Move ‘unrelated’ to special measures rumour
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A LONG-SERVING Forest head has stepped down – but a senior executive insists it is not linked to speculation the school may go into special measures.
Mr David Gaston announced to parents and students in a letter on Monday that his departure from the Dean Academy in Lydney was with immediate effect.
Tim Gilson, chief executive officer of the Althestan Academies Trust, who took over sponsorship from Prospects in March, confirmed that this wasn’t related to speculation that the school failed a recent Ofsted inspection.
He said: “I can confirm the reason why Mr Gaston has stepped down is unrelated to the rumours the school will be put into special measures by Ofsted. We were inspected last month and, until we receive the report, are unable to comment on the discussions had with inspectors. As soon as the report is released we will be in touch with parents. We anticipate this to be by the end of the month.”
Mr David Gaston, who has been in post since 2003, saw the former Whitecross School placed in special measures in 2011 before Prospects came aboard the following year and renamed it the Dean Academy.
In the letter to parents, Mr Gaston said: “I have had a wonderful time in what I consider to be the most privileged of roles and have enjoyed some great milestones along the way with the school, its students and staff.
“However, we have suffered some disappointing results in recent years and after losing our sponsor so suddenly last year, it has been particularly difficult. It is now time for a fresh vision for the Dean Academy with new leadership and The Athelstan Trust.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the enormous amount of support I have received from parents over the years. To students, past and present, I would like to thank you for helping me to lead the school: for the challenges; the warmth you have shown me and the many great times I have enjoyed in your company.
“It has been a great honour to serve you. I wish you every success and happiness as you continue in your studies and look to the future; be ambitious and aim high.”
A spokesperson for the school added: “We wish Mr David Gaston well for the future. Mr John Barrett who has been acting headteacher since September 1 will continue in this role.
“We will be advertising for a permanent headteacher to start in September 2016.”