Cottingham High School 'stabilises' as Scott Ratheram, top teacher who led Bridlington Headlands out of special measures, appointed principal

A HEADTEACHER who transformed a scandal-hit school is to be the new principal of an academy that was hit by controversy when the head was suspended.

Scott Ratheram, who led Headlands School in Bridlington out of special measures, will be the new principal of Cottingham High School.

Headlands was rocked by a series of sex scandals and a damning Ofsted report when Mr Ratheram was drafted in five years ago.

He will take up his new post later this year at Cottingham, where ex-headteacher Elizabeth Logan resigned last August.

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Mrs Logan left for "personal and professional reasons" following six months' suspension after problems at the academy.

Vice chairman of governors Robert Sherratt said Mr Ratheram had not been recruited as a trouble-shooter, as was the case when he took over at Headlands.

Mr Sherratt said: "I don't think this is a comparable situation.

"We have, as governors and staff, achieved stability in the past school year.

"It's less about trouble-shooting, it's more about Scott taking us forward into the future and making us an excellent school."

Mr Ratheram said: "The challenges (at the two schools) are obviously very different.

"Cottingham has just celebrated a strong set of results in August and I am sure the staff and students are proud of their achievements.

"The first thing for me to do will be to ensure I fully understand the aspirations of the governors, students, parents and the local communities for their school and work with all involved to develop a shared vision."

Mr Ratheram said he was proud to be appointed at the academy, which advertised a salary of £86,365 to £100,028.

He said: "I have really enjoyed my time at Headlands but, after five years this May, felt I was ready for a fresh challenge.

"Cottingham maintains a strong reputation across the region and I am proud to be taking up the post.

"I spoke to several students, staff and governors over the interview period and their passion and pride in the school were obvious – this is a tremendous asset to any school.

"There will be areas for development, as in any school, and I will work with all concerned to ensure that we can overcome these."

He said he has "very mixed emotions" about leaving Headlands.

Mr Ratheram said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed nearly five years at Headlands School and will greatly miss the fantastic students and dedicated colleagues that I have worked with during that time.

"However, it will also be exciting to get to know a new school community and lead this to further achievements."

He could be asked to give two terms' notice at Headlands but Cottingham is negotiating on this.

Meanwhile, acting head Will Jennings will continue in charge.