Hameldon headteacher to retire

Miss Broom has led Hameldon, which has been plagued by problems since it opened in September 2006 under the Building Schools for the Future programme, when the former Ivy Bank and Habergham High Schools were merged.

The school has enjoyed mixed fortunes, and in 2007 was placed into special measures by Ofsted.

Marked improvements were noted in 2009 when the school was taken out of special measures but in 2013 it was identified as having serious weaknesses by Ofsted.

Since then, dwindling student numbers have seen the school with now just 331 students in its £22m. new building in Coal Clough Lane.

Miss Broom, who has worked in education for 31 years, including the past 20 in Burnley, said: “I have decided to pursue new interests in my life and would like to thank students, parents, governors, the local authority and all the agencies with which the college works for the professional and personal support that has been given to me over the past 20 years.

“Hameldon is a very special community and I know that all staff will continue to work tirelessly to support the students in their care.”

Lancashire County Council said it was now working with the governing body to find a new head.