The lease on the site of a school in Sidcup has been extended following concerns about its closure.

Benedict House School’s current site has been secured for the next 30 years after discussions with Bexley Council.

It comes as Mr Craig Wardle joins Benedict House, part of Chatsworth Schools, as the new head teacher.

Mr Wardle comes from Cleve House School in Bristol which he joined after being the head of a small prep school in Norfolk for 15 years.

Mr Wardle said: “Benedict House is an exceptional school with a unique family atmosphere where pupils thrive and are allowed to fulfil their full potential.

“This is a really exciting time for the School and I am thrilled to be part of the Benedict House community”.

Anita Gleave, Founder and CEO of Chatsworth Schools said: “We are delighted that Mr Craig Wardle has joined Benedict House School as the new head.

“Mr Wardle is committed to the values, ethos and distinctive feel of Benedict House and I believe he will be a real asset for the school.

"I know he will work tirelessly in the best interests of pupils and staff to enable outstanding futures for all.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank Andrew Forbes, the previous Head, for all his sterling work at Benedict House School and in particular congratulate him, all the teaching staff and the wonderful children of Benedict House for their recent achievement of the best 11+ results in the history of the school."

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