A Marske secondary academy is entering a new era as a new principal is appointed to head the school from September 2023.

Rob McGreal has been named as the new school principal for the Coast Road-based ̨��swag Academy Bydales, taking over from the previous head, Seana Rice, who has taken retirement.

Mr McGreal, who previously served as Senior Assistant Headteacher at Stokesley School, North Yorkshire, said of his new post:

“It is a great honour to take the baton from Seana and lead ̨��swag Academy Bydales as its next principal. As a member of the local community and an academy parent myself, I know from first-hand experience what a terrific job Seana and her team have done in creating a culture to be proud of.

“I've been fortunate to spend a few days in the academy over the last few weeks where both the students and staff have been very welcoming - demonstrating values that we will continue to aspire towards achieving. I'm very excited to get started in the role in September and continue the academy's excellent work of ensuring all our young people fulfil their potential.”

After completing his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at Durham University, Rob continued for another year, training to teach and qualifying as a Teacher of Maths in 2003.

The outgoing principal, Ms Rice, began working in her first leadership role at what was then Bydales School in 2005, later becoming principal in 2019. She has now chosen to take retirement to spend time and travel with her family after a 28-year teaching career.

When asked about moving on from ̨��swag Academy Bydales, she said:

“It has been an absolute pleasure to serve at Bydales. It is a close-knit community where the traditional values of kindness and hard work are at the heart of everyone.

“Our children value their education and are proud of our academy. Staff are passionate about ‘getting it right’ for the children, ensuring they are equipped with everything they need to succeed and thrive in life. They understand who the children are and seek to bring out the best in them by having the highest expectations of each and every one.

“I believe these are values that Rob will uphold and take the academy forward, from strength to strength. I wish him all the very best on the next step of the Bydales journey.”