LYMM High School is now picking up the pieces after the ‘turmoil that erupted’ following the suspension of its principal.

The school on Oughtrington Lane is now moving in the right direction with the appointment of Tarun Kapur CBE as executive principal.

The board of governors unanimously agreed that Mr Kapur would take over the leadership of the high school following the suspension of Angela Walsh last month pending further investigation.

The former Birchwood and Great Sankey High School teacher said the decision to step into the role of executive principal was not one that was taken lightly.

Mr Kapur, whose daughter attended the school several years ago, said: “I feel a part of the school community already and all the children have been very welcoming.”

The newly appointed executive principal, who holds several posts including national leader of education for the National College for Teaching and Leadership, made it clear that there is not ‘a simple answer’ to the school’s problems.

In a meeting with parents on Monday, Mr Kapur spoke about his vision for the future.

The executive principal, who is currently chief executive and academy principal of the Dean Trust, comprising of Ashton on Mersey and Broadoak Secondary Schools said: “It is about empowering the people who are already here.

“I want to make sure the staff morale is as it should be. All teachers should be allowed to make mistakes but if you rule by fear the school will not improve.”

Mr Kapur was questioned on how long he would be working at the school but was unable to answer calling it ‘a sustained period of time’.

When questioned about the ongoing investigation, Mr Kapur said: “We will uncover everything that needs uncovering but we need time to work with the governors.”

Kieran Walshe, chairman of the board of governors, called the suspension of Ms Walsh ‘a very difficult decision’ and asked for parents to be patient while the process ran its course.

Clr Ian Marks, Lymm Parish Council chairman said that good progress was being made to get some stability back to Lymm High School.

Clr Marks said: “This follows the turmoil that erupted following the suspension of the principal.

“I am extremely pleased that someone has quickly been appointed to act as executive principal.

“It is important that morale is improved as quickly as possible and I am confident this can now happen. We all want the school to return to its excellent status.”