A HAMPSHIRE head teacher has quit her post in the run-up to the release of an inspection report on her inner-city school.

Val Down, who has been head at Hightown Primary School in Southampton for ten years, has stepped down following a period of sick leave.

Her resignation comes as parents, teachers and governors await the outcome of an inspection by the education watch-dog Ofsted carried out earlier this year. Results are expected within the next fortnight.

City education chiefs today (Wed) sought to reassure the school community with a "business as usual" message saying they had full confidence in the current management.

A spokesman said Mrs Down had decided to resign for "personal reasons" after being on leave, but that alternative arrangements were already in place.

Alexa Kowalski of Tanners Brook Infants School has been seconded to take over as acting headteacher at Hightown, which has nearly half of its 316-strong pupil roll registered for special educational needs. Councillor June Bridle, chair of the city council's education committee, said: "It's very much business as usual in the school. Yes, Val Down has left but we have an acting head ensuring that things are running smoothly. "Parents can have confidence in the acting head, who is working with the existing staff. Most youngsters won't notice any difference. The school is being properly managed."

Her message was welcomed by governors chairman Rev Geoff Annas, who said: "I would echo the comments that June Bridle has made."

A previous Ofsted report in 1995 highlighted the school's role at the heart of its community, particularly for families on the Thornhill estate.

Inspectors found the quality of teaching was "sound or better" in eight out of ten lessons with particularly impressive standards in two reception classes for under-fives.

Some concern was expressed at the way pupils' work was assessed and at the school's long-term planning, but Mrs Down was praised for her "strong and effective leadership".

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