A SCHOOL named one of the best comprehensives in Wales has appointed an "executive leader".

Ysgol Calon Cymru, which replaced the former high schools in Builth and Llandrindod Wells, and is based on their two former sites has been without a headteacher since April.

But Powys council has now announced Janet Waldron will become its executive leader from January 2020 and will join the school’s existing senior leadership team.

Last week the Sunday Times named Ysgol Calon as the joint seventh best state secondary school in Wales based on the most recent set of GCSE and A level results.

Miss Waldron, is the former headteacher of Pontarddulais Comprehensive School, near Swansea and was named Headteacher of the Year at the 2018 Professional Teaching Awards Cymru and is an Associate of the National Academy for Educational Leadership in Wales.

The teacher, who also has an MBE and is currently working as a "challenge advisor" to Swansea council, said: "I have always been passionate about education, helping guide pupils to achieve their potential while supporting school staff and fellow headteachers in their professional development.

“This is an exciting opportunity and I look forward to working with staff, pupils, governors and the wider school community to improve the education outcomes for our learners.”

Lynette Lovell, Powys council’s Interim head of education, said: "I’m delighted that the council and the school’s governing body has secured Janet’s services.

"Janet has proven leadership qualities and experience in a secondary school setting and is held in high regard across Wales. She will be a great asset for Ysgol Calon Cymru and I look forward to working with her in her new role."

Sharon Hammond, chair of governors for Ysgol Calon Cymru, said: “We’re thrilled to have Janet joining our senior leadership team. Her experience and leadership will be of huge benefit as we work together to ensure that Ysgol Calon Cymru goes from strength to strength.

“Governors would like to thank the senior leadership team, led by Steve Patten and Lee Powell in their roles as acting heads, for their hard work and professionalism during the interim period as we continue to move our new school forward."