A ‘HIGHLY respected’ school head is to retire.

But Witton Park High’s Gwen Onyon plans to stay in touch as the school is transformed under the Building Schools for the Future scheme.

Mrs Onyon will retire in summer after four years in the post.

She is moving to Worcestershire with her husband Mick to be closer to her family.

She said she was ‘sad’ to leave before the new school was created.

She joined in 1993 as assistant head.

Mrs Onyon said: “From the very beginning I have been very fortunate to work with so many wonderful people.

"I have enjoyed every moment and am delighted by the achievements of the young people it has been a pleasure to be with.

"I have been especially privileged to be at Witton Park The school will be redeveloped by 2012 under the BSF scheme, which will see secondary education facilities transformed.

Mrs Onyon added: “I think that, from the school and community’s point of view, it will be marvellous to have all the facilities on one site – available to students and young people during the day and to the community.

"I am leaving at a time when the school has reached a good place, with examination results much improved and student achievements celebrated across a wide range.”

Mrs Onyon will be suceeded by Dean Logan, who joined the school a number of years ago.

Gladys Rhodes, strategic director for children’s services, said: “Gwen is a much loved and highly respected teacher and leader, and has given a huge amount to Witton Park High School, not just in the everyday running and improvement of the school, but in working towards plans for the future.”