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Parents' "Outrage" Over Arreton Headteacher's Departure

"Outraged" parents have rallied around an Isle of Wight headteacher, following her shock departure.

Maria Herbert, who has worked at Arreton St Georges Primary School for around 15 years, has left with immediate effect. She became full headteacher in September 2020.

Parents are said to be "surprised" by the news and a website has been set up to "show support" for Mrs Herbert.

A meeting has been called at the school tomorrow (Thursday), where parents are expected to find out more.

A letter from Eric Hemming, chair of governors at Arreton and Oakfield CE VA Primary Federation, said:

"After careful consideration Maria will be leaving the school. We know that this has been a difficult decision. She has always given all of herself for the benefit of the school, its children and the whole Arreton family.

"We will all miss her constant presence in the school, her kindness, commitment and support for everyone; and in expressing our immense gratitude for her service we wish her every success and contentment as she moves forward."

Mrs Herbert is quoted as saying:

"Thank you for all your support, kindness and friendship during my time at Arreton. It has been a pleasure and a great privilege to be part of the Arreton family and I will miss you all very much.

"I wish you all success, health and happiness for the future."

An Ofsted inspection in 2018 found the school to be 'requiring improvement. It was rated as 'good' in 2014.

Rebecca Day, headteacher at Gatten and Lake Primary, has sent a letter to parents confirming she is the new interim Executive Headteacher at the school.

She said "after a few turbulent weeks" she hopes to build relationships with both parents and pupils.

Mrs Herbert's departure comes in the week that the Federation of Oakfield and Arreton dissolves. A new governing body is taking over from this week.

The Isle of Wight Council refused to comment when asked.

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