As Mr Shearer steps down as Head of Sixth Form, he will be passing the baton to Mrs Nicholson, one of his former students. She will be supported by Mrs Lobb as Assistant Head of Sixth Form.

Gail Nicholson, pictured left, left King James for Teesside University where she studied a BSc in Criminology. Following graduation she enjoyed a long and successful career in the NHS and social care before training as a teacher.

Gail completed her teacher training at King James in the Health and Social Care Department and went on to work in a SEN school until February 2016 when a position became available at our Academy. At this point she joined us full time as a Teacher of Health and later, as Director of Learning for the Department.

"I feel very privileged to work at King James," Gail said. "This school is full of fond memories for me. The teachers had such a positive impact upon me as a young person and now I have the opportunity to do the same. Mr Shearer taught me for A' Level Business Studies and he was a well-respected and inspirational teacher. He has continued to provide me with guidance and support as a colleague since I returned to King James and it is an honour to step into his role as Head of Sixth Form. I hope to continue to lead the Sixth Form as successfully as he has done."

Katie Lobb takes up the position of Assistant Head of Sixth Form alongside Mrs Nicholson and we are confident that together they will make a dynamic team. Katie joined us six years ago as Teacher of Business Studies before stepping up as Director of Learning for the department.

She said, "I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with Gail. This is an exciting challenge and there are lots of things to look forward to, such as the arrival of our new Sixth Form building in September, which will increase the social and study spaces that we already provide."