There will be a new head teacher at Kent College Prep School in Pembury in the New Year.

The current deputy head, Salli Hall, is moving up to take on the head's role from January.

Mrs Hall joined Kent College in 2008 and has been the deputy head for the last three years.

She will replace Nik Pears who is moving to take on the headship at St Michael’s Prep in Otford after nearly five years at Kent College.

Mrs Hall said: “I am absolutely delighted! I feel so excited about the future of this very special place."

Kent College headmistress Julie Lodrick said: "The school undertook a rigorous appointment process to ensure that the Prep School

continues to provide an outstanding holistic education and where the children are nurtured to grow and be themselves."

She said: "We all felt that Mrs Hall had the necessary experience, enthusiasm and commitment to lead the Prep School and be a wonderful role model for the pupils.

Kent College Preparatory School - the independent sector's equivalent to a primary school - is to become co-educational by September 2027.

The senior school remains girls only.

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