Jane Pearson, left, will take over the role of Ladies’ College deputy principal from Jo Riches, second from left, who in turn becomes head teacher when Margaret McDonald, third from left, retires at the end of the summer. Deputy Bill Bell, who has served as the school’s chairman of governors, is also stepping down. (Picture by Steve Sarre, 0558518)
IT WILL be all change at Ladies’ College at the start of the next school year.
Principal Margaret Macdonald is retiring in the summer after 16 years in the post, and long-standing chairman of governors Deputy Bill Bell will also be replaced following his decision not to stand in this month’s general election.
The school’s current deputy principal, Jo Riches, will take over from Miss Macdonald, while Jane Pearson, who is presently pastoral deputy at St Peter Port School, will take on the role vacated by Mrs Riches.
Miss Macdonald had planned to retire at the end of the 2006 school term, but changed her mind.
‘At that time, I just thought that when it came to the point of leaving I wasn’t really ready. I found myself looking around for other jobs, which is a sure sign that you’re going too early.
‘But I have complete confidence in the new team and these past 18 months have enabled me to help get everything in place,’ she said.
Deputy Bell has been chairman since 1994.
He said it had been a pleasure to be part of the school.
‘I will miss being associated with what I believe is the most successful educational establishment in the Channel Islands.
‘Being associated with success is very rewarding,’ he said and he paid tribute to the hard work of Miss Macdonald.
‘I certainly wish the new principal and her deputy all the best for the future because they have a difficult job in following Margaret, but I’m sure they are capable of doing that.’
Miss Macdonald said Deputy Bell had been a tower of strength and had worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of the school.
‘It makes an enormous difference when a board of governors is led by someone as dedicated, knowledgeable and professional as Deputy Bell has been.’
She said she would also miss the day-to-day work of being a head teacher.
‘I will definitely miss the contact with the younger people and the buzz and excitement which they bring to being part of a school.
‘I will also miss the camaraderie and companionship of the staff and working with each other as part of a strong team.’
Mrs Riches said taking over from Miss Macdonald was a challenge she was looking forward to.
‘It’s a hard act to follow. She’s been here a long time and is an established head teacher. It’s a little daunting, but there are very good foundations in place at Ladies’ College and a lot to build on.’
Mrs Pearson was also looking ahead.
‘I want to help and take Ladies’ College forward, meeting the staff and working with the girls and the parents in a different environment. It will be a great challenge.’
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