‘End of an era’ as Sussex school head takes up new post

Jon Gilbert, headteacher of the Arun Villages Federation - which includes Amberley Primary School and St James Primary in Coldwaltham - has been appointed as a schools advisor to the diocese.

And Ray Jackson, chairman of governors of the Arun Villages Federation, described it as ‘the end of an era.’

Jon became headteacher of both schools in 2014 and since then, said Ray, he had “Worked tirelessly to improve the standards in a very welcoming and safe environment.

“During Jon’s tenure both schools have been awarded a Good rating by Ofsted and the major improvement is plain to see.”

He added: “Jon is a real gentleman, with a kind and caring nature so well suited to working with children.

“He has built strong, talented and experienced teaching teams and has always been focused upon doing the very best for each and every child in our care.

“He moves on to his new role with great enthusiasm and the knowledge that both schools are safer, more secure and significantly better that when he joined.

“Jon should be very proud of what he has achieved.

“The past year has seen the two schools became formally federated with one board of governors, this being a very important step in securing the future of our lovely rural schools.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Jon for almost five years now and have first hand experience of his dedication and care. What has also particularly impressed me has been the way that Jon has remained calm and focused during some difficult times.

“Recently, we have all been though unprecedented times and Jon’s team have organised extensive online lessons for the children during lockdown and have implemented a very professional return to school now that is possible.

“It is a joy to see the children’s pleasure to be back at school and seeing their friends again.”

He said Jon would be ‘sorely missed.’

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