When I left my position in Durham, I never imagined I would be writing a contribution to the Friday Flyer again. As my name suggests, however, I am hefted to the North East and I am thrilled to be coming to this fantastic set of schools in this wonderful city. While I know and am known to some parts of the Foundation, I am particularly excited to see how DCSF has grown and developed since its creation and to get to know the pupils, parents, and staff.

Since I left, I have been Head of a coeducational boarding school and am currently the Executive Head of a group of selective, urban day schools, and my work has focused on guiding two very different institutions through periods of challenge and change to ensure they are fit for the future.

In becoming Principal of DCSF, the attraction of the position was obvious: the Schools offer a superb education in and outside the classroom, supported by outstanding pastoral care built on an almost thousand year relationship with the Cathedral. The amazing location of the Schools is unique. I have a passion for the strong MARK values, the educational provision and achievement, the shared Cathedral foundation with Durham School and Choristers, the warm and vibrant community, and the affection for the Schools is clear from everyone.

The biggest attraction, however, is the culture of this very special community - warm, fun, with a sense of values and a real heart. The Foundation is truly distinctive and, for me, is at its most impressive in its pupils, their achievements, and their recognition that they must invest in their own education and the relationships that support it.

In coming to Durham, I will have custodianship of a very special place and people and want to build on what Kieran McLaughlin has achieved here, strengthening the Foundation, and ensuring DCSF's long-term success, growth, and development continue. It will be my privilege to bring the skills and experiences I have gained over the last 25 years to the service of Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation.

Dr Alderson