Warwick Academy’s deputy head Dave Horan will take over from Maggie McCorkell in September 2016.

The decision was announced by the school’s board of governors today.

Mr Horan said he was “honoured, delighted and humbled” to be offered the position.

“I believe that by building relationships with all our stakeholders — students, staff, parents, alumni, our donors and wider community — we can continue to grow the school as an outstanding educational establishment,” he added.

“I am driven by a collaborative and innovative approach to achieve the very best for our students. I look forward to the challenges ahead and believe we are well equipped to handle them and maintain our leading position in Bermuda and internationally.”

The decision to appoint Mr Horan, who has worked at Warwick Academy for eight years, was welcomed by Ms McCorkell, the departing principal.

“The announcement of my successor at this time puts us in the enviable position of having the next 14 or so months to effect a smooth and seamless transition of leadership,” she said.

“Mr Horan has all the skills required to take this wonderful school from strength to strength, and has my total support.

“I wish him all the success in his new role and I am confident that, under his leadership, student welfare and progress will remain the highest priority for Warwick Academy”

Mr Horan’s experience includes 17 years in teaching and administration at independent private schools in South Africa, Britain and, most recently, Warwick Academy.

He has had prior leadership experience as deputy principal in charge of curriculum and as head of secondary, responsible for staffing, strategic development, admissions, pastoral care and financial planning.

Colin Smith, the board’s chairman, said: “We expect the transition to be one of stability, progress and ultimately a very positive experience for our WA family.

“We are fortunate to have such a dedicated faculty and staff at Warwick Academy who continue to focus their attention on the one and only thing that really matters: placing our students at the centre of learning.

“Dave has embedded in his core a passion for students and an energy that ignites his pupils’ most creative strengths, whether it be in academics, sports, theatre or music.”