Shock as popular headteacher dies

Darren Davies, headteacher at Llanidloes High School, died on Tuesday, aged 51.

Mr Davies, who leaves his wife Hazel, and children Siobhan and Iestyn, was appointed as headteacher in January 2010 after joining Llanidloes in April 1997 as deputy head.

He had previously worked as a teacher in his native south Wales for several years.

Llanidloes town and county councillor Gareth Morgan, who is also vice chairman of governors at the school, said Mr Davies's death was a tragedy which has left a gloom over the community.

He said: "The first thoughts in my mind are with Darren's family. Our hearts go out to them because it is a terrible blow. He was such an inspiring individual, full of enthusiasm and drive."

Councillor Morgan, who has been a governor at Llanidloes for 41 years, said that Mr Davies would never be forgotten for the way he had led the school.

He said: "He was an outstanding headteacher and it is a devastating blow to the school. In the five years since he has been headteacher he had put so much into it. It is one of the most successful schools in Wales and it is in no small part down to him and the wonderful team around him.

"In every sense educationally it has been a tremendously successful few years and it was getting better all the time. He was never satisfied with current attainment and thought we could always get better.

"I was his chair of governors for a few years and it was a great privilege. He will be sadly missed for a long time but we shall never forget what he has achieved."

James Rees, chair of governors at the school, said Mr Davies' work had led to Llanidloes being recognised as one of the top schools in Wales.

He said: "This tragic news has come as a great shock to everyone associated with our high school.

"Darren was a highly respected colleague who was totally committed and motivated in raising the standards of education at Llanidloes High School. It is a testament to his ability that Llanidloes High School is now widely recognised as one of the leading secondary schools in Wales, this was something Darren was very proud of.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and two children during this sad time."

Councillor Arwel Jones, Powys County Council's cabinet member for education, said: "Darren was a highly respected headteacher who created a learning environment which enabled pupils to thrive and achieve their aspirations.

"Our thoughts are with his close family, friends and everyone associated with Llanidloes High School during this difficult time."

Montgomeryshire MP, Glyn Davies, said Llanidloes had lost a "dedicated community leader".

He said: "Darren Davies was a very popular and successful headteacher. His sudden death at the young age of only 51 has come as a great shock to the people of Llanidloes, and particularly anyone connected with Llanidloes High School.

"Under his leadership, the School had gained an excellent reputation. I have visited the School on several occasions since becoming Montgomeryshire MP, and it's a credit to the leadership of the headteacher that there has always been the positive and friendly atmosphere in which pupils and staff could thrive.

"This news is extremely sad new for both Llanidloes High School and Llanidloes town, which has lost a very capable and dedicated community leader. I extend sympathy to Darren Davies' family as they cope with their sudden loss."