HEADTEACHER David Stephenson is leaving St Peter’s High School to take over at Plume School.

Following the announced departure of Sarah Dignasse from the school in Fambridge Road, Mr Stephenson, current head at Burnham’s High School in Southminster Road, will now switch schools.

Mr Stephenson has successfully worked at improving the results and reputation at St Peter’s High School and will be taking on the new challenge in April 2009.

In a message to parents, students and carers, he said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last five years at St Peter’s and I have been very proud of the school as it has gone from strength to strength to become one of the most improved schools in Essex and in the country.

“I have received an enormous amount of support from parents/carers and the local community and this has made a great contribution to our success.

“Our students are a real credit to St Peter’s and to the local area and I wish to thank them for the way they have represented the school and given so much back to the community.

“It has been a very difficult decision to leave St Peter’s. However, I believe it is the right time for me to undertake a new challenge and this provides the opportunity for a new era of leadership.

“I will continue to work hard to further improve St Peter’s and to work alongside the new Headteacher to ensure that all students in the Maldon District receive the high quality education they deserve.”