A school in Horsham has welcomed a new headteacher.

Andy Burbidge, formerly headteacher of Banstead Infant School, has now joined as headteacher of Kilnwood Vale Primary School, also part of the GLF Schools Academy Trust.

Andy's connection to the local area runs deep. He joined Banstead Infant School in 2013 as assistant headteacher and Year 2 class teacher, became headteacher in 2018, and has spent the years steadily developing the school while staying anchored to its values and sense of community.

Two achievements stand out – launching the Banstead Acorns Breakfast & Afterschool Club in 2023, and introducing blended nursery provision for two-to-four-year-olds, both of which have made a real difference to families.

New Kilnwood Vale Primary School headteacher, Andy Burbidge. Picture contributed

placeholder image — New Kilnwood Vale Primary School headteacher, Andy Burbidge. Picture contributed

More recently, he has also spent a term as acting headteacher at Salfords Primary School.

He said: “I’m delighted to have joined Kilnwood Vale Primary School.

“My time at Banstead Infant School has given me a real connection to the community and I’m pleased to have hit the ground running at Kilnwood.”

Regional education director John Williams added: “Andy has made a significant and lasting impact on Banstead Infant School. He will be greatly missed, and we are very confident that he will be a success at Kilnwood Vale.”