A new headteacher has taken over at a Bury St Edmunds prep school, after nearly two decades of service. 

Sarah Catchpole has taken the reins as head at South Lee Prep School in Nowton Road after more than 18 years in various roles including; acting head, deputy head and designated safeguarding lead.

Ms Catchpole, who has lived in Bury St Edmunds her whole life and attended Thurston Primary, Beyton Middle and Thurston Upper School, said: "I was thrilled to be offered the headship of South Lee Prep School. I have been here for many years, and I know what an amazing school it is.

"I always say to parents on tours that South Lee Prep is a happy school. It is a warm and vibrant place with lots of fantastic learning on offer for the children.

"In particular, I am really excited about the STEM curriculum which demonstrates that the school is providing the most up to date, high quality and innovative teaching and learning necessary for today's fast paced world." 

She said she is dedicated to "continuing to work hard to ensure academic excellence" as well as promoting the arts, music, sport and the wellbeing of pupils.

"What is so wonderful about South Lee Prep is the fact that the children are still able to be children," she said.

"There is a spontaneity of kindness and a generosity of spirit amongst the children at South Lee. Such things only grow so well in the care of such amazing teachers and all the support staff who work at the school.

"There is a sense of belonging among the staff and an attachment to the children that is abundantly evident when you see them interact with the children.

"I am hugely privileged to be offered this position, and I am eager to continue our relationships with local state schools and the wider community," she added.

Ms Catchpole, a mother of three, studied in Norwich for her degree and PGCE and recently achieved her National Professional Qualification in Headship.

She has also been selected from over 900 applicants to be an inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

She is offering tours at South Lee Prep School’s open morning on October 11 from 9am to 12pm. 

Visitors can book online or for a private tour on a different day contact the school via admissions@southlee.co.uk or on 01284 754654.