A NEW chief executive is being sought by the organisation that runs two Hampshire schools.

Alan O'Sullivan has stepped down after a decade with the Gryphon Trust, which runs the Arnewood and Eaglewood schools in New Milton.

Mr O'Sullivan became a governor of Arnewood in 2009 and a director of the trust when it was created in 2011. He has been chief executive for the past four years.

A Gryphon spokesperson said: "His tenure has seen consistent growth as well as a vastly improved school infrastructure and exam success, with excellent staff recruited.

"OFSTED reports for both schools during his time have been extremely positive and he leaves the trust in a strong position."

Nigel Himmel, head teacher of Eaglewood, added: "It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Alan over the last few years.

“Eaglewood has been on quite a journey during his time as CEO and Alan has played a key role throughout, from the construction of its brand new facility to supporting the leadership team through its successful first OFSTED inspection.

“His calmness under pressure and attention to detail has been key to helping make the school the success it is today.”

Arnewood head teacher Nigel Pressnell will take over the role until a replacement is found.

He said: “The recruitment process has been delayed because of Covid, but we’ll have a new chief executive for September.”

Arnewood, a former Foundation School with Technology College status, was the trust's first school.

Eaglewood, which opened in 2016, is for pupils aged between seven and 16 who are trying to overcome emotional and medical barriers to learning.