I AM writing in support of Nicola Leyland, the former headteacher of Shotton Hall Primary School in Peterlee (Echo, July 22).

She was a breath of fresh air. She made a difference, always in attendance at events and always available to speak to parents and children if they had concerns.

However her main attribute was that she required the staff to carry out their duties fully, and this led to a lot of grumbling and complaints. But I saw a marked improvement not only in the education but also in other activities and programmes she introduced to inspire the children.

Your article stated that teachers at the school had voted to take industrial action over “unacceptable management practices”.

I am saddened but not surprised that Durham County Council failed to back an effective and progressive head even though the Ofsted report of January 2014 praised her strong leadership.

Name and address supplied, Peterlee.