THE new principal at Launceston College has said he is passionate about making sure it is “a school children love to attend”.

This September, Launceston College, which is part of the Athena Learning Trust, welcomed its new principal following the retirement of Jenn Burn after 15 years of service in the role.

Now, Mr Matthew Thompson has taken up the helm at the college and hopes to put his experience to good use.

Despite the new role and new challenges, Mr Thompson has a wealth of teaching experience and experience with the Athena Learning Trust. He was previously the regional director for Cornwall at Athena Learning Trust and has taught and trained teachers in China, Tanzania and the UK as well as teaching across the south of England.

Mr Thompson lives in Cornwall with his wife and young child. As principal he is planning to make his first appointment very soon — Bonnie the black Labrador, who will be joining him on site as the new school dog, hoping to help support students struggling during school time.

A spokesperson for Athena Learning Trust added: “Mr Thompson has committed to cultivating high expectations for extra-curricular engagement, a sense of community, academic success and sporting endeavour. He has already written to parents and carers outlining his future vision for the school and guaranteeing that communication with families will be constant and open going forward.”

Applications for secondary school places are now open and the deadline to apply is at the end of the month on October 31. Launceston College is also holding an open evening on Thursday, September 26, between 5pm and 8pm.

Mr Thompson added: “I have received such a warm welcome from the Launceston community and I am passionate about making sure this is a school children love to attend. I want them to feel a strong connection to the school and will be working tirelessly to ensure they receive the high quality education they deserve.

“I very much value our relationship with parents and carers – a strong partnership with families is absolutely essential to children’s successful educational journeys.”