A national programme to find 'great headteachers to improve schools in need of support' has announced Norfolk as one of 10 areas to join.

The Talented Leaders Programme, run by the Future Leaders Trust, aims to recruit 100 heads across the areas, to help raise children's achievements.

It is targeting schools in coastal and rural regions, which often have problems recruiting leaders, and can be among the lowest performing schools in the country.

One Norfolk school, the Great Yarmouth Primary Academy, has already benefited from the charity's help. In April, the trust announced Craig Avieson as its first residency in the county. He has since become principal at the school.

James Joyce, chairman of children's services committee at Norfolk County Council, said: 'We know that recruiting talented and experienced headteachers can be a significant challenge in the county, particularly in some of Norfolk's more rural areas.

'Strong leaders inspire staff and pupils and help to ensure young people in their schools are able to fulfil their potential – that is why securing good leadership is so vital to a school's success.'

A spokesman for the Future Leaders Trust said the aim was not to sack existing heads, and it hoped to see recruits in place next September.

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