A SOUTH Essex MP has expressed his sadness over the sudden resignation the headteacher of the Basildon Academies.

Stephen Metcalfe, who represents South Basildon, said that in Dr Rory Fox’ short tenure he had introduced some substantial changes, the results of which have been extremely positive.

Mr Metcalfe said: “I was very sad to learn of Dr Fox’s resignation. He brought some much needed stability to the school and the GCSE results from this summer speak for themselves.

“The Basildon Academies achieved the second best results in the borough and this is a credit to the hard work of the staff and pupils under Dr Fox’s leadership. I would like to thank Dr Fox and I wish him all the best for the future.”

Dr Fox is expected to remain at the Academies until March next year by which point his successor will have been appointed.

Mr Metcalfe added: “I will do all I can to support the school going forward and I have every confidence that the Basildon Academies can build on the foundations laid and continue on this positive trajectory.”