The head of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Bishop’s Stortford will retire at the end of the summer term.
Parents and pupils learned of Peter Coldwell’s departure this week. He has been in charge at Great Hadham Road for 19 years but has been on sick leave since March.
The chair of governors Veronica Taylor said: “We would like to recognise and commend Peter on his tremendous service at St Joseph’s.
“We are saddened that, unfortunately, he has not been well enough to return to his role leading the school and so has decided to step down and take early retirement.
“The governors and staff wish him well in his ongoing recovery and future.”
“We hope that he will be able to attend our end-of-year assembly so that staff, pupils, parents, governors and trust colleagues will be able to personally recognise his service and commitment to our school.”
St Joseph’s is part of the St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust - seven primaries and St Mary’s secondary in Bishop’s Stortford.
Chief executive Andrew Celano said: “Peter has played a leading role in many Catholic schools across Hertfordshire during his 30-year career, including as head at four of our schools.
“We thank him for his outstanding contribution and professionalism throughout his career and his dedication to St Joseph’s and the development and success of the trust.”
Recruitment of a new head will be undertaken in the new academic year and until then the current deputy, Ann Cassidy-Jones, will continue as interim head.
Mrs Taylor said: “It is essential that we maintain stability and continuity while we conduct the search for a permanent head and the governors are delighted that Miss Cassidy-Jones will continue to lead the school during this process.”
In July 2022, Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols officially opened St Joseph’s new campus. His blessing marked the end of a two-year project to completely rebuild and expand the popular primary.
