BERKHAMPSTEAD School in Cheltenham has appointed a new head teacher.

Richard Cross is returning to Cheltenham to take the helm in September, replacing Tim Owen who left in January.

Mr Cross currently teaches at Blundell's Prep School in Devon where he has been deputy head teacher..

Before that he was head of maths and ICT, and subsequently director of studies, at Malvern College Prep School.

Mr Cross spent five years as product-marking manager with Linotype in Cheltenham before going into teaching.

He said: "I'm delighted to be joining a school with such a happy community spirit and that has a superb academic success alongside great accomplishment in music, sport, art and drama."

Mr Cross says he is passionate about sport and is an enthusiastic rugby player and cricket coach.

He loves cycling and recently completed a charity ride from John O'Groats to Land's End.

He is also a keen musician, a trumpet player and tenor.

A father-of-two, his own children will also start at Berkhampstead in September.

Chairwoman of Governors Rowena Hope said: "After 14 years as head of Berkhampstead, Mr Owen had been seeking a new challenge and has been appointed head of Manor Lodge School in Hertfordshire with effect from September 2010.

"In view of his long and dedicated service to the school, the governors gave Mr Owen special leave so that he could prepare for his new post and organise his move to Hertfordshire."

Berkhampstead School, in Pittville Circus Road, was founded in 1945 by Edna Andrews when her doctor husband tragically died in his early 40s, leaving her with two young children, a large house and garden.

Her love of children, teaching and music, combined with her need to support her young family, led Edna to found the independent school in her home.

Mrs Hope added: "Mr Cross's appointment was the result of a nationwide search that took into consideration input from governors, teachers, administrative staff and met with pupils.

"Following a rigorous three-day selection process, the decision was unanimous. The governors agreed that Mr Cross stood out as the right person to lead the school. He brings with him drive, vision and enthusiasm necessary to build on this exceptional school's successes, while retaining its unique, happy and positive atmosphere."

The school, which caters for children from four to 11 years, held an open day on Saturday giving Mr Cross the chance to meet children and their mums and dads.

He said: "I met prospective parents and existing parents. We're looking forward to the next stage."