A DARLINGTON primary school left without a permanent headteacher after he absented himself through illness now has a new person in the role.

Wendy Aitken will take the reins at Cockerton CE Primary School next month whilst continuing to fulfil her headteacher duties at High Coniscliffe CE Primary School.

Officials hope that the move will bring better stability to Cockerton School, which has not had a permanent headteacher since Chris Metcalfe absented himself last November.

His sudden absence followed the departure of an acting deputy headteacher, who was working at Cockerton during the maternity leave of the regular deputy headteacher.

The Northern Echo understands that Mr Metcalfe has now secured a new teaching job in Yorkshire.

The boards of governors for both Cockerton and High Coniscliffe schools, along with Darlington Borough Council and the Diocese of Durham, are said to have welcomed the appointment of Miss Aitken.

Chairman of Cockerton governors Jackie Murray said: “This arrangement will enhance and expand the already excellent work in the two schools.

“The splendid day-to-day educational experiences will continue thanks to the excellent teaching support and guidance they receive from our school teams.”

Chairman of High Coniscliffe governors Jeffrey Rogerson added: “The possibilities for collaboration are endless and this is a truly exciting opportunity for both schools.”

Miss Aitken trained at Durham University and taught in Peterlee and at Reid Street Primary School in Darlington.

She will be supported in both schools by strengthened leadership and management teams and described the new arrangement as “fabulous”.

She added: “Both schools are blessed with delightful children, talented staff, fantastic sites and incredibly supportive parents. We are so lucky.

“The second I walked through the door of Cockerton Primary School I knew that both schools had a very similar ethos.

“While they will retain their individuality, everyone will benefit from the exchange of ideas and expertise in a lovely atmosphere of friendship and learning.”

Miss Aitken has been head of the 104-pupil High Coniscliffe Primary School for the last eight years and it is currently rated outstanding by Ofsted.

The 200-strong Cockerton Primary School is rated good with outstanding features and both schools plan to share the expertise of teaching staff, resources and facilities.