THE new headteacher of an island school has said he is looking forward to taking on the reins.

Ian Hockey has been announced as the new headteacher of Cornelius Vermuyden School, Dinant Avenue, Canvey.

He will take up the post from January after the retirement of the current headteacher, Carol Skewes.

Mr Hockey, from Rayleigh, said he is looking forward to taking on his new role next year and to the challenges ahead of him.

He said he is feeling excited about the appointment after experiencing a gruelling recruitment process.

He added: “The former headteacher Carol Skewes has left behind a fantastic legacy.

“It is a real honour for me to take up the role of headteacher at the school.

“Canvey is a unique community and I want to make sure that we keep it central to everything that we do at the school.

“I want to see first-class quality education provided for all the students who come to our school.

“This will help make sure they are able to leave with a wealth of opportunities open to them.

“I have been at the school as deputy headteacher since 2015 and worked for 14 years in East London schools.

“I am passionate about being a self improving school and working with our partners to achieve this.

“I have worked with Carol for some time, so think there will be a smooth transition.”

The new headteacher said he wants to see improvement in every aspect of the school to adhere to the needs of the students.

He was selected from 15 applicants after a rigorous two-day interview process.

Jeffrey Stanley, chair of governors of the school, said: “The staff and governors would like to congratulate Mr Hockey on his appointment.

“We are confident that Mr Hockey will be able to continue to improve the school and provide an outstanding education for students attending the Cornelius Vermuyden School.”

It was announced in July that Carol Skewes, the first female headteacher of the school, would be leaving to retire after 16 years.

She revealed to the Echo the school may look to expand, including the possibility of providing the first sixth form on the island at the school.

Mr Hockey declined to comment on any plans for a new sixth form.