Westland principal resigns

A principal who was on leave from a West Coast high school under government intervention has stepped down from the role.

After a period of leave, Trevor Jones decided last week to resign from Westland High School in Hokitika.

The school remains under limited statutory management and a second acting principal appointed this year started in November.

Limited statutory manager Liz Clark said Ross Willcocks would stay on as acting principal as the school began its search for a permanent replacement.

‘‘The process of appointment for [a] new principal is in the planning and preparation stage. The board [of trustees] want to consult widely with the students, staff and community in this process,’’ Clark said.

In a statement, the school wished Jones ‘‘all the best for his future endeavours, and thanks him for his commitment, dedication and contribution’’ since

2014.

Jones was credited for introducing Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, successfully securing

$1.5 million of funding for a community and sports centre on the school site, and increasing the number of students leaving the school with NCEA level 1, 2 and 3.

Willcocks replaced John Doonan, who was appointed as acting principal in July after Jones went on leave for personal reasons.

Westland High’s main hall and administration block was destroyed by fire last year, adding to the issues it faced before going into limited statutory management.

In March, it was revealed staff voted against Jones before the Ministry of Education appointed a limited statutory manager to address employment and financial issues.

Clark replaced the first appointed limited statutory manager in June.

Jones did not respond to requests for comment.