Jo Williams, who previously served as development head coach at the women’s club, will lead the school’s football programme for both boys and girls.

She will also take on the role of lead coach for the senior boys’ 1st XI.

Footballers at St Albans School (Image: St Albans School)

Joe Silvester, headmaster at St Albans School, said: "I’m delighted to welcome Jo to the school at such an important time for our football programme.

"She was an outstanding candidate in an exceptionally strong field, and we’re thrilled to have her on board.

"She will play a key role across the whole programme, coaching both girls’ and boys’ football and leading our Senior Boys’ 1st XI.

"Her appointment reflects our ambition to develop the game at every level across the school as we embark on this exciting new chapter."

(Image: St Albans School)

Williams helped develop Watford talent, with players going on to train with London Bees and Arsenal Under-21s.

She was also director of football at Charterhouse School.

"This is an exciting time to join the school," Ms Williams said.

"We have the opportunity to build the girls’ football programme from the very start, with ambitions for the school to become a talent hub for girls’ football in the independent sector.

"I want the girls to have the opportunity to develop new skills, with some potentially discovering football for the first time, in a positive environment where they can express themselves, build confidence and find a sense of belonging.

"I’m equally excited to be working across the whole football programme with both the girls and boys."

Jo Williams has a strong history in the women's game (Image: St Albans School)

Her coaching background includes working with an England U17 international, a senior Wales international, and a senior Albania international.

Williams began playing football at primary school as the only girl in her team.

She later played for Reading FC’s Centre of Excellence, Reading Girls FC, Team Bath and Bristol City while at university.

The school said Williams will help raise standards, increase participation and give pupils of all abilities the chance to develop and fulfil their potential.

Her appointment comes as the Lionesses inspire more girls to play football and the women’s game continues to grow.