The end of a school year always brings change and that is especially true of these six schools in and around Watford.
With many schools breaking up this week, the Watford Observer is rounding up which schools will have new headteachers when pupils return in September.
Nascot Wood Infant & Nursery School, Watford
It is the "end of an era" for this school as Pam Scragg steps down from the job after 21 years in the role.
She will be replaced by Sallyann Applegarth, who will pick up the mantle in the autumn, leaving her current role as deputy head of Cassiobury Infant School.
In a Watford Observer interview earlier this year, Miss Scragg said: "It is such a special school and this role has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life.
"I'm going to so miss the children and the families, we are quite a small school and close-knit community."
St Michael's Catholic School, Watford
Current deputy headteacher Ian Petrie will step up into the top job at the High Elms Lane school, which was rated "outstanding" by Ofsted at its last inspection.
Mr Petrie said: “After over two decades at St Michael’s, it is a real privilege to be asked to lead the school into the future.
"This is a community I care deeply about, with dedicated staff, supportive families and inspiring young people. I am proud of what we have achieved together so far and excited to build on that success in the years ahead.”
He will replace Edward Conway, who is departing after 16 years at the helm.
Cherry Tree Primary School, Watford
Cheska Tyler's six-year spell at the helm came to an end this week as she prepares to take up a new post at an English language school in Doha.
Gillian Jackson will take over as head, combining the role with her existing job as head of Beechfield School.
The two schools – along with Laurance Haines Primary School - are part of the Inclusive Multi Academy Trust.
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St Margaret's School, Bushey
Ben Turner will become only the second male headteacher in the Merry Hill Road school's 129-year history.
Currently senior deputy head at Wimbledon High School, Mr Turner succeeds Lara Péchard who will become head of Felsted School in Great Dunmow.
He said: "St Margaret’s has a distinctive and increasingly sought after place in the independent sector: academically ambitious, personally invested and deeply rooted in its community.
“Families are looking for an education that combines genuine care with high expectation, where empowerment is meaningful, and every individual matters."
Watford Grammar School for Girls
Chris Wilshaw will take over as the 20th headteacher of the school, where she currently serves as senior deputy headteacher.
She is already leading the school one day a week after incumbent Sylvia Tai moved to a four-day week.
Mrs Wilshaw said: “I am honoured to have the responsibility of ensuring that this ‘remarkable school’ – as described by Ofsted, March 2024 – continues to provide the best possible education and preparation for life beyond school.
“We have a truly exceptional student body who deserve the very best outcomes, and I look forward to working with the whole school community on this endeavour.”
St Joan of Arc Catholic Secondary School, Rickmansworth
All Saints Catholic Academy Trust has appointed Sadie Whyte as the new head of the High Street school following what it described as an "extensive search".
She will take over from current headteacher Bernadette O’Hanlon, who is retiring.
Ms Whyte said: “I’m delighted to be joining the community of St Joan of Arc Catholic School as headteacher.
“It’s a privilege to have been selected to serve such a vibrant, happy and successful community."
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