Wanstead High School is said to be in “very safe hands” after the announcement of a new headteacher.

Bob Hamlyn, who has been headteacher at Holloway School in Islington for 10 years, will start work at the beginning of the summer term on April 20.

Chris Van-Bussel stepped down from leading the Redbridge Lane West school after 11 years just a month into the new school year, saying in a statement the "time was right" for him to retire from teaching.

David Thorogood, chair of school governors, said the selection was made after a “rigorous” recruitment process.

He said: “We feel particularly fortunate as he brings with him a range of outstanding abilities gained from his many years senior experience in secondary education.

“In particular Mr Hamlyn has a very strong track record of raising expectations and academic outcomes for young people.

 “I know that our school will be in very safe hands and that under his leadership Wanstead will be able to continue to grow and develop into an excellent school, where all students receive the very best opportunity for a balanced and happy education that meets their individual needs.”

In his previous job at Holloway School, Mr Hamlyn improved the school's Ofsted rating from 'satisfactory' to 'good'.

Wanstead High is currently rated as ‘requires improvement’ in a 2013 Ofsted inspection and he said this will be addressed.

Mr Hamlyn, who will be paid in excess of £100K a year, said: “It is an honour and a privilege to have been appointed as the next headteacher of Wanstead High School.

“I have spent some time at the school over the past few weeks and I have been very impressed by the commitment shown by staff, students and governors.

“Whilst I am genuinely sad about leaving my current school, I know that Wanstead High School and the values for which it stands are well suited to my own ethos of aiming for excellence within a genuine community school setting.

 “I am passionate that no child loses out on such opportunities, and that we aim for the very best for each and every learner.

 “I am very much looking forward to helping to make Wanstead High School a truly outstanding school.”