PRIMARY education in an area of Blackburn is starting a new chapter with the arrival of two new headteachers.

Fran Stevenson and Alison Smallridge are the new heads of Meadowhead Junior and Infant Schools in Mill Hill.

And they are looking forward to building on the neighbouring schools' close links and developing parental support.

Mrs Stevenson took over the helm at the Anglesey Street junior school in September after Janet Knight retired following 19 years in post.

But she was no stranger to the school, having taught there since 1990 and been assistant head for four years.

Mrs Stevenson, who was born and bred in the Mill Hill area, said her knowledge of and familiarity with the school and community is complemented by the fresh input of Mrs Smallridge, who has come to Shorrock Lane from the other side of Blackburn as acting head of Cedars Infant School.

Mrs Smallridge, successor to Glenys Purchase who also retired in summer, said: "With Mrs Stevenson already knowing the area, the children and parents, and me coming in with a fresh perspective, we make a good team."

Mrs Stevenson said: "We want to build on the good work that's already been started by the former heads.

"We want to develop the close links the two schools already have, which we are doing by organising joint events, such as having junior pupils coming down to watch infant school productions."

Engaging more closely with parents is a key priority for both schools too.

Mrs Stevenson, who lives in Mellor, said: "It's important that parents understand how their children are being taught, as it's very different to how they were educated."

Mrs Smallridge, who lives in Rossendale, added: "The first term has been hard work and hectic but we've been able to support each other, and we're really looking forward to developing our strengths as individual schools, and together."