Head who inspired excellence

AFTER 12 years at the helm, during which time she led the school through major improvements, the headteacher of Isca College of Media Arts, is leaving for pastures new.

Mandi Street took over as headteacher at the school, when it was known as Priory High, in April 2001.

At that time the school was described by education inspectorate, Ofsted as having "serious weaknesses".

But under the leadership of Mrs Street, the school, and her governance, have since been praised in subsequent inspections in 2006 and 2009, rating it as providing a good standard of education with many strengths. In 2005, the school became Isca College of Media Arts and in 2006 moved to the purpose-built building it occupies today.

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The school has continued to thrive with exam results improving.

"The school has come a long way in the 12 years I have been headteacher and I have enjoyed every part of that journey," said Mrs Street.

"I am proud that I will hand over to a new head in September the leadership of a vibrant and successful school that is on a confident and continual path of improvement.

"We have built a great staff team, are blessed with fantastic pupils and have strong support in the community."

In the coming weeks the community will be consulted about the next "exciting" phase of development for Isca College, as it seeks to become an Academy from September in partnership with the Ted Wragg Trust.

"I believe this is the right moment for new leadership to write the next chapter of success for the school," continued Mrs Street.

"Meanwhile, there is much to do over the next term and a half to manage that transition while keeping the focus on the high quality of teaching and learning for all pupils.

"Our current Year 11 students are on track for record exam results once again and we will be giving them every support in the run-up to their final GCSE exams."

The school has specialised in the media arts since 2004 and has won a number of accolades for its provision, including two national Sony Awards for its work in school radio.

It is also well known for its success in outdoor education work, hosting the annual Exe Valley Challenge walk every July.

Gina Woodcraft, chair of governors, expressed her support for Mrs Street's new ventures, adding: "Mandi has always shown great commitment to the school and local community.

"She will be missed by the whole school community.

"We are now entering a new phase for the school and Mandi's work over the past 12 years has provided a firm foundation on which we can build."