is an academy is a founder member of the North East Essex Educational Partnership.