Deputy head steps up to school leader
A new headteacher has been appointed to take the reins of a Shrewsbury secondary school which recently federated with another school in the town.
Alex Raeside is taking on the role at Sundorne School and Sports College, on Corndon Crescent, after working at the school as deputy head and a science teacher for the past three years.
The former head, Geoff Pettengell, has become principal of the new North Shrewsbury Federation after Sundorne and the nearby Grange School, on Worcester Road, joined forces in the summer.
His job will be to oversee the running of both secondary schools.
Mr Pettengell said today: "Alex is now the head of Sundorne and I have every confidence that the school will continue to move forward under his direction.
"I recruited Alex to become my deputy head three years ago and I believe he has outstanding leadership skills."
Mr Pettengell has been at Sundorne since 2008 and in that time the school has moved from its position as one of the worst performing schools in the county to being ranked towards the top of the league tables in Shropshire.
"Geoff has overseen a remarkable transformation at Sundorne and the challenge for me is to ensure that the high standards he set are maintained," said Mr Raeside.
"Last year Sundorne was named as one of the 200 most improved schools nationally, and I wouldn't be at all surprised if we make it into the top 100 the next time the figures are announced.
"As far as I'm concerned I have the best job in Shropshire and I very much look forward to the challenge ahead."
As well as principal for the North Shrewsbury Federation, Mr Pettengell is the acting head of the Grange until a long term candidate is appointed to fill the role.
