Keisha Douglas has been announced as the next principal of the Berkeley Institute.

A Berkeleyite with more than 22 years’ experience in education, Ms Douglas replaces Phyllis Curtis-Tweed, who declared her resignation earlier this year to pursue another career opportunity.

She comes to the post having been the principal of Clearwater Middle School, and having served as acting principal at Berkeley.

Craig Bridgewater, the chairman of Berkeley’s board of governors, said the group was “elated” to report that Ms Douglas will become the school’s eighth principal after an “intensive and robust” recruitment. “In making this appointment, the board is confident that Ms Douglas has the requisite skills, educational qualifications and experience to professionally and enthusiastically discharge the function of principal in a manner that it is consistent with the mission and core values of the Berkeley Institute.

Ms Douglas holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Mathematical Sciences, and a Master of Arts degree in Instruction and Curriculum.

Yesterday, she described herself as “humbled and honoured” at her appointment — saying that it had come with “continued hard work, commitment, dedication and purpose for a life filled with service to public education”.

“I look forward to working with all Berkeley stakeholders, most importantly the board, the society, our teachers, support staff, students, parents and our wider community partners.

“Together, we will ensure that Berkeley forges ahead as a senior school with a rich heritage and tradition of excellence that prepares students for leadership and success in the local and global communities.

“I am eager to get to work within the knowledge that excellence is the expectation in everything we do.

“Nothing but your best is acceptable. If you are your best, then we will be the best.”

• To read the full statement issued by the school, click on the PDF under “Related Media”