A headteacher leaving Montem Primary School after a decade at the helm believes staff and students are set for an exciting new chapter.
In the same week that the Hornsey Road school retained its “good” status from Ofsted inspectors, headteacher Nicholas Tait bid farewell to staff and students on Friday.
The school is entering into a partnership with Drayton Park Primary School, with its skipper Damien Parrott taking up the role of executive headteacher of both schools from September.
Montem deputies Peachey David and Tom O’Donnell will take over as full time heads of the school, with Mr Parrott spending three days a week at Mortem and two days at Drayton.
Mr Tait said: “I’ve had the privilege of seeing some brilliant staff fulfilling the many and varied roles in a modern primary school. People willing to do whatever it takes to be successful. This dedication is reflected in our recent Ofsted inspection and in the results our children achieve.
“The people I will miss most are the remarkable and inspiring children and their families. Their commitment to their learning and ability to overcome challenges has never ceased to amaze me. I will remember them fondly and know they will go on to great things.
“The partnership with Drayton Park opens a new chapter for Montem. This will be a great opportunity for two good schools to work together to be even better.”
During the June inspection – Montem’s first since 2013 – Ofsted found that the school’s leaders were doing everything in their powers to tackle areas for improvement.
Teachers were lauded for helping disadvantaged pupils who need additional support in maths and writing, but the report concluded that one of the main aspects which will help the school improve further is for more of its students to read books outside of normal lessons.
In response to the Ofsted decision chair of governors Alain Desmier said: “I am so proud of all of our staff, our students and our families. Montem is a unique, welcoming place that is at the heart of our community on Hornsey Road.
“Our governing body has put the needs of our students at the heart of everything we do and we are proud to support and lead a ‘good’ school.”
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