ALEX Lingard, who will be departing his role as Liskeard School and Community College headteacher this summer, says that he feels incredibly proud of his more than 10 years at the school, and sad about leaving.

Mr Lingard joined Liskeard as deputy head teacher in January 2011 and became head in 2014.

He will be leaving to take up a headship at Helston Community College, a move which will reduce his commute from 110 miles a day to less than 20, as he lives in St Ives.

“I’m moving to be closer to home to enable me to spend more time with my family,” he explained.

“One other thing that attracts me to Helston is the similarity to Liskeard – it’s a town with one secondary school and a close-knit community.

“So many things fill me with pride and I will be incredibly sad to leave,” Mr Lingard continued.

“I’ve always wanted the school to be the first choice for local families. Our popularity has grown during my headship (from 950 to 1200), suggesting the community has confidence in us. One of the reasons for this, I think, is the positive culture we have created in school.

“The school is calm, purposeful and runs smoothly. We regularly get positive feedback about how inclusive we are.

“Our Team Liskeard ethos of ‘achieving more together’ and our focus on courage, resilience and kindness has helped shape students to be rounded individuals and well prepared for their futures. And our sixth form has been ranked in the top 10% of colleges in England!”

Taking over the position of headteacher in September is Daniel Wendon, who joins Liskeard from his current role as director of teaching and learning at the Launceston Multi Academy Trust. Mr Wendon has been spending time at Liskeard in recent weeks getting to know the school and its staff.

In a letter to parents, Mr Lingard said: “Our interview panel of governors, trustees and our CEO, Dan Buckley, came to the unanimous decision to appoint Daniel Wendon as the school’s new headteacher.

“I will be working with Mr Wendon between now and the end of July to ensure a smooth handover ready for September.

“I am excited about the positive impact Mr Wendon will have on our students and the wider Liskeard community and wish him every success.”