THE new head teacher at a York secondary school is calling on the public to help shape its future.

Trevor Burton – who joined Millthorpe School in May from Harrogate Grammar School – is keen to find out from local parents and residents the features that they would like to see at the school.

Mr Burton replaced Tony Wootton who resigned in December last year as his recovery from illness had taken longer than expected.

Mr Wootton had been head teacher at the school, in Nunthorpe Avenue, since September 2002 and on sick leave since September 2009.

Now his successor has sent out an open invitation to York residents to consult on the future of the school.

Mr Burton said: “Ultimately it’s about ensuring that we deliver a really first rate service for the community. It’s about looking at new ways of doing things and ways to measure our success in addition to things like exam results.”

In February, Ofsted praised the school with a positive report that rated it “good” overall. Ofsted said staff “worked together to successfully improve teaching and learning and accelerate the progress made by students”.

Mr Burton said: “While we are very proud to have the progress made by the school recognised in this way, we are not complacent.

“I’m keen to find out what teachers, parents and students want from schools; obviously things like excellent qualifications will be important – but what else?

“What should our key aims as a school be to prepare students for adult life in a changing world?

“I’ve asked our staff and I’m currently working with our students but I want parents, carers and other stakeholders to share their views. What makes a really excellent school; one that would really meet – or even exceed – your expectations as a parent?”

Parents and carers of students already at the school, and those starting in September, attended a consultation evening. But Millthorpe is interested in hearing from anyone across York willing to share their views on what makes a really excellent school – and what the school ought to be doing in the future. If you would like to contribute to the discussion, send your comments to ideas@millthorpeschool.co.uk