Exmouth headteachers honoured for long service

TWO Exmouth headteachers have been honoured for their long service and dedication by Devon's school chiefs.

TWO Exmouth headteachers have been honoured for their long service and dedication by Devon's school chiefs.

Bassetts Farm headteacher Christine Jones who has stepped down after nearly two decades at the school, and Eric Howard, headteacher of Marpool Primary School and Brixington Primary School, were among 21 of the region's retiring headteachers invited to a celebration held by Devon County Council as a thank you for their 'lifetime of service'.

Mrs Jones has been headteacher at Bassetts Farm for the last 24 years.

Mr Howard has 32 years service in Devon, with 20 years leading Brixington and Marpool primary schools.

The celebration dinner was hosted by Devon's cabinet members for children and young people's services, Christine Channon and Andrea Davis, executive director Anne Whitely and director of learning and schools, Judith Johnson.

The combined services of the invited headteachers totalled more than 500 years.

Mrs Whitely said the celebration was to acknowledge the years of service and the contribution the headteachers had given to the education of Devon's youngsters.

She said: "When ever I visit schools I am always struck by the passion our teachers have for learning, their commitment to our children and young people and how they open up their horizons.