THE County High School, Leftwich’s vice principal, Matthew Snelson, will take over the school’s top job this summer, when long-standing principal Julie Brandreth steps down, the school has announced.

After more than 13 successful years leading The County High School, Miss Brandreth, will retire next month – the end of this school year.

The school has now announced that following a ‘rigorous and thorough recruitment process’, vice principal Matthew Snelson has been appointed as the new principal from September.

“I am immensely proud and truly delighted to leave my lovely school in such capable hands,” Miss Brandreth said.

Mr Snelson, a graduate in economics, joined The County High School, Leftwich in September 2006, and school governors say he has ‘played a pivotal role in helping to build its reputation as a high-achieving academy’.

The new principal has paid tribute to the work that his predecessor has done for the school and says he is privileged to be taking the mantle.

Mr Snelson said: “It is a great honour to be entrusted with the opportunity to lead the academy into its next phase of development.

“Having taught and led at the academy for 13 years, I am well aware of how big a privilege it is to be asked to lead the talented and hardworking students, teachers and support staff, underpinned by supportive parents and carers.

“Working with and learning from Miss Brandreth as the academy has formed and embedded its current position as an outstanding academy has been an enriching, fulfilling and rewarding experience.

“Miss Brandreth’s tireless work to ensure that every student has the chance to achieve their potential and that colleagues have the opportunity to grow and develop in their careers, is something I will continue as the academy transitions into the next exciting phase of its development.

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“I am delighted to lead this accomplished team of teachers and support staff, ensuring that every student continues to develop: their comprehension and command of knowledge, their character and their creativity and imagination.

“I warmly invite parents, carers and their children to our Open Evening on Thursday, September 26, so they too can see what a fabulous learning environment The County High School, Leftwich is.”