ROBERT Karling has been appointed the new principal of King Edward V11 and Queen Mary School.

Currently the deputy head of Morrison's Academy at Crieff in Scotland, Mr Karling will take over from Mr Julian Wilde from September 1.

At Edinburgh University, he played in the rugby first 15 squad and gained an honours degree in history, before training as a teacher at St Luke's College, Exeter University. Mr Karling became resident tutor at King William College on the Isle of Man and subsequently was appointed head of sixth form and director of general studies at Ipswich School, Suffolk.

During his three years at Morrison's Academy, he has been involved in staff development and training, the induction of new staff, marketing and admissions as well as deputising for the head.

He has also become a master of business administration with distinction in educational management.

Mr and Mrs Karling and their two young sons are looking forward to moving to Lytham St Annes.

"I know that King Edward and Queen Mary School has long had a reputation for warmth and friendliness," said Mr Karling.

"I know that I am taking up my post at a very exciting time in the schools' history and I look forward to the challenge."

From September, all 625 senior students will be based on the King Edward campus and will enjoy the benefits of a multi-million pound building scheme due for completion in July.

John Bennett, chairman of Lytham Schools' Foundation said the board of governors was delighted with the appointment.

"Mr Karling has a breadth of experience in independent schools," he said.

"His wide range of academic administrative, cultural and sporting interests will ensure that our busy programme of work and activities is maintained at a very high standard."