A HEADTEACHER has thanked staff and students for their support as he steps down from the role.

Executive headteacher at the Ramsey Academy Rob James, is leaving his position at the Halstead school after eight years in charge.

He has also been serving the dual role as headteacher of the Notley High School and Sixth Form.

The school is part of the Bridge Academy Trust, which encompasses a number of schools, including Notley, Halstead’s Richard de Clare Primary School and the Acorn Academy in Witham.

Mr James said he will be continuing his role as the director of secondary education at the Bridge Academy Trust, a role which he described as acting as a “line manager” for numerous schools.

While a replacement has been found for the Notley High School, Ramsey Academy is still searching for a new leader.

Mr James said: “For the past two years, I have been fulfilling the role of executive headteacher, overseeing the Ramsey Academy and Notley High School and Sixth Form in addition to my role of director of secondary education following the merger with Bridge Academy Trust.

“We are now in a position to advertise for the permanent headteacher role for Ramsey.

“I will be stepping down from my executive headteacher role at the end of this academic year.”

He added: “It has been a privilege to be the headteacher and lead the Ramsey community for the past eight years.

“I hope because of the work we have completed the school is seen to be in a stronger position than 2014.

“Schools will always face challenges, but the past few years have presented significant challenges for the Ramsey Academy for many reasons.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students, staff, governors and parents for their continued support.”