A NEW headteacher has been appointed at Unity City Academy, in east Middlesbrough.

Under the support of executive principal, Sue Hare, Richard Harrison has taken over as head of school with immediate effect.

This follows his predecessor, Patricia Towey’s appointment by UCA’s sponsor, the Academies Enterprise Trust (AET), to oversee 17 academies across the North of England.

Ms Hare joins UCA having worked in education on Teesside for many years, most recently as executive principal of Gillbrook and Eston Park Schools.

Mr Harrison has held the post of vice principal at UCA for the last nine years and will be supported by Emma Donaldson, as vice principal, and the current academy leadership team.

Mr Harrison, from Middlesbrough, said: “I am thrilled to be leading the academy in the next stage of its journey towards Ofsted ‘outstanding’ status and ask for the continued support of students, parents and the local community.

“All staff and students at UCA are grateful to Ms Towey for her strong leadership and many achievements over recent years.”