CHILDREN have welcomed new headteacher Briege Ward to St Dominic’s Primary School.

Mrs Ward, 47, who took on the role this month, said the warm atmosphere at the Inchbrook school made a ‘marked impression’ on her from the moment she first visited.

“I have spent my first few days getting to know the children, the parents and the staff,” she said.

“The children have been keen to involve me from the outset and it is clear that they take great pride in their school.

“Their behaviour is truly outstanding and their attitude to learning exemplary.”

This is the first time Mrs Ward has stepped up to the role of headteacher, having previously worked as a teacher and deputy head at schools in South Gloucestershire and at the British School of Paris.

“St Dominic’s has a fabulous reputation and as we mark its 130th anniversary year I plan to continue the excellent work of previous headteacher Maggie Smith, who has left us with such a strong legacy,” she said.

“I have inherited dedicated teachers and skilled staff and I plan to work closely with them all to ensure that the children continue to achieve their best.”

The Catholic school was founded in 1884.