The Priory Learning Trust has announced a new headteacher will start at King Alfred School Academy in Highbridge from 1st September 2026.
Jess Lobbett, who is currently Headteacher at The Castle School in Thornbury, will take over from Dan Milford, who has led TKASA through a period of strong progress and stability. We reported here Dan is stepping down at the end of this academic year, bringing to a close nearly a decade at the school.
A spokesperson for The Priory Learning Trust says Ms Lobbett will help guide the school into its next phase of development, building on the strong foundations already in place, adding that she is committed to supporting the Trust’s ambition of delivering “a great education for every child.”
Ms Lobbett says she is particularly keen to strengthen links with families and the wider community, and will work closely with TPLT leaders and local primary headteachers to ensure young people across Highbridge, Burnham-On-Sea and surrounding areas continue to benefit from high‑quality education.
Speaking after her appointment, Ms Lobbett said she is “incredibly excited” to be joining the school community in September. She added: “I consider the opportunity to educate other people’s children as a privilege, bringing with it a huge responsibility to provide the best all‑round education possible. The children of today are the leaders of tomorrow and it is my ambition to ensure that we prepare all our young people for both success and happiness in their adult lives.”
Joe Docherty, Director of Secondary Schools at TPLT, said Ms Lobbett is “an incredible school leader with an outstanding record of ensuring all students have a great education,” adding that he looks forward to seeing the school “continue to go from strength to strength.”
Outgoing Headteacher Dan Milford also welcomed the appointment, saying he is “delighted” Ms Lobbett will be taking over.
“Having spent some time with her already, I am convinced she will make a really positive impact on both the school and the community moving forward,” he said. “We have made so many improvements over the last few years and I have no doubt that under her leadership it will continue to grow and improve, providing the children in our community with a first‑class educational experience.”
