A so-called ‘superhead’ has been appointed as the interim headteacher of the under-fire Shotley Community Primary School.
The 143-pupil school was rated ‘inadequate’ – the worst possible rating – by Ofsted after an inspection in November raised serious concerns over leadership.
The education watchdog said relationships between leaders, including governors, had “deteriorated during the absence of the headteacher (Melanie Newman)”. A “culture of blame” and a lack of teamwork was also criticised.
A school spokesman yesterday confirmed Alan Davis has been appointed as interim headteacher. He declined to be interviewed.
On his LinkedIn page, he describes himself as a freelance school improvement consultant currently working with 10 schools. Mr Davis, who has held various senior school positions mainly in Yorkshire, focuses on raising attainment, leadership, self-evaluation, and inspection advice, his page adds.
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