THE head teacher of Oxted School has decided to quit after 13 years at the helm, for personal reasons.
Stepping down officially ten days (August 31) ago, Guy Nelson said: "I am aware that this will be shock news for the students, parents and staff at the school and I have taken this decision with huge regret.
"I will greatly miss working with you all at school and wish you every success in the future.
"I know I am leaving Oxted School in a strong position to face up to any challenges in the future and I look forward to hearing of all your future achievements."
Through the determined leadership of Mr Nelson, the Bluehouse Lane school was rated "good" by Ofsted inspectors, following their visit in March 2013.
Staff and governors say they will continue their journey to an outstanding rating, and hope to "build on the hard work of all students, staff and parents in raising standards throughout the school".
Brian Taylor, chairman of the school's governors, said: "We wish Mr Nelson well and thank him for his contribution to the school over the last 13 years.
"I would like to assure parents that the governors are confident Oxted School is in a strong position to continue its school improvement journey.
"The school will continue to function smoothly without disruption to its students."
The school has appointed Rhona Barnfield as its new executive head teacher.
Mrs Barnfield is already in charge of The Howard Partnership – a collaboration between Howard of Effingham School in Effingham and Thomas Knyvett College in Ashford.
She will be responsible for strategic leadership and performance at Oxted School.
Nicola Euridge, also of the The Howard Partnership, will work alongside Mrs Barnfield as head of the school and will oversee its day-to-day running.
Mr Taylor added: "Mrs Barnfield is an experienced school leader with some 19 years of headship and is executive head of The Howard Partnership.
"Mrs Barnfield has an exceptional track record in driving school improvement in order to ensure that students receive a first class education."
