EXECUTIVE HEAD ANNOUNCES DEPARTURE WITH INTERIM LEADERSHIP TEAM TO BE PARACHUTED IN

Matthew Parr-Burman, the Executive Headteacher of 3 local schools, is to leave his role next week as major changes hit Carisbrooke College, Medina College and the Island Sixth Form. As previously reported by Island Echo, the Isle of Wight Education Federation is to formally disband next Monday (1st July) as Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Southampton and Portsmouth Multi Academy Trust (HISP) takes over the running of 2 of the 3 educational establishments – Carisbrooke and Medina Colleges. The federation between Carisbrooke and Medina College, including the VI form, was formed under the Island Innovation Trust name back in 2011 when the school structure of the Isle of Wight changed from 3-tier to 2-tier. A week on from the news of a transition to academies, it has been confirmed that Matthew Parr-Burman – who has been with the Federation since 2018 – has notified the Governing Board that he will be moving on to pursue new career opportunities from 1st July. In light of Parr-Burman’s departure, the Governing Board has agreed that HISP Multi-Academy Trust will step in with interim leadership arrangements for each school with immediate effect, ensuring a smooth transition for the schools, staff and children. Back in March, it was reported that 4 senior staff members look set to lose their jobs as part of the shake-up, with new headteachers set to be appointed in time for the new academic year in September. It’s unclear at this stage what will happen to the experienced headteachers Karen Begley, Phil Pearce-Jones and David Mumford. However, reassurances have been given that each school will maintain its unique character, identity, and position within the local community. None of the schools will close. Richard Bridgford, chair of governors for the Isle of Wight Education Federation has said:

“We wish to thank all our staff for their professionalism during this period of significant but, we believe, ultimately positive change. We know they will focus on what is fundamentally important to us all – that we deliver excellent education to the students in our care and focus on moving forward”.

Since July 2020, HISP has run Thornden Secondary School in Chandlers Ford, Tanners Brook Primary School in Southampton and Portswood Primary School in Southampton. It also now runs Highcliffe School in Christchurch and Test Valley School in Stockbridge, as well as Crofton School in Fareham.

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