A "superhead" from Crays Hill who was brought in to turn around a problem school has resigned suddenly.

Education chiefs have taken over the running of Thorpe Bay School after Gordon Clubb dramatically quit "with immediate effect".

As Southend Council went into secret session last night to discuss the crisis, a statement on the school's future was expected later today.

Gone : Gordon Clubb has mysteriously left Thorpe Bay School

Mr Clubb, with a proven track record of turning around failing schools, was appointed two years ago by the council to lead the school.

His resignation was announced at the full council meeting last night by executive councillor in charge of education, Sally Carr, who said the authority had now gained agreement from the Government to set up an interim executive board to run the school.

Mrs Carr said an interim headteacher had also been appointed for the school, which has been in special measures for more than three years, and would be in position at the beginning of the new term on Monday.

Mr Clubb took over from previous headteacher Graham Blois in April 2000.

Published Friday, April 25, 2003

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