Ivy Lane Primary School’s new headteacher Chris Cannings is a familiar face at the Chippenham school – he has been a deputy headteacher there for five years.

Previous head, Chris Marshall, retired at the end of the summer term.

Mr Cannings said he is committed to maintaining the school’s high standards.

“Ivy Lane was praised in its latest Ofsted report for offering the children many opportunities in the arts and culture. We intend to build on these strong foundations and whilst we aim to have a strong focus on English and maths, we will also be developing new opportunities for our pupils to explore a wide range of learning including use of technology and out-of-class learning in science and other subjects.”

Mr Cannings will be supported by a new senior management team at the school.

Deputy headteacher Steven Rafferty has relocated from Manchester to take up his new post in Chippenham.

Assistant headteacher is Anna Lawrence, and the school’s business manager is Jill James.

Chair of governors Ian Fewtrell said he is delighted to welcome Mr Cannings to his new role.

He said: “We are grateful for Mrs Marshall’s hard work and inspiration. Now we are looking forward to an even brighter future with Chris Cannings and his team.”