The outgoing Principal of King William's College feels the introduction of the International Baccalaureate has put the school at the forefront of independent education.

The diploma, an alternative to A-Levels which enables students to take a broad range of subjects, was brought in by Philip John.

He has announced he will be leaving at the end of the summer term, after eight years in the post, to become head teacher of Gresham's School in Norfolk.

Mr John (pictured) says the IB has benefited King William's in terms of attracting boarders from overseas, enhancing its international reputation and improving students' academic achievements: