Governors at Whitby School have appointed an interim headteacher to lead the school from the September term.
Julie Caddell, the current head of school, was selected following an advert and interview process.
It comes after the news the relationship between Whitby School and Wonder Learning Partnership (WLP) would not continue and the school would not become an academy as planned – leaving future plans and leadership in limbo with current executive headteacher David Perry employed by WLP.
Revealing the appointment to parents on Wednesday, the letter announcing Miss Caddell’s appointment said: “In light of recent developments surrounding the DfE decision regarding the school’s conversion to Academy Status, following an advert and interview process, we are pleased to report that Miss Julie Caddell will take over the position of Interim Headteacher from September 2026.
“Governors are committed to and recognise that stability in education and securing the best possible provision for the young people of Whitby is of utmost importance. Miss Caddell will continue to work with all stakeholders to build on the progress made during the last two years.”
The statement from governors went on to say the board was working to secure a long term solution for Whitby School.
The appointment comes the day after a public meeting was held at Whitby Rifle Club about the future of secondary education in the town.
Parents expressed concern about the quality of education, attitudes of staff and the lack of communication and accountability from governors and local authority.
Alison Hume, the MP for Whitby and Scarborough attended and said she would help parents in their campaign and has requested a meeting with the Department of Education (DfE) on the academy decision making process.
She said education on the coast has been forgotten and Whitby has been profoundly let down.
