Head teacher's off to Oz

Jan 13 2006 By Neil Elkes, Birmingham Mail

A LONG-serving and popular retiring head teacher is winging his way to Australia.

Richard Metcalfe arrived at Fairfax School, Fairfax Road, Sutton Coldfield, in 1990 when just 38 per cent of pupils achieved five or more GCSE grades A-C.

Now as he walks out the door for the final time more than 70 per cent are achieving five or more top grades.

Mr Metcalfe, who lives in Lichfield with Julie, his wife of 34 years, said: "The school has been a big part for 15 years. I will miss the people enormously.

"I have absolutely no worries. The people I am leaving behind here are a class act. This is the best group of teachers I have ever worked with and there is real potential for Fairfax to get even better."

The school has routinely passed its Ofsted inspections and the buildings have been transformed. But there were also difficult times, particularly the tragic murder of pupil Nicola Dixon on New Year's Day in 1997.

"The parents of Nicola Dixon are truly remarkable. You feel the personal pressure in those difficult times but as head teacher you have to answer it," he said.

His first act in retirement is to take a well-earned two month break in Australia where he will be joined by his 27-year-old son Dan and daughter Ruth, 24.

Upon his return in March he will take on a part-time role advising and supporting the heads and governors of five Midland schools under a new Government scheme.

Mr Metcalfe, who hails from Tow Low, in Co Durham, also hopes to find time to see his beloved Newcastle United.

Current deputy head teacher Merrill Attack will step into Mr Metcalfe's shoes as acting head until the post is filled.