GOVERNORS and staff have paid glowing tribute to Robert Repper who has retired from his post as headteacher of Wisbech Grammar School. Mr Repper has been at the school for the last 20 years and has been instrumental in a number of key changes, and in moul

GOVERNORS and staff have paid glowing tribute to Robert Repper who has retired from his post as headteacher of Wisbech Grammar School.

Mr Repper has been at the school for the last 20 years and has been instrumental in a number of key changes, and in moulding it into of the best schools in East Anglia.

Writing for the school's annual Riverline magazine, colleagues have paid tribute to his work and leadership.

During his time at the school he also helped to change its face through a number of key building initiatives. Other steps included the re-founding the preparatory department and helping to double the size of the junior school.

Governor John Warren, said: "Mr Repper joined the school 20 years ago with the unenviable task of guiding its progress during very difficult times.

"This included the demise of state-assisted places and addition of the junior school.

"With his strong will and single-minded purpose he has led a team of staff into making Wisbech Grammar School one of the best schools in East Anglia.

"He has been a pleasure to work with and he leaves the school in a very strong position to cope with the difficult future ahead."

And deputy headteacher John Aguilar, added: "Throughout his 20 years of leadership of the school he has achieved a great deal and he has made the school what it is now, an independent educational establishment of quality, which is proud of its many and continuing achievements."

While Kate Cranwell, head of Magdalene House, summed up his time at the school by saying: "Working with Mr Repper over the last 10 years has been exciting, sometimes daunting, but never dull."

Speaking of his retirement, Mr Repper, said: "Every time I walk through those blue doors I get a lift. Even now after 20 years.

"It is a great privilege working in this profession. You are surrounded by like-minded intelligent people who have a real interest in what they are doing and who share a common interest in the welfare and future of children."

His successor Nicholas Hammond, takes up post on September 1.