THE commitment of staff and students is one of the memories Cledwyn-Davies will take with him as he leaves Droitwich High School to start a new job.

The headteacher held his final assembly at the Briar Mill school yesterday.

He is leaving to become assistant director of education in Swindon.

"It's been getting very emotional," said Mr Cledwyn-Davies.

"The kids are wonderful and so many parents have sent in presents and good wishes.

"I'm looking forward to starting the new job because it is a new professional challenge. But the closer I've got to today the more I've realised how much I'm going to miss the school, staff and community. It's so strong and there are so many good people.

"I've not achieved anything but the staff and students have. There's a sense of community and they are just such wonderful young people who are a credit to Worcestershire and Droitwich.

"They're decent, caring, very responsible young people and very successful at what they turn their hand to."

He said one of the memories he will take to his new job is the transformation of the school into a specialist sports college.

"That status was very important, but I am really going to miss all the shows, musicals, concerts and plays and those sorts of things.

"The fact that the school has moved on and the students have got the facilities they need and deserve will be a lasting memory.

"I've got every confidence in my successors."

The school's deputy head, Peter Woodman, will take over as acting head for the spring term and Allan Foulds, currently head of Christopher Whitehead High School in Worcester, takes over as headteacher after Easter.

Mr Cledwyn-Davies will also be missed by members of the Worcestershire Heads Forum, for which he has recently been chairman, and by campaigners of fairer funding for the county.