School head set for new role
The head of Wolverhampton Grammar School is to leave after 17 years at the helm, it was revealed today. Dr Bernard Trafford said leaving would be a wrench.
Mr Trafford has been appointed to lead the Royal Grammar School in Newcastle from September 2008.
The respected head, who has worked at the school since 1981, broke the news to staff and pupils this morning.
He told the Express & Star it had been a difficult decision. He said: "Leaving Wolverhampton Grammar School after so many happy and productive years will be a great wrench.
"Now I feel I need the challenge of getting outside my comfort zone and putting that knowledge to work in a new setting.
"My sincere regret at leaving Wolverhampton Grammar School is tempered by the fact it has never been stronger, and is itself ready to move forward in new directions under a new head."
Dr Trafford started as head of music at the school before being appointed to headteacher in 1990.
He has overseen many ground-breaking developments including a pioneering dyslexia unit and the Big Six year group, which saw 10-year-old primary school children being accepted into the school.
During his leadership the school has built the sports hall, sixth form centre, music block and most recently the £3.2 million arts centre.
Chairman of governors Dr Simon Walford said Dr Trafford had been "inspirational".
He said: "He leads the school with cheerful determination and a deep commitment to improving the opportunities we offer our pupils. We will miss his outstanding educational direction and leadership and we wish him every success."