PUPILS have bid a fond farewell to the principal who turned their struggling special school into a successful institution which has praised by education inspectors.

The children, who have multiple learning difficulties, held up painted banners and sang songs to say goodbye to Stephen Bajdala-Brown, headteacher of Penhurst School, in Chipping Norton.

The outgoing head said: “I’m blessed. I have always loved coming to work.

“I am really proud of the work the staff do with the young people. It really is a wonderful place to be.”

Since joining the residential school as head six years ago, Mr Bajdala-Brown has led staff in achieving two outstanding Ofsted reports.

Before he joined, the school had been on the edge of special measures.

This month Ofsted commended the school for its work in the area.

Working closely with the deputy, Derek Lyseight-Jones, Mr Bajdala-Brown focused on providing pupils with a greater range of therapies and greater one-on-one support.

He said highlights included opening a home for adults at the school in 2006. Previously, students had to leave when they turned 19.

He said: “There was nowhere for these guys to go, we couldn’t find places for them. Now, they are given residential care until they’re 25.”

He also allowed the school to stay open for an extra 14 weeks a year.

He added: “When I first arrived I felt that the school was tucked away. Now, the kids are seen as valued members of the community.”

Mr Lyseight-Jones, who will become the new principal, said: “Stephen has thrown himself wholeheartedly into the role.

“He’s got lots of energy, is always willing to get involved, and has a determination to do everything in the best interests of the children.”

Mr Bajdala-Brown, who was forced by staff to dress up as Elvis Presley for the Christmas party, is leaving to be the chief executive of Prior’s Court School in Thatcham, West Berkshire.

He said: “There has been part of me that has thought ‘why am I leaving? But I won’t stay away; I’ll still come and visit.”

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