THE headteacher of independent school Stonar Toby Nutt has stood down from his role with immediate effect.

Mr Nutt initially joined as deputy head nine years ago and broke their 100 year tradition by becoming the first male head teacher to be appointed at the independent school in Atworth.

The CEO of the NACE Education Group, which owns Stonar, announced to parents, pupils and staff on Tuesday that Mr Nutt was leaving to pursue other opportunities.

In a statement from the school, it said Mr Nutt would remain living there until the end of March.

They added: “The physical and emotional welfare of pupils is at the heart of Stonar's ethos, with each individual child supported by their tutors, house staff and support staff. This care is continuous and does not stop with the departure of a head.

“The school has emphasised that no question whatsoever has been raised regarding the safety of children, otherwise it would not be possible for him to remain living on site for the time being.

“Parents have been quick to respond - with both supportive comments expressing complete confidence in the Leadership Team at Stonar and of course parents expressing concerns regarding the continuity of leadership.”

Dr Sally Divall has now become acting head and will become head teacher when Mr Nutt departs on March 31.