A SECONDARY school that was rated 'inadequate' by Ofsted has named its new headteacher.

The Oxford Academy is in the midst of improvement plans, following poor feedback from Ofsted in January.

It is currently being led by interim head David Terry, but Nora Ward has been appointed as permanent headteacher to take over in September.

Mr Terry will continue leading the school until then, along with members of an 'interim academy board'.

In a letter sent last week, the board's chairman Tony Wilson said: "Mrs Ward was appointed from an incredibly strong field of candidates following a rigorous selection process and brings with her a wealth of experience from schools across the UK."

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She is currently head of school at Christ the King College on the Isle of Wight, and was described in its latest Ofsted report as someone who leads 'with spirit, determination and compassion'.

In response to her appointment, Mrs Ward wrote in the letter: "I am determined that the school builds a lasting legacy for aspiration and excellence and maintains its position at the heart of the community.

"This will require hard work, but I am certain that all at the school are up for the task."

Mr Wilson said in the next few months, Mrs Ward will visit The Oxford Academy and work closely with Mr Terry to ensure a smooth transition. He added: "I am grateful for Mr Terry’s continued excellent work as interim headteacher.

"I am convinced that the improvements he has made, is making and will make provides a superb foundation for our new headteacher to build on."

Parents will have the opportunity to meet Mrs Ward at a forum next week.

The River Learning Trust, which runs about 20 Oxfordshire schools, is supporting the academy to guide improvements.