The headteacher of Central Pendle Academy will be stepping down from her role at the end of the month.
Mrs Janet Walsh, who has been at the forefront of the academy, formerly known as Colne Primet High School, since 2001, will be taking on a new post in Lancaster.
She has seen the school convert to academy status under the sponsorship of Nelson and Colne College, but as The Education Trust embarks on a new transformation programme for the school she has decided to hand over the reins.
The Trust has appointed senior manager at Nelson and Colne College Anita Ghidotti as Executive Principal of the academy, and an acting head will be appointed from within the school.
Talking about her departure Mrs Walsh said: “I am pleased that I was able to be part of the conversion to Central Pendle Academy and feel confident that the academy has a very positive future in its new status.
“I am, of course, very sorry to leave pupils and staff, and will always have very happy memories, but as the school embarks on such an exciting new beginning, I think the time is right to allow others to take on the innovation which is planned. I wish my colleagues every success.”
The announcement of Mrs Walsh’s move has sparked many messages of support from staff, governors and pupils - who have said she will be “sadly missed”.
Nelson and Colne College Principal Amanda Melton said: “I have immense admiration for Janet Walsh and her staff in overcoming the disappointments which the school has faced resulting from the withdrawal of the Building Schools for the Future programme, which would have seen a new environment for pupils. The College and Education Trust are committed to revitalising the academy and ensuring that its pupils have the best possible opportunity to succeed.”
And Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson added: “I have always found Janet a very good and engaging headteacher, who I have worked closely with over recent years.”
The transformation programme for the academy intends to apply Nelson and Colne College’s Outstanding practices to ensure that pupils receive the best possible education.
The new vision for the academy will be shared with pupils, parents and families of future pupils at a series of events in January and February.