CONCERNED parents have been quick to react to the news Stonar headteacher Toby Nutt has stood down from his role with immediate effect.

Mr Nutt joined as deputy head nine years ago and broke its 100 year tradition in 2013 by becoming the first male head teacher to be appointed at the school in Atworth, which charges up to £26,880 a year for pupils who board.

The CEO of the NACE Education Group, which owns Stonar, announced to parents, pupils and staff on Tuesday last week that Mr Nutt was leaving to pursue other opportunities.

Writing on the Wiltshire Times website, parents have expressed their upset and the lack of information given to them.

One parent said: “Toby Nutt was a fantastic head the pupils and parents had a great respect for him. We are all shocked at his sudden departure and the lack of explanation we have been given by NACE.

“Stonar was a fantastic school under Toby Nutt’s leadership, but what the future holds is very concerning.”

Another added: “Mr Nutt embodies the spirit of that very special school and his leadership has been superb, above reproach always. He will be virtually irreplaceable.

“The lack of explanation for his leaving and the utter lack of grace and clarity with which the ownership, NACE, has handled this news is disgusting.”

In a statement from the school, it said Mr Nutt would remain living in accommodation on the site until the end of March.

They added: “The physical and emotional welfare of pupils is at the heart of Stonar's ethos, with each individual child supported by their tutors, house staff and support staff. This care is continuous and does not stop with the departure of a head.

“The school has emphasised that no question whatsoever has been raised regarding the safety of children, otherwise it would not be possible for him to remain living on site for the time being.”

Dr Sally Divall has now become acting head and will become head teacher when Mr Nutt departs on March 31. She has been head of physics for 15 years and was appointed deputy head academic in 2013.