A former high-flying diplomat has been appointed as the new head of Portslade Aldridge Community Academy (PACA).

International development expert and Portsmouth deputy head Mark Poston will take up the role as principal at the Chalky Road academy.

It comes after current principal Katie Scott announced she will leave the school to take up a headteacher role in London.

Mr Poston previously headed up the Department for International Development (DFID) in Kosovo where he led the UK Government aid policy.

He has also headed up DFID in London and Islamabad, Pakistan.

Mr Poston speaking about his new role said: "Every child deserves an outstanding school experience where they are safe, where they love learning, where they can discover their passions and develop their wider skills, and where, above all else, they succeed.

"Great schools have an outstanding culture of aspiration, fascination, energy and enthusiasm, a culture which is owned by every member of the school community.

"That is my vision for PACA, and I look forward to working with our staff, students, parents, governors and Aldridge Education to continue PACA’s journey to outstanding."

Mr Poston, who has PhD in comparative studies in science education, is currently vice-principal of Milton cross Academy in Portsmouth, which is rated Good by Ofsted. Last year he was also voted "inspirational teacher of the year" by the school's students.

The former University of Oxford lecturer will be taking over from Ms Scott who is leaving to head up Langley Park School for Girls in London from September.

During her three-year tenure, Ms Scott oversaw the Aldridge Education academy's good Ofsted report in December 2016, after the academy had been rated requiring improvement in 2014 and 2012.

The report also highlighted an improvement in teaching, learning and assessment, and the good behaviour of pupils, as well as attendance. In 2017 a record number of primary school parents chose the school.

Rosalind Turner, chairwoman of governors at PACA, said: "I am delighted that we have found an excellent replacement in Mark Poston for our current Principal, Katie Scott, who has achieved so much in her three years at PACA.

"Mark comes with an excellent reputation as an experienced senior leader in education. He is committed to ensuring that all children can both enjoy and achieve in their time at the academy. His considerable track record in leading teams in international aid and development will bring a special perspective to unlocking the potential of all our students at PACA.

"We look forward to welcoming Mark to the school and the wider education community in Brighton and Hove."

PACA confirmed a date has not yet been set for Mr Poston's take over.

He will be school's fourth headteacher since the school converted to an academy from Portslade Community College in 2011.

The news comes in the same week sister school Brighton Aldridge Community Academy announced their new principal.