ZARA Hubble welcomed pupils back to Northwood College this week in her new role as head.

Pupils and staff alike have been celebrating over the summer break a 100% A-level pass rate, with 50% of grades at A*- A, and the fact that more than 70% of the GCSE grades were at A* - A (or 9-7 equivalents).

“I am privileged to have inherited such an incredible school,” she said.

A teacher for 22 years, she she has been a proactive member of the school’s leadership team for the last three years.

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Her predecessor, Jacqualyn Pain, steps down, with the number of new pupils joining senior school this September higher than for ten years.

She has spent many hours over the summer holiday preparing for the start of the new academic year.

“I have met each member of staff individually since I began my induction,” she said, “and I am delighted to have been welcomed by a supportive, vibrant and warm community.

The new head has launched numerous initiatives at Northwood College over the past three years.