New principal for Portslade academy

Mark Poston will join PACA as principal in September

Mark Poston, currently vice principal at Miltoncross Academy in Portsmouth, will succeed Katie Scott, who is leaving the academy to take up a new position as headteacher of Langley Park School for Girls in London.

Mr Poston is a qualified science teacher with a PhD in Comparative Studies in Science Education. He worked for ten years with the Department for International Development, including roles in Kosovo, Jerusalem and Islamabad, before focusing on teaching roles in London, West Sussex and Portsmouth.

In his current school, which is rated 'good' by Ofsted, his role has included leading the maths, English, technology and computer science/ICT departments; quality assurance; and teaching maths. Last year the school’s students voted him their 'inspirational teacher of the year'.

Current principal Katie Scott is leaving to take on a London school

Rosalind Turner, chair of governors at Portslade Aldridge Community Academy, said: "I am delighted that we have found an excellent replacement in Mark Poston for our current principal, Katie Scott, who has achieved so much in her three years at PACA.

“Mark comes with an excellent reputation as an experienced senior leader in education. He is committed to ensuring that all children can both enjoy and achieve in their time at the academy. His considerable track record in leading teams in international aid and development will bring a special perspective to unlocking the potential of all our students at PACA.

“We look forward to welcoming Mark to the school and the wider education community in Brighton and Hove.”

Mr Poston said: “Every child deserves an outstanding school experience where they are safe, where they love learning, where they can discover their passions and develop their wider skills, and where, above all else, they succeed.

"Great schools have an outstanding culture of aspiration, fascination, energy and enthusiasm, a culture which is owned by every member of the school community.

"That is my vision for PACA, and I look forward to working with our staff, students, parents, governors and Aldridge Education to continue PACA’s journey to outstanding.”

A new principal was also announced for Brighton Aldridge Community Academy (BACA) this week. Read more here.