Tiverton High School headteacher announces sudden departure

Sammy Crook has announced her plans to step down as headteacher of Tiverton High School and as executive head of the Federation of Tiverton Schools.

She will leave the school on Friday, November 29 and the school will welcome her replacement shortly after. The announcement comes following a recent Ofsted inspection that has not been published despite the inspection being in early October.

Following that inspection, the school also announced it had started the process of academisation with proposals for a period of consultation with Federation staff, parents and community stakeholders were also announced.

In a letter to parents, the school stated: “This has been a hugely difficult decision for Mrs Crook to make."

Mrs Crook, wrote: “I have been so honoured to work in leadership at THS for the last 17 years, first as deputy head and then headteacher since 2016.

“The headship of THS has been the most rewarding time of my career but, at times, the toughest too. We have navigated some of the most challenging circumstances and some unprecedented times, including the lockdowns of COVID-19 and a recruitment and funding crisis.

“I have also experienced some real highs over the 17 years and I am so proud of each and every student who has come through our doors. I have strived to lead with empathy and kindness and have been rewarded with some extraordinary students and staff who I will miss all very much.

“Special thanks must go to the senior leadership team and the governors who have supported me on my leadership journey. In the last 24 months I have faced some significant personal challenges and have decided to step back from education and take some time to look after my health and wellbeing.

“I will take with me incredibly fond memories of the children and families of Tiverton and will never forget the amazing colleagues and students I have worked with over the years. I wish the school and wider community of Tiverton the very best for the future.”

The Governors have also provided a statement: “Sammy has led the Federation through some difficult times, including Covid, with a dedication that is admirable. She has always reported to the Governing Board with honesty and candour and is never afraid to face new challenges.

“Her interaction with students is always with the pupil’s best interests at heart and a pleasure to observe. We wish Sammy all the best for the future and thank her for her years of service to Tiverton.”

Mrs Crook and the Governors have been working at pace behind the scenes and have announced that an Interim Head has been secured for an immediate start on Monday 2nd December.

The statement to parents adds: "James Lamb joins us with a wealth of experience as a Head Teacher, and has worked in education for over 20 years, most recently at Castle School in Taunton. We welcome James, and he will no doubt introduce himself to parents and carers soon. We wish Sammy well in the future and sincerely thank her for her services to the community of Tiverton. She will be missed. "