The new headteacher of St Bees School has set out his hopes for the historic school which is set to re-open next September.

Jeremy Hallows has spoken about the work being carried out to ensure the school re-opens next year.

It follows the shock closure of the 432-year-old institution in July 2015.

Since then, a new board of trustees has been appointed and Full Circle Education Group has got on board to restore education.

Mr Hallows praised all those who have helped to keep the school on "life support" and says plans are being put in place for its reopening.

This week, interviews are taking place for the roles of director of finance and operations and marketing and admissions. These jobs, along with the headteacher, will make up the core senior leadership team.

Mr Hallows, who was head of the senior school at Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire, will take up his St Bees headship in September.

The father-of-four said: "It's a once in a career opportunity to come to a school that is leaving its hard times behind. It's a historic school with a very special place in the local community."

He said it is hoped a mix of local students and those from further afield will attend the school. Day pupils and boarding would be available.

"I want the heart and soul of the day pupils. International students gain so much being knitted into the community," he said.

By local and international students working together at school, it enables them to "be natural in working across borders and continents", he said.

Mr Hallows is keen to bring rugby and cricket and outdoor activities to the school.

The school is looking to initially take on pupils in Year 7, 9 and 12 with the hope of a 105 to 120 strong intake.

The hope is to ramp up students numbers in subsequent years.

Mr Hallows said the education landscape is "changing rapidly".

"We have to be distinctive," he said. "Some of the ideas are coming from Full Circle's practise and that is going to be a defining difference," he said.

He added: "We are putting new financial models in place and being realistic towards our fee levels and there is a promise of good quality of education."

A Foundation Day will be held at the chapel next September to mark the school's re-birth. This is set to become an annual event.