A BELOVED principal of a Worcestershire school trust has announced she will be retiring after 42 years.

Vivienne Cranton, formerly headteacher at Hollymount School (previously known as Gorse Hill Community Primary) and latterly trust principal of The Black Pear Trust, will be retiring on Friday (July 17) after dedicating 42 years to education in Worcestershire.

Mrs Cranton, aged 63, was involved in the transformation of Hollymount School from its special measures Ofsted report in 2006 to its current good rating.

She has built on that reputation as the trust expanded to its current size of three primary schools – Worcester’s Carnforth School, Hollymount School and St George’s C of E School in Kidderminster.

Throughout her time at the Tolladine school, she has worked tirelessly for the children and families in the area, the school said. In 2014, Mrs Cranton, from Pershore, led Gorse Hill in its academisation and relaunch as Hollymount School and the formation of The Black Pear Trust.

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Phil Clayton, chair of governors said: "Hollymount School and community is greatly indebted to Mrs Cranton, a truly inspirational headteacher. From the beginning she was like a breath of fresh air and worked with boundless energy, drive and enthusiasm. She carried everyone along with her and has completely transformed the school. It is now a great place to learn and teach.

“Children are self-motivated and have a deep sense of pride in their work, their school and the community. Standards have steadily been raised and there is a great atmosphere in school. Mrs Cranton has developed a school where everyone matters and her vision and the hard work of herself and a dedicated staff have created a wonderful place to be."

Paul Shoesmith, chair of trustees at the Black Pear Trust, said: “We wish Mrs Cranton well in her retirement, and want to thank her for all of the work she has done over the last 14 years building such a successful group of schools, as well as supporting many other schools across Worcestershire in her role as a National Leader of Education.”

Student Samuel Hunt, aged 10, said “She is a lovely person and she has organised really fun and inspirational school trips. She encouraged me on my residential trip to Llanrug to be brave. We will miss her.”

Mrs Cranton intends to enjoy her retirement exploring Europe in her motor home with her husband, spending more time with her children and grandchild and further developing her golf skills.