A popular headteacher is stepping down after more than ten years at the helm of the school he has turned around.

This will be Jonathan Baker's last week as head of Shipston High School, after eleven years in charge, but he can proudly look back on improved exam results, the rising number in pupil intake and straightened budgets.

Mr Baker, a keen sailor, says he will be "very sad" to say goodbye, and has paid tribute to the staff, governors and students he has worked with over the years.

He said: "Although I will be very sad to leave a school that has meant so much to me these last eleven years, I am delighted to be handing it over at a time when it is more successful than ever.

"The school’s examination results have soared; student numbers have dramatically increased; and the first phase of the school’s complete redevelopment is about to open. The school really is on a high.

"It has been a fantastic privilege to be headteacher of such an exceptionally student-centred school.

"I owe a huge debt of gratitude to an outstanding team of staff and governors as well as to a local community that has really taken the school to its heart.

"Most of all, I would like to thank Shipston High School students, past and present, for being such a huge joy to work with and for never ceasing to surprise with their unbounded enthusiasm and commitment.

"They leave me feeling hugely positive and optimistic for the future."

When he joined, the school had a large deficit budget, modest exam results and a low intake of students.

The profile of the school was not high either.

This year, however, 180 applications from 19 primary schools were received for 90 places at the school, testimony to a job well done.

In September, a new teaching block is set to open to accommodate for the growing student population.

A spokesman for the school said: "The school in particular, and the town, can say a huge thank you for everything Mr Baker has achieved."