THE governors of Westville House School have announced the appointment of a new head teacher.

Ian Shuttleworth will take up the reins of the independent Ilkley school on September 1, succeeding Rosey James.

Neil Brown, chairman of governors, said: “Ian Shuttleworth is a hugely talented professional and a passionate educator who epitomises the values and ethos of Westville House School.

“He was the unanimous choice of the Governors Appointment Committee and we look forward to welcoming into the school community and to working with him going forward.”

Mr Shuttleworth, married with two children, has held the post of deputy head at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School (QEGS) for six years and previously held positions at Birkdale Preparatory School and Bronte House.

In addition to his teaching credentials and management experience, Mr Shuttleworth has a tremendous sporting background, having played regularly for Otley RFC for ten years until 2009 and was Club Captain for a period of time. He is also a successful Central Yorkshire League Cricketer.

Along with the new head teacher, the school is set to launch its new website – westvillehouse school.co.uk – at its open day on Saturday.

William Whitaker, managing director of Whitakers Chocolates in Skipton and a former parent, will perform the official “switch on” for the school.

Mrs James, the current head teacher, said communication was very important between school, parents and the wider communities.

“Websites are an enormous source of information and are increasingly sophisticated,” she said. “It is essential in this fast changing world that we are at the forefront of technology and the exchange of information on all possible devices.”

Families are invited to visit the school on Saturday to meet the new head teacher, design Easter Eggs and see the facilities on offer at the school.

Everyone is most welcome to visit during open week. Call 01943 608053 for further details.