John Linehan, pictured, who will be replacing Executive Principal Ian Evason, will take up his post in September.

John, who is currently Headteacher at Daubeney Academy in Kempston, will be joining with the school on the cusp of an exciting new future.

Robert Bloomfield is set to transition from middle school to secondary in 2025 as part of Central Bedfordshire Council’s Schools for the Future programme.

Mr Linehan said: “I am delighted to be joining Robert Bloomfield Academy and I cannot wait to get started.

“I strongly believe in the school’s values of Community, Excellence and Opportunity and my staff and I will live those values to provide the very best educational provision for children.

“My career to date has been spent in secondary schools, all of which have gone through periods of great change, so I have the knowledge and skills to ensure Robert Bloomfield transitions from a highly successful middle school into the outstanding secondary school in the local area and beyond.”

BEST Chief Executive Officer Dr Alan Lee said: “This is a historic appointment as John will become the first secondary principal of Robert Bloomfield Academy.

“I look forward with great anticipation to him and the existing SLT taking the school forward into two-tier.

“John’s wealth of experience and knowledge will be invaluable through the transition and I wish him the very best of luck in his new role.”

Chair of Governors Craig Smith said: “I am really pleased that John will be joining Robert Bloomfield Academy and congratulate him on his appointment.

“During the recruitment process John impressed students, staff, governors and trustees with his vision to lead the school through the significant change that is on the horizon.

“With the ongoing strength of all in the Robert Bloomfield community, the future for the school and for BEST is very exciting indeed.”