A SECONDARY school in York has announced its head teacher will be absent until next year due to ill health.

The news prompted a message of support for Tony Wootton, of Millthorpe School, from, Carol Runciman, head of children’s services at City of York Council.

A spokesman for the school said: “Tony Wootton, head teacher at Millthorpe School, is currently receiving treatment for an illness which means that he will not be returning to work until early next year.

“Despite his illness, Tony was able to join year 11 students celebrating the school’s best ever GCSE results during the summer.

“Deputy head teacher Scott Butterworth, who has taught at Millthorpe for over ten years, will be acting head teacher in Mr Wootton’s absence.

Mr Butterworth said: “Although the circumstances are sad, I am proud to be leading an experienced and dedicated team.

“We are committed to taking the school forwards and building on last year’s success.”

Coun Runciman described Mr Wootton as “very dedicated”, and said: “I wish him well and a speedy recovery.

“I am pleased to know that the school is in safe hands while he is away. I am sure the good work he has done in the past will continue while he is away and that he will soon be able to come back and take up the reins again.”

Pete Dwyer, the council’s director of Learning, Culture and Children’s Services, said: “City of York Council can confirm that Tony Wootton, head teacher of Millthorpe School, is on leave on health grounds and we wish him all the best for a full recovery.

“The council has been actively involved in working with the school, its head and governing body, to ensure that interim arrangements supported by external sources are in place.

“Parents of pupils at the school should be fully reassured by the arrangements which have been put into place.”