Family reasons prompt resignation of “visionary” Sidmouth College principal

PERSONAL and family reasons have prompted the resignation of Sidmouth College’s principal.

Jeremy Roberts, pictured, who joined the college in 2008, resigned at a governors’ meeting on Monday. Parents have been told he will leave next August because of family circumstances.

His decision means the college has to extend its period of consultation regarding the possible move to Academy status and parents and residents are invited to share their views with the college.

Vice chairman of governors, John Keast, said this was still at the consultation stage and there were no plans of shelving it. “We are giving ourselves a bit more breathing space,” he explained.

Chairman of governors, Gary Neal, said: “We send our warmest thanks to Jeremy for the energy and vision he has brought to the college since he took up post in September 2008.

“Governors are now committed to ensuring that his successor has similarly exceptional qualities, so the college can go from strength to strength. We have begun the start of the process to secure quality leadership for the college to build on the good work Jeremy has done.”

Staff and governors will work closely together to ensure students continue to enjoy a “rich learning experience and attain the highest standards possible.”

Mr Roberts told the Herald: “I took a lot of time out last year and having returned in September really enjoyed being back and involved in all of this.

“I now recognise that there are occasions when you have to put personal responsibilities before professional responsibilities.”

He said he had not asked for extended leave and had given two terms notice to give governors “plenty of time to make a really good appointment.”

Of his time at Sidmouth College, Mr Roberts said: “I am very proud to be part of such a successful and rapidly improving college. It has been great and I’m not looking for a move to another career job at the moment.

“I’ve enjoyed the wonderful sense of community about the place; the energy, enthusiasm and support of the college has been fantastic.

“What we are doing here is far more important than any one person.”

He said there had been rapid change at the college and he was thrilled staff shared the ambition to take on the challenge.

Mr Keast added: “Jeremy has done a really good job under difficult personal circumstances, wanting to put too many things first, his family and the college. He is a very committed individual wanting to do the right thing for people.”