A SECONDARY school in Oxford has announced the name of its new headteacher.

Parents of pupils at The Oxford Academy in Littlemore were sent a letter last week, revealing Andrew Hardy has been appointed to take over as head in September.

He will take the post from Niall McWilliams, who has spent years leading the previously under-performing school to success.

Mr McWilliams announced earlier this year he was leaving, having been appointed managing director of Oxford United and cut down to a part-time role at school.

The letter, written by chair of governors John Putt, said: "It is with great pleasure that we are able to let you know that after two days of intensive interviewing last week, we were able to offer the headship of The Oxford Academy to Mr Andrew Hardy, who enthusiastically accepted it straight away.

"We are very fortunate to be in a position to appoint someone with so much relevant experience, including headships in Luton, Birmingham and Bristol.

"Mr Hardy is able to take up the position in September so there will be no need for interim arrangements.

"We hope you will join us in welcoming Mr Hardy in September. Thank you for your continued support."

The school in Sandy Lane West teaches more than 1,600 youngsters.