The new headteacher of a Haverhill primary school which ‘requires improvement’ insists she has already seen enough evidence of better times ahead.

Karen Sheargold has praised the warm welcome she has received since joining Burton End Primary Academy from Kedington Primary Academy, which is rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Mrs Sheargold is aiming to repeat the success of Kedington at her new school, which received its disappointing Ofsted rating in September.

She said: “I needed a new challenge and I was looking for an exciting opportunity.

“I knew Burton End Primary Academy was the type of school I was looking for and having met the children, staff, parents and governors, I am delighted to have this chance to lead them.”

“I think the school needs to work far closer with its local community and our families have already been incredibly supportive and welcoming to me.

“At Burton End, there is a clear need for stability and consistency, but I can already feel a shift in the school.

“There is a positive learning environment and everyone is pulling in the right direction to give our children the education they deserve.”

Karen described her seven years at Kedington as a “special time” and said the school was in very good hands under her successor Matt Martin.