Celebration of headteachers’ service to Devon’s children

Tributes have been paid to 10 Devon headteachers who have devoted their lives to education.

Devon County Council leader John Hart and Head of Education Sue Clarke hosted a garden party for 10 heads who are retiring this academic year or taking up new challenges.

In all, the 10 heads have devoted more than 344 years to education.

Mr Hart told them: “You have given many years of service to education and to Devon.

“On behalf of Devon County Council, I want to give you a sincere thank you for all you have done for the children of Devon.

“We are one of the poorest funded local authorities nationally for education and yet our schools are regularly in the top third for achievement and that is due to your leadership and your staff’s hard work.”

Mrs Clarke said: “Being a head isn’t easy. You have to make some very difficult decisions and for that you need to be brave and courageous.”

The ten heads who attended the evening were Denise Benson from the Devon Hospitals Short Stay school in Exeter and Anne Guest from Clyst Hydon Primary who have 39 years’ service, Roy Kerrigan from Two Moors Primary, Tiverton who has 37 years’ service, Jon Statton from Heathcoat Primary, Tiverton and Pat Fewings from South Molton Infants who have 35 years’ service, Vivienne Clare from Abbotskerswell School and Ian Hemelik from Manor Primary, Ivybridge with 33 years’ service, Jeremy Doyle from Redhills Primary, Exeter with 32 years, Mandi Street from Isca College in Exeter with 31 years and Pat Fay from Plymtree School with 30 years.