WESTVILLE House School in Ilkley has welcomed a new head teacher from overseas.

Mrs Sarah White has joined the co-educational independent school from Belgium.

Adam Holdsworth, chair of Governors said: "We had an exceptional number of top calibre applicants and we are absolutely thrilled to have secured Mrs Sarah White who joins us all the way from Belgium. We couldn't fail to be impressed with over 13 years headship experience across Europe and the Gulf, coupled with her energy and warmth. We knew she was the perfect fit for Westville. Sarah firmly supports an inclusive child-centred approach to education, which is embedded in our Westville ethos, which my own children experienced at WHS many years ago. I look forward to supporting Sarah as she leads our school through the next chapter of development and change."

Mrs White is an IAPS member and ISI inspector and brings a wealth of knowledge across all areas. She is looking forward leading the school and becoming involved in the local community. She said: "I arrived in Yorkshire a few weeks ago and I have already begun to appreciate what a special place Westville House has in the lives and hearts of the people in Ilkley, the Wharfe Valley and wider area. It's my intention to lead the school with clear moral values and high standards, in a welcoming and nurturing family atmosphere. I look forward to getting to know each child and family in order to create a partnership which delivers memorable, formative experiences and high quality educational results for all children."

The school bid a fond farewell to outgoing school headteacher, Mrs Nikki Hammond in July after a successful six years.

She said: "I have wholeheartedly enjoyed my time at Westville House School. It has always felt like home rather than a place of work. I will miss everyone and the buzz that a busy, vibrant school brings and wish Mrs White every success."

A special presentation was incorporated into the end of year Speech Day. Mr Holdsworth noted: "On behalf of myself, the governors and families past and present, I would like to give thanks to Mrs Hammond for everything she has done for Westville. Nikki steps down after leading the school through a brilliant tenure and a final fantastic year of great successes to include a significant growth in numbers."