NEW staff members have been welcomed at Prince Henry’s Grammar School.

Eighteen teaching and associate staff, covering subjects including Science, Maths, Modern Foreign Languages, Geography and Business, have joined the Otley school.

Associate Headteacher Judith Nelson said: “Our new staff will enhance our existing, excellent team and help us meet the needs of our growing school.

“With such a large Year 7 intake this year we have had to increase staffing in some areas.

“It’s an exciting time for Prince Henry’s as we take our new Multi Academy Trust forward while maintaining our close-knit local community.

“All our new colleagues are looking forward to meeting everyone, beginning with our upcoming Open Evening.”

Prospective Year 7 students for September, 2019 and their parents are invited to a 6pm to 8.30pm open evening on Monday, October 1 that will include displays and taster lessons.

Prince Henry’s added 25 more Year 7 admission places this year to cope with unprecedented demand.

The move helped resolve a problem that involved 19 children at Bramhope Primary School and three at Pool C of E Primary initially failing to secure a place at the Otley school.

Prince Henry’s is seeking to secure funding for additional classrooms to meet future demand.