Blatchington Mill School an 'absolute pleasure' to work in says retiring headteacher

Janet Felkin announced she is to stand down from her role at Blatchington Mill School, in Hove, at the end of the academic year after eight years at the helm, as revealed in The Argus yesterday.

She is set to explore other roles in education after leaving the Nevill Avenue site in the summer, leaving headship behind, having taken over from Neil Hunter in September 2007.

She said: “You may have heard by now that I shall be retiring at the end of this academic year; 7 months away.

“Far too long for me to be actively thinking of retirement.

“I have so much to do and I am still responsible for every single young person in this school.

“All of whom have huge amounts to do too.

“My time at Blatchington Mill School has been an absolute pleasure – the staff, students and our community of parents and beyond, are not only supportive but contribute selflessly and with commitment to all that the school stands for.

“The staff and students tackle all that they do with enthusiasm, ambition and teamwork, which is testament to the excellent work that is achieved in so many different ways.”

Peter Sowrey, chairman of governors, praised the outstanding contribution Ms Felkin has made to the school community and said her decision “was a surprise to governors”.

He said: “She has made an outstanding contribution in so many ways during her time here and has been instrumental in the ongoing development of this thriving school.

“I do, however, understand her wish to move on to other roles in education than being a headteacher and I know that the other governors will all join me in wishing her well after August.

“The governors have all been impressed by the fact that she has not slowed down at all since making her decision – indeed, she seems to be working harder than ever.

“She will be a difficult act to follow and governors are now seeking to recruit someone who can carry on the fine work that she has done over the last eight years."