THE headteacher of a Thundersley school rated as “outstanding” is stepping down after almost two decades to concentrate on improving underperforming schools.

Dr Margaret Wilson, who was appointed as headteacher at the King John School in 2000, will now focus on her role as chief executive officer for Zenith Multi Academy Trust.

The trust has taken on James Hornsby School, in Basildon, and Castle View School, Canvey, as well as Laindon Park Primary School.

King John is also part of Zenith.

King John’s deputy headteacher, Melanie McGauley, has now taken on the role of headteacher at the school with effect from January.

Dr Wilson explained how poorer performing schools had a chance at success with self-belief and working as a team with the community.

She said: “What I found with the schools that weren’t achieving was that they are in deprived areas and the community didn’t believe in them. I grew up in one of the poorest areas in Glasgow.

“What I do know, is that schools do make a difference to children’s life chances and that’s what has always driven me.

“When I began working with James Hornsby, it was the second lowest achieving school in Essex - 50 per cent of children there came from disadvantaged backgrounds, and it was half full as no one wanted to send their kids there.

“I knew it could be a really good school so we sponsored them, and were able to appoint a really good headteacher.

“Throughout the last six years it is growing from strength to strength.

“It is now oversubscribed and good grades are being achieved.

“Castle View numbers are also up significantly.

“The trust’s aspiration is to make sure we make a difference to all children’s life chances, as they all have the right to go to a good school.

“I’ve worked very closely with Mrs McGauley and will continue to do so. The post was sent out nationally and Mrs McGauley proved to be the best candidate.”

Mrs McGauley said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as headteacher of this outstanding school.

“It is a privilege to be leading the school, working with staff, students, parents and governors on its continuing journey.”