YORK'S Ebor School has started the new term by welcoming a new head teacher.

Susan Ratcliffe, previously head at Castle Junior School, in Knaresborough, took up her new job at the independent school last week.

She has a wealth of experience, having previously been head of Sutton-on-the-Forest Primary School for eight years.

Mrs Ratcliffe has education degrees in music, religious studies and further research in the teaching of science.

She plays both the piano and trombone, and intends to build on the well-established musical strengths of the school.

Ebor School, the junior school for Bootham, began the last school year by moving to new premises in Rawcliffe, and has seen its numbers increase rapidly.

Mrs Ratcliffe said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to join one of York's most popular independent prep schools. The facilities are superb, the setting is perfect, but most of all I am delighted to be working in such a friendly environment. I believe that the Quaker values which are espoused at Ebor and at Bootham give both schools their special character and atmosphere."

Current parents will have their first formal opportunity to meet her at an evening event planned for September 17, while anyone interested in finding out more about the school is welcome to go along to an open afternoon on November 6, at 2pm. Mrs Ratcliffe said she will be pleased to meet parents who wish to look round the school. An appointment can be made by phoning 01904 655021.

Updated: 14:12 Thursday, September 11, 2003