A HEAD teacher who has transformed the fortunes of her school has been tasked with doing the same at Selsdon Primary.
Heavers Farm Primary School, in South Norwood, has rocketed up the borough's league table – and balanced its books – since Susan Papas took over in 2007.
In contrast Selsdon Primary, in Addington Road, has struggled for a number of years and, in May, was rated by Ofsted as "requires improvement".
Head teacher Nicholas Wollaston has decided to step down and the council has asked Ms Papas to take over as interim executive head beginning in September.
"The governing body felt that the school needs strong, strategic leadership to take them forward and to bring back stability and confidence," said Ms Papas.
"This promises to be an exciting challenge and I look forward to working closely with governors, staff and families at Selsdon in order to improve the teaching and learning for all."
Ms Papas will hold her new role for at least two terms and continue to lead Heavers Farm as executive head.
"I hope that by working together, both schools will achieve significant improvements, things that may not be possible without this opportunity," she added.
Tim Pollard, cabinet member for children, young people and learners, said: "[Ms Papas] has done more than a good job at Heavers Farm and is part of a really experienced cohort of heads who are willing to help other schools in difficulty. I'm confident this new structure, which is tried and tested in Croydon, will achieve that."
