I write to parent/carers to share my intention to step down as Headteacher of Welling School with effect from March 2022.

After careful consideration I believe now is the right time, both professional and personally, to pursue new opportunities. It is nearly 15 years since I first arrived at Welling School as a trainee teacher and apart from an 18 month spell at another school in the Trust I have dedicated my whole teaching career to this great school. There have been so many highs but I will probably treasure most the relationships I have built up with families over the years and the pride I feel for so many former students who have gone on to lead successful careers. Education really does have the power to transform lives.

Like many others, Covid-19 has had a profound impact on my life and leading the school during this time has been incredibly challenging. As the pandemic draws to a close I recognise that I now need to spend more time with my family and in particular with our new daughter Sienna, who is 12 weeks old. This is in preparation for a new future, living and working in Bogotá, Colombia from August 2022.

I wish you and your child all the very best in the future.

Yours faithfully

Mr R Pett

HEADTEACHER