THE new interim headteacher of the Basildon Academies has vowed to turn the schools round as they prepare for an imminent Ofsted inspection.

Bev Bell, who took up the post in November, said she had taken to her new role with passion and drive and wanted to get the very best from the students and staff at the troubled school.

Mrs Bell, who comes from Twickenham, south west London, has moved to Basildon to show her support in turning around the borough’s largest secondary school and give her all to her newest role.

She will be in post until July and if the Department of Education thinks the school is still vulnerable she has vowed to stay until autumn.

In her first interview with the Echo, Mrs Bell said: “I am totally committed to running the school to the best of my ability and getting it out of special measures."