THE head teacher at a top York state secondary school is set to retire after 23 years.

Lorna Savage has been head at Fulford School since 2013 when her predecessor, Steve Smith, retired, becoming the school’s fifth head and the first woman to take the top job. Before that she was Mr Smith’s deputy.

In a letter to parents, Mrs Savage said she will retire at the end of the summer term next year, giving governors the time to appoint her successor.

She said: “I have been incredibly privileged to have worked in such an outstanding school for what will be 23 years when I leave my role in the summer. The human dimension of this school is what makes it so special and unique. I am proud of our commitment to the continual drive for the highest standards in outcomes for all our students to be matched by the best possible support and care.

GALLERY OF OLD PHOTOS FROM FULFORD SCHOOL

“I have been immensely fortunate to work with amazing staff, fabulous students and families, and incredibly talented and committed governors and trustees.”

Mrs Savage has overseen the expansion of the school, including the building of the new sports hall and she led the establishment of the South York Multi-Academy Trust. Mrs Savage has agreed to continue in the MAT CEO role on a part-time basis for up 18 months after she retires.

She said: “My time working in Fulford has been an amazing adventure and a fantastic opportunity. We have done very special things working together as a community and the school will always have a special place in my heart. I wish the school and its new leadership every success in the future.”

At the weekend The Press reported that Fulford won The Sunday Times North of England State Secondary School of the Year accolade, and ranked at number four on the list of top 10 state secondary schools in the North.