A LONG-serving private school headmaster has announced he is to retire.

Yarm School head David Dunn will leave his post at the end of the new academic year, in summer 2019.

He was initially appointed in 1999 to succeed Yarm's funding headmaster, Neville Tate, and it will be Mr Dunn's 20th year in charge of the independent school.

During his headship he has guided the school to being fully co-educational, through three outstanding inspections and overseen the redevelopment of the school.

His vision led to the construction of the Princess Alexandria Auditorium in 2013, which has become a performance venue and a popular community hub for the performing arts.

The school has also recently developed its music and sporting facilities, with a new music school and boathouse which was officially opened by former pupil and Olympic gold medallist Kat Copeland.

Mr Dunn said: “It has been a great privilege to lead this fantastic school over 20 successful years. I have loved the job and am extremely proud of what we have all achieved. I wish my successor as much happiness and fulfilment as I have enjoyed.”

Mr Dunn and his colleagues are currently working on a development project at the Prep School, to include new facilities and boost the number of parking spaces.

After his retirement he will work as a consultant to deliver the Board of Governors' current development plans.

Chairman of Governors Stephen Davidson said: “David has been a phenomenal and inspirational leader who has done so much to ensure that, as we approach the 40th anniversary of our foundation, we can look to the future with optimism."