John Flower, 61, bows out from St Paul's Catholic College in Burgess Hill this week (April 3) without governors having been able to appoint a successor, despite holding interviews with potential heads.

Mr Flower moved the school from Haywards Heath in 2004, put it in the top five nationally for GCSE results, and recently secured £500,000 from the Government to help school funds.

Two rounds of interviews with would-be replacements have failed to impress the interviewing panel. Deputy head Rob Carter will step up to acting head teacher during the summer term while the search continues.

In a message to parents on the college's website, chairman of governors human resources group Liam McIlvenny said: "A second round of interviews for the headship of St Paul's was recently held but, again, the governors did not make an appointment. The governors recognise that this is a very unsettling situation for everyone connected with the college but are determined to only appoint someone who we feel will continue to develop our outstanding school."

Mr McIlvenny added: "...the governors are confident that with such a strong staff in the college, our students will continue to be provided with the same high quality education that they are used to.

"The governors are actively considering various options for the leadership of the college from September 2009 with the Diocese and the Local Authority and recognise the urgent need to find a solution."

The school said when contacted for comments from the governors that a statement would be issued on behalf of the school governors after Easter.

For the full story, see the Mid Sussex Times edition of April 2.